Making the decision to become a franchise owner is a big step. Congratulations! Now it’s time to get down to the nitty-gritty: how do I get started in the franchise process? The most profitable franchises are built on a basis of knowledge, business savvy, and financial stability. Make sure that you know all the ins and outs of the business you’re interested in before taking the plunge. Submit a Franchise Application The first step in becoming a franchise owner is to submit an application to the franchising brand. This application will lay out all the details needed for the franchiser to carefully evaluate your finances, as well as the skills and benefits that you can bring to the brand’s table. Essentially, a franchise application is the first way that a franchiser will decide if you have what it takes. Showing Your Finances While owning a franchise can be great for your bank account, it’s important to make sure that you have adequate liquidity and net worth before you begin your venture. This is because great franchises are built on a basis of financial stability. In the early stages of the business, you’ll need the finances to help develop the store and ensure that any bumps along the road aren’t Meet and Greet While your application and finances are being reviewed, it’s time to get to know the family you’ll be joining. You’ll get in touch with a representative of the brand who can help to answer all of your questions and discuss the ins and outs of the business. The representative will walk you through the real estate and the franchise’s start up processes, as well as the fundamentals of how they operate. Before this meeting, you should be sure to compile a list of questions to streamline the process and make sure all of your questions get answered. Get Rolling After the initial discussions, you’ll receive a Franchise Disclosure Agreement to learn all there is to know about starting and operating a great franchise. You’ll sign an Acknowledgement of Receipt for the franchisor. After this is all done, you’ll meet with management to make the final touches on your new business venture. You’ll sign your contract and be on your way to owning a franchise! http://www.greatamericancookiesfranchise.com/