Business service franchise opportunities can include many different business fields such as advertising, accounting, business consulting, direct mail, employment agency, equipment repair and sales, janitorial, printing and publishing, sales training, security and shipping, just to name a few.

Starting a franchise is not a one-size-fits-all deal. Even if you think you'd be great at owning your own franchise business, you may find it difficult to find a franchise that fits you. Choosing the right franchise is the most important decision in the whole process. Don't rush through it blindly.

Listen to your instincts. If you're suddenly feeling uncomfortable, slow the process down. Consider these basic factors when weighing the pros and cons of a business service franchise:

1. How much can be invested in business services franchises, and how much are you willing to spend?

2. What will be expected of you in a business service franchise opportunity agreement? How is the business operated and how will employees be paid?

3. What's your genuine interest in the franchise opportunity in business services? Make sure the franchise you choose is something you can be passionate about.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Research available franchise opportunities in business services

Many people search for years for the right franchise opportunity. You may find yourself seriously researching a dozen or more opportunities before you land on one to pursue. It's especially important to make sure you're really sure of the opportunity, as some franchise agreements may be difficult to break.

I recommend: Check out Franchise Business Review's 2008 Franchisee Satisfaction Awards for those franchises in business services that owners rank highly. Or request more information about a variety of business services industry opportunities at Franchise Direct.

Evaluate whether a business service franchise is right for you

What makes you think you'd be great at operating your own franchise? What makes the franchise you're looking at a great opportunity? It may be eye-opening to get the opinions of experts on the subject. Also don't be afraid to do some careful self-evaluation, as owning your own franchise will be a life change.

I recommend: Receive a free franchise consultation from FranChoice. Sign up for a free webinar from FranchiseWorks on whether owning a franchise is right for you.

Find financing options to start a franchise in business services industry

Once you've got some franchise opportunities in mind, you'll need to evaluate the investment of each. Your financing ability may be a major factor in which opportunity you choose.

I recommend: Find your personal net worth with a calculator from FranchiseOpportunities.com. Crunching the numbers will help you with the qualification process when it comes to franchise financing. Request more information about financing options from Franchise Gator.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  While business services franchising may be more expensive than a start-up business, the success rate for franchises is much higher. That's because there's already some name recognition among potential customers. Customers may feel more comfortable buying from a franchise with a good business record. Buying a franchise opportunity also comes with other benefits such as training, marketing, support and other services.