5 Reasons Why Military Veterans Succeed in Franchising

Reasons Why Military Veterans Succeed in Franchising

by Alesia Visconti

The latest statistics from the U.S. Census Bureau show that one in 10 U.S. business ownersare military veterans. Unlike corporateAmerica—which can often overlook these outstandingcontributors—the franchise industryhas long recognized the talents of those whohave served. In fact, military training provides aunique set of tools for turning business aspirationsinto successful ventures. More often thannot, military veterans shine when building theirown businesses. Here’s why:

They have leadership experience.

Great leadership skills allow business owners to motivate their employees and deliver strategies that impact the success of their businesses. This leads to growth. Veterans provide a selfless brand of leadership that inspires dedication and loyalty. Members of the military are often more prepared to recognize and support the numerous needs of their business and staff. Their leadership decisions impact the well-being and attitude of their team members. A strong team means a strong business.

Military vets have self-discipline.

Business owners wear many different hats and need high levels of focus and discipline to stay on target and accomplish a myriad of goals. Of course, once you’re the boss nobody is looking over your shoulder to ensure that you stay focused.

Discipline is a well-known strength of military veterans. Among other things, they rely on it to wake up at the crack of dawn, to stay organized, and to keep fit. Having the discipline to do what needs to be done in business can translate to greater productivity and faster growth.

They build great teams.

As important as teamwork is, many business owners struggle to communicate and have a hard time relinquishing control. With teamwork, a key component of military culture, veterans have a clear advantage in this area. Members of the military carry out their duties within a group. Their success often depends on how well the team performs. Bringing this attitude to a business creates stronger bonds and encourages higher levels of performance among other team members—all of which lead to better results.

They perform well under pressure.

Stress is a reality for new business owners. They have to act fast during emergencies, delegate tasks, and make quick decisions that take the business in the right direction. Military veterans are trained to do their jobs under the highest levels of pressure and responsibility, so they’re often well equipped to handle the stresses of entrepreneurship while remaining functional and effective.

They understand sacrifice.

Sacrifice is almost always part of the roadmap to success in business. New business owners often have to work long hours, when they’d rather be home with their families. They may make personal financial cutbacks so they can invest more in the business and so on. Sacrifice is also essential to military service. Veterans are often stationed far away from their families, others relocate frequently and some face the possibility of making the ultimate sacrifice. Veterans are so used to making big sacrifices that the ones that come with owning a business might seem minor to them.

Alesia Visconti has 20-plus years helping others find their career bliss. She is the CEO of FranServe Inc, the world’s largest franchise consulting & expansion organization. Her motto in life is “work hard, play hard, help others, repeat.” She and her expert team of franchise consultants are passionate about helping others achieve their dreams of business ownership through franchising. To reach Visconti, call 800-206-5454 or email avisconti@franserve.com