You carefully selected your franchise. You negotiated and bought it. You made the dream of owning your own business a reality. Now what? This is the book that goes beyond the franchisor's cut-and-dried instructions to answer that question. It tells you how to bring your dream to life-- or if you're still dreaming, helps you preview the real, day-to-day world of successful franchise operations. Written by authorities who have studied and consulted with franchise operations for nearly a quarter of a century, this book helps you: Transition smoothly into your new role and lifestyle Deal effectively with legal and financial ties to the franchisor Solve the most common areas of conflict between franchisor and franchisee Handle employment, inventory control, business planning, and accountancy right from the beginning This book includes special sections on operating family-run franchises, averting employee turnover and other common problems, and protecting yourself legally.