So, you’re all ready to jump into Franchising.  Is that because your neighbor or second cousin is raving about the success they’re having with their sandwich, hair cutting or automotive Franchise?

Or is your decision based on some article you read that said that Franchising is the best business model ever created, the safest way to control your destiny and perhaps the easiest way to achieve financial independence?  Well, there’s no doubt that making money is high on your priority list.  But still, how can you know if operating under the Franchise Formula would make you happy?

Check out these 5 Franchise requirements before going any further:

1. Franchising Makes You the Boss…..Well, Sort Of!
   Yes, you own the business, but many decisions have already been made for you, like following Franchise standards and buying approved products……and there are no if’s, and’s or but’s.  Most are thrilled to follow a proven Franchise formula and avoid the risk of trial & error.  But, if you are a “Maverick” and need the freedom to tinker and re-create the wheel, then think twice before signing that Agreement.
2. Franchising Works, As Long As YOU Do.
   Franchising provides a proven business system, but it’s YOU that powers that system……and that requires a 24/7 work ethic, at least during the first 18 months.  Just like any business owner, you’ll work hard…..but with a Franchise you’ll also work smart.
3. Franchising Involves Lots of Selling.
   Franchising provides a powerful business formula, but it still requires old fashion selling.  Successful Franchisees are people-people, and they love selling and being the local “Brand Ambassador”.  Are you willing to get out there and sell the Franchise?
4. Franchising Requires Passion.
   Successful Franchisees are passionate about their Franchise Brand and products, and that positive energy spreads to every level of their business.  They know that Franchising goes beyond making a quick sale….it’s more about providing a consistent Brand experience for every customer that is truly special.  Can you generate that level of passion?
5. Franchising Demands Loyalty.
   Successful Franchisees are loyal to their Franchise and their Brand.  They would never shortcut the procedures, customer service policies, or product quality.  In fact, they remain in total compliance even when the Franchisor isn’t looking.  That’s because they understand that their actions reflect the overall Brand Image AND the future success of the Franchise.  Can you see how important it is to stay loyal to the Franchise?

So, is Franchising for you?  Only you can make that decision.

Just understand that not every successful Franchisee necessarily reflected the above 5 items when they first started looking.  Still, they felt a powerful resolve to make the leap into this type of business ownership, and they were committed to doing whatever it took to be successful.  They ultimately discovered that if they would commit to the above 5 requirements, then Franchising would be their ticket to success. Are you willing to make these commitments for the sake of Franchise success?  If so, then Franchising is definitely for you.

Mark Kaplan is the Franchise Coach, and editor of BestFranchiseInformation.com. Mark’s is also the CEO of Great Wraps, Inc., a rapidly growing Franchisor of Hot Wrap & Grilled Sandwich Shops. Mark has spent over 20 years in Franchising, and he has a no-nonsense way of showing Entrepreneurs how to be successful in Franchising. Prior to Franchising, Mark championed major, national Brands for Corporate powerhouses like Coca-Cola, Nabisco Brands & Colgate Palmolive.