Tips to Build a Great Relationship with Your Area Rep or Franchise Business Consultant
Being a great franchise owner is more than how much money you invest, how many hours you work, or where your store is located. A lot of your success will come down to the relationships you form along the way. And the relationship with your area representative is one of the first opportunities you’ll have to grow your franchise. When you are approved for a Firehouse Subs franchise opening, you’ll be paired with an area rep who acts as a sort of liaison between you and the brand at large. Your rep can help you secure a store, give tips for hiring and financing, answer your questions, and more. Here are some tips on how to build a great relationship with your franchise consultant or area rep and get the most out of your partnership.
The position of a franchise business consultant or area rep is one of guidance and support for a series of franchises within a certain region. These individuals represent the values and ethos of Firehouse Subs and are specifically here to foster new franchisees. You can rely on your area rep or franchise business consultant for many things, and it’s a great idea to invest energy into building a good relationship with them. They are your direct line to the company, and the quickest way to get your questions answered.
Our first tip for a great relationship with your franchise consultant or area rep is to always treat them with kindness and respect. Remember, they are here as a resource for you! Even if you find that your personalities may be at odds, it’s important to be considerate and tactful, and keep them involved in your franchise.
Secondly, practice communicating clearly and directly with your area rep. If you have a question, don’t hesitate to ask, even if you think it’s a dumb question. If you need help with something, be upfront about what you’re looking for. Try to respect your area rep’s time and energy, with clear communication. This applies to our new franchise business consultant position as well.
Third, be open to constructive feedback. This is a great quality in any franchisee. Your area rep or franchise business consultant may suggest places for you to improve or give suggestions on changes to make, in order to boost your business. Remember that they are on your side, and want you to succeed!
Next, understand the limits of what your area rep and franchise business consultant can offer. While these individuals are wonderful resources, they aren’t meant to be holding your hand the entire way. Don’t expect your rep to do everything for you, or respond to your messages late into the evening. Respect the boundaries of the relationship, and they’ll appreciate you for it. Area reps are often supporting multiple franchisees at one time, and may not be able to come running every time you need them.
Lastly, trying to share the values and interests that you have in common with your area rep and franchise business consultant can help you have a great relationship with them. You are all a part of the Firehouse Subs family, and are always playing for the same team. If the food is your favorite part, bond over your go-to subs or suggest new flavor combos. If the charitable foundation lights you up, talk about ways to give back more. They are here to help you spread our company message, and make your franchise something you can be proud of.
If you want to make your Firehouse Subs franchise a success, make sure you build a great relationship with your franchise business consultant or area representative! Want to learn more about our franchising opportunities, or want to see if you have what it takes to join the team? Reach out to us today!
;