Joel Libava
Sometimes you’ll get excited about a specific franchise you’ve found, but find out you don’t like the franchise opportunity at all. What should you do if that happens to you?
Let’s find out.
The Scenario: You Like A Specific Franchise A Lot
You go to the website of the franchise business you found, fill out their “Request For Information” form, and wait for them to contact you. And since you like the opportunity a lot, you’re super-excited to hear from the company.
In most cases, you’ll get an email or a phone call from someone from headquarters to arrange an introductory call with the franchise salesperson. You’re geting closer…
A day or so later, you’re on the phone with Janet-their Franchise Development person. She explains the concept. She talks about cost, availability and such. And Janet seems nice. Now this is important.
Sometimes, as you search for a franchise to own, you may like the person at the other end of the phone, but you don’t like the franchise concept.
In this case, it’s because her description of the business tells you that it’s not what you thought it would be. Not even close. For this reason, you’re not “feeling” it at all. So now what should you do?
Wait. Maybe I need to rephrase that.
What Not To Do When You Don’t Like The Franchise
This is not the time to tell Janet what you think she wants to hear.
Like “Okay, thanks. Let me think about it a bit. I’ll get back to you later this week.”
No you won’t.
With that being the case, say this instead.
“Janet, I don’t think your franchise is right for me. It’s not what I thought it was. But thank you for your time. I appreciate it.”
But what if Janet tries to hold onto you? Persuade you to stay engaged with the brand and her process a teeny-bit more, so you can learn a few more things about the “opportunity?”
At this point, unless you think it’s possible that something you’ll hear will be a game-changer, move on.
My point?
If you don’t like the franchise business opportunity, and/or what you’d be doing as an owner, move on. Because doing so will free space up in your head for the next franchise opportunity you find.
Finally, Janet will be fine.
That’s because in general, franchise salespeople talk with to a lot of people every week…sometimes 20-30 franchise candidates. For the most part, they’d rather spend their time working with those who are truly interested.
And don’t forget, since there are close to 4,000 other franchises to look into, chances are there’s at least one that will be right for you.
So keep looking.
