At the Empowered Franchisee, we believe deeply in the power of mentoring–and science backs us up. Several years ago, a group of researchers reviewed more than 15,000 mentoring studies to see if they could identify any trends in the data. They found that career mentoring consistently improved mentees’ work performance and job satisfaction, among other benefits. So as a new or aspiring franchise owner, how do you go about finding a franchise mentor of your own? This is the second in a three-part series designed to help you find out. Last week’s post covered mentor-mentee etiquette: how to start off on the right foot as you look for a mentor and build the relationship with them. This week, keep reading to learn more about where you can find a mentor!
Finding a Mentor Through Your Franchisor
Many franchisors understand the value of mentoring and provide resources to help new franchise owners find a good mentor. Start with your franchise owner network. This is the group of franchisees who own businesses under your franchisor. Your franchisor should give you a full list of these individuals, along with their business contact information, as part of the due diligence process.
Franchisees often choose franchising over traditional entrepreneurship because of the franchise owner network. They want to be part of a group that provides mutual encouragement and support. For that reason, many franchisees are mentoring-minded and happy to coach less-experienced members of the network. If your franchisor’s network is very large, or you’re just not sure where to start looking, you can also go directly to your franchisor’s corporate office to request a list of potential mentors.
Finding a Mentor in Your Community
Especially in a medium or large city, resources in your community can also be a good way to find a mentor. In fact, you might prefer to have a community-based mentor instead of, or in addition to, one from your franchise network. A community-based mentor, not being immersed in franchising, can provide a useful balance in perspective. They might help you view problems from a new angle or come up with solutions that someone from within the franchise world might not think of.
Your local library
Large library systems, especially, often have volunteer mentoring programs staffed by retired businesspeople. These programs usually meet at a particular library at certain times each week or month. They’re often a good way to get help with a particular concern, such as a specific problem facing your business, but may not be the best way to establish a long-term mentoring relationship.
Your local entrepreneur center
Many cities have an entrepreneur center that exists to support the creation of new businesses in the area. Some entrepreneur centers have a specialized focus, such as supporting first-time entrepreneurs or those creating businesses that fill a gap in the city’s economy. They may have in-house mentoring programs that meet at designated times, or they might maintain a list of people who are willing to serve as mentors on an ad hoc basis.
The Chamber of Commerce
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is a nationwide organization that exists to support economic development and entrepreneurship. More than a century old, it has branches in cities of all sizes and often partners with local governments and other local organizations to achieve its goals. The Chamber of Commerce offers a wealth of resources to support small business owners, including franchisees. Use the directory on their website to find your local branch and contact them for mentoring help.
Finding a Mentor in Your Own Network
While external groups can be an excellent source of mentors, don’t discount the usefulness of your personal network. Think about the people you know: not just your inner circle, but people you might have met through mutual friends, your house of worship, or a professional organization. Are any of them successful entrepreneurs? Or have they achieved a goal (such as work-life balance or financial independence) that’s important to you?
Don’t be afraid to ask these individuals if they’ll mentor you. Even if they say no, they’ll probably feel honored that you asked. And they might know someone else who would make a good mentor for you. You’ll never know if you don’t make an attempt.
A Final Word About Finding a Mentor
As you’re looking for a mentor, keep in mind that mentors come from all age groups, races, genders, and backgrounds. Also remember that your mentor doesn’t have to look like you, and they don’t have to fit a common paradigm. For instance, younger people can mentor older people–it’s just a question of who has the knowledge you need and the heart to share. That being said, if you’re part of an underrepresented group, you may benefit from locating a mentor who shares that part of your identity. They can help you handle any challenges that are specific to your situation, and you may feel more comfortable being open with them.
Wherever you decide to look for a mentor, don’t forget: at the Empowered Franchisee, we want to be your mentors, too. Our work with you doesn’t stop when you choose your franchise. As you get your business up and running, we’re just a phone call away. We want to celebrate your successes and help you handle your challenges. Sound appealing? Book a call with Dave or Lauri today to start the conversation!
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