It's natural that most people associate franchising with the mega brands like McDonald's, Dunkin' Donuts, Subway, KFC, Burger King, etc. However, there are strong franchise concepts with airtight business practices that you have never heard of that cross into the industries of Pet Care, Senior Care, Packaging & Mailing, Employment & Personnel, Property Management, Light Manufacturing, Advertising, Repair & Restoration, Service Based Businesses (Painting, Repair, Water Damage & Restoration), and the list goes on and on. If you don't like franchising because you don't like the idea of running a food operation, please read on (hey, if you like food concepts, please read on as well!).

What Characteristics Should I Consider?

You have numerous options to consider. Do you like a semi-absentee model? Do you like to work Monday - Friday only? Do you prefer a brick & mortar location or home-based? Do you prefer an indoor our outdoor business? Do you like Business to Business or Business to Consumer? Do you enjoy working with a small staff? Do you have an ideal net income percentage/number you are targeting? Are you looking to build an empire with multi-unit options? Are you more sales driven or operations driven?
It's very helpful to list 4 key attributes for selecting a business. When you blend all that you want in a business with all that you are motivated to do in a business, then you are on your path. After answering a few basic business characteristic questions, if the business characteristics of food are a match for you, then proceed. However, notice that questions were asked that led you down a path rather than you choosing a path will-nilly. You don't realize a business is right for you because you like the product (food) or you think the logo is fantastic; you find the right business by understanding what is a good 'fit' for you and you do that by digging into the business characteristics that resonate with you.

How Do I Know Which One Is Right For Me?

You don't; at least not without the help of someone who can help you understand if your personality, background, and skills are a good fit for a specific franchise. Like the advice you can get from career counseling or an academic advisor in college, you need to have someone who can provide you an educated and balanced approach to getting into a business that fits you. Don't do this by yourself or you will hit every pitfall that others have fallen into.

Does The Reason I Am Looking Into a Business Matter?

1. Did you get laid off?
2. Are you looking to opt out of the corporate ladder climb?
3. Are you frustrated at your current job?
4. Are you looking to take control of your income?
5. Do you want to be your own boss?
6. Are you looking to renew and invigorate your career?
7. Do you simply want a new start for a new year?

Of course the reason you are going down the path of running your own business matters to others, but it should matter more to you! Reaching deep down and understanding why you are going down this path will help you understand if you have a solid foundation to build upon. If your 'Why' is short-term, then perhaps business ownership is not for you at this time. If your 'Why' is more of a long-term, burning desire for something different, then perhaps business ownership is right up your alley.

In Conclusion

Yes, it's true: Franchising is closely associated with food concepts, but the concept goes far beyond the breakfast, lunch, or dinner table. There are many options that have enabled aspiring entrepreneurs to achieve the dream of business ownership outside of food that many would never associate with franchise concepts. Franchising is a tremendous growth strategy for an organization, but the franchisees in a system are an excellent growth strategy for individuals as well.

Remember, franchising is a great way to achieve financial independence