Since joining LMI as a licensee in 1999 Frank has operated one of the top performing business units for Leadership Management International (LMI), worldwide. His accomplishments include many International awards in recognition of his and his clients’ achievements within the LMI global family. His clients have equally been recognized with some prestigious National and International LMI Awards in corporate achievement. These awards recognize outstanding business sales growth, profit gain, cost reduction and quality improvements.
BeTheBoss: Tell us about the LMI Canada concept.
Frank Kreze: LMI improves the leadership of organizations by developing its people and by crystallizing their thinking, developing goal planning for their business and personal achievement. Our coaching process supports concerted action to apply the ideas and tools to achieve higher motivation, engagement and greater self -confidence. Improvements come quickly with measurable and sustainable results.
We are not a training company in the classical sense. We do not provide quick 2-3 day programs that, if you are lucky, you will remember one to two good ideas and usually within 2-3 weeks, you are back doing what you’ve always done, getting what you’ve always gotten. We believe strongly that these kinds of sessions do not produce measurable results nor bring about a shift in behaviour or attitude.
We are not consultant/experts in any particular business, and don’t pretend to be or even want to be. Each of our clients’ businesses is unique, yet business fundamentals remain the same. We believe the business owners are the experts and only they know the goals and dreams they have for their business and life. LMI provides a proven process to achieve them.
BTB: What was your background prior to joining LMI Canada?
FK: Prior to joining LMI in 1999, Frank had graduated in Aerospace and Industrial Engineering and had held a number of senior executive positions in that industry. He has over 30 years of practical experience in aerospace, operations, manufacturing, auditing international project management, including product integration of complex systems.
BTB: How and when did you become involved with LMI Canada?
FK: Frank, like so many experienced leaders in the manufacturing sector in Canada, was caught in a national downsizing when a leading Canadian subsidiary of a US company closed its doors. In searching for his next opportunity he was introduced to LMI and has never looked back. An ardent and passionate believer in people development, he saw the LMI opportunity as a way to take control of his destiny, provide a very high earning potential and as a way to build a business he could potentially pass on to his children.
BTB: What are some of the advantages in being a LMI Canada franchisee?
FK: Becoming an LMI franchisee offers a number of benefits: Low start-up costs, a proven people development system, time-tested products, no territorial boundaries and a support structure that is second to none. There are no royalties or franchise fees after the licensee fee is paid. Licensees must order product from the Canadian Head office, which takes on the currency, shipping, inventory, and customs risks so that the licensee can just focus on selling and servicing his/her clients.
BTB: Who is your ideal franchisee?
FK: The ideal LMI Licensee must have a passion for helping people/businesses make measurable improvements. They must be driven to succeed, love to sell, and enjoy facilitating/coaching/servicing after the sale is made. They must be credible and comfortable interacting with all levels of an organization from the shop floor to the senior leadership team.
BTB: Tell us a little about the Leadership Market?
FK: The training and development industry is growing and is a multi-billion dollar industry. CEO’s throughout the world now refer to people development as their greatest challenge and as their best way to gain a competitive advantage in a global market place.
BTB: What are some of the greatest lessons you’ve learned in growing this franchise?
FK: Frank’s inspiration comes from the original founder of LMI, Paul Myers. Paul’s books, quotes and knowledge continue to permeate throughout LMI because Paul’s practical theories on leadership and people development have remained true for over 50 years.
The greatest lesson Frank learned is to not try to re-invent the wheel. LMI has spent 50 years refining a process, system and products that work – plain and simple. If a licensee follows our system and works hard – success will inevitably follow. Frank also learned that you must be passionate about helping people, have a great attitude and believe you can make a difference with the LMI system.
BTB: What advice do you have for someone looking to acquire a Franchise?
FK: Frank’s advice is to do your homework, dive deep and understand the value of the LMI system/programs. Come and kick the tires so to speak! LMI Canada will not sell you or put pressure on you to buy – we need and want people who get what we do, who will follow our system and who truly want to invest the time and energy to be successful (however they define success).
BTB: In your opinion, why do you think that LMI Canada would be a great opportunity for someone?
FK: LMI Canada is not for everyone, but it can be a great opportunity for some key reasons: A 50 year history of success in over 80 countries, translated into 23 languages says our formula works! LMI does business with some of the world’s most prestigious companies, right down to small “mom and pop” shops. Over 75% of its revenues come from repeat business which says people like the job we do. If you want to align with a company that’s been in business longer than most companies and one that will stand behind its products/services and give you complete support, then give us a call. You will be working for yourself but definitely not by yourself.
