• Expert Advice

When it comes to training, franchisors may look alike. They provide, on average, between one and five weeks of training. But what if those five weeks of training consist of no more than learning the system in an existing well-oiled operation? Does that prepare the prospective franchisee for opening his own unit? And who trains his management team and shop staff?

Franchise training is likely one of the basic reasons many franchisees opt for a particular franchise business opportunity. When prospective franchisees begin to compare one franchise with another, one of the items they need to examine closely is the training the system will provide them.  Their very futures depend on it.

They should expect to be introduced to some classroom-type training with several days of intense learning on the franchise’s tried-and-tested systems.

Thereafter, expect onsite and ongoing training regarding on-the-job systems, operations and changes. Before selecting a franchise, it is wise to speak to other franchisees on their training experiences – it must be training that gives franchisees a sense the franchisor wants them to succeed.

What to Expect (and Demand) from Your Franchise Training:

• Classroom Immersion: Look for several days of intensive, classroom-style learning focused on the franchise’s proven systems. This initial phase should provide a solid theoretical foundation.
• On-Site & Ongoing Support: The learning shouldn’t stop after the classroom. Expect continuous, on-the-job training covering operations, system updates, and real-world scenarios.
• Transparency in Disclosure: Before you sign anything, the disclosure agreement should clearly outline:
  • Who will be trained (just you, or your management team and staff too?).
  • How long the training will be.
  • The type of training and the subject matter covered.
  • Who will be conducting the training.
• Comprehensive Initial Training: Your first days are crucial. Ensure you’ll receive detailed operating manuals (user-friendly ones!) to refer to. No one can remember everything, and these manuals will be your go-to guide for consistent operations and growth.
• Robust Ongoing Training: Progressive franchisors offer training modules via Intranet, require certifications, and often send support staff to assist during your opening. This hands-on help should ideally extend through your grand opening and beyond, guiding you and your staff through the initial hurdles. Take full advantage of continuous support through visits, calls, emails, Intranet sites, newsletters, and even franchise advisory groups.
• “Train-the-Trainer” Programs: A vital component is learning how to train your own staff. Check if the disclosure document includes provisions for a “train-the-trainer” program, equipping you to effectively onboard and develop your team.

Essential Training Topics You Should Expect:

Running a business is complex, so your training should cover far more than just product preparation. Look for detailed instruction on:

• Product and service specifics
• Merchandising and pricing strategies
• Staff management (recruiting, hiring, firing, supervision, motivation)
• Marketing, advertising, and communication initiatives
• Computer and accounting system implementation
• Procurement of inventory, equipment, and supplies
• Operational standards and procedures
• Leadership and business management
• Problem-solving techniques
• Customer experience management and brand positioning
• Safety, security, cleaning, and maintenance
• Supply chain management (purchasing, receiving, stocking, inventory)
• Financial management and POS/MIS system usage
• Specific industry requirements (e.g., food safety for food franchises)

Conclusion

A franchisee will have to do everything in compliance with the consistency standards of the franchisor. But not all franchisors provide the same level of training to their franchisees or prepare their franchisees for success – the quality of training is consequently a vital aspect in franchise selection.