I just read an article that claimed franchisers are targeting college graduates to be the next generation of franchisees. The article claims college graduates are attracted to opening their own businesses because they cannot get jobs in this economy. Last week I read another article that claims veterans make the best franchisees because they possess the ability to listen and follow directions. and they are usually very dedicated. An article before that claimed laid-off executives made the best franchisees. They have business skills, are career-driven and do well following a system. Young, old, military or corporate background, it matters who you are more than your background in determining if you will do well working within a franchise system.

Franchisees are a unique type of entrepreneur. They want to be their own boss and own their own business, but they also want a consultant to advise them when they meet hurdles along the way. Advice costs money. If you are a franchisee you pay for the advice, marketing assistance and the business systems in the form of royalties. You also have less control of your business and must follow certain guidelines and sell certain products or provide certain services.

The guidelines are set up for your success. If each McDonald's made its hamburgers just a little differently, it would not be the billion-dollar business it is today. Franchising is successful because Americans are people of habit and are brand-driven when we purchase goods and services. We trust brands that we see everywhere, every day. We tend to be loyal to a product or service delivered to us the same way all the time.

If you are like me and want to do things your own way and have a hard time following rules, even your own, you probably will not make a good franchisee. From my experience talking to people interested buying a franchise, if their first question is, "Can I serve my own menu?" that tends to be a sign they do not want to follow the system.

Becoming a franchisee definitely has benefits. You have a team behind you helping you be successful building and growing your business. At the same time you also have to work with certain restrictions. Franchises have worked well for thousands of people around the world; can they work for you, too?