As with any year coming to an end, we look forward to what is coming next. Nothing could be truer as we approach the end of 2020. The question is, what to do? Furthermore, how to do it? If you are “stuck” in a job you don’t like, with people (even working virtually) you don’t like, it’s time for something you DO like. By Dawn Abbamondi

As with any year coming to an end, we look forward to what is coming next. Nothing could be truer as we approach the end of 2020.

The question is, what to do? Furthermore, how to do it?

If you are “stuck” in a job you don’t like, with people (even working virtually) you don’t like, it’s time for something you DO like. Perhaps you’ve been thinking about opening your own business but not sure where to look. Reading Franchise Dictionary Magazine is a good place to start. This issue is about franchise brands that made a difference, innovated and adapted to win.

In 2020, winning looked different. It meant staying open and operating. It required franchisors to help franchise owners obtain emergency SBA loans or procure critical supplies – from PPE to social distancing stickers and signage – to helping customers feel comfortable, safe and secure. It also meant more coaching and support to achieve same or higher revenues while mitigating expenses.

This year, both established and emerging franchise brands came out winning in spite of 2020’s game-changing events. It took a lot of hard work and dedication from a great number of people, both from the owners and the franchise teams in the home office.

How do you find a brand that did all of this and more? Start with a franchise you know and admire. Research what they experienced this year and ask how they changed the game in 2020:

Did they get bolder to get stronger?

Were they just lucky?

Or were they one step ahead, planning for the unexpected?

What is next for the brand and how will they stay ahead? Take time to learn their culture, mission and vision, too. You want a change, but to reach your goals, it must fit your beliefs.

We certainly don’t know what’s coming next but if you’ve been thinking about starting your own business, don’t go it alone. Join a franchise brand – there is strength in numbers. You can win with a franchise team on your side – you can change the game and win.

– Dawn Abbamondi

Dawn Abbamondi, director of brand development and marketing at SMB Franchise Advisors, has over 20 years of extensive franchising experience in the coffee, food, convenience, gift, and floral industries. Dawn leads the areas of marketing, social media, public relations, web development and lead generation. Contact her at 215-370-7998, Dawn@SMBFranchising.com, or visit SMBFranchising.com.