Many franchise companies do not send the right message to their prospective franchisees. This is due in part to over-regulation and the intensity of litigation in the industry. Smaller franchisors are generally the most affected by these factors and consumers or buyers of their American Dream seem to feel slighted by the impersonal approach. The sales departments of many franchise companies walk a fine line between disclosure laws and the information they are allowed to release to prospective franchisees. This immediately causes friction. To alleviate this problem, smaller franchisees should send a more personal message on behalf of their founder to reassure prospects that they care. Below is a sample letter from our company, The Car Wash Guys, http://www.carwashguys.com, which they have used to allow our prospects to see through the legal quagmire created by regulatory bureaucracy and lawyers from franchises in their rush to sue. franchisors I recommend that you copy this article, read the letter several times, and put it into your own words so that it conveys how you really feel, is honest, and understands that your prospect needs to know that you are more than just a number.

– – – – – – – – – – – –

Dear potential franchisee,

I want to personally thank you for inquiring about this franchise opportunity. Chances are you heard about us from a satisfied customer or one of our team members. I hope this packet provides you with enough preliminary information to help you determine if you are really interested in owning your own business.

As you may or may not know, owning your own business is not always a piece of cake. It often takes more time, energy, and dedication than working for someone else. It is very rewarding and gives you a personal satisfaction that you may not have found in your work. We are looking for winners. I don’t think you’ll meet a more supportive, loyal, or energetic group of people anywhere else. Our team is the largest.

I am very proud of what we have achieved in the last twenty years. As you read through this packet, you’ll see why we say “This isn’t just a company, it’s a concept!” We would love to have you as a member of the team if you are willing to do so; if you’re ready to make it happen.

I suggest that you review this material with members of your family. Make sure they are 100% behind you. Your family is your #1 team and when you join our team, you will be a point of power that unites both groups. Make sure it fits well.

I don’t want to be seen as someone who only sells ‘franchises’. That’s not my intention. This is not a get rich quick scheme and I am not doing this just for the money. I have designed this business as if I were going to wash all the cars myself. I asked myself “What would I want in a franchise?” And that is
exactly what I have structured. I don’t want to pressure you, rush you, or push you into anything that isn’t right for your situation. Only you and your family know what is best for your future.

After reading this information, you probably have questions. You can call me at 1 – (800) – Franchise or send me the attached questionnaire or send me the postcard to find out first hand what it is all about. If you’re not ready yet, that’s fine. We still love you as a happy car wash customer. You can feel secure knowing your ‘Car Wash Guy’ is a quality individual who cares about service and community and is committed to being #1 in his field.

Thanks again for your inquiry and tell a friend. After all, we built this company on the basis of “word of mouth”.

To be honest,

The founder

Please complete and mail the attached confidential questionnaire to me. If you qualify, we will contact you for a personal meeting.