If you have been researching franchising then chances are you have encountered franchise brokers and or consultants along your journey. What exactly is the difference between a franchise broker and a franchise consultant? Or for that matter, a broker, consultant, advisor, coach, etc.? That’s an easy one… Nothing!

While yes, there are “franchise consultants” in the industry, the term is often used as someone who consults to franchisors and franchisees… Just like any other company that hires a consultant for assistance in various areas of the business, but as someone who is exploring the possibility of investing in a new franchise it is unlikely that is the type of consultant you have spoken to.

Some in the industry like to say there are differences but at the end of the day, it’s just vernacular. A Realtor vs a real estate agent, a fireman vs a fire fighter. They all basically do the exact same thing, although not are all created equal. Franchise brokers tend to belong to different groups, firms and networks while of course there are some that are independent and don’t belong to any such group. Generally speaking the group with which they belong determines the title they go by.

IFPG goes by franchise brokers.

Success Franchise Advisors go by advisors.

BAI ( The Business Alliance ) – brokers.

The Entrepreneur Source – franchise coaches.

FranServe – franchise consultants.

The Franchise Consulting Company – consultants.

FranChoice – brokers.

On the inside of the industry they are all referred to as franchise brokers. At least that’s what the franchisors call them and they call each other. While some are certainly better at their profession than others, for the most part they all do the same thing, tend to work with the same brands, are paid the same fees, etc.

Don’t sweat the title… When working with a broker or advisor or whatever just shoot to work with the ones you feel are most knowledgeable and are truly focused on you and you will be just fine. To find a top rated franchise consultant in your area visit our franchise consultant directory.