Franchising

Companies look for strong, focused and well-trained individuals to join their network of franchises. Franchise owners can become a powerful force for a successful franchise company, or be destined for downfall if they put the prosperity of the franchise company at risk if they don't market or manage their products and services carefully.

Before you dive into the world of franchise ownership, ask yourself these five questions to determine if you have the skills, background and financial ability to be successful:

1. Are you financially prepared for franchise ownership? In addition to the start-up franchise fee and expenses you'll need to get the business off the ground, franchises need to pay marketing and royalty fees to the franchisor. Many franchise companies also have minimum net worth requirements for prospective franchises, so make sure you have the ability to raise capital either privately or through financing.

2. Are you dedicated to salesmanship? A franchise owner is at ease when dealing with customers and is enthusiastic and capable of having effective communication with them. A background rich in marketing and customer service can help you achieve your sales goals by using your instincts to make important decisions and cultivate your strategy for success.

3. Have you done your research? Potential franchise owners must do their homework to consider the type of franchise they should own, based on their personality, experience and what they can afford. Be sure to read all the disclosure documents that supplied by the franchisor. Talk to current and former franchise owners to get an understanding of the state of the business and what the day-to-day operations are like. Discuss your conclusions with a franchise lawyer for guidance on whether this particular investment is right for you.

4. Are you committed to supervision and management? Franchise owners aren't creators or innovators. They follow rules under a structured business model. Franchisors are looking for potential franchise owners who can take instruction and want to become part of a well-oiled machine that has proven procedures and policies. Depending on the length of your contract, you'll be working with the franchise company for many years. Knowing your role in the franchise system is key to a good relationship with the franchisor.

5. Are you dedicated to do working long hours and doing whatever it takes to make the business succeed? A franchise owner must be driven and have the endurance to work hard and long. Commitment to being an entrepreneur can be exhausting, but with enthusiasm, franchise owners can get through the rough times and slow business phases in order to taste victory. Sometimes, after you pay your weekly expenses, there won't be enough money left over for you. Sometimes you'll make a nice profit. There are ups and downs in franchise ownership and you have to remain dedicated through it all.