The Franchise MBA: Mastering the 4 Essential Steps to Owning a Franchise

This was just the right amount of coverage of what could have been a very dense topic. It's a step up from an introduction, but shy of an encyclopedia on the topic. The author frames the discussion from both sides of the equation -- the franchisor and the franchisee -- in support of his contention that this is not a sales process but a partnership marriage, which makes total sense as you read the book. I really appreciated the fact that he told me what "the other side" was looking for and thinking, and how to be sensitive to the concept of the other franchisees wanting to protect their investment by also playing a role in selecting franchisees with the franchisor. A solid coverage that includes discussions on financials, taxes, business structure, as well as motivations, attitudes, and personalities. Highly recommend this -- it's timeless. Don't let the publication date throw you off -- this book did not get sucked down into all sorts of analysis of different specific franchise options but instead focused on the meat of the issues in deciding whether to become a franchisee or not. Kudos to the author. Nicely done!

This book has almost everything you need to know before you own a franchise and saves you from the mishaps that can possibly happen.Kve rates this book 4 star and not 5 as it doesn't have the framework of the financial model required to evaluate the franchise.Thanks.

Auch für europäische Leser ein Muss, da die Checklisten umfangreich und wertvoll bei der Auswahl von Franchise-Betriebe sind. Damit kann das Risiko von Fehlkäufen deutlich reduziert werden.

As a first edition, there were some gaps. I think the strongest sections of this book are in Steps 2 to 4. Which is really the core, to adequately prepare you to own a franchise. Step/Rock 2, 'Understanding the franchisor' covers the franchise business model and what franchisors are looking for in franchisees. Knowing both is important, as your franchise may face traditional (non franchised) models, and you will appreciate the leverage that you get (and thus, alleviate your concerns over franchise fees, both initial and recurring). Gaining a perspective of what they seek, positions you properly so that you develop the credibility and relationships as you investigate the business. Being too hard nosed, will not endear you, as ultimately, it's people working with people. Step/Rock 3, 'Understanding the franchisee', has some real nuggets of info, such as the six stages of franchise development (relationship with franchisor) and the transition curve (emotional stages). It made so much sense, that its like being forewarned is to be forearmed. I expect to refer to this book periodically as I start and grow my franchise business,

Good introduction to franchising and helpful reference source for secondary resources. The book was very easy to read - possibly too easy - but on the whole I got what I wanted out of it, and the writer was kind enough to call me personally to answer a question I had posted on his web page.