Do you envision yourself as a future franchisee? How can you know whether you have the right personality type to succeed? Many people believe only a true “Type A” entrepreneur should pursue franchise ownership. The truth is actually quite different.
The most successful franchisees have something important in common. They’re able and willing to follow a proven system in order to replicate the success of the business. While an “entrepreneur” seeks to express creativity and find their own niche, it’s actually a “Steady Eddie” — willing to follow direction and trust the system — who will strike gold as a franchisee.
In addition, a successful franchisee is comfortable wearing many different hats. How many of these roles would you be comfortable playing?
Engaged Evaluator
Focus on production ∙ Create benchmarks ∙ Evaluate results
Engaged Evaluators understand that action does not equal achievement. They measure progress and revere the value of benchmark measurements. When a particular course of action isn’t working, they are agile and able to adjust.
Big-Picture Thinker
Imagine the future ∙ Recognize necessary tasks
Big-Picture Thinkers know that working long hours and completing tedious tasks are worthwhile for their long-term payoff. They find motivation for day-to-day activities by keeping their eyes on the prize!
Proactive Player
Make business happen ∙ Care about success ∙ Recognize efforts
Proactive Players take the lead and bring in business. Sitting back and expecting customers to come to them is not in their nature.
Optimist
Look forward ∙ Create solutions ∙ Stay positive ∙ Live for the future
Optimists see the glass as “half full.” When a problem arises, they jump on the opportunity to find a solution rather than ruminating on the problem itself.
People Person
Relate to clients ∙ Generate good morale ∙ Enjoy networking ∙ Have a voice in the community
A People Person recognizes the importance of positive and productive relationships with customers and employees. S/he enjoys interacting with others and seeks out connections that are mutually beneficial.
Seatbelt Enthusiast
Open to learning ∙ Likes direction ∙ Wants a safety net
Seatbelt Enthusiasts seek out security in their everyday lives. They look to mitigate risks and see the value of following a system with a proven track record.
Resilient Responder
Trust in the future ∙ Maintain perspective
Setbacks excite Resilient Responders. They are easily able to maintain perspective and know that things will get better. They excel at bouncing back from adversity.
Cool and Collected
Rock steady ∙ Consistent ∙ Composed ∙ Addresses Issues
People who are Cool and Collected are alert to surrounding circumstances without panicking or causing a scene. They focus on essential and important tasks while giving customers and employees peace of mind.
While not everyone is suited to be a franchisee, it can be a fantastic route for the right person. In addition to financial backing and business experience, a successful franchisee possesses the ability and willingness to wear the 8 hats we’ve described. If you see yourself in these descriptions, you likely have the confidence, drive, and motivation to be a successful franchise owner.