1. Decide what’s important to you.
Everyone wants to make money in business, but true success is when the business allows you to design the lifestyle you’ve always desired. Answering these questions will help you narrow your focus and choose the perfect franchise model for you:
> Do you want to build a business empire, or are you looking for something smaller and easier to manage?
> Do you want to be involved in the everyday operations or hire people while you handle the back-end?
> How important is it for you to have free weekends? How about always arriving home in time for dinner?
> Do you enjoy going to work every day, or do you prefer a more remote environment?
> Is there a personal or philanthropic motivation when providing a good or service?
2. Address your fear.
You don’t have to shout it from the mountaintop; just admit that you’re afraid to leave the security of a job for the uncertainty of small business ownership. Consider what specifically scares you. Is it monetary? Daunted by the possibilities? Not sure where to begin? Do you struggle with self-doubt?
All of this is normal, far more normal than not being afraid at all. Even if you don’t want to be an entrepreneur, you owe it to yourself to face your fears. Learn about the financial requirements for starting a franchise.
Learn how to narrow the field and choose the best business for you. Franchisors seek people whose skills complement their franchise system and provide initial and ongoing support. That way, neither you nor the franchisor will be concerned about your ability to succeed as a franchise owner.
3. Speak with your family.
Owning a franchise business is a life-changing experience. It will enable you to take control of not only your professional life but also your personal life. Discussing your desire to own franchise business with your family early in the process may alleviate your fears and generate support from loved ones. And be able to work your hours, giving you more time to spend with your family.
They can help you with hiring decisions, for example, bringing family members on board. You might even decide to go all in and own and operate your entire franchise, or business family. Your decision will have an impact on the people who live in your home, so keep them informed.