“​I didn’t want to go back to having a job. After you experience business ownership and the freedom it gives you, you really don’t want to go back to punching a clock.” – Eli, in a recent interview with FBA.

If that statement resonates with you–in any way–so might this broker’s testimony.

Eli da Silva joined the Franchise Brokers Association in May of 2023, and he came to us with an eclectic and impressive portfolio.

(Just to preface, there’s no such thing as a “perfect” broker background – however, specific skills found in certain roles can be favorable).

To quote Eli, “I come from a variety of different worlds.” From ministry and aviation to owning his first business and eventually jumping into the franchise industry through his role as a franchisee and area developer – Eli may have known a thing or two about franchising.

But then, as he was selling franchises for Pet Evolution, he wondered, “Why not sell other franchises?” 

Great question!

Let’s dive deeper. For any franchise broker who did not have prior experience in the industry–or for anyone considering this role–have you ever found yourself wondering…

“Does this career path have potential?”

“Where will I find clients?”

“How will I learn the necessary skills?”

“How will I remember all of my training?”

“What will it cost?”

“Who will I turn to for guidance?”

“Am I alone?”

We’re not shying away from these tough questions. Both Eli and the FBA are here to tell you – you are NOT alone. 

These thoughts are common for new and experienced brokers, which is why our association exists – to give franchise brokers a sturdy platform to stand (and shine) on.

In less than 4 months with FBA, Eli da Silva closed his first ever deal with Naturals2Go. He is a great example of what GOOD training, implementation, community, communication, support, and the right attitude can do for anyone in this role.

Was there anything about becoming a broker that you were apprehensive about?

“Well, I think the major concern for me was, how am I going to get clients? How am I going to find people that are interested in a business opportunity and could be a candidate for a franchise?”

Then Eli recalled his own journey in buying a franchise – he worked with a broker! 

That broker was able to find Eli and sell him on a franchise – so how did he do it? It was through a broker network.

In fact, it was broker John Anderson, who happens to be in FBA’s network. While researching us, and several other associations within the industry, Eli considered his options – eventually landing on FBA.

Why?

“I found that the support system, training level, and software level offered by the FBA was way above the rest.

My concerns were, how am I going to do it? And who am I going to do it with?

And the FBA pretty much solved both of those problems with the package that I was able to secure with them – which even included a certain number of leads.”

In the interview, Eli adds that the swaying of his decision to join FBA was due to Sabrina Wall, the Founder and CEO of the association. Her demeanor and spirit settled his nerves, and the path forward was clear from that point on.

What were some challenges you faced in the early days of brokering, and how did you lean on FBA/BOS to help?

“The training was phenomenal and intense. A lot of information comes at you in a very quick amount of time. But I confess that when I got back from training and sat down to work, I realized I didn’t remember anything.”

If we’re being honest, how many times have you been completely consumed in a lecture or meeting, engaging with the room, not taking notes – but then blanked when it came time to implement?

Luckily our training has the written coursework, so even if you forget – you can still find your way back.

Yes, our training is intense. It’s designed to immerse you in the world of a franchise broker – doing as they would do. But you shouldn’t be expected to remember 100% of your training right away.

This is what our team is here for, and why we launched our Broker Operating System (BOS) program. 

Eli reflects and says, “there’s always a team member at the FBA willing to help you walk through the process. The answer’s only a phone call or email away. 

The “here’s what you do next,” “click here,” “do this.” That’s huge. Regarding the customer service portion of the FBA, after you start the business – I couldn’t do this without it.”

Was there an “aha” moment for you as a new broker?

“I can actually do this – it was that kind of sensation. I’m actually able to show somebody that going into business is a good idea. That’s what it boils down to – how do I portray the value of the business I’m offering to this person so that they can see themselves in it?”

At FBA, we truly believe that lives can be changed through franchising. Our brokers have the tools they need to extract value from these franchise brands, pitch it to their clients, and watch how their lives unfold when they find that right match. 

This is touching to hear – and collectively we are heading toward a state of community elevation. 

 “I can do this. I’m gonna keep doing it. That was my aha moment.”

Reflections

Just like every story is different, so is the experience of every franchise broker. At FBA, we want to highlight the unique backgrounds of the people in our network and celebrate their wins.

As we conclude this interview with Eli, we want to express our gratitude for his leap of faith, courageousness, and dedication to this business. The Franchise Brokers Association is thrilled to celebrate this win with him, and to encourage others to join us on this journey.

Together we rise!