This International Franchise Association keynote speaker and expert franchise guide, George Knauf outlines a comprehensive six-step process for investigating potential franchise opportunities, emphasizing a mutual elimination approach where both the prospective franchisee and franchisor determine suitability. The process begins with general information exchange, followed by a thorough review of the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD), which provides critical details about the franchise. A crucial step involves contacting and visiting existing franchisees to gain insights into training, support, marketing, and earnings. Finally, the guide recommends reviewing system documentation and meeting key franchisor personnel before making an informed decision, underscoring the importance of finding a perfect match for one's business preferences.