5 Franchise Training Program Elements You Must Have

No experience necessary.


These three words are a beacon for first-time job seekers. The words also resonate with seasoned businesspeople who lack the know-how necessary to navigate the world of franchising.

Franchises come with a specific way of doing things. New franchisees, especially those who choose an unfamiliar industry, must rely on their franchisor to show them the ropes. While most franchisors offer some type of training program, they can vary widely. As a potential franchisee, it’s up to you to make sure their training covers the essentials so you’re not left floundering.

What Effective Franchise Training Looks Like

Here are five things you should look for when you are evaluating a franchisee training program.

1. Clear objectives. The franchisor needs to clearly express what skills and knowledge you will learn during each part of the franchise training program. This way you’ll be able to measure whether it’s been successful — have you learned everything you need to know?
2. Comprehensive curriculum. The franchise training program curriculum should cover everything you need to replicate the franchise’s business model. This includes running all aspects of your business, from managing personnel and ordering inventory to marketing and long-term planning. You’ll also need to learn about the industry itself, as well as the product and/or service your franchise provides.
3. Hands-on training. Most franchises offer a combination of online, classroom, and hands-on training. The hands-on piece is vital so you can get real experience practicing what you’ve learned.
4. Expert trainers. The trainers should have qualifications that make them experts on the subjects they’re teaching. They should also have industry experience so they can offer insight on challenges you might face on the job.
5. Ongoing support. The franchise training program shouldn’t end once your business opens. Reputable franchisors will be beside you every step of the way, offering help with difficulties that may arise and providing opportunities for ongoing education in the field.

The company’s franchise disclosure document and/or franchise agreement will specify how many people they will provide training for; usually this includes the franchisee and a manager. The agreement should also spell out any training-associated costs the franchisee will be required to pay, including travel-related expenses for training at corporate headquarters.

You’ll also want to note how long your training will last. According to a survey done by the Franchise Help resource center, the average training time is one to two weeks, but there appears to be a trend to extend that, since many franchisors are hearing complaints that’s not long enough.

Two Maids' Training Program: Setting Franchisees Up for Success

For a great example of franchise training, look no further than Two Maids. Our program begins with two weeks of virtual training, covering everything from vendors, chemicals, and tools to mastering scheduling software and credit card processors. The curriculum is designed to build a strong foundation in the essentials of running a cleaning service franchise, including hiring practices, customer relationship management, and leveraging social media.

Next, franchisees travel to our headquarters in Birmingham, Alabama, for four days of intensive hands-on training. This phase includes live demonstrations, in-field experience, and deep dives into scheduling software and sales techniques, ensuring franchisees are confident in their operational skills.

We also provide our franchisees with a week of focused training around their grand opening, to make sure they get off to a good start.

Two Maids also offers lifelong support to all our franchisees. This includes dedicated field representatives, bimonthly conference calls, regional meetings, and an annual owners’ conference.

Get Started with Two Maids Today

Two Maids' franchisee training program is a comprehensive, multi-faceted learning experience that prepares you for every aspect of running a successful cleaning service franchise. If you want a franchise opportunity that offers thorough training and unwavering support, contact Two Maids and get started today.