How do I get the most out of attending a franchise exhibition?

Louise Harris writes:

Start your research ahead of your attendance. Make the show guide your key resource and find out who will be there. Identify those you definitely want to visit and those who might be interesting. If you’re very interested in a particular brand, contact the franchisor in advance and make an appointment to meet with them while you’re at the event.

I recommend talking to some franchises that are not on that list too. As you’re walking through the halls, see if something else appeals. Maybe look for other franchises in a similar field as a reference point. Open a conversation – you have nothing to lose.

There are also seminars to attend. Here, you’re likely to pick up useful information about choosing the right franchise, funding options, franchisor expectations, legal considerations or even sales pitches from a franchisor. Plan to include these.

Be prepared to give your details, be open to receive information and ask lots of questions (make a list). The follow-up will help you gauge the calibre of the opportunity and should be part of informing your decision.

Use your time wisely and you’ll find it pays off. And follow up contacts made afterwards – you can ‘unsubscribe’ as you narrow your choice.

Louise Harris has been in franchising since 2006 and has been both franchisee and franchisor. She runs Franchise Projects, completing critical tasks for franchised businesses.