5 Things Franchisors Look for in their Next Great Franchisee

Life is all about the choices you make. Corny, I know, but it’s true.

Every single person in the world makes hundreds of choices every day, with some more serious than others. From a coffee order to a chosen route to work to prioritizing daily tasks, it all impacts your future. (Maybe the coffee is a bit of a stretch, but you get the point)

Now, imagine putting the reins in someone else’s hands to ensure your success—that is the exact scenario franchisors must do for the future of their brand.

With more than 35 years of experience and more than 750 locations throughout North America, Sylvan Learning* is the leading provider of personal learning for students in grades K-12. To me it sounds like Sylvan knows what makes the ideal franchisee. So what are the qualifications? How do franchisors choose their next great franchisee?

After speaking with Sylvan Learning’s director of franchise development, Georgia Paulding, I learned a few qualifications that instill faith in a franchisor while choosing a franchisee.

“Sylvan Learning prides itself on the quality and professionalism of our franchisees; they are a main reason why Sylvan grows and see success,” said Paulding.

Flaunt passion for the industry. If you do not enjoy what you do for a living, why do it?

“We have a variety of franchisees within the Sylvan system that come from diverse backgrounds. When we see they are truly motivated to provide help to children through academic assistance and have the passion to be the educational resource for the community, we take that into consideration,” said Paulding.

Grow your business experience. Finding a candidate with a business profile should be the key aspect when choosing a franchisee. Franchisees wear many different hats and must be able to adapt well in any situation.

“We seek franchisees with a business background, perhaps it was a past life in the corporate world or experience with marketing and sales,” Paulding said. “Having a business foundation is extremely important in choosing a franchisee.”

Display financial wherewithal. Of course, passion and past experiences are important. If a candidate is lacking the funding to bring the franchise to fruition, though, some red flags may be raised. Franchisors don’t want to worry about a franchisee’s financial stability while building a brand.

Prove your full involvement and commitment. When a new business opens in a community, residents are intrigued. It is up to the franchisee to initiate community outreach or volunteer activates and become a staple in area.

“When potential franchisees explain to us the desire they have to become a part of the community and be as active as they can it is a quality that stands out,” Paulding said.

Flaunt an entrepreneurial spirit. Having the drive to start your own business is inspiring on many levels, as it takes boundless courage and inspiration.

“Entrepreneurs share the same characteristics, they are devoted, motivated and strive for success,” noted Paulding. “Sylvan is honored when an entrepreneur inquires about an opportunity to join the Sylvan family.”