Posts Tagged ‘L. Drew Gerber’

Career Transition: Checklist for Success – Finding out if running a franchise is right for you

September 17th, 2010

By Drew Gerber

A bear market is the time to buy, whether you are looking for a bargain in stocks, real estate or other investments. Opportunities abound during times of economic uncertainty for those willing to find them. The same is true for those considering starting a franchise business.

The recession is driving more and more people to go into business for themselves, according to recent news reports. When job security with a long-time employer isn’t so secure any more, starting a business becomes more attractive.

Thousands of employees who have been given pink slips or early retirement are looking for opportunities to become entrepreneurs. Many of them will choose to open a franchise as a way to test the entrepreneurial waters without having to start a business from scratch.

Franchising offers a lot of opportunities and advantages, among them training and support, an established customer base and product name recognition.

But, no matter how great or well-known the product or service is, the franchisee is not guaranteed success. He or she must possess ambition, drive and business savvy, just like any other » Read more: Career Transition: Checklist for Success – Finding out if running a franchise is right for you

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Personal Branding: Tips for Marketing Yourself

June 1st, 2010

Reprinted with permission.

By L. Drew Gerber

Drew GerberWhether you are looking for a job, thinking of starting your own business or even steadily working for someone else, this is a good time to start marketing and branding yourself.

Companies have long known the importance of making a name for their products and services to set themselves apart from their competition. Today’s rapidly shifting economy combined with our increasingly Web-driven communications make it essential for individuals to constantly assess, update and promote their skills.

OK, you say, I understand why Microsoft, Apple, Nike, Kellogg’s, Campbell’s and Nabisco brand themselves. I’m not a computer, a shoe or a can of soup.

Well, just like those companies, you face competition every day, whether you know it or not. Branding yourself is the key to standing out, no matter if you are selling a product, a service or yourself.

This economy makes it essential for us all to rethink how we view and market ourselves. Why? If » Read more: Personal Branding: Tips for Marketing Yourself

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