There are several reasons why someone may choose to become a franchisee. Whether they are seeking the support of a proven business model or looking to tap into their entrepreneurial spirit by investing in a new business opportunity, franchising can offer incredible possibilities.

However, some franchisees begin their journey in a unique way—they begin as loyal customers of the franchise business! Keep reading to discover some of the reasons why starting off this way can benefit their role and customers alike.

FANS OF THE FRANCHISE BUSINESS

Believing in the business you invest in is important, as it can foster a sense of passion for your work as a franchisee and satisfaction in your role. Recent reports from a job satisfaction survey indicate that despite 62.7% of respondents expressing contentment at work last year, employee sentiment decreased in almost every aspect of their job compared to previous years. Finding a business opportunity that brings you fulfillment can motivate you to succeed, which is important since 87% of employees are less likely to resign if they feel engaged in their work.

As a fan of the brand, you have the advantage of skipping much (if not all) of the time and effort that prospective franchisees typically spend researching various franchise opportunities to find one that stands out. By starting as a customer, you already know the brand and like what it stands for—valuable factors that can assist you on your franchising journey.

TRUST IN THE BUSINESS MODEL

Following an established business model is a key element of franchising. This model guides franchisees in operating their businesses and helps maintain consistency across locations in a franchise network. Adhering to this business model requires trust and a willingness to follow the guidelines, which are not always feasible for everyone. Additionally, understanding the business model, including the products and services offered, takes time and requires both initial and ongoing training to become familiar with.

As a customer of the franchise business, you are already familiar with much of the setup and the products or services it provides, as well as what customers are looking for. This familiarity gives you an insight that not every franchisee starts their experience with. Since you are a satisfied customer, you understand that the business model is effective and capable of generating success, making you more receptive to learning and offering you confidence as you move forward in your investment.

ALIGNMENT WITH THE FRANCHISE’S MISSION AND CULTURE

Adopting a franchise system’s mission and culture can be much easier when they align with your own beliefs. As a customer, you have firsthand experience with the business, offering insight into what the franchise stands for and the values it upholds.

For example, if you are a customer at Dogtopia, you know that we provide expert care for dogs and prioritize their well-being. By continuing to support our business, you are likely aligned with our mission and appreciate our commitment to safety. Therefore, you can stand behind the mission and culture as a franchisee because it aligns with what you would want as a customer.

UNDERSTAND THE CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE

Without having to try and view things from a customer’s point of view, you have the unique ability to understand a customer’s needs and wants. With this insight, you can enter a franchise opportunity with knowledge of what makes your experience with the franchise enjoyable and potentially identify areas you might want to enhance to create an even greater experience for your customers.

With this familiarity comes built-in credibility, which can lead to greater customer connection. Because your customers know you were a customer before becoming a franchisee, it can foster a sense of familiarity and trust in what you say. You have authenticity and the ability to relate, which helps build strong customer relationships. This background can also translate into profit—consumers will spend an average of 51% more when they trust a retailer, while 71% will buy more and 61% will recommend a brand to friends.

OPPORTUNITIES FOR COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

As a franchisee, engaging with your community, such as through partnerships, can help you develop relationships with community members and help you generate a greater sense of connection with your customer base. In fact, community involvement is one of the ways franchises help build strong customer relationships for franchisees, as it’s often easier to establish relationships by leveraging the franchise’s reputation and recognition.

Some franchisees invest in a franchise in a new city where they have no ties, requiring more community building in the opening process. However, as a customer who becomes a franchisee in their own city, you likely already have strong ties to your local community, giving you an advantage when connecting with local organizations or charities and feeling connected with your community overall.

FRANCHISING WITH DOGTOPIA

Whether you’re an existing Dogtopia customer and align with who we are and our culture, or are interested in making your mark in the continuously growing billion-dollar pet industry, we offer the guidance and support to help you succeed in bringing a Dogtopia daycare to your community. Ready to learn more? Complete our online inquiry form to get started.