3.09 – Getting Good Training
Great franchisors ensure that franchisees learn the business thoroughly and stay updated as the system evolves and market conditions change. While franchisors provide essential training, franchisees should also seek additional knowledge from various sources, including the internet, local classes, and professional advisors.
Undergoing Good Initial Training
Initial training for new franchisees is comprehensive, covering a wide range of topics to ensure consistency in product or service delivery according to brand standards. Key areas typically include:
- Site Selection, Design, and Development: How to choose, design, and develop the right location.
- Supply Chain and Inventory Management: Managing vendor relations, purchasing, receiving, stocking, and inventory.
- Food Safety and Storage: Essential for franchises in the food industry.
- Labor Management: Recruitment, supervision, and motivation of staff.
- Leadership and Business Management: Building strong management skills.
- Brand Standards and Operating Procedures: Maintaining consistency with the brand.
- Customer Experience: Understanding and enhancing the customer journey.
- Technical Operations: Product and service technicalities.
- Problem-Solving: Strategies to tackle operational challenges.
- Brand Positioning: Ensuring the public perceives the brand as intended.
- Merchandising: Effective display and promotion of products.
- Pricing Strategies: Methods to set and adjust prices.
- Marketing and Advertising: Effective promotion techniques.
- Cleaning and Maintenance: Keeping the business premises in top condition.
- Safety and Security: Ensuring a safe environment for staff and customers.
- Financial Management: Budgeting, accounting, and financial planning.
- IT Systems: Managing POS, accounting, payroll, inventory, and communications systems.
- Train-the-Trainer Programs: Enabling franchisees to train their management and staff continuously.
Good training imparts the franchisor’s brand philosophy, teaches essential business operations, and provides resources for additional or emergency support.
Receiving Effective Ongoing Training
Continuous training is crucial for keeping up with changes in products, services, competition, technology, and regulations. Established franchise systems often provide ongoing support from regional offices and headquarters staff. Franchisees should expect:
- Continuing Education: Regular training programs for franchisees, their management teams, and training personnel.
- Field Staff Support: On-site training and support from the franchisor’s field staff.
- Innovations and Updates: Training on new products, technology, and improved customer service methods.
- Intranet Systems: Online training and resources provided through the franchisor’s intranet.
Great franchisors offer ongoing improvements to keep the brand competitive and ahead of market trends.
Evaluating Your Franchisor’s Training Program
Not all franchisors offer the same depth and length of training. The amount and quality of training can vary significantly depending on the industry and the franchisor. Prospective franchisees should:
- Review Franchise Agreement: Understand the training commitments detailed in the agreement.
- Consult Item 11 in the FDD: Check the initial training curriculum outlined in the Franchise Disclosure Document.
- Conduct Due Diligence: Speak with existing franchisees to gauge the effectiveness of the franchisor’s training program.
- Seek Additional Training: Identify and pursue other relevant training opportunities outside the franchisor’s offerings.
By understanding and leveraging the training provided, franchisees can effectively manage their businesses and adapt to ongoing changes in the market.
