Do you want to open a franchise but feel completely overwhelmed by the process? Guess what… I was once you. As a former middle manager for a Fortune 500 company for close to fifteen years, l had plenty of developed skills to put to use in my own business. My first startup was in my early thirties while still employed full time; a partner and I developed a small business with limited success and along the way wasted a lot of time, energy and money in the process. That’s when I dropped the partner and shifted my focus to existing successful business models that I could use as a blueprint for my next venture. I knew that all franchises are based upon the business model of duplication.
After some searching and speaking with a franchise consultant with some real world experience, this person finally put me on track with some franchises that made sense for me. Well after a short period of time I found a fit, it was a retail service based franchise. Well before I knew it I had opened one, then two, then three franchises within a few short years. All of sudden I was running a multi-unit franchise operation! Well I couldn’t have done it without some guidance and direction from some good people. Those early meetings with the franchise consultant also sparked an interest to help others who have the same dream of opening and running a small business. Four years later I’m still helping people locate, evaluate and open their own franchises.
However many times people quickly become overwhelmed in the process of evaluation and validation of a franchise and they give up. After working with hundreds upon hundreds of potential franchisees I know it’s not for everyone… but my message is; Don’t give up to early. Seek out a professional franchise consultant who can provide expertise and guidance throughout the entire process. Listed below are many of the numerous reasons that it’s advantageous to use this service.
– Franchise consultants typically do not charge a fee, they are paid by the franchise company for their service. It doesn’t cost you anymore to use one or not.
– The professional service is confidential and personal.
– Consultants provide critical information to the potential franchisee on how the entire process works.
– The service has a consultative approach which includes a needs assessment process to focus in on the franchisee’s experience, interests, and goals for the business. This information is complied in order to match up the most suitable franchise with the candidate.
– The consultant investigates the franchise, typically identifying suitable demographics and territory availability with the franchisor.
– The consultant initiates the initial contact with a company executive, setting up meetings and answering questions along the way is all part of the service.
– The consultant provides an overview of the company’s success and track record.
– The consultant works with all types of franchises from all industries.
– The consultant should virtually eliminate any confusion on the type of franchise you should be involved with.
Overall an educated and well rounded consultant will help you determine if franchising is right for you.