How to franchise a business? First of all, franchising is not a miracle formula. Some people think that all you need to do to start a franchise empire is put a brand on a store and print a handbook. If only! The truth is more complicated than a clock store at Christmas, with more moving parts.

Let’s discuss about your company. Are your burgers, gyms, or nail salons really running smoothly with a recipe that other people could use? Consistency is the most important thing. If your systems are as shaky as a three-legged table, think about what would happen if someone tried to copy them in a whole new city. Take a little time to make things strong before you invite anyone else to the dance. Make your recipes, playbook, and supplier list more precise. Write down everything, even the last pickle.

Now, let’s talk about branding. Don’t just put your logo on napkins. That’s like putting lipstick on a chicken: it gets people’s attention but doesn’t cover the mess. Your brand should mean something, not just look beautiful. Think about whether someone who is far away will understand without your support.

Next, we talk about legal frameworks. Go see a lawyer who specializes in franchises. Yes, that sounds like a lot of money, and it certainly is, but trust me, not doing this might cost you a lot. You will require an FDD, which stands for “franchise disclosure document.” The FDD shakes all the secrets out of your business and tells the government and anybody who want to buy a franchise all they need to know. It’s not a choice to be open here.

Choose your companions with the same care as someone who is getting a pet for life. When you interview people who want to buy a franchise, treat them like you’re hiring someone to take care of your plants. Sure, their money matters, but so do their attitude and determination. Will they do what you ask, help out on social media, and keep your flag flying when things go tough? Keep shuffling and running those interviews till your intuition says yes.

Training isn’t something you do once and forget about. You don’t just give someone keys and hope for the best. Write down every step, from opening procedures to emergency contacts to hiring suggestions to marketing techniques. Hold workshops that people can take part in. Go to places. Tell stories. Give them a rush of dopamine for getting your hallmark motion right.

Fees are hard. If you charge too much, no one will sign up. If you charge too little, you’ll have to eat instant noodles for months. Check out the averages in your field, but also consider about how much you spend and how much value you deliver. Usually, one-time fees and continuing royalties are enough. Don’t forget to set aside money for marketing and support staff.

Franchisees want more than just a logo; they want customers too. Plan out campaigns for both your region and the whole country. Set up group buys to save money. Even if someone’s nephew makes fliers, make sure branding stays sharp.

Help isn’t just a welcome packet. Stay in touch. Pick up the phone. Come by, send out newsletters, and host online meetings. Franchising is like a strange family: you can’t choose everyone, but you have to live with them.

It requires tenacity to grow. You will have to deal with new markets, rules, and people. Talk to other people who started businesses. Share scary stories and suggestions for winning battles. Make mistakes on the chart, then fix them quickly, like when you windsurf in rough sea.

Franchising can be a lot of fun if you do it right. It makes your vision bigger, your reach wider, and provides other people a chance to be successful in business. But you have to take care of it like a garden, or it will become out of control quickly. Details are what make or break success—messy, handwritten, laugh-at-yourself details. But isn’t that the point?