A client recently asked for my thoughts on a new franchise they are considering.
When it comes to franchising, there is a unique allure to being one of the first. You imagine the chance to “get in on the ground floor,” to ride the wave of a promising new concept. But investing in a new
Exiting a failing franchise is not easy.
When a franchise struggles to deliver expected returns, franchisees often wonder if they can negotiate an exit from their ongoing obligations, especially the requirement to continue paying royalties. Franchise agreements are complex, one-sided documents that make severing ties without repercussions challenging. Many franchisees quickly discover that the
Phishing tactics are growing, and “impersonation” is their sharpest tool.
In recent months, it seems more businesses are reporting phishing attempts targeting their operations, with bad actors posing as trusted contacts or clients. The result? Devastating losses in both data and finances. Impersonation has become the leading method because it works by exploiting human trust—attackers
Risk-taking. It is the secret sauce behind many successful young entrepreneurs.
When you are young, you have a unique advantage. You have the time to recover from mistakes. Mistakes become learning experiences, not setbacks that define your career. This mindset allows young entrepreneurs to take risks that older, more established business people might shy away
Sales numbers are seductive.
I see posts all the time on X and in articles about franchise operations bragging, “We did $10 million in sales this year!” But here’s the truth: sales numbers alone are smoke and mirrors. The key metric everyone overlooks? Profit.
Sales ≠ Success. High sales are impressive, but they don’t
You’re busy.
Running a business means managing a million things at once, and legal paperwork often takes a backseat. But if your operating agreement is outdated, it could cost you more than you think.
An up-to-date LLC operating agreement keeps everyone on the same page. It outlines each owner’s roles, how
Selling a business is tough.
It’s not just about finding a buyer; it’s about getting the right price, handling the paperwork, and keeping things confidential. A good business broker can give you a smoother and more profitable exit.
Think of them as your business selling coach. A good
Forming a Limited Liability Company (LLC) in Iowa can be a straightforward process if you know the right steps to take. An LLC offers many benefits, including liability protection and flexible tax options, making it an attractive option for small business owners and entrepreneurs. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps
Starting a business can seem overwhelming.
Between navigating legal requirements, tax issues, filing paperwork, and making sure you’ve checked all the boxes, things can get complicated fast. But here’s some good news: the Iowa Secretary of State has a Fast Track Filing system that makes forming an LLC or corporation easier and quicker than ever
Thinking about buying a business?
It’s a big decision, but choosing between a franchise or an independent business can shape your entire experience. Both have their perks—and their pitfalls. So how do you decide?
First, consider what drives you.
If you thrive on structure and proven systems, a franchise might be the better fit. You
