Young Ones: Ashley Betzendahl

Name: Ashley Betzendahl Rank: 25 Age: 27 Position: Social Web Communications Manager Company: Goddard Systems, Inc. (franchisor of The Goddard School)

If you asked Ashley Betzendahl in college what she would be when she grew up – Social Web Communications Manager probably wouldn’t have been the four words of her choice. Thankfully for Goddard Systems, Inc., that career path is perfectly fitting for the 27 year old. In fact, the social guru has paved the way for other brands in the sense of best practices. Take a look at her work and you will receive a glimpse into social perfection. As for her next step? Much like Social Media, Betzendahl’s world changes every second. She does love franchising, though, and sees herself painting a nice footprint in the future. I GOT INTO FRANCHISING: I began my career in franchising over four years ago, when I joined the marketing team at Goddard Systems, Inc. (GSI). Prior to joining GSI, I worked at a marketing and media agency in Philadelphia which provided me the opportunity to learn about GSI and the franchising industry. I LOVE FRANCHISING: I am passionate about franchising and social media – and at the end of the day I feel good about the service we are delivering. IN THE FUTURE: I have an ambitious paintbrush. I strive to lead a franchising organization and bring it to new, uncharted levels. DO YOUNG PEOPLE HAVE OPPORTUNITY: Young blood often leads to new energy and determination for change. Unfortunately, I think many organizations are afraid of young professionals, as we are looked at as inexperienced. That couldn’t be further from the truth. FUTURE FRANCHISORS SHOULD: Network. The franchising industry, for the most part, is very open – take advantage of this. Talk with other professionals, attend conferences, take courses and never stop learning. FUTURE FRANCHISEES SHOULD: Franchisors have perfected a system; it is in place for a reason. Don’t stray from it. Remember, your franchisor has opened multiple (if not hundreds or thousands of) locations. There needs to be a significant about of trust and faith in your franchisor for the relationship, and business, to be successful. --NICK POWILLS