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Initial and Ongoing Training Essential for Successful Franchises

The training program of the franchisor is the basis of success for the franchisee. Keep in mind that many franchisees enter the franchising business without any prior knowledge. Even if they have come from a business background, each business is run in its own unique way. So franchisees must learn about the business model from scratch. From the very beginning, however, the opportunity to learn and grow exists–and since a major portion of the franchise fee that is paid at the start goes toward training, everyone should make sure they get the most out of the expereince. 

Many franchisors start trianing for their franchise opportunity by sending some literature or a CD-ROM for the franchisees to read. The franchisees are required to go through the materials before they attend the main training session at the company-designated location. Usually, the first part of the training program is held at the company headquarters. Effective training programs should cover the following: 

• Details about the company’s products/services
• How to find a good site, if it’s not a home-based business
• How to negotiate the lease terms and get the required permits and other licenses
• How to design the building
• Whom to hire and how
• The basics of marketing basics
• The accounting process
• Supplies and inventory
• Required inventory and equipment

Sometimes top franchises will bring in a successful franchisee to share personal experiences. Those who attend are expected to take notes and ask questions, clearing any doubts or concerns about the business. Then, after the classroom sessions are over, some franchisors send associates to train franchisees at their actual locations. Thus, they can learn about the running of the business first-hand. The scene then shifts to the location of the new franchisees. A representative of the company stays with the franchisees to guide them through the store’s grand opening, and by then, initial training should be complete. 

This does not mean, however, that the passing of information is over. Top franchisors will regularly send newsletters and hold seminars and regional meetings. And if anything new is introduced in the franchising system, franchisees will be trained for using it, as well. In a sense, then, training never ends!

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