What is it that I do? – A personal reflection heading into the IFA Convention

“What is it that I do?” This is a question that I have been asked repeatedly over the past few years while attending various IFA Conventions and other franchise related events. And, it’s one that I just love answering! But, it also makes me reflect upon what it is that I do.. and why?

Actually, the reason is quite simple. Franchise failure makes me sick. Let me say that again. Franchise failure makes me sick… regardless of the cause!

The reason I do what I do is to help franchise organizations succeed at all levels. I know that’s a lofty proposition, but it’s true. It’s what I’ve dedicated myself to as I have recovered from a near-catastrophic experience ten or so years ago as a once-successful multi-unit franchisee that took his eye off the ball and subsequently failed. Certainly, it would be easy to reflect upon what that experience did to me. But there are other things to consider as how such experiences can affect entire franchise organizations. There could be collateral damage, and at times, a ripple affect.

Of course, I do what I do to earn a living and provide for my family. But I could do that in a host of different industries or business environments. Instead, I chose to put the bad experience aside and focus on how I can help others within franchising. Not only to avoid the mistakes I’ve made, but to focus on best practices that lend towards franchise success at levels.

With extensive experience and success in franchise management, marketing and development, and in training franchisees and franchise staff alike, gained in the various positions I have held for franchisors, I have focused my attention on making a difference in franchise organizations in these key areas. Sure, many know me from my almost incessant social media activity, but I’m just embracing what I believe to be a tremendous technology and communications tool that when utilized effectively and coupled with best practices, will contribute to franchise success at all levels.

So, that’s what I do. Thanks for asking!