Choosing between starting a franchise vs. an independent business can be a difficult decision. To help you find your entrepreneurial path, we put together a guide with the key differences.

If you want to take charge of your future and start a new career with unlimited earnings potential, opening a business can be rewarding. Small businesses drive innovation and create community. They employ 46.6% of employees in the private sector, and the federal government is committed to helping small businesses flourish. In January, the White House announced plans to “expand access for small businesses to the over $700 billion spent through federal contracts each year.” Americans filed more than 16 million new business applications over the past three years.

Independent Business: Your Business, Your Way

The positive aspect of running an independent business is the ability to create a concept that reflects your vision. You can build something from the ground up based on your passions and ideas. You can create your brand, make all the key decisions, and set the course of your business.

Yet, opening an independent business comes with its fair share of challenges, and you will likely find yourself navigating the complexities of business ownership on your own, from developing a business plan to grappling with market dynamics and managing finances. Here are a few of the concerns facing independent business owners:

• Financial risk: Higher upfront costs and financial uncertainty without the backing of an established brand.
• Lack of support: Limited access to guidance and mentorship, making it challenging to navigate business hurdles.
• Operational challenges: The responsibility of developing your operational systems, processes, and strategies from scratch.
• Marketing struggles: Greater difficulty in establishing brand recognition and attracting customers without a known brand.
• Resource limitations: Limited bargaining power with suppliers and fewer resources compared to what a franchise network can offer.
• Isolation: The journey can be lonely without a network of fellow business owners to share insights and experiences.
• Compliance and legalities: Navigating business licenses, regulations, and legal requirements on your own.
• Work-life balance: Potentially longer hours and higher stress as you handle all aspects of the business.

Partner With a Franchise

If you are strongly considering a franchise vs. an independent business, partnering with a franchise like AtWork presents an advantageous scenario. On the one hand, there is some independence, and on the other hand, there is a supporting community. The franchise business model’s structured approach to business ownership reduces many risks associated with starting from scratch. At least 85% of franchisees enjoy being part of their franchise organization, and 83% believe franchisees are supportive of each other, according to a survey conducted by Franchise Business Review.

As a franchisee, you get to step into a business model with a proven track record. You will receive access to comprehensive training, guidance, and ongoing support. You benefit from established operating systems, marketing support, and a recognized brand. A franchise can help you better leverage current trends and support from the franchisor can help you stay nimble in case you need to pivot strategies. Franchisees have group buying power and established relationships with suppliers and vendors.

Follow AtWork’s Blueprint for Success

AtWork, one of the nation’s largest and fastest-growing staffing franchises, enables you to achieve your goals while helping other people find fulfilling jobs. AtWork’s franchisees can tap into a lucrative market and receive the training and support necessary to succeed. AtWork offers franchisees training, in-house accounting services such as payroll funding, and marketing collateral for efficient labor market fulfillment.

Choosing AtWork as a franchise partner is a strategic decision in today’s competitive landscape. The staffing industry is booming, thanks to the tight labor market, and AtWork positions its franchisees to make the most of this opportunity. According to the American Staffing Association, the growth of the staffing industry has exceeded both economic and employment growth rates.

Being part of AtWork’s franchise network offers a community of support. You have access to a network of peers to share challenges and successes, a stark contrast to the often solitary path of an independent business owner.

Get started to learn more about partnering with AtWork to open a staffing franchise in your community.