Upfront Training
When you first begin your franchise business, the franchisor should provide training on the main aspects of running the business. The training program should be quite comprehensive. It should include the procedures to follow such as accurate book and record keeping, methods on finding and keeping good employees, as well as guidance on how to obtain customers.The program usually lasts anywhere between a few days and a few weeks. The instruction may be held at your franchise location or at corporate headquarters, or possibly a combination of both.
Typically in smaller franchise businesses, the franchisor does the training. In larger franchises, a specific instructor within the organization is dedicated to the franchisee.
Whatever method is used in training, franchisors should be diligent about ensuring that new franchisees feel comfortable operating the business before he/she is left alone to manage the franchise. The franchisor may also be willing to train the franchisee's manager.
Site Selection
It is very important for the franchise to be housed in a prime location in order to have the best chance of success. The franchisor or assigned personnel within the organization should work closely with the franchisee in selecting the best property for the franchise. The franchisor should also provide guidance regarding lease negotiations.In some cases, the franchisor may have already performed the research necessary to find a prime location. Since the franchisor invested a decent amount of resources in order to complete the site search, it is likely that a good decision has been made on your behalf. After all, the better your business performs, the more the franchisor will also benefit.
Marketing and Advertising
As a franchisee you should receive a comprehensive marketing plan for your business for the time period from the grand opening through the following 3-6 months. Although it will be necessary for you to contribute to a national or regional advertising fund, the franchisor should also guide you regarding the local marketing efforts that would be beneficial.Due to the high level of interest in your success as a franchisee, the franchisor may also supply you with customized professional marketing materials. These could include posters, brochures, banners, direct mail postcards and many others.
Ongoing Assistance
A good franchisor will always provide ongoing assistance. Part of the guidance includes a comprehensive operation manual. Although the manual should outline all aspects of running your business, there is always a chance that you will have other questions as you go along.Franchisors should provide efficient means of communication for addressing questions or concerns. Many times there is an 800 number or hotline depending on the size of the organization.
In addition some franchises will provide additional training and educational opportunities as processes and procedures within the organization are updated.
In conclusion, it is best to do as much research as possible before selecting the franchise you would like to be involved in so that you are aware of specifically what support and services the organization will provide. Included in your investigation should be conversations with other franchisees within the organization. Chances are if they have been satisfied with the franchise support system, you will be as well.
