This video from OnlineMBA.com provides research-based information on the 5 surprising traits of successful entrepreneurs; do you have any of these traits?

To learn about what it takes to run a successful franchise, attend our free February 28 webinar, Franchise Ownership as a More Stable Career Path.  The webinar is free, but you need to pre-register, which you can do online by clicking on the linked seminar title.

You may also register by calling 866-246-2884.

With hundreds of franchise opportunities available in over 75 industries, most potential franchisees become quickly overwhelmed in their efforts to find the right fit for them.  This is when franchise brokers can step in and help guide you through a proven process that should result in your finding the perfect franchise fit for you and your family.

Here are some of the things you should look for when choosing a franchise broker:

Experience – look for a franchise broker who has a track record in the franchise industry and understands the business model as well as entrepreneurship. Google their name and check out who is saying what about them on sites like LinkedIn, etc.

Focus – select a franchise broker who has a full time career in franchise consulting so you know you have their full time and attention.  Brokers with a CFE (Certified Franchise Executives) designation have demonstrated a commitment to the industry and are likely the most up to date on industry trends and best practices.

Reputation – a reputable franchise broker will take the time to get to know you and your goals before recommending any franchises to you.  They should also present a balanced perspective on the pros and cons of franchising.  You need to meet the broker face-to-face and in their office -- do not accept 'virtual consulting'.

Pre-screened franchises – a good franchise broker will have a portfolio of carefully pre-screened franchises for you to consider that reflect a variety of industries and investment levels.

Results – a franchise broker that has been successful in helping others find the ideal franchise fit should be able to do the same for you; look for one with proven results.  Ask for (DEMAND) to see testimonials from candidates they have placed -- best if it can be done via Video and not just in written format.

To learn more about finding your ideal franchise fit, attend our free August 23 webinar, Franchise Ownership as a More Stable Career Path.  The webinar is free, but you need to pre-register, which you can do online by clicking on the linked seminar title.

You may also register by calling 866-246-2884.

The second annual franchising business roundtable scheduled for Thursday, Jan. 28, at the Hyatt Regency in North Dallas from 8 a.m. to noon. Franchising 2010 will discuss new growth and opportunities for franchise businesses in the year to come.

A group of prominent franchise industry professionals representing corporate, government and legal sectors will offer a well-rounded view on the future of franchising.

The featured topics and speakers include:

• Going Global - panel presentation moderated by Ken Myres, president of Tony Roma’s (Romacorp) with panelists representing Romacorp including David Short, executive vice president and general counsel, and Ted Leovich, president, global brand consulting
• Franchise Regulation, The Road Ahead - panel presentation moderated by Cheryl Mullin, founding shareholder, Mullin Law, PC, with panelists Anne Connelly, examiner, Illinois Attorney General’s Office, and Maral Kilejian, attorney, Mullin Law, PC
• He Said, She Said, Perspectives on Employment Law - panel presentation by Mullin Law attorneys Stephanie Russ and Klint Rybicki with Matt Orlie of Wood Wilson Insurance
• When Duty Calls. What to Do When Employees or Franchisees Are Called to Active Duty - overview of the Uniformed Soldiers Employment and Re-Employment Rights Act (USERRA) and the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA) presented by Grant Walsh, shareholder, Mullin Law, PC
• Selling Franchises: Brokers v. Developers v. Sales Staff – presented by Dave Omholt, CEO, The Entrepreneur Authority
• Social Networking Isn’t Just for Kids – presented by Justin Mink, director, national brands and franchise groups, ReachLocal

There has been much debate recently over the proliferation and viability of recent college grads/20-somethings entering the franchise owner ranks.  Disparate views on the subject have recently made it to the Wall Street Journal (http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052970204251404574342113777512336.html) 
and Business Week magazine (http://www.businessweek.com/smallbiz/running_small_business/archives/2009/10/tk.html).

The Entrepreneur Authority (TEA) Chief Executive Officer, David Omholt, weighs in on the subject and the trends he is seeing, via his quotes in both publications.