buzz·word
\ 'bəz-'wərd \ noun
1. A compilation of franchising trends 2. What franchise experts are talking about
Older, wiser and happier One baby boomer reveals why franchise ownership can be a dream job at any age. by Susan Scotts For years, Brian Heuckroth, of Saint Louis, Missouri, toyed with the idea of owning his own business. An extremely talented baby boomer (translation: over 50!), Heuckroth had a lot to offer the job market. He was a private pilot. A former VP of marketing, he had experience in product management and as a general manager. He was also well educated, graduating magna cum laude from Missouri University of Science and Technology. Yet even with this fantastic resume, he was in the midst of a frustrating job search and decided to learn about what he could do as an alternative. Downsized twice and with retirement on the horizon, Heuckroth had a specific bucket list. He wanted something that would give him independence, control, and the freedom to conduct business on his own terms. He also wanted to create income in a business that was scalable and recession-resistant. Flexibility was important, too. Heuckroth sought a business where he could ultimately work from anywhere, preferably a home office, and still manage employees since he loves people and solving problems. Today, he’s the proud owner of Electronic Restoration Services of Greater St. Louis (“ERS”), a franchised business which restores electronics, appliances, computers, exercise equipment, musical instruments, artwork, legal 12
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documents—basically anything and everything that has suffered damage due to a disaster. The company’s restoration experts help residences and businesses after important possessions have been ruined in disasters like fires, floods, lightning, or power surges. As an owner of this business, Heuckroth has a lifestyle that gives him flexibility and financial freedom. An added bonus: He gets to give back to the community, by providing a service that helps people and businesses get back to normal after disaster strikes. “I found a business that suits my background and interest,” says Heuckroth. “This is a great opportunity for me.” Susan Scotts is an alternative career coach at The Entrepreneur’s Source. Contact her at 561-859-9110 or coach@susanscotts.com
