The selection of suitable franchisees is vital. You must ensure that you recruit people with the right skills and attitudes to join your network. The reputation of your business and the future of your franchise network could be at stake.

One of the most common mistakes a new franchisor makes, is to take on franchisees in the early stages who do not really have the skills or capital required. When you launch your franchise you will be keen to get things moving as quickly as possible so you can start to recoup some of your initial outlay. However, don't be tempted to lower your standards, as this will only lead to problems in the longer term.

Popular recruitment methods include attending franchise exhibitions, advertising in national and regional press, specialist franchise magazines and web sites and industry sector press. You should consider carefully the essential skills a franchisee in your network will require and plan your interviewing and vetting procedures to ensure they have them.

Beware of letting a third party recruit franchisees on your behalf - they may not necessarily be the best judge of the right person for your network and if they are paid for each one they sign up, it could become 'quantity rather than quality'.

Important Notice for Franchising