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Visiting a Franchise Show is a great way to investigate franchise opportunities.

Written by: Jim Coen

Article Overview: Visiting a franchise trade show is a great way to gather a lot of preliminary information and survey what’s out there in the franchise world in a short period of time, and you can find them in most cities.

Visiting a Franchise Show is a great way to investigate franchise opportunities.

When attending a franchise trade show, keep a few things in mind. The companies exhibiting at the show do not make up all the franchise opportunities available. A franchise trade show showcases only a limited selection of the 2500 franchise programs out there.

You should take the opportunity to hear why the franchise representatives feel their opportunity is worth investigating. Ask questions about the business model, and the outlook of the industry.
Use these guidelines to help you make the best of your franchise trade show visit.

Before you attend the franchise trade show:
• Identify what your “must have priorities” are! What are your experiences, skills, desires, and goals? What is important to you?
• Identify your financial situation. What is liquid, what can you borrowed from family and friends, and how much do you need to live on? What are your financial requirements?
• Be serious. Dress conservatively, leave the kids at home, and take business cards if you have them. Show the representatives you meet that you're a serious prospect.
At the franchise trade shows:
• Look at the floor plan of the exhibitors listed. Check off the businesses you recognize or that look interesting to you.
• Don't waste time. Pass by the franchisors who are out of your price range or don't meet your “must have priorities”.

Prepare a short list of questions:

1. what is the total investment required?
2. Tell me about a franchisee's typical day.
3. What are the prospects for the industry future?
4. Is financing available from the franchisor?

Collect printed information from all the companies that interest you.

After the franchise trade show:

• Organize the materials you collected.
• Follow up. Visit the websites and call the franchises to gather more information.

A franchise trade show is a great way for you to introduce yourself to some of the many franchise opportunities available.

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  Franchising with all its Success
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