Franchising makes possible the dream of escaping the corporate world and launching your own business, without many of the inherent disadvantages traditional stand alone businesses face. The franchisor has already built its brand reputation and will provide you with training and support, and a proven model, which if you follow should help you create a successful business. As the franchisor’s business model has already been tried, tested and refined, the risks are reduced.

When looking at franchise opportunities or starting up as a franchisee, there are a few rules that will help you succeed:

Firstly, with so many franchise systems to choose from, the trick is to choose the right opportunity for you. Self-evaluation and research into potential franchisors is key. To succeed you need to enjoy what you do. You must therefore ensure that the culture of your chosen franchise system fits your personality and your preferences.

Secondly, select a franchise that resides on a sustainable business model and not a fad-marketing gimmick. A franchise is an investment; you are buying an asset that you expect to increase in value. You would not invest all your money in a new home without surveying the structure and researching the desirability of the area. The same applies to franchising; you need to assess the foundations on which the organisation is built and the market it serves.

Thirdly, once you are up and running you should ensure that you make use of the entire franchise support package. Although your existing business skills will prove a valuable asset, you need to ensure that you take advantage of the training, support and assistance to get to grips with the specifics of your chosen venture.

Fourthly, you will achieve the greatest success if you implement the franchise business model in its entirety, rather than picking and choosing the pieces that appeal to you most.  The franchisor should have developed and honed the model over time, based on what should make the business work, so you should take advantage of this knowledge – it’s what you’ve paid for!

Lastly, although you will essentially be in business for yourself, it is important that you adhere to the quality standards of your chosen franchise system. This will ultimately benefit you as the brand serves as a recognised quality symbol that predisposes customers to buying your products or services.

As with any business, you get out of it what you put in to it.  Assess your strengths and match these to the franchise opportunities.  Above all, use your head.  Working smarter will help you to work shorter hours and find more flexibility than you ever had working for someone else.

For more information on Paul Howarth and Jani-King visit www.janiking.co.uk