Five Questions to Ask about a Franchisor's Training Program

So you have decided to operate a franchise. Now that you have decided to buy a franchise, make sure that you are pleased with the franchisor's training program. Ask questions to determine what will be expected of you and how you can be prosperous. Obviously there are going to be a lot of rules to follow since you are going to be operating under and in behalf of another already established business. But you feel confident that you will receive all of the necessary training. But wait, are you going into this blindly? Have you really asked the important questions? Below are five questions to ask a franchisor about their training program:

1. What commitments are required of me during training (travel, financial, time, etc)?

   Training programs will vary from franchise to franchise. Many times, you will be required to travel to a place such as the company headquarters to take the franchiser's training program. Make sure that you are able to commit the time and resources to do this. Also consider that you may not be paid for your training time.

2. Do I like the training manual

   After reviewing the training manual and participating in a few training sessions you should have a good idea as to how the company is structured. Do you think that you can work under the conditions that have been outlined? Do you agree with business practices and tactics? Most franchises operate their training in much the same way as they like for their franchises to be operated. Make sure that you recognize this similarity and are going to be able to work under these conditions.

3. What kind of on-going training is available?

   The nature of business is change. You need to know if your franchiser is going to be there to provide continual training to you to ensure that your franchise is successful in the long term. Also, make sure that as questions arise, your franchiser has established a way of getting prompt answers to you. Make sure that your franchiser training is not just a one-time deal and where you are expected to fend for yourself.

4. Is there are network of like franchisers?
   
   Can you ask other franchisers for advice? If a situation arises that is unique to your location or to you personally, is there a network of other company franchise owners that you can turn to for advice? The experience of other franchise owners like you can be priceless.
5. What kind of field support is available?
   
   Will the franchise be there to support my business in the physical sense? Do you know what to do if a piece of machinery breaks? Do you even know how your machinery works? Ask what kind of support will be available in your area in the case of a malfunction or other emergency. Make sure that you are going to be able to deal with the unpredictable elements that will be thrown your way. Not doing so can result in lost business and costly shut-downs.

Buying your franchise is only half the battle. You must operate your franchise under some pretty strict guidelines. But remember, these guidelines are to ensure success and profits. Your franchiser does not want to see you fail. Make sure that as you embark on this new journey as a business operator, that you have all of the tools necessary to make your experience successful.

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