What makes Entrepreneur in Hiding different from a franchise broker?

Unlike franchise brokers, who earn commissions from franchisors, Entrepreneur in Hiding provides unbiased, commission-free guidance. I focus on what's best for you, helping you make informed decisions based on real-world experience. I will even talk you out of buying a franchise, if deemed appropriate. With a franchise broker, that may not be the case. For a detailed comparison, visit the Me Vs. Franchise Broker page.

Can you refer me to a franchise broker when I’m ready?

Yes, absolutely! I know several brokers that I would be happy to connect you with when you are ready to take the next step towards franchising. I personally used a franchise broker to find my franchise, so I do recommend it. And to be totally transparent, I do not make any commission or referral fees if you decide to pursue a franchise with a broker.

Can I benefit from your services if I’m still employed and just considering entrepreneurship?

Absolutely! Whether you're exploring the possibility of entrepreneurship while employed or ready to take the plunge, my services are designed to provide valuable insights and guidance at any stage of your journey. I can help you understand the nuances of transitioning from employment to entrepreneurship, ensuring you make informed decisions that align with your career goals and personal aspirations.

I noticed you only mentioned franchising or independent startup paths. What about other options to break out of the W-2 world, like real estate, buying a pre-existing business etc.?

Yes, there are more forms of entrepreneurship that I do not consult on. When it comes to real estate (brokerage or investing), I know many people that have done extremely well in these areas after leaving their previous careers. I woud be more than happy to refer you to some real estate individuals who also coach/consult in that area. And with pre-existing businesses, this is certainly an option, and I recommend we do a few imagine sessions to uncover what your vision is for business. I also can connect you with some business brokers who work specifically in the area of helping people find a business to purchase.

Do you work with and consult on partnership businesses?

Yes. If you are thinking of forming a business partnership with others or already have that set up, I can have sessions with everyone on your team. If you have questions about the possibility of forming a partnership, I can offer insights on what to consider when finding the right partners for a business. I have formed a few partnerships in business and I am fully supportive of the joint team effort in entrepreneurship, if that is the right fit for you.

Do you offer any support after I start my business or purchase a franchise?

Yes, my support extends beyond the initial launch of your business or franchise. I offer tailored ongoing mentorship packages that include regular strategic check-ins, troubleshooting sessions, and continued guidance meetings. These sessions can be scheduled monthly or quarterly, depending on your needs, to help you refine your operations and achieve sustainable growth.

Do you offer any support to more veteran entrepreneurs, not just new ones?

Absolutely. I provide advanced consulting services designed for veteran entrepreneurs who are looking to scale up, optimize operations, or prepare for an exit. My services include strategic growth planning, expansion guidance, digital transformation strategies, and more. Whatever stage your business is at, our goal is to support your ongoing success and help you navigate complex challenges.

Do you offer customized consulting services, outside of the standard packages listed on the website?

Yes, I offer customized consulting services to perfectly match the unique needs of your business. Beyond the standard packages, I can tailor our services based on an in-depth discovery call or initial consultation. This approach ensures that we address your specific challenges and goals with precision, providing you with personalized support that drives real results.

How long does the typical consulting process take from the imagine phase to the become phase?

The duration of the consulting process from the imagine phase through to the become phase can vary widely depending on your specific needs and circumstances. Typically, the first two phases, imagine and plan, can be completed within a month if you're ready to move quickly. However, the third phase, become, is designed to span 12 weeks and may extend further based on the depth of your research, due diligence, and the specific challenges of launching your business. I maintain flexibility in scheduling the 12 sessions of the become phase to accommodate the necessary pacing for thorough preparation. Each entrepreneur's journey is unique, and we are committed to providing support and adapting our approach to meet your timeline as you progress through each milestone.

What does the initial consultation involve, and is it free?

Yes, the initial 15-minute consultation is free and serves as a preliminary introduction to our services. During this call, we'll briefly discuss your interest in entrepreneurship, outline our consulting process, and identify your primary goals. This session is designed to help us understand your needs and to explain how our services can specifically benefit you. The initial consultation sets the stage for deeper exploration in our paid sessions, ensuring I tailor my approach to your unique situation.

What kind of commitment do I need to make when I sign up for your services?

When you decide to work with me at Entrepreneur in Hiding, the commitment required depends on the phase of consulting you choose to engage with. For the structured phases—imagine, plan, and become—each has a defined scope and timeline:

• imagine phase: This phase typically includes one or two sessions, ranging from a single hour to a few hours spread over a couple of weeks, designed to help you outline your entrepreneurial vision.

• plan phase: If you proceed to the plan phase, we recommend committing to a series of 4 sessions that are 1 hour each, spread out over a month or two. This phase involves deeper strategic planning and market analysis.

• become phase: The most intensive, this phase involves a commitment to 12 weekly sessions, each lasting an hour, over three months. This phase is crucial for preparing to launch your business and requires a consistent engagement to effectively address all operational, marketing, and financial strategies.

I strive to be flexible and understand that entrepreneurship is a dynamic journey. If your circumstances change, I can adjust the pacing or focus of our sessions accordingly. My goal is to support you in a way that aligns with your personal and professional needs without overwhelming you, ensuring a partnership that is both supportive and sustainable.