The operations manual is the rule book if you will for a franchise system. It contains all the aspects of the business the owners need to learn to operate the franchise. Like a school syllabus outlines a course, the manual serves a similar purpose. Every business has its unique styles, including dialect, recipes, uniforms, how to greet customers, etc. Traditionally, the operations manual includes the franchise goals, daily procedures, accounting, customer service, personnel topics and training employees. The information included in the manual is confidential. Often, franchisees are required to sign a non-disclosure agreement before beginning this phase. The franchisor also outlines specific performance expectations and instructions on how to provide sales reports, etc.

After the operations manual training, franchisees are taken to corporate headquarters for hands-on training. In this stage, new franchise owners tour the facility and witness the experts in action. During this tour, is a perfect opportunity for franchisees to ask questions and test what they have learned. It’s also a time to see how to operate the machinery and/or make recipes for the first time.

Training at headquarters can last a few days to one week. This is the time franchise owners need to grasp each concept to operate their business. In many cases, franchise owners are encouraged to bring along a manager or employee who will train other staff members on-site.

This type of training is carried out at the new franchise location. The franchisee must be familiar with the machinery, recipes, customer service training as well as knowledge on all business procedures. On-site, the franchisee, is one step from being an expert. When they get to this phase, they hire and train staff for specific roles such as cashiers, customer service, and office positions. Often times, a franchise mentor from the corporate office is assigned to new franchisees. This representative can assist with the grand opening of the new franchise.

At this point, the new franchisee is up to speed in carrying out the daily operations of the business. A few functions may still need attention to work out the kinks, but the bulk of what was included in the manual is mastered. Franchise teams provide ongoing training through field training programs, webinars, on-site visits, and conferences. Continuous training is essential to keeping franchisees informed about insider tips, new products or services, and future advertising and marketing campaigns.