March 29th, 2018 | Franchising 101
Have you ever wondered if you have what it takes to run your own business? Maybe after a bad day at work or fighting traffic on the freeway heading home, you’ve fantasized about being your own boss. Maybe even working from home. You see franchise businesses all along the freeway and someone is running them. Probably someone very much like you.
Have you ever asked yourself, “Do I have the background to build a successful franchise business?”
A winning background for success
Here’s a little test to see if you can spot potential. Which of these work backgrounds are not geared toward success as an independent franchise business owner?
If you eliminated half of these because they seem obviously irrelevant, you’re wrong! Every one of these career backgrounds belongs to a franchise owner within the Home Franchise Concepts (HFC) family of brands, either Budget Blinds®, The Tailored Closet® or Concrete Craft®.
WHAT you are is not indicative of your future success; it’s WHO you are that is important. Especially with franchising; you get out of the business what you put into the business.
Common traits of potential franchise owners
With over 1,400 franchised territories in the U.S. and Canada making up the HFC franchise network, we’ve been able to identify personality traits that lend themselves to success in the world of franchising. Surprisingly, work background is only part of the equation, because our comprehensive training will prepare the right person for business success. Previous industry experience is not necessary. Of more importance are four critical attributes we look for in a potential franchise owner.
- Driven, with an entrepreneurial spirit
If you’ve always had a desire to own a business, franchising will get you to success quicker than starting from scratch. The business model is proven, target audiences are defined, marketing strategies are in place, business systems are established, and our products and services are in high demand. You don’t have to spend time and energy “finding the way,” it’s already been done. You step into the system, set your goals and strategies, and apply yourself.
- Self-starter abilities
Even with stepping into an established system, the success of your business still depends on you. With a supportive infrastructure undergirding every phase of your business, you determine the scope and scale you want, and you make it happen. You can’t sit around waiting for someone to tell you what to do. If you can be focused and decisive, willing to work hard and consistently track and measure your goals, you’ll build a business to be proud of.
- A passion for customer service
All three HFC brands are in the home improvement/home services industry, dedicated to helping people live happier, more beautiful lives. People are our business, so if you enjoy working with people, and especially helping them solve problems, you’re halfway there! The consultative sales process involves talking clients through their issues, explaining all their options, providing innovative design solutions, and, ultimately, professional installation. Your goal should be that every customer is a satisfied customer.
- A collaborative work style
Success in a franchise business means working within the system, not looking for ways to change it up. You have tremendous latitude to run your business the way you want, while adhering to the specified rules and regulations. A good working relationship with Home Office and Business Coaches will keep you on target and current with everything that’s going on. Additionally, you may work with a partner (including family members) or manage a team of sales people, designers, or admin in the office. If you have installers, you’ll have to oversee and monitor your crews.
Let’s talk about your future, not your past
You can understand how very different career backgrounds could contribute to developing the same traits that are so valuable in a potential franchise owner. It’s the overall business experience gained through life that makes an ideal franchise candidate. If you recognize these qualities within yourself, consider giving the franchise opportunities with HFC a look to see if independent franchise business ownership is right for you.
Go online to Home Franchise Concepts to learn more or call 1-800-420-5374 today and talk with a Franchise Licensing Advisor about exploring the world of franchising. Take that first step toward changing your career and your life, creating an exciting business and a better future for you and your family.
If you’re a veteran, click here to learn how HFC assists veterans with becoming independent franchise business owners.