Thinking about taking your business to the next level through franchising? Look to the ‘X-Factor.’
It’s what turns an ordinary storefront into a must-visit destination.
The secret for a successful franchise is all about the impression left in the customer’s mind, says Doug Ducey.
He operates a Coldstone Creamery in Scottsdale, Arizona, and believes every franchisor should hire with care and train workers to provide the best in customer service. Training protocols are the essential ingredient for turning a one-off store into a must-go-to destination.
Set high operational standards and review procedures often. Don’t let a tendency to drift from tested protocols sink your concept. It’s human nature to look for the easiest, quickest way to complete a task. Pencil in scheduled and on-the-spot reviews of in-store procedures. Look for ways to cut the waste while still retaining high-quality standards.
A training manual is also critical to successful replication of a franchise. Codifying operational procedures and training guides ensure consistency when the franchise is ready to seek funding to launch new stores.
A franchisor has unlimited potential to build out new locations. On the down side, if your franchise contract is drawn incorrectly, even the hottest franchise with oodles of untapped potential can run into costly legal issues down the road.
