When starting a new business by yourself, sometimes it might seem like doing your own research and going at it alone is the most attractive option. But ultimately, this might not be a good idea. Not only could you possibly be doing the wrong research and making investments that might not be financially profitable over the long run, but you just might not have all the necessary information at your fingertips that can help ensure business success! Want to know more? Don't miss the rest of this very helpful article over at: In Business, One is the Loneliest Number! Also, be sure to check out some of our many other latest resources below, or by visiting our ever growing Shear Madness Franchise Blog!

Over the years, Shear Madness Haircuts for Kids has seen plenty of kids come through our doors that aren't overly thrilled about the idea of getting a haircut, or an ear piercing. However, as a kids hair salon that specializes in creating a fun, memorable and positive experience for both children and their parents - we've learned a thing or two on helping kids feel great - as well as how to turn those frowns upside down. Following are five calming techniques for an upset child (or upset parent)!

When starting a new business by yourself, sometimes it might seem like doing your own research and going at it alone is the most attractive option. But ultimately, this might not be a good idea. Not only could you possibly be doing the wrong research and making investments that might not be financially profitable over the long run, but you just might not have all the necessary information at your fingertips that can help ensure business success! You've probably heard the phrase, “You don’t know what you don’t know”. Well, once when I was out of work I went to a job fair for a major pharmaceutical company. There were perhaps around 200 people in the room, and the meeting started off something like this, “all of you who have experience in the pharmaceutical industry get on this side of the room, and everyone else stay where you are.” Needless to say, I never interviewed that day. You see, that company knew there was no substitute for experience, no substitute for having "been there, done that”, and no substitute for having to start all over training someone to learn the pharmaceutical industry.

Get one FREE First Haircut Special! Your child's first haircut is a special occasion. That's why right now you can buy a First Haircut Package, and get one FREE photo certificate for the grandparents! Which means not only will you receive a before and after picture on a cool certificate and a keepsake scrapbook page - but you'll also get a 1/2 sheet grandparents First Haircut Certificate, regularly priced at $5! Make sure to call for an appointment, as these take twice as long as a regular haircut! Note: Available all month long at participating locations.

What are prospective franchise buyers looking for when it comes to buying into a franchise system? We opened this question up to some of our Shear Madness Haircuts for Kids franchisees, and this is some of the feedback we received. First of all, Communication is  Key. It may seem like a given, but it's true! Franchise communication is important through all aspects of franchising - from being able to effectively communicate with customers, to being able to have great communication channels between potential area developers, franchisors, franchisees, and everyone in between. As such, franchise buyers should be looking for a communication system that ensures consistency and timeliness of communication. Similarly, a means by which franchisees throughout the system can easily and effectively communicate with each other is also very helpful. Many franchisees join a franchise for the systems and support, so it's critical they get it! To check out more about this topic, please read more at: What do Franchise Buyers Want and Need? We Asked - Top 8 Answers! In the meantime, feel free to take a look at some of our latest Blog articles for August!