What to look for in alignment—values, leadership, territory, training, and community
When you’re considering investing in a franchise, it’s easy to focus on the surface-level indicators of success—profit margins, recognizable branding, marketing materials full of glowing testimonials. But franchising, at its core, is a relationship. And like any good relationship, the foundation has to be alignment. Alignment with the brand’s values. Alignment with the leadership team. Alignment with the way the business works and the way the network feels.
After more than two decades in franchising, I’ve seen firsthand that the franchisees who thrive are the ones who choose a brand that fits. Not just in terms of numbers, but in terms of people, purpose, and partnership. So how do you know when you’ve found “the one”? These five signs are a strong indication you’re on the right track.
You share the same core values
Franchising works best when franchisees and franchisors are pulling in the same direction. That begins with shared values. If you’re passionate about early childhood development, for example, and the brand you’re considering clearly centres children’s wellbeing and holistic growth in its messaging, systems, and daily operations—that’s a powerful match.
But if the brand seems more concerned with scale than substance, or their priorities feel transactional rather than mission-led, it’s worth pausing. You’ll be representing this brand in your community. You’ll be speaking in its voice and living out its promise. If the values don’t feel like your own, that disconnect will show over time—in your motivation, your team culture, and even your customers’ experience.
Values alignment doesn’t mean agreeing on everything, but it does mean believing in the same why. When that’s present, the business becomes more than a job. It becomes a cause you’re proud to lead.
You respect—and trust—the leadership team
One of the most overlooked but vital aspects of joining a franchise system is the leadership team behind it. These are the people you’ll be working with for the next five, ten, or even twenty years. Their vision, communication style, and level of transparency will shape your entire experience as a franchisee.
When you speak with the franchisor—or better yet, meet them in person—do they listen? Are they genuinely interested in your background and your goals? Or are they rushing to get you signed? Great franchisors understand that they’re not just recruiting franchisees; they’re building long-term partnerships. They’ll be open about their journey, honest about their challenges, and clear about what support they offer.
Pay attention to how they speak about existing franchisees. Do they talk about them with respect? Do they celebrate their wins? A franchise network is a reflection of its leadership. If the people at the top operate with integrity and humility, it usually trickles down.
The territory makes strategic sense
Territory isn’t just about lines on a map. It’s about the opportunity to build a business that’s viable, scalable, and well supported in your chosen location. A strong franchisor will work with you to ensure the area you’re considering has the right demographics, community infrastructure, and potential demand for your services. They’ll have data to back up their recommendations—not vague reassurance.
They’ll also be clear about how territory rights are structured. Will you have exclusive rights to your area? How is territory overlap managed if the business has mobile or online components? These are important questions, especially in service-based or children’s activity sectors where foot traffic and local reputation play a huge role in success.
If the franchisor is vague about what you’re getting—or if they seem more focused on selling units than setting up viable businesses—that’s a red flag.
The training sets you up for success
Joining a franchise is often a leap into the unknown, especially for those transitioning from employment or another industry. That’s why comprehensive, accessible training is non-negotiable. But not all training is created equal.
The right franchise brand will offer a programme that prepares you not only to deliver the product or service, but to actually run the business. That includes operational systems, sales, marketing, staffing, finance, and customer service. It should feel structured and supportive—not rushed or overly theoretical.
Even more importantly, the training shouldn’t stop after launch. Look for brands that invest in ongoing learning through field visits, network conferences, peer groups, webinars, and clear operational playbooks. The best systems recognize that franchisees grow with the business—and they build in the scaffolding to support that growth.
You feel a sense of community
Finally, and perhaps most tellingly, is the feel of the franchise network itself. Is it collaborative? Are existing franchisees open and supportive? Do you get the sense that people in the network actually like each other—and the brand?
During your research, you should be encouraged to speak to other franchisees. Take the time to ask them what the culture is really like. Do they feel listened to? Supported? Part of something bigger than themselves? You’ll learn a lot from how they describe their day-to-day experience—not just financially, but emotionally.
When a franchise network has a strong sense of community, everything gets easier. Advice flows freely. Ideas are shared. Celebrations are genuine. And challenges are faced together.
In summary
Finding the right franchise brand is about more than numbers—it’s about alignment. If the values resonate, the leadership inspires trust, the territory makes sense, the training equips you, and the community feels like home, you’re not just buying into a business—you’re stepping into a partnership that can last for years to come.
Take your time. Ask the hard questions. And most importantly, listen to your instincts. The right brand won’t just look good on paper—it’ll feel right.
