To become a franchise business consultant requires significant hands-on experience with franchise business operations management. Many positions require a minimum of five years experience in management of a franchise operation in an industry related to the consulting position, such as fast food, retail operations, tax preparation services, etc. Successful management background in non-franchise operations, coupled with solid experience in communications or consulting, are also often acceptable qualifications. If you become a franchise business consultant, be advised that the position normally requires 50% to 75% travel to consult with multiple franchisees.
A competent franchise business consultant
is essential for the success of many franchises. Franchisees often have little
or no experience in the industry in which they purchase a franchise and rely on
professional support to make many decisions. To become a franchise business
consultant, it is advisable to have a proven track record in operating a
successful franchise, regardless of the business sector it is in. A
history of success will help you to become an asset to a franchisee who needs
guidance.
Once you become a franchise business consultant,
you will serve as the liaison with area developers, corporate personnel, and
the franchisee to identify and correct problems to achieve optimum sales and profitability.
Regular visits to the franchise are required to quickly spot problem areas and
offer solutions. Employees often require retraining, and operational policies
and procedures sometimes need to be fine-tuned to improve sales and service.
Aside from frequent on-site evaluations and personal
interaction with the franchise business owners, the consultant advises on long-
and short-term business plans. If goals or time lines require adjustment, she
advises and approves the changes for the franchisee. The review of financial statements and profit
and loss statements provide the consultant with information on the business'
bottom line success, and she is expected to strongly advise the franchisee on
necessary modifications.
Franchisees are sometimes hesitant to expand their
product or service lines even if they are achieving above-average sales and
profits. The franchise business consultant is expected to counsel the franchisee and build
confidence so the business owner feels comfortable with expanding their market
share and investing in the future. Advice on marketing
strategies, capital improvement purchases, and
training development programs is also provided by the consultant.
If a franchise is failing and the business owner
appears unable or unwilling to take steps towards profitability, the consultant
is required to communicate the problems to corporate headquarters. A store sale
or transfer may be in order, and the consultant is expected to assist in
finding prospective buyers or negotiate terms of transfer. Once the transaction
is complete, the franchise business consultant may be asked to continue to mentor the new owner/operator of
the business.