What is the real reason people invest in franchising? Perhaps it’s all about finding the “perfect” business? Laura Blackmore, CAFC with the world leading franchise consulting organization, FranServe, Inc. recently was quoted the following: “Investing in a franchise is not about waffles or paint but rather about deciding that one wants control of their life, schedule, income and most importantly control over how one’s effort translates into results!” By Don Clayton
Entrepreneurship isn’t for everyone. However, investing in a franchise is a lot easier than going at it alone. The concept, materials, plans, systems, brand, etc. are all in place for you. Therefore, hundreds of people every day make the choice to invest in their future and dreams of becoming their own boss through the franchise ownership option. By Don Clayton
Many budding entrepreneurs beginning their franchise search may think franchising is limited to only a few industries, such as restaurants or fitness centers. However, there are many more opportunities in the world of franchising. By Cindy Charette
In the latest census, it was estimated that there are 74 million children in the U.S. With more than 20% of the population under the age of 18, would-be franchisees are increasingly looking into starting a franchise that serves children. By Sue Bennett
by Don Clayton
Certified Franchise Consultant
I recently had a conversation with a young woman interested in owning a franchise. She was excited, friendly, joyful, and asked great questions. But once I began explaining the next steps in franchising, the conversation took a turn.
She quickly informed me that she didn’t operate that way and we’d do things her way. To her, the process is just like buying a car. The salesman needs to bow to her requests. That makes sense, right? It does when you’re buying a car, but not when you’re investing in a franchise.
After I explained that there are standard operating procedures to follow, she responded by standing her ground. Needless to say, she’s now looking for her next W-2 job.
A business in a box
Investors do not buy a franchise the same way they purchase a car or any other product. Franchises are awarded, not sold. The woman in my example is a nonconforming individual, and this type of person goes against everything in franchising. A franchise is a business in a box. For the most part, all of the kinks, errors, trials, and models have been hashed out and neatly packaged together. If someone wants to reinvent years of trial and error, that person should do so, but not through the franchise system.
The people best-suited to own franchises are open-minded life learners who are adaptable and follow instructions. Highly successful franchisees let the system work while incorporating their unique personalities into the business to make it their own.
The benefits of franchising
Franchisees enjoy the rewards of countless hours (sometimes years) of blood, sweat, tears, trial, error, money, and other sacrifices that someone else endured in order to make this opportunity available. Investing in a franchise allows one to jump right in, learn, follow protocol, make money, and have fun.
Don Clayton has spent more than 15 years helping others achieve their dream of business ownership. Starting as a franchise consultant for FranServe in 2001, he quickly became a top producer. His passion for the business led Don to the position of VP of Talent Acquisition, where he is committed to recruiting successful candidates. Contact Don at don@franserve.com or 919-777-0178.