When Todd Haness chose to enter the realm of business ownership, two things were clear to him: he wanted to pursue a franchise opportunity and was eager to embrace a new challenge. As the franchise owner of CMIT Solutions in Plano and Garland, Texas, Todd realized that business networking is not simply about selling; it’s about forming friendships, creating connections, and building lasting relationships. For Todd, this networking philosophy has been vital to his business growth and strategy.
The Role of Passion in Selecting a Franchise Opportunity
Before stepping into the IT sector, Todd conducted thorough research to explore his choices. He knew he didn’t want to build a business from the ground up. With a franchise, he could tap into a recognized brand, a well-established business model, and ongoing support—factors that matched his goal of creating a business that could either be sold later or potentially involve his children. His research led him to CMIT Solutions, a leader in managed IT services, despite not having a background in the industry. His biggest challenge? Adapting to an entirely new career path.
Todd’s journey reflects thoughtful decision-making and the courage to move beyond his comfort zone. By carefully researching the IT industry, he discovered a passion for helping businesses with their technology needs. Today, he serves a diverse clientele, with a particular interest in the manufacturing sector, where he is still working to establish a stronger presence. Todd understands that success in any field requires business networking—a skill he excels in and deeply enjoys.
However, Todd’s passions extend beyond his business endeavors. He loves spending time with his family and engaging in outdoor activities like snow skiing, mountain biking, lake outings, and fly fishing. This enthusiasm for the outdoors and family time reflects his commitment to balancing his professional and personal life. By choosing a franchise with a flexible model and robust support network, Todd has been able to blend his business goals with his passion for outdoor adventures and family time, showing that selecting the right franchise goes beyond financial success—it’s about building a life that aligns with your values.
Todd’s Three-Part Networking Strategy
While networking is often considered a necessity in business, Todd sees it as something much deeper. For him, networking is about realizing the importance of connections. It’s about understanding that each conversation, handshake, and coffee meeting is an opportunity to learn, offer assistance, and create value—not only for his business but also for the community.
1) Foster Authentic Business Connections
Todd recognized early on that business networking wasn’t just a way to expand his business; it was a method to build real, meaningful relationships. He became an active member of the Garland Chamber of Commerce, the Plano Chamber of Commerce, and a local Business Networking International group—three platforms that helped him engage with other professionals. “You don’t cold call to get business,” Todd states, “but you do need to meet with other professionals.” For him, networking provides a chance to learn, share experiences, and establish trust.
When asked how he would advise those considering the CMIT Solutions franchise opportunity, he suggested, “Think about forming a friendship rather than worrying about making a sale. If they ever require what you offer, they’ll likely turn to you.”
2) Maintain Consistency and Engagement
In the early stages of his business, Todd invested significant time in business networking by attending meetings and events. Even with his commitment to providing excellent client service, he now dedicates about three hours each week to business networking activities.
Todd and his son enjoying some fly fishing.
For Todd, the secret to effective networking lies in consistency. It’s not just about attending events but actively participating, understanding others’ needs, and providing genuine support. This method has helped him earn a reputation as a dependable and trustworthy partner, making him a preferred choice for managed IT services in his area.
3) Prioritize Providing Value
Todd’s experience underscores a key lesson for anyone looking to grow their business: networking is not about instant gains. It’s about planting seeds that may eventually flourish into valuable connections. By focusing on creating genuine relationships rather than pushing for immediate sales, Todd has developed a network that aligns with his business goals while also benefiting the broader community.
“Networking isn’t about the transaction,” Todd explains. “It’s about the relationship. When you establish trust and rapport with people, they will naturally think of you when they have a need your business can fulfill.”
Maximizing the Benefits of Support Systems
Todd also takes full advantage of the support systems within the CMIT Solutions network. Recently invited to participate in a CMIT Mastermind group, he has already realized the benefits of having a new platform to exchange ideas and receive extra support, even after attending only a few sessions. Additionally, Todd leverages an outsourced help desk to provide 24/7 client support, ensuring his clients receive top-quality service. This setup enables him to concentrate on his strengths—building relationships and growing his network—while knowing his clients are in good hands.
Insights for Prospective Franchisees
For those thinking about joining CMIT Solutions as a franchisee, Todd offers straightforward advice: first, determine if you are seeking a job or genuinely want to own a business. “If it’s the latter,” he says, “you can start your own business and, of course, make money, but the real benefit is in building value where you have control.” Unlike a job, where your future is often in someone else’s hands, owning a business gives you the power to shape your destiny.
Todd’s focus on independence and ownership is reflected in his approach to business networking and collaboration. He encourages aspiring franchisees to connect with nearby franchisees in the area they’re considering. This spirit of collaboration and mutual support is a core value within the CMIT network, something Todd greatly values.
By seeing other franchisees not as competitors but as allies, Todd has built a strong support network that reaches beyond his immediate region. He understands that the success of one franchisee can contribute to the success of all, and he embraces this shared approach to growth. For Todd, choosing to franchise isn’t just about gaining independence; it’s also about becoming part of a community where everyone’s contributions lead to mutual success.
