Franchise Training and Support: Everything You Need to Know

There are many compelling reasons why so many entrepreneurs choose to purchase a franchise business rather than launching a company from scratch. In addition to benefiting from the established brand name and proven business model, entrepreneurs can also receive training and support from the franchisor. If you’re thinking about becoming a franchisee, you should look into what sort of training and support is available from the franchisor to help guide your decision.

What to expect from a comprehensive training program

Franchisor training programs can vary considerably from one brand to the next. On the low end of the spectrum, a training program might be completed in as few as two or three days. Franchisees who purchase a franchise business with such a short training program are quite likely to find that the training is inadequate and doesn’t prepare them well enough for the launch and ongoing operation of the business. And unless the business operation is simple and straightforward, one week might not be enough time, either.

The initial training program typically takes place at the corporate headquarters or at the franchise location. The cost of the training program is often included in the franchise fee. Ideally, the training is offered to both you and your site manager.

It’s best for this training program to begin shortly before your opening date and extend into the first few days of your operations. This allows you to ask questions as they arise and receive guidance on any issues that come up.

Critical questions to ask about franchisor training and support

Before you sign on the dotted line, you should fully understand every aspect of the franchise agreement, including the training and support that’s included in the contract. As you review the paperwork, ask yourself the questions listed below. If you don’t see an answer, be sure to ask the franchisor.

• How long is the training program offered at corporate headquarters and what is covered during it?
• Can my manager attend the training program, as well as myself?
• Are there any out-of-pocket costs associated with the training?
• What is the experience level of the people conducting the training program?
• Are training materials available and do they remain accessible following the training program?
• Is onsite training available before, during, and shortly after the launch?
• What is the nature and extent of ongoing support, if any?

Get the benefit of comprehensive franchisor support and training

If you’d like to own a pizza franchise in the much-coveted wood-fired pizza niche, talk to Smokin’ Oak Wood-Fired Pizza about our franchise opportunities. We are a time-tested franchisor with one of the most comprehensive and extensive franchisor training and support programs in the business. In addition to the two-week Initial Franchise Training program in Rochester, MN, you’ll have the benefit of an additional five days of onsite training and support at your franchise location. We’ll be there with you just before your opening day, and for a few days after the ribbon cutting. Contact us today to learn more about this unbeatable franchise opportunity.