Conversely, what traits are not important to franchisors? The following traits were judged to be "irrelevant" to a franchisee's potential for success by most of the franchisors who replied to the Francorp/DePaul University survey.

Experience working for a big company. While most franchisors have a number of franchisees who have bailed out (or been euphemistically "outplaced") of corporate life, in no way do these franchisors place much importance on this background.

Previous experience in the franchisor's field. Most of the franchisors surveyed downplayed the importance of prior experience in their line of business. In fact, over the years we have seen many franchisors who would much prefer to deal with franchisees who have no experience in their field. The franchisors often feel that it is easier to train these novices that it is to retrain someone with preexisting ideas and habits (i.e., ideas and habits contrary to those of the franchisor).

Prior business ownership (or lack thereof). With the obvious exception of conversion franchisees, franchisors are neither specifically looking for people who have owned their own businesses, nor are they systematically seeking to exclude these people. Franchisors feel that some level of prior business experience can be helpful, but the degree of this experience is far less important in the development of a successful franchisee than, for example, an eagerness to learn and an ability to follow directions.

Personal situations. Factors such as age, sex, marital status, and family situations seem to mean little when it comes to predicting future franchisee success.

Financial acumen. Did you often doze off during Accounting 101? Not to worry. Whatever financial routines are needed will likely be taught by the franchisor; standardized accounting, banking, and other financial procedures will be part of the operating system provided.

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