The "80-20" Conference Rule

Greetings Fellow Franchisees,

I hope you and your families have had a peaceful and healthy holiday season. On the horizon is what I call “conference season.” It’s that time of year when numerous conferences and meetings are scheduled for us to attend. As I reflect on the past, it’s become apparent that the 80/20 rule also holds true for conferences and meetings. I get 80% of the value from 20% of the conferences I attend during the year. So if I attend five conferences during the year, one of them will provide 80% of my learning, ideas and opportunities. The Multi-Unit Franchising Conference is that one!

Like many of you, as I try to improve the performance of my business, I am constantly at battle with working on what is important versus what is urgent—always striving to focus on those activities that provide the most bang for the buck, my “high-payoff activities.” Attending any conference is time-consuming, but in the long run my attendance at the MUFC has always provided me with significantly valuable returns.

Attending the conference has provided me with the unique opportunity to make personal and meaningful connections with today’s thought leaders in franchising, to stay connected with my friends and colleagues, and to build new relationships. I’ve gained and shared new ideas and best practices through the educational tracks, where high-performing franchise entrepreneurs share their experiences in facing today’s challenging environments, gaining irreplaceable knowledge and information that I have applied to improve my business. 

At the conference, you will have the opportunity to explore the many resources that are available to help run your business more productively and efficiently. There is no other place I know where so many suppliers and vendors gather to share their products and services with franchisees. You will also learn what your competitors are doing and what you can do to set your company apart.

This year’s MUFC will also bring together the latest trends and opportunities in franchising. Whether you are looking for an established brand or a breakthrough concept to grow your business for the future, you will find it there.

Whether you are a first-time attendee or a veteran, the MUFC will revitalize and reenergize you and your team. You’ll come back with knowledge and insights and ideas to move your business forward for the future. And you’ll have made meaningful connections that will last a lifetime. Attending the conference is without a doubt a high-payoff activity. I look forward to seeing you soon!

With gratitude,

Gary Robins