Taking a franchise is no doubt a safer way to success but the franchise can not be successful till the time the franchisee himself is willing to work for it. If the franchisee fails then most of the times franchisor’s expansion plans and strategies are held responsible for it. Now the question that arises is how justified it is to blame the business plan as it is a proven path that has worked for the franchisor and many other franchisees? No, we can not blame the franchisor alone for the business failure as there are a number of ways a franchisee can adopt to make his business run smoothly. Let us have a look.
Value brand image: As a franchisee you can incorporate a few changes but not at the risk of the brand image. Always consult the franchisor before introducing any changes in the outlet or system. The franchisor has put his well established business at stake so mishandling or taking too much of risk on your part may break the trust.
Local marketing: It is true that the franchisor takes advertising fee from the franchisees. This advertising is done at the national level. Many franchisees rely on this advertising only for their outlet. Franchisees should set aside some budget to advertise at the local level as well. The brand name is popular but you have to make the local people aware.
Attending meetings: Many franchisors have annual meetings where all franchisees gather and discuss the various issues and strategies for future. It is essential that franchisees do not miss out on these meetings as they can share their grievances with the franchisor. Moreover through such meetings they come in contact with other franchisees and develop relations with them. Franchisor can also provide guidance and share his experiences with the budding franchisees to attain their goals.
Going for franchise expositions: It is believed that franchise exhibitions are organised for the benefit of the franchisors and aspiring franchisees. Attending franchise expos can benefit franchisees in many ways. They can be better informed about the latest developments and concerned players in the business world.
Being a testing unit: Franchisors always try to launch new products and services to make their business more exclusive. As a franchisee one can reap the benefits by volunteering to become a testing unit for the franchisor’s new products and services. This will not only provide free advertising of the franchisee’s outlet but also make him contribute actively in the parent company.
Hard work: The most important guideline for being successful is to be hard working. One can employ every technique and put a lot of money but still the outlet will not become successful till the time the franchisee gets solely involved in the business.
Remember that success comes to those who aspire to achieve it. Franchising is a great platform to achieve great heights but only if the franchisees remember and walk on the given guidelines.
