Do You Need Experience to Own a Franchise?

This question stops more people than lack of money ever does. I hear it all the time: “I’ve been in the healthcare industry my whole life, I don’t even know if I’m fit to own a franchise.” It keeps capable professionals stuck in jobs they’ve outgrown, waiting for the perfect background, the right industry knowledge, or one more year of experience that never quite feels like enough.

But do you really need experience to own a franchise? The truth is, most franchises aren’t looking for industry experts, they’re looking for people who are ready to follow a proven system, lead a team, and take control of their future. Waiting to feel ‘qualified’ is often the biggest risk of all. 

Let’s clear up the confusion and break down what really matters when it comes to buying a franchise.

Training Is Part of the Deal

When you buy a franchise, training is usually included. Franchisors teach you how to run the business, manage daily operations, and follow their systems, even if you’ve never worked in that industry before.

Transferable Skills Go a Long Way

Skills like leadership, customer service, sales, time management, and problem-solving transfer across industries. Many franchisors actually prefer owners with strong business or people skills over technical experience.

Some Franchises Prefer You Don’t Have Experience

Believe it or not, some franchisors like owners who come in with a fresh mindset. Without old habits to unlearn, it’s often easier to follow their proven system exactly as designed.

Semi-Absentee Options Exist

If you want to keep your 9–5 or reduce hands-on involvement, there are semi-absentee franchise models. These are built for owners who focus on leadership and strategy, not day-to-day operations.

Experience Can Be Learned, Mistakes Are Costly

Industry experience can be learned through training and support. What’s harder (and more expensive) is learning how to build systems, branding, and operations from scratch—which franchises already provide.

The Right Franchise Matches You

Not every franchise is right for every person. The key is finding a franchise that aligns with your goals, lifestyle, budget, and strengths, not just your past work experience.

This Isn’t About Experience, It’s About Readiness

We help aspiring business owners explore franchise options that fit their goals, lifestyle, and strengths, even if they’ve never worked in that industry before. My role is to guide you, answer your questions, and help you avoid costly mistakes before they happen.

If this question has been sitting in the back of your mind, don’t ignore it. The best next step is a simple conversation. Taking the first step is always the hardest, but it’s also the boost you need. Let’s talk!