Training is a crucial part of franchising. Successful franchises deliver consistency, which requires clear, organized, and efficient operational systems that can only be passed on with proper training. In today’s post, the FranNet Canada team describes training standards you should expect as a new franchisee. Read on for an introduction to initial and ongoing training and make the most of your work education!
Introduction to Initial Training
So you’ve been granted the franchise you always dreamed of – congratulations! You’re about to embark on one of the most crucial and exciting parts of your journey: initial training. Initial training is the foundation of franchising. This is the learning stage where you acquire the skills needed to duplicate the franchisor’s current business model and to deliver a consistent experience for the client. Moreover, it is during this startup training phase that you will put your passion to the test and truly discover if this industry is right for you.
Initial training is mandatory, and most franchisors are rather stringent about enforcing quality standards; some even stipulate that poor training performances give them the right to terminate the franchise agreement. But don’t worry: most franchisors give you the option to re-enroll in initial training, so don’t feel as though your dreams will slip away if you don’t pick things up on your first try.
So long as you approach your initial training with a positive attitude and a desire to improve, you should be just fine. As your initial training date nears, try to prepare yourself by setting aside any presumptions you have about how your chosen business is run. Stay open minded and be willing to adopt new methods, even if they contradict things you’ve learned in the past.
Remember: consistency is key!
If you really know a more efficient way of completing a certain task, consider submitting a training recommendation through the proper channels, but resist bringing it up during your actual training sessions. During your training, the franchisor is assessing your ability to take instruction, adapt to their way of doing things, and be a team-player. Though systems vary considerably, below is a brief list of topics you can expect your initial training to cover:
- Point-of-sale systems training
- Franchise building selection and location layout
- Operational processes, plus quality standards
- Merchandising
- Employee management, recruiting, and retention
- Back-end business administration
- Financial planning and controls
The cost of your training will vary considerably from system to system. Some franchisors provide training in group settings, while others conduct one-on-one mentoring-style session over long periods. In some cases, the costs will be included in your franchise fee, while other brands prefer to handle this expense separately. Ultimately, the amount of money you need to spend will be dictated by the distance and length of time you need to travel for training (think flights, meals, and accommodations!), as well as the complexity of your chosen business model and industry.
Where can I find more information about initial training?
You can learn precise details about initial training costs and requirement through careful review of the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD). You can also ask the franchisor questions during your meet-and-greet or information sessions early on in your interaction. If you need help deciphering the FDD, don’t hesitate to book a free consultation with a FranNet Canada adviser.