10 questions to ask before joining a franchise
You may have a million questions when faced with the...
Starting your own Canadian franchise is a serious investment, and some people may find themselves hesitating because they are not certain they have skills needed for success. In reality, you probably already have many of the skills you'll need in your new business from your past jobs. As you get ready to buy your franchise, think about which of these common pre-existing skills you likely already have to boost your confidence.
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Customer interactions and service skills
We all know the customer is supposed to be right all the time in theory, but it doesn't always work out in practice. However, your previous jobs have taught you how to handle a difficult customer, including the ones who thought they were right when they weren't. Therefore, you've developed the ability to calm a customer and diffuse a situation that could have easily escalated. This will help you tremendously as a franchisee, particularly when you are dealing with a difficult customer.
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More efficient work process creation
You likely did things at your past job to make it easier, streamlining processes and making what you did more efficient. This is very important in a franchise, especially in the early stages when you have a lot of things to do and only so many hours in a day in which to do them. You can also use your streamlining skills as a business owner to identify areas where time or money is being wasted.
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Ability to work out the tough spots
In one--or all--of your previous jobs, there came a time where you were in a situation that just went wrong. You had to think on your feet and possibly create a new plan. As a franchisee, there will be plenty of fires for you to put out, so having the ability to do this simply can't be underestimated.
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Discipline to handle the menial tasks
There are going to be tasks you don't want to do as a franchisee, especially in the early days, such as cleaning, inventory, and all of those other less-exciting but necessary tasks. In your earlier jobs, you probably had to do those menial tasks all the time, and you got used to getting those things done despite not wanting to do them. That same discipline will serve you well as a franchisee.
Last but certainly not least, being able to have fun at the workplace is something you may have picked up at a past job you loved. Being able to enjoy yourself at work will create a better workplace environment overall and keep you--and any employees you have--motivated to do their very best.
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