Before you buy a franchise, one of the smartest steps you can take is speaking directly with current franchisees. These are the people who live and breathe the business every day. Their insight goes far beyond any brochure or sales pitch, offering real-world context about operations, profitability, and support. What they share could be the make-or-break factor in your decision to invest.
THE FRANCHISE INSIDER ADVANTAGE: WHY SPEAKING WITH CURRENT FRANCHISEES IS YOUR SMARTEST MOVE.
By FMM Contributor
When you’re on the path to becoming a franchise owner, it’s tempting to get swept up in glossy presentations, promotional videos, and glowing testimonials curated by the franchisor. But buying a franchise is a serious, long-term financial and lifestyle commitment, one that deserves more than just surface-level research. That’s where validation from existing franchisees becomes a critical step.
Franchisees are your direct window into the reality of owning and operating the business. Unlike sales reps or corporate development executives, these individuals have nothing to gain by sugarcoating their experience. They’ve signed the franchise agreement, invested their money, and are now entrenched in the day-to-day grind of running their units. Their feedback is raw, real, and irreplaceable.
Ask the Right Questions—Get the Right Answers
When you speak with franchisees, dig deep. Don’t just ask, “Are you happy?” Go further. Ask about startup costs versus what was disclosed. Ask how long it took to break even. Ask whether they feel supported by the franchisor in marketing, operations, and technology. Ask how often the corporate team checks in or shows up on site.
You’ll get a more comprehensive understanding of:
- The true investment required
- The profitability of the business
- How accurate the franchise disclosure document (FDD) actually is
- How realistic are the financials
- The relationship between franchisee and franchisor
Each of these insights can either reinforce your confidence or raise red flags.
Spot Trends Across Conversations
Speak with multiple franchisees in different territories and situations, some who are thriving, others who may be struggling. Patterns begin to emerge. If three out of five franchisees say the initial training was lacking, that’s a problem. If five out of five say they’re receiving top-notch support and marketing help, that’s a huge positive.
Consistency matters. It tells you whether the system is strong or if success is more dependent on individual effort and market luck than the franchisor may admit.
Look Beyond the Numbers
Numbers matter, yes. But so does quality of life. How many hours do they work? Are they spending time with family? Are they constantly firefighting staff issues? Are they still passionate about the brand?
These human factors often get ignored in spreadsheets, but they define long-term satisfaction and sustainability.
Validation Is Not Optional—It’s Critical
It’s shocking how many prospective franchisees skip this step or treat it as a formality. Some are afraid to ask tough questions, while others are in such a rush to “get started” that they shortcut the process. But make no mistake, bypassing validation is like buying a car without driving it or reading reviews. You’re flying blind.
The best franchise brands welcome these conversations. They have nothing to hide. In fact, a reputable franchisor will encourage you to talk to current operators and make your own judgment.
© Gary Occhiogrosso. All Rights Reserved Worldwide.
Sources:
- International Franchise Association
- Franchise Business Review
- Entrepreneur Franchise 500
- Small Business Administration (SBA)
- Franchise Times
- Forbes Franchise Insights
- Franchise Direct
- FranData
- FranchiseGrade
- The Franchise King
This article was researched, outlined and edited with the support of A.I.