Networking With Nicole - How To Go Into Business For Yourself, But Not By Yourself

Written By: GoalSetters International

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I work with those that are looking to go into business for themselves but not by themselves. We start by reviewing their background, work experience, interests, and goals, and build a profile so I can match them with the over 500 different franchises partners.

Nicole Kauffman

Founder  Franchising Smarter

Can you tell us what type of business you run and how long you've been operating this business?

I have been involved in the franchise world for 6 years. I started with owning my own franchise business in the automotive industry.


I grew that business exponentially over a five-year period, and sold it for a substantial profit and moved to Texas. After starting a second franchise in our new home, I decided that I would share my knowledge on navigating the franchise investment world and started Franchising Smarter. I firmly believe in the franchise model, as you have the opportunity to be in business for yourself, but never by yourself.


Your business benefits by using proven business models and mass marketing techniques. You receive the benefits of being part of a large organization, however at the end of the day, you are still your own boss.



Can you share with us some details about how you got started in the Franchise Consulting Industry?

When I sold my automotive accessory franchise, I started looking for the next venture. A friend in Franchise Development advised that I should consider becoming a Franchise Consultant due to my experience. I love hearing about people’s backgrounds and goals.


The journey that we all take in life is fascinating and some people have had such interesting experiences! I have also opened another franchise business, so have a lot of knowledge and contacts in the industry to benefit my clients.

If you've had some challenges and roadblocks along the way, Can you share with us what some of those challenges have been in regards to starting or running this business and how you overcame them?

Getting your name out there is always difficult for a new business.


Although I have a number of years experience in owning and running my own franchise, I am relatively new to the franchise consultant world, so I feel that people may downplay the expertise I offer.


I have joined professional networking groups, and am active on social media to help spread the knowledge that my services are available (and they’re of no cost to the client!)

Let's talk about the services you offer, who do you help, and how do you help?

I work with those that are looking to go into business for themselves but not by themselves. We start by reviewing their background, work experience, interests, and goals, and build a profile so I can match them with the over 500 different franchises partners.


Our goal is to find business models that will be not only be interesting, but that can also help them achieve their income goals. We discuss what owning a franchise means, and some of the pros and cons of the different systems. I don’t sell franchises, I help educate people on the franchise system and whether it is a good fit for them, both personally and financially.


I do not charge my clients for my services, so they really have nothing to lose to start the “self employment through franchise ownership” conversation!

What's your best advice for those that desire to own a franchise?

Speak with a franchise consultant. There are so many different franchise systems out there, that you could be missing one that you never considered.


A franchise consultant does the work of finding the different models for you, and doesn’t charge you anything! In addition to providing you with more meaningful introductions to the franchisor, we have contacts in funding companies, as well as franchise lawyers to ensure that you are investing your money and energy into viable business opportunities.

With all that you've accomplished so far, did setting goals contribute to your success so far?

I feel that if you don’t set goals, you never really know how far you’ve come. Some of the best advice I was ever given was told to me from my previous employer when I gave notice and told him I was opening my first franchise.


He said to me “celebrate every success, no matter how small it seems. Celebrate your first sale, your first month in business, and your first million dollars in revenue. Just never stop celebrating.” I love that, and I say it to every person taking the step into business ownership. Set goals, and celebrate each accomplishment, no matter how small.

Here at GoalSetters, we like to say " A Goal Without A Plan is Just A Wish", what's your advice on the best way that people can go about accomplishing the goals that they set?



Make sure to write your goals down! It makes you accountable to yourself to achieve them.

In closing, for those that may require your services or may need mentorship, how can they connect with you?

My website is Franchising Smarter, and I can be found on LinkedIn, Facebook, or Instagram. They can also email me at nicole@franchisingsmarter.com or text/call me on my phone at 346.857.5324


Thank you so much for the opportunity to share my business with you and help get the word out about the services that I offer.




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