Any form of business requires tough-minded, energetic leadership. The qualities that make a good franchisee are essentially those that make a good business person. However, you must be able to function within a business format that someone else has designed. As a franchisee, you need to maintain your independence while conforming to rules and procedures set by someone else. This position is the ultimate test of your strength as a team player, and it brings out one of the most dynamic polarities... It is your business run with their rules, which they try and enforce in your management of your business. Perhaps more important than anything else is the franchisee’s ability to resist the temptation of redesigning the business. You must be able to accept the sound advice and guidance of the franchisor, gleaned from many years in the business. The essential goal of the franchising system is to provide franchisees with the skills and knowledge that will make their operations effective immediately. You should not have to learn by your mistakes. Running a franchise requires attention to detail. Despite the business format within which you work, you have to run the business. The franchisor provides the blueprint and some assistance, but ultimately you will determine whether the business succeeds or fails. If you can answer ‘yes’ to most of the following questions, you are probably suited to the role of franchisee:

• Are you willing to run the risk of owning your own business?
• Are you prepared to work long hours?
• Will your family support you in this?
• Can you follow directions?
• Are you a systematic worker who can adapt to another person’s business format?
• Are you comfortable working with others?
• Do you absorb knowledge easily to master the needs of a new business?
• Will you enjoy working in your chosen field?
• Do you qualify for business finance?

If you are seeking business opportunities, also have a look at some of South Africa's business listings;
South African Business Directory

International Business listings;
Free Online Directory