In the franchising world, the path to success can often feel isolating. This sense of solitude is something Keith Tessler, an experienced entrepreneur with a background in technology and sales, knows all too well. Tessler places immense value on the support and insights he receives from his Mastermind group, which is comprised of fellow CMIT franchisees and a representative from the home office.
Meeting bi-weekly, with three in-person sessions each year, this peer-led group has become Tessler’s primary resource for navigating various business challenges. From managing employee concerns to resolving technical issues, the group’s collective wisdom and experience have proven invaluable. Tessler relies on this network to help him find the right strategies, whether it’s determining optimal pricing or addressing urgent client needs.
The process of participating in the Mastermind group is not for the faint-hearted. The group maintains strict qualifications for joining, emphasizing the importance of both learning and contributing. This hands-on approach to business improvement involves a thorough evaluation of financials, proposals, and other business elements. Each member’s business undergoes intense scrutiny, offering a candid assessment of what’s working and what’s not. While the feedback can be harsh, it’s also incredibly beneficial, providing clear direction for growth and improvement.
Despite initially being hesitant to take on a leadership role within the group, Tessler eventually stepped up, finding that this challenge spurred his development both as a business owner and as an individual. The shared experiences and camaraderie within the group have been essential to his success, providing him with a sense of community that counters the isolation often felt in leadership positions.
Tessler’s approach to networking has also been shaped by his experiences with the Mastermind group. For him, networking is about cultivating relationships and building trust over time. Instead of focusing on immediate sales, Tessler looks to establish connections that foster long-term success. He realizes that his clients prioritize support, compliance, and cybersecurity, though they often don’t fully comprehend the intricacies of compliance and cybersecurity. This makes trust an essential element in his business relationships, as clients need to feel confident that he is acting in their best interest.
The Mastermind group also offers regular discussions on a variety of topics, from accounting to artificial intelligence, helping Tessler and his peers stay current in a rapidly evolving industry. This ongoing learning environment is vital for continuous growth and adaptation.
For Tessler, the advantages of being part of his Mastermind group and the wider CMIT Solutions community go beyond mere business success. The network provides essential support, a wealth of knowledge, and a sense of belonging that is invaluable in what can often be an isolating journey. In a business landscape where trust and reliability are paramount, Tessler knows he can always depend on his CMIT family.
