Reporting back on the final franchise exhibition of the year, it was a fine turnout at a smaller-than-expected show, but anecdotal reports are that the exhibitors met with many well-informed and eligible candidates.
Those candidates will likely have left their details with multiple franchisors and have been inundated with information and calls – and their selection process is underway.
The questions for franchisors are: when is it time to stop chasing, what can they expect regarding a time frame to decision making, and was the exhibition worth the hefty inroad to an already stretched recruitment budget?
Experience tells us that people we met at this exhibition could be anywhere in their search journey – they could just be weighing up the idea of franchising or targeting a specific model. They could fall in love with a model and then stop to check what they are doing. Personal feedback is that the people I have spoken with since the exhibition have been more open than ever – they were happy to share their timeframe and status, and so far, the ghosting is minimal!
For franchisee prospects, the key questions are: have I found the right fit? Do I possess the necessary skills, finance, and drive? The adage ‘do something you love, and you’ll never work a day in your life’ rings true here. As a recruiter in the children’s education space, I find hope in the fact that these exhibitions serve as a quick eliminator – those who don’t want to work with children or dislike maths (we’re working on that!) don’t leave their details. But for the majority, they are drawn in by the people they meet, the messages shared, and the follow-up connections. This is where the journey of due diligence begins.
Many argue that in-person exhibitions have no place in our current franchise recruitment process. In this digital age, we can accomplish everything online. However, in a people-centric business like ours, the value of personal connections cannot be overstated. We thrive on human interaction, and these exhibitions provide an excellent platform for just that.
Of course, it is also an opportunity for the exhibitors to network with and meet other franchisors. There is value in this, but only if the stand visitors keep coming and engaging. Otherwise, we could have one big party instead!
As we embark on the follow-up process, I wish everyone success and trust that the strong ethics of franchising will prevail. One exceptional franchisee is worth five who are disengaged and have not been carefully selected. Let’s remember that the days of chequebook and pulse must remain firmly in the past, ensuring the integrity and quality of our industry.
