Last week, I was invited to attend the bfa Empowering Women in Business (EWIB) conference, and even got a chance to speak in the afternoon panel on sharing experience for the future of business.

I try to go every year, not just because it’s packed full of great speakers who can share some invaluable insights on women in business, but also because there’s such an inspirational sense of community. This was the 2nd year I attended with my wonderfully talented daughter, Tanya. The next generation of women are so inspirational – they really are something special, and I am convinced they will change the world!

I don’t just mean that as a proud mother, but as someone who was amazed at all the incredible talent on display at EWIB. The event was largely directed at women in business and franchising, of course, but there were plenty of lesson for anyone on how to be a successful professional in the 21st Century.

The two biggest themes of the day very much apply to the whole world of franchising, and how anyone of any gender, background, or business concept can succeed in it:

Empowerment & Collaboration

One of the most wonderful things about franchising is not just that it empowers you to grow your business in powerful new ways, but also that it empowers others to collaborate with you on working to create greater success in the future. By collaborating with franchisees, you can supercharge your business’ growth in ways that would normally not be possible using traditional growth strategies.

However, when it comes to franchising your business overseas, the concept of collaboration is even more important than it is in your domestic market. No matter how gifted you and your team are, there is no way you can ever be expected to be experts in every single country that can offer you a lucrative new market.

Working with experts in international franchising, not just in your home market, but those on the ground in your prospective markets who understand them first-hand, is absolutely essential. Building a culture of collaboration between you and overseas partners could be the single most important strategy you adopt.

Want to chat about how you can make that work for you?

I will be at The National Franchise Exhibition at the Birmingham NEC on the 4th and 5th October on The Franchising Centre stand, so why don’t you pop down for a chat?

If you can’t make it to meet face to face, I am always happy to set up a call for a time that suits you.