AI Is Disrupting The Job Market - for Better or for Worse?

It happens more often than you think. You’ve built a career over decades—navigating challenges, delivering results, and becoming an invaluable asset to your company. Then, out of nowhere, you're blindsided by a layoff. It feels personal, even though it’s not. It’s the corporate world, where decisions are made in boardrooms, not based on loyalty or contributions.

But what if this moment - the one that feels like a setback—could actually be your launchpad to something greater?

You’re not alone in this. Just take a look at the latest headlines:

• White-Collar Job Cuts: Why Middle Management Jobs Are Disappearing - Forbes - Dec 20, 2024

• Boeing issues layoff notices as aerospace giant cuts 17,000 jobs - Fox Business - November 13, 2024

• Tech Giants Lay Off Thousands in 2024 to Focus on AI in 2025 - CCN – January 17, 2025

• The list of major companies laying off staff in the new year, including CNN, Meta, Microsoft, and BP  - Business Insider – January 25, 2025

The financial, manufacturing, and tech industries, once symbols of stability, are now reshaping their workforce. These aren’t just numbers on a spreadsheet. These are lives, families, and futures being impacted across the globe.

If this is your reality—or you fear it could be—it’s time to reframe the narrative. What if, instead of mourning the loss of a corporate job, you viewed this as the best opportunity you’ve ever had?

Let me introduce you to a career path that's been hiding in plain sight. One where your age and experience aren’t liabilities—they’re your greatest strengths. I’m talking about franchising, a path to business ownership that could turn this unexpected twist into the ultimate pivot for your career.

Forget Everything You Think You Know About Franchising

Let's start by busting some myths. When I mention franchising, you probably picture fast food joints on every corner, right? Maybe you're thinking, "Great, but I can't afford to open a McDonald's." Here's the kicker: most franchises aren't in food at all, and they're far more affordable than you might think.

In my years as a franchise consultant, I've helped professionals find opportunities in the $85,000 to $285,000 range. That's a far cry from the millions you might associate with big-name fast food chains. And with financing options like SBA express loans or 401k rollovers, it's within reach for many laid-off professionals.

The Hidden Gem: Home-Based Franchises

Now, let me introduce you to a sector that's been booming: home-based franchises. We're talking about businesses in high-demand industries like roofing, gutters, painting, plumbing, HVAC, fencing, and lawn care. These aren't just affordable; they're what I call "durable" industries.

Why durable? Simple. AI can't paint your house. A computer can't fix your pipes. These are services that will always need a human touch, making them resistant to technological disruption and economic shifts. Heck, many of these industries did exceptionally well during COVID.

Age: From Liability to Asset

Here's where it gets really interesting, especially if you're in your 40s, 50s, or beyond. In the corporate world, age can unfortunately become a liability. I've had clients tell me heart-wrenching stories of facing subtle (and not-so-subtle) age discrimination during job hunts.

But in franchising? Your age and experience are gold. Those years of honing your skills, learning from successes and failures, building professional networks? They're exactly what makes you an attractive candidate to franchisors. You're not starting from scratch; you're leveraging decades of real-world experience.

The Mindset Shift: From Employee to Owner

Now, let's talk about the biggest transformation I see in my clients. It's not just about owning a business; it's about owning your time and your success. No more waiting for a boss's approval or worrying about the next round of layoffs. You're in the driver's seat.

One client put it perfectly: "For the first time in my career, I feel like I'm building something for myself, not just for a corporation that could let me go at any moment."

But Isn't Starting a Business Risky?

Fair question. Starting any business has its risks. But here's where franchising has a unique advantage: you're not starting from zero. You're stepping into a proven system, complete with training, support, and a roadmap to success.

I like to use a football analogy: Starting a business from scratch is like getting the ball on your own 20-yard line and having to run it all the way down the field. Franchising? You're starting in the red zone about to cross the goal line. The plays have been run before, the strategy is tested, and you've got a whole team backing you up.

Innovation in Unexpected Places

Think franchising is all old-school business models? Think again. Today’s franchises are tech-driven and innovation-focused. For example, I recently showed a client a window cleaning franchise that uses drone technology. They're cleaning 20-story buildings more safely and efficiently than traditional methods. That franchise is capturing jobs others can’t, providing significant savings, and improving safety by eliminating the need for cranes - drastically reducing liability for everyone involved. 

It's a perfect example of how franchising can put you at the forefront of industry innovation.

The Million-Dollar Question

Now, the most crucial question you need to ask yourself isn't about money or market trends. It's this: "Is this something I'd genuinely enjoy doing?" I always tell my clients, at the bare minimum, you need to have a real interest in the business. Love what you do, and success is far more likely to follow.

A Two-Way Street

Here's a misconception I often have to correct: you don't just "buy" a franchise. You invest in one, and it's a two-way street. While you're evaluating franchises, they're also evaluating you. They want to ensure you're a good fit for their brand and culture. It's not just about having the money; it's about having the right mindset and skills to succeed.

Your Next Steps

If this has piqued your interest, here's what you can do next:

Take stock of your skills and interests. What industries genuinely excite you?

Research franchise opportunities in those sectors. Look beyond the big names.

Speak with a franchise consultant (like myself) who can provide insights and connections.

Talk to current franchisees in systems you're interested in. Get the real scoop.

Evaluate your financial options. Remember, there are more ways to finance than you might think.

Getting laid off can feel like the end of the road. But for many of the professionals I work with, it turns out to be just the beginning. Franchising offers a path to business ownership that leverages your experience, respects your expertise, and could open doors you never knew existed.

So, the next time you look at your layoff notice, try seeing it differently. It might just be your ticket to a whole new world of opportunity. A world where your age is an asset, your experience is valued, and your future is in your own hands.

At the end of the day, in franchising, you're not starting over  - you're starting with a strategic, proven playbook building wealth.