The process of acquiring a franchise can be quite extensive but is also very exciting. So where is one to start when they are looking to own a franchise in Alberta? What if you’re looking to buy in British Columbia? The first step to owning a franchise, regardless of location, is research. However when faced with starting the research and the decision making process, it can be difficult to know where to start. Throughout this article we will provide you with some practical tips and advice for how to begin and navigate through the entire decision making process.
In this day and age, the internet makes gathering and acquiring information easier than ever before. Throughout the entire process, the internet is an essential tool. In the early stages it allows you to research different franchise opportunities available in your area and compare what each one has to offer. After narrowing your choices down, it allows you to easily request more information from those franchises that interest you most. It also provides a seamless transition from researching to applying for a franchise, and eventually owning one.
A great place to start when you’re looking for available franchise opportunities is the Canadian Franchise Association website. Here you’ll be able to find a great deal of information on franchising, as well as additional helpful tools and resources. The Canadian Franchise Association also has a second site, http://lookforafranchise.ca/, which acts as the association’s search engine for various franchise opportunities not only within British Columbia and Alberta, but across Canada. You can find franchises in a variety of different ways including newest listings, by industry, investment level and location. Taking the time to explore both of these sites is a great first step for getting a feel of what franchising is all about and what opportunities are out there for you.
Specific to British Columbia, another good website where franchise opportunities are sometimes listed is Trade and Invest British Columbia. This website is not franchise specific so there are other business and investment opportunities listed here as well. Regardless, it is still a good source of information and starting point for aspiring franchise owners.
When exploring the site and you come across an opportunity that you are interested in, be sure to fill out the information request form located on the side of the page. This will indicate to the relevant franchisor that you are interested in learning more about their brand. In addition to this it is a good idea to go to the actual site of the company to get as much information on the opportunity as you can. For an example, take a look at the C-Lovers application form. The form is relatively short and is used to get a quick ‘snapshot’ of your current situation. The franchisor will then proceed to follow-up with you, starting the franchise application process. For a more in-depth look at what to expect when applying, be sure to check out our Step-By-Step Guide of what to expect when you apply for a franchise. It is important that you take your research that extra step. You want to ensure you are making a fully informed decision.
In conclusion, it is important to note that a good franchisor will be evaluating you as a prospective franchisee throughout the application process. So ultimately, in order to own a franchise in Alberta, British Columbia or anywhere else in Canada, it is critical that you become the ideal franchisee that franchisors are looking for. As an ideal franchisee, you are seen as an asset to the franchisor as your success contributes to their success. So begin by using the resources outlined above in your research phase to find the franchise opportunity that most interests you. Once you’ve determined your interests and completed your research, apply to your chosen franchise(s), convince them you are an ideal franchisee and begin your journey as a newfound franchise owner.
Written by Wayne Maillet, president of Franchise Specialists. Wayne is a leading Canadian franchise management consultant and published author of the book Franchising Demystified. You can order the book at http://www.franchisingdemystified.com/ Wayne Maillet can be reached at 604-941-4361