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Proper training is important in any job or business, but it is especially crucial for success in a Canadian franchise. For a franchise location to work, there has to be the consistency customers have come to know and expect from the brand, along with a fully-trained franchisee who can make that happen.
Initial training is mandatory
Your initial round of training after you sign on as a franchisee should be mandatory. If you discover it isn't during your research phase, consider another brand. Poorly trained franchisees in the system can bring the whole thing down, with you caught in the crossfire.
In your early training, the foundation for your franchise will be laid. This is where you will get the skills you need to copy the franchiser's business model to create a consistent customer experience. It can also be a test of your suitability for the role as some franchises even include the right to terminate your agreement if you perform poorly in the training. Bear in mind that if you don't do well, you may be given the chance to try again as long as you make a genuine effort.
What to expect
Training is going to vary widely by system, but there are some general topics your franchiser will likely cover. Location layout and building selection, point-of-sale system training, merchandising, employee recruitment, management and retention, and operational processes should all be explored when you train. You'll also learn the administration of the back-end business, information about the financing planning and financial controls in place, and what the quality standards are.
Like the type of training you'll receive, the cost of it will vary by system. Some franchises prefer to do training in group settings, where you work with other learning franchisees, and others do one-on-one mentor sessions. Training may be included as part of your franchisee fee, or it could be a separate cost. For example, the franchiser may cover the cost of the training itself in another city but not your flights to and from the city and other travel expenses.
Training costs and requirements should be a part of your Franchise Disclosure Document, so review this thoroughly so you know the level of training required, the time it will take and any additional costs you may have associated with it. If you've got additional questions about training or any of its aspects, speak to your franchiser for some answers so you know exactly what is expected of you.
