Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in franchising but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Chris Conner, Founder & President of Franchise Marketing Systems, located in Gainesville, GA, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

Franchise Marketing Systems (FMS) is a full-service franchise development and franchise consulting firm. We work with new and existing franchisors to help implement, execute and manage franchise development. FMS customers are businesses that are just starting their franchise venture and launching their business as a franchise model or existing franchisors aiming to grow or improve on their franchise development initiatives.

Tell us about yourself

I started FMS in 2009 after working in the franchise consulting industry for 9 years prior. My experience in franchise development began working with a larger franchise consulting firm and being able to work with some brands that experienced outstanding results using the franchise platform as a way to scale, including Jimmy John's, Culvers, Auntie Anne's, Wyndham Hotels, and European Wax Center. In 2009, with the recession in full swing, I was gracefully let go from my position and what seemed like a really bad situation turned into a blessing as I was more or less pushed into entrepreneurship. What has driven me ever since is my never-ending respect and admiration for entrepreneurs; I just love them. The passion, energy, and authentic excitement all caught me as soon as I had the chance to be around them, and I've never looked back. Franchising is a great way to grow a business and help entrepreneurs, so it's been a good fit for me.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My biggest accomplishment has been building a great team and being able to attract awesome people. I take it seriously that I'm responsible for people's livelihood and that my decisions have a bigger impact than just me and my family. It's fun to see so many people win when the business is doing well, not only the team members but also the brands we work with.

What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?

I guess it would be the same thing, just the other side of the coin, and there is a lot of pressure and a lot of days that seem pretty lonely. Sometimes it takes digging deep to keep positive and stay the course, but I always end up at the same conclusion, it's so amazing to have the opportunity to be the leader and have your decisions impact so many people and what the heck else could possibly be as fun as entrepreneurship?

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

For one, I am always touting to people that they should consider starting their own business, it's just way more enjoyable, and there is way more upside. If you are already a hard worker, you may as well build something you can own as well.

Second, make sure that whatever business you are considering that you know and understand how to market and sell the product or service; if nothing else, that will dictate how well you can do in the new business and what your opportunity looks like for growing the model.

Third, make sure you get into something you enjoy, it's so corny, but it's true. It doesn't mean you have to be head over heels in love with whatever industry is you end up in, but you should enjoy the work, or it will be a short-lived endeavor.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.fmsfranchise.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FranchiseMarketingSystems/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/franchisemarketingsystems/?hl=en
Twitter: https://twitter.com/FranchiseMkting
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fmsfranchise/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

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