Buying a franchise is a good alternative to starting a business from scratch. You have a franchisor who would provide you with everything the business needs, such as a tried and true business plan, an employee training program, promotional tactics and materials, and a well-known brand. You’d also get help when problems arise, sparing you from the pressure of relying on your own knowledge alone.
But even if a franchise is the easier route, it doesn’t mean it’s immune to risks and challenges. It still has competitors and changing trends to beat. And despite having a stable customer base and being a widely recognized brand, the franchise’s success still ultimately depends on the franchisee’s management skills. If you fail, the franchisor may terminate your contract, ruining the professional relationship you have forged.
That said, here are some tips you could use to become a successful franchise business owner:
1. Choose a Franchise That’s Related to Your Interests
Entrepreneurs start a business because of a common goal: to earn a profit. Hence, when they look for a franchise opportunity, many may tend to only limit their options to what’s currently trendy, or what’s constantly popular. While this isn’t entirely a bad idea, it could end up in a disaster if the field you’ve chosen isn’t aligned with your interests. For example, buying a sporting goods franchise when you’re not one bit knowledgeable about sports. It could be profitable, but you may quickly lose interest in it because the field isn’t right up your alley.
Say, if your flair is having fun in the simplest ways, a possible suitable franchise for you is a hot dog or any quick snack business. Starting or buying a hot dog restaurant franchise will allow you to work as if you’re just preparing for a casual gathering of friends and family. It won’t always be fun, but at least you’re doing what makes you happy.
2. Learn From Other Franchisees
Reading textbooks can only do so much, so gather learning from other franchisees as well. Ask them about their experiences, their specific roles as the owner, how much had they invested, etc. This will give you a glimpse on what your experience as a franchisee will be like better than any book can. If the franchisees you’ve communicated with are all happy and empowered, and you envision yourself to be one of them, then that’s a great motivator for success.
3. Pick the Best Location
Just because the franchise is famous on a national scale means that it’ll thrive on a remote area. It still needs a strategic location where your target market resides. Your franchisor will work with you on picking the best place, but you’re still the one to make the final decision. Carefully evaluate each location you’re considering without missing any detail such as traffic patterns, competitors, nearby stores, etc.
4. Hire Excellent Customer Service Associates
The tried and true customer service style of your franchise business will only be carried out if your staff is highly adept at serving customers, to begin with. They must be willing to go beyond what’s expected of them to deliver a wonderful experience for your customers. In addition, if you’re a novice in managing employees, you need to receive training to ensure that your team’s performance will always be outstanding.
If you clearly see yourself being an excellent franchise owner, make that vision a reality. Do your research, learn from your peers, and always keep the knowledge coming in. In time, you might be an owner of not just one, but several franchise businesses.
