Being a Great Franchise Candidate

We work with people throughout the country who are exploring business ownership for the first time. We have gone through the process of figuring out that they are right for business ownership and that a franchise model is the best path to explore.

Here are three things to expect and here are three things to remember on being the best candidate that they can be. Without this part of the conversation, the franchising process can break-down because both the Franchise company and the candidate are not aligned in their expectation about the process.

1. Stick to Commitments: Just like dating, missing a commitment even as simple as an email deadline creates doubt in the relationship. For example, I work with an increasing number of clients whose motive is to keep their job and develop an additional income stream. I suggest that during your initial call with the Franchise company you will have the opportunity to express what you do along with the responsibilities you have. This helps the Franchise company adjust the steps in their process to fit your ability to manage your workload and move through the process. I state you will be asked to mark dates on your calendar for calls, webinars, and follow up. I let candidates know that they can help manage the process by communicating well in advance if they must reschedule a call or need an extra day to complete the FDD review, or organize validation calls.

2. Always ask questions: You learn more about the business model at each step of the research process, continue to ask questions. I’ll pre-frame with my client that at each touch point in the process you will learn more and more about the business. Each touch point will generate different types of questions. For example, when preparing for the review of the FDD with the Franchisor, develop questions about what may not be clear from reading this legal document. When speaking with Franchisees (owners in their system), develop and ask questions that will help you visualize if you can see yourself being the CEO of this business and if those owners have been able to achieve the goals they set for themselves.

3. Reach Out: It’s okay to initiate contact. This shows your enthusiasm. You don’t have to wait until your scheduled appointment to ask a question or voice a concern. Showing your enthusiasm throughout the process can go a long way to be at the top of the pile when you go to Discovery Day or Meet the Team Day. Creating a positive and proactive relationship will help when it time for the Franchise Company to award their business to you.

Meet growing concepts in your area at one of our many expos and discover the best franchises to explore.