For people concerned about putting their toes into the more murky waters of self-employment, a franchise, with its strong brand and support network, is frequently the best approach to start a business.
It’s a viable option for people suffering layoffs who want to reclaim control of their careers. Many people who have had time to reconsider their work-life balance since the outbreak has expressed similar sentiments.
Franchise packages should include a proven, well-documented profits potential and support packages such as an ISO9001-accredited induction training course to help franchisees get up and running quickly. Franchisees in our organization also benefit from flexible working hours and a scalable business model, which allows for expansion into a multi-van operation if a franchisee so desires.
#1 – There is no such thing as a typical franchisee.
Following a tried and stress-tested pilot operation that has been presented at two or three UK locations, it’s critical to provide a simple and accessible franchise proposition to prospective franchisees. Because there is no such thing as a “typical” franchisee, a franchisee’s start-up package should provide a level of support and promotional activity suitable for people from a wide range of backgrounds.
In essence, a solid franchise will provide a lot of assistance and experience, ensuring franchisees’ success. This attracts people who are dedicated, motivated, and invested in the long-term success of the company.
>See also: How to Start a Franchise: From Winning the Master Franchise to Expanding Your Business
#2 – Prepare your franchise booth.
Consider the steps involved in running your firm. Franchisees will require exact details and standards to get their firm up and running. Your franchise opportunity must be easy to duplicate. This process takes time, and you may need to seek guidance from franchising pros along the way, but it’s well worth it, and even if you don’t decide to franchise in the end, the groundwork you lay today will help your business function more smoothly.
It may seem apparent, but before bringing your franchise offering to market, make sure you have a solid and comprehensive business plan, including marketing, signage, business cards, and employee training.
Starting a new business is never easy, but working as part of a larger and established company may be the best option for a rising number of people considering self-employment. Be prepared since franchisees will look to you as the franchisor for a lot of aid and advice.
#3 – Extend your reach
Using the business format franchising model, many established enterprises might be expanded nationally or even internationally. Our cleaning business has the advantage of being accessible to most people, which makes it an excellent franchise option. I have franchisees of all ages and backgrounds in the UK and Australia, ranging from ex-servicemen to office employees. Countless examples demonstrate that prior knowledge in the oven valeting sector is not required to own a franchise and grow a profitable business. The fact that start-up costs are low and getting the business off the ground is simple is an added plus.
#4 – Present your business case
I own and operate an oven valeting business, yet there is a popular misconception that franchisees must be “hands-on.” Although certain oven valeting franchises ask franchisees to assist with some aspects of the cleaning, one of the most popular misconceptions regarding cleaning businesses is that you have to get your hands dirty. Many are run by management and are among the most corporate franchise companies in the world. Examine the implications of your franchise product to see how you may expand its appeal.
With a management franchise, franchisees can hire personnel to do the cleaning while they take on a much more operational role, as many of our franchisees do. However, keep in mind that you’ll be assisting your franchisees in running and managing a business, not just teaching them how to perform well in their “day job.”
#5 – The franchisee’s role
Many franchisees choose a more “hands-on” franchise, and I, for one, appreciate working at the coalface of the oven valeting business. Whether a franchise focuses on the business or residential cleaning, each postcode region has hundreds, if not thousands, of prospective customers. Although almost everyone has an oven, it is a good idea to focus on niche markets if at all possible. Targeting business enterprises, such as letting agents, which already have established client networks tap into, is an excellent example. Many of our franchisees have great working connections with these companies, and they may be a very profitable way to get started in the business. A well-prepared franchisor will have a solid marketing plan for their franchisees.
#6 – Develop and safeguard your franchise brand.
Your brand is your most valuable asset as a franchisor; therefore, preserve it. Your brand reflects your company’s culture, beliefs, and attitude toward customers. When you franchise, you’re offering individuals the chance to invest in your brand and represent it. One of the most significant risks of franchising is this.
All of your brand assets should be used according to clear standards. You want to make sure you’re transmitting a unified message from a unified source and that the message is consistent.
Do keep an eye on everything – pay particular attention to videos and photos, and keep an eye on all social media sources to make sure nothing gets in the way of the message. Establish a good working connection with a professional franchise lawyer from the start, as all of the above must be included in a properly drafted Franchise Agreement. Early on, prudent investment in this department can save a lot of trouble later on.
Ovenu Franchising Ltd’s managing director is Rik Helliwell.