Are you exploring franchise opportunities? Consider franchising as an exam and franchisor-provided training as the notes you study. You wouldn’t want to go into the exam without reviewing, but the level of detail in your notes could impact your outcome, leaving you fully prepared or unsure about what’s coming your way. Similarly, in-depth training provides franchisees with the skills and knowledge they need to properly follow the business model the franchisor established and perform business operations, but a lack of attention in this area can leave them feeling unprepared. Therefore, it can be extremely important for prospective franchisees to uncover all they can about the training offered, and that can start with asking specific questions.

Below are some of those questions to ask the franchisor as you navigate a franchise opportunity.

Q. WHAT WILL BE COVERED IN THE TRAINING PROVIDED?

The amount of training information provided can vary depending on which stage you’re at in your franchising journey. For example, prospective franchisees may only have access to the basic outline available online, while someone in the Franchise Disclosure Document stage can have more of an in-depth look at what training is available. Determining what will be covered and what may be left off that list is important so you can assess your responsibilities in the franchising role.

Typically, franchise systems strive to replicate products, services, and experiences across locations, so they will want to cover all the bases in training. However, some training may be excluded if it is irrelevant to your role. Marketing and advertising training, for example, may not be provided because you won’t be responsible for producing this material. Examples like this can lead to follow-up questions, like, “What marketing/advertising will be provided for my location?” for example, giving you a greater idea of what lies ahead.

Q. DOES TRAINING TAKE PLACE AT THE FRANCHISE’S HEADQUARTERS OR IN-STORE?

The training setup will likely be communicated to you beforehand, but knowing what to expect can help you plan. For example, some franchise systems may hold training only at their headquarters, others may offer in-store training (such as with another franchisee), and some could have a mix of both.

Q. DO I NEED TO COVER ANY EXPENSES DURING FRANCHISE TRAINING?

Will the mandatory initial training require significant travel for you? If so, you may want to ask what sort of expenses will accumulate from traveling (i.e., transportation, lodging, etc.) and if the franchisor will cover it. This can be important to determine beforehand whether funds should be set aside.

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Q. HOW LONG WILL THE INITIAL TRAINING TAKE?

This will vary depending on the franchise. Training can range anywhere from a week to a month or two, especially if split into shorter segments with more time in between. However long a franchisor has determined this training will take, it can be important to ask this question to get a clear picture of the time commitment so you can plan accordingly. If training out of state for a couple of weeks, for example, is not something you can commit to, it is essential to communicate this to the franchisor earlier on or pass on the franchise opportunity altogether. The length of initial training required could also mean the open date to your location(s) is pushed back, so asking this question can also help determine the timeline.

Q. IS TRAINING MANDATORY FOR ALL FRANCHISE OWNERS OR ONLY A DESIGNATED MANAGER?

You may enter a franchise opportunity with your partner or family member, so it is important to ask whether all parties involved need the mandatory initial training to operate the location(s) at a manager level. If you plan on having a designated manager, determining how they will be trained and what that means for you as the franchise owner is also important.

Q. CAN I EXPECT ONGOING TRAINING?

The first bout of training that franchisors provide is critical to get the ball rolling. However, accessing ongoing training can be equally important, especially if the business model alters or new products/services and technology are introduced to the franchise business. Determining the franchisor’s plan of action for this and if training receives periodic updates can help ensure you feel confident operating under the business model throughout your time as a franchisee.

Q. WHAT DOES EMPLOYEE TRAINING LOOK LIKE?

If you are at the beginning stages of investing in a franchise, your future employees may not be an immediate thought. However, understanding the training necessary for them beforehand can help navigate it when you get to that point. Are you responsible for the training? Are there systems in place by the franchisor for each location’s employees?

FRANCHISEE TRAINING WITH DOGTOPIA

At Dogtopia, we have a robust training system in place for our franchisees, so they feel comfortable and confident bringing a dog daycare to their community. To find out how our team can help set you up for success, head over to our support page for more details.