Franchise Business Owner - Can You Follow A Franchise System?

Franchising 101

By LEANNE BEATTIE

Think owning a franchise will be an easy route to success? Think again. Not everyone is cut out to be a franchisee. You need to have a certain type of personality in order to make it as a happy franchise business owner - if you don't like following the rules, then a franchise is not the right type of business for you.

Buying into a Franchise System

When you buy a franchise, you're buying into a system of operations that has been tested countless times before. As part of this system, you'll be given a terrific amount of help from the experts in your field, with each expert offering a variety of proven methods to use. But there is a bit of a catch - you have to follow their rules exactly.

Succeeding in a franchise system means following the operations manual and procedures set out by your franchisor. If you're the independent type who resents being told what to do, you might not be happy having to follow someone else's rules. In short, a franchisee needs to be able to accept things the way they are - because you're purchasing a business with guidelines already in place, there's very little you can do to change the way things are done.

Accepting the Rules

Every franchisee has to follow the same system, as laid out in their franchisee agreement. When you abide by the same rules, the public will know what to expect from your franchise system no matter which location they choose to visit. This continuity is absolutely essential - and it's up to you to make sure it happens in your franchise. Even if you can think of better ways to do things in your business, you must have the maturity to accept the way your franchisor wants things done, without a fight. Any change in your franchise system must be done on the highest levels, not just in your store.

Put me in, Coach!

Are you open to new ideas? Can you take advice from others without feeling resentful? Successful franchisees are always learning from others in their franchise system. The ability to be coached is a key factor in franchise success-if you believe in always asking for advice, you're on your way to becoming a thriving franchisee.

Keep an Open Mind

Franchise systems are filled with all sorts of people, each with their own point of view. As part of this system, you have the opportunity to speak your mind, but so does everyone else too. It takes an open mind to accept other people's opinions and different ways of thinking. If you believe it's got to be "your way or the highway", owning a franchise might not be the best choice for you.

Are You Thick-Skinned?

If you're not sticking to your franchisor's game plan, you're going to hear about it! The ability to take criticism gracefully is absolutely necessary - if you can't deal with negative comments or suggestions for improvement, you'll have a hard time as a franchisee.

A True Believer

Believing in and following your franchisor's systems and policies are intrinsic parts of being a franchisee. These systems are your roadmap to success and following them is the best way to build your business. Your franchisor may tweak and adjust their way of doing things over time - your faith in their expertise will allow you to implement these changes without a second thought.

Communication is the Key

Many franchised businesses depend on good people skills to succeed-it's absolutely necessary for you to get along with your franchisor, your suppliers, your staff, and your customers. Good communication skills are also needed for open dialog with your franchisor when problems occur. And they will. The more you share your experiences, both good and bad, the more your franchisor can help you in the long run.

Do You Fit?

Franchisees tend to be more cautious and less likely to take risks than true entrepreneurs, while being more open to guidance from others. Your role as a franchisee is to follow a certain formula, stick to the rules and take advice when necessary. Can you see yourself doing this?

They say that when you own a franchise, "you're in business for yourself, but not by yourself". If you're more comfortable following a proven method than striking out on your own, owning a franchise can be very satisfying. But if you want true independence, this way of doing business may make you feel stifled and restless. Before signing any franchisee agreement, take the time to analyze your personality thoroughly - your future happiness depends on it.

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