Learning is a lifelong pursuit, and in the franchise world, it’s non-negotiable. Whether you’re exploring how to buy a franchise, considering a new franchise opportunity, or managing a growing system, staying sharp is essential. Books remain a great way to tap into decades of wisdom, real-world strategies, and fresh ideas that can help you lead with confidence.
Here’s our list of 14 must-read books for franchisees and anyone interested in becoming a small business owner.
1. The Franchise MBA by Nick Neonakis
Franchising can be overwhelming, especially at the start. The Franchise MBA simplifies the process by walking readers through 4 key steps: The Introspective Self, The Franchisor, The Franchisee, and The Legal and Financial. Written in a conversational tone, this business book provides practical guidance on everything from evaluating a franchisor to signing your franchise agreement. It’s the perfect first read for aspiring owners.
2. Franchise Bible by Michael J. Katz & Rick Grossman
Legal forms and franchise paperwork can feel daunting, but they’re unavoidable. Franchise Bible equips you with the tools to master documents, organize effectively, and launch smoothly. This updated edition includes sample documents, checklists, and expert tips to make the process less intimidating. For anyone starting a business through franchising, this book is indispensable.
3. Millennial Millionaire by Bryan M. Kuderna
Understanding the millennial generation is critical for today’s franchise owners, especially since many are both potential employees and customers. Millennial Millionaire explores their values, lifestyle, and financial strategies. These insights can help you recruit, lead, and connect with this influential demographic. Along the way, you’ll also pick up timeless strategies for business ownership and personal wealth-building
4. Best of the Best by Ron Pagliarulo
Every franchise system has top performers, and Best of the Best reveals what sets them apart. Author Ron Pagliarulo combines his expertise in sales and human interaction to help leaders reach their full potential. This book is especially valuable for improving sales performance and building stronger customer relationships, helping you become a more successful business owner.
5. Brick & Mortar Franchise Success by Carolyn Miller
If your franchise requires a physical location, Brick & Mortar Franchise Success is a must-read. Miller, a veteran of major fast-food expansions, shares how to save money and avoid mistakes when opening a new location. From site selection to pre-opening strategies, this book is a practical guide for franchisees with a brick-and-mortar business model.
6. Scaling Up: Mastering the Rockefeller Habits 2.0 by Verne Harnish
A modernized version of the classic Mastering the Rockefeller Habits, this book delivers strategies for scaling a business from $10 million to $1 billion and beyond. With practical tools, checklists, and case studies, Scaling Up shows you how to align your team, focus your strategy, and drive consistent growth. These skills apply to any employee or business owner.
7. The Educated Franchisee by Rick Bisio
The Educated Franchisee is a clear, practical guide for choosing the right franchise opportunity and setting realistic expectations. Bisio helps readers understand the industry, evaluate opportunities, and make profitability a reality. Whether you’re still deciding on franchise ownership or already running a location, this book offers advice to keep you on track.
8. Franchising Demystified by Wayne Maillet
Franchise management consultant Wayne Maillet draws on 25 years of experience to unpack the franchisee-franchisor relationship. Using real examples, Franchising Demystified explains how to maximize profitability while building a healthy partnership with your franchisor. It’s a great read for both prospective and current owners looking to understand the bigger picture.
9. Smarter, Faster, Better by Charles Duhigg
In today’s fast-paced world, productivity isn’t just about working harder; it’s about working smarter. In Smarter, Faster, Better, Pulitzer Prize–winning journalist Charles Duhigg reveals 8 key concepts that drive productivity, from goal-setting to decision-making. Drawing on psychology, neuroscience, and business case studies, this business book will help you stay focused, motivated, and effective as a leader—whether you’re starting a business or managing an established franchise.
10. Built to Sell by John Warrillow
One of the biggest mistakes business owners make is creating a company that depends entirely on them. Built to Sell offers a roadmap for building a business that’s scalable, profitable, and eventually sellable. Even if you’re not thinking about selling right now, this book will help you put systems in place that make your business stronger today and more valuable tomorrow.
11. How to Buy a Franchise: Employee to Entrepreneur in 12 Weeks by Patrick Findaro
Transitioning from employee to entrepreneur is no small feat. Patrick Findaro’s book provides a structured 12-week program to help aspiring franchise owners make informed decisions. Filled with practical steps, strategies, and real-world examples, this guide is a powerful resource for anyone preparing to take the leap. For additional insights, explore VettedBiz, where Findaro’s research dives deeper into industries like senior care.
12. The Founder’s Mentality by Chris Zook & James Allen
As businesses grow, they often lose the agility that made them successful in the first place. The Founder’s Mentality explores how to maintain entrepreneurial spirit while scaling up. It’s especially relevant for franchise owners juggling growth with culture and customer focus. Expect lessons on resilience, innovation, and avoiding common pitfalls of expansion.
13. The E-Myth Revisited by Michael E. Gerber
A timeless classic, The E-Myth Revisited explains why so many small businesses fail and how to avoid becoming a statistic. Gerber emphasizes the importance of building systems rather than relying on individual effort. For franchise owners, this advice is golden: create replicable processes, and you’ll not only survive but thrive.
14. Street Smart Franchising (Updated Edition) by Joe Mathews, Don DeBolt & Deb Percival
This updated edition offers an insider’s look at franchising. The authors provide practical strategies for evaluating franchise opportunities, understanding risks, and avoiding costly mistakes. With real-world advice and tools for decision-making, it’s a highly practical business book that every prospective franchisee should read before committing to a franchise opportunity.
Closing Thoughts
Reading these books won’t automatically guarantee success. However, they’ll give you the tools, mindset, and strategies to make better decisions as a franchise business owner. From financial planning to scaling up, leadership to culture, each title offers insights you can apply immediately.
At Caring Senior Service, we believe knowledge is one of the most powerful assets a franchise owner can have. If you’re considering a franchise opportunity in the senior care industry, we’d love to connect. Our team can walk you through the process, from startup costs to operations, and help you decide if this path is right for you. Reach out to our team today!