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Training: An Essential Part Of Opening A New Franchise Location

Franchise training. It's likely one of the fundamental reasons you've selected a franchise business opportunity. It's all there - product and service information, operations details, marketing, accounting procedures - everything you need to know to operate a business is typically covered in some degree of detail by the franchisor. That's because the franchisor knows how the system works, they've refined it and they can offer that valuable knowledge to you as a new operator.

Typically, you are introduced to some initial training with a few days of intense upfront education. Later, onsite and then ongoing training help keep you in the loop and up-to-date on system operations and any changes. The first days of your training are an important time because they prepare you for running the business on your own. But this time also proves in the beginning, and then throughout your ongoing relationship, that the franchisor wants you to succeed.

It's fairly common for the franchisor to bring the new franchisee into its headquarters, or other designated training facility, in the days and weeks following the franchise agreement signing. Often, this training starts in a classroom-type setting. You will begin to learn the specifics of the system and how to work effectively and efficiently within it. This is a great opportunity for you to ask questions and take notes (It can be an intense learning experience and you can't remember it all). In the beginning, you should ask about documentation for the training, including the operations manual and any other training manuals or materials the franchisor can provide.

Your training is most likely going to begin with the franchise operations manual. This tool will layout the operations standards expected of you by the franchisor. It's a critical tool for development and operations that you'll want by your side when you first open your doors and as you grow your franchise business. The operations manual is a good starting point and template for more intense and hand-on training that's to come.

Following the initial classroom training, most franchisors send staff to assist you onsite at your new franchise location. Here, these professionals work closely with you and guide you through everything you'll need to know as you prepare to open. They often remain by your side through your grand opening and sometimes even beyond. This period of time offers you great hands-on training right in your own place of business. Again, don't miss this opportunity to ask as many questions as you can think of.

After your grand opening you'll be comforted by the ongoing training resources offered by the franchisor. This is typically offered by way of phone and conference calls, email, company Intranet sites, newsletters, and even franchise advisory groups and franchise associations. Take advantage of these opportunities and resources.

One of the backbones of a strong franchise organization is training and support for franchisees. You should expect at least the following:

• Organized and detailed information about the products and services you will be offering
• Assistance in financing, site selection, and real estate
• Help with building design, leases, and permits
• Some basic training on how to hire and manage employees
• Explanation of all marketing and co-op advertising initiatives
• Implementation of computer and accounting systems
• Details on how to procure inventory, equipment, and supplies

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