All franchisees are different. There is no exact mold from which all franchisees will come. However, there are some commonalities generally found among most franchisees. These commonalities are generally found in success factors, maturity, drive levels, attitudes and ability to work with others.

Information for developing a franchise profile is generally derived from two sources: 

(1) personal interview (Franchisor Interview Form) and 

(2) general surveys. 

The personal interview is generally conducted with current existing successful franchisees. These franchisees can explain their attitudes, managing experience, life experiences (both positive and negative), leadership styles, motivation factors, and demographic information. One technique often employed by professional profile developers is dividing current franchisees into three different levels -- highly successful, average, and low success franchisees. The factors are then scored and the differences among the three groups indicate the major points to look for in identifying successful prospective franchisees.

General surveys may also be conducted with existing franchisees or with other individuals in the community. On occasion, it is possible to survey different managers of similar businesses and ascertain some of their reasons for success. Additionally, focus groups may be called upon to explain their reasons and causes for success. (A focus group is simply a group of eight to twelve individuals who are familiar with the business practice and who explain their reasons for success in that business.)