Yes, yes…and more yes! While we often associate franchisees with bubbly, outgoing personalities, the honest truth is that there’s no single model for what makes a successful franchisee.
So even though I’ve definitely seen many extroverted people jump into the ranks of franchising, I’ve seen just as many introverts! In fact, introverts have many qualities that make them ideal candidates for franchising.
Let’s explore a few reasons introverts can shine in the franchising space:
Introverts Are Self-Aware & Reflective
In most cases, those who tend toward introversion are innately thoughtful and aware of their weaknesses and strengths. That makes them more likely to pause to consider the right move to make—and to take careful steps to fill the ranks of their franchise with others who can handle any areas of weakness.
The tendency toward reflection also shows in the decision-making process. Rarely acting in haste, introverts may tend in the opposite direction—taking longer to make decisions because they’re taking ample time to think before they act.
Introverts Are Good Listeners
Where an extrovert may rush to fill in a gap in conversation, an introvert is likely to let the silence sit. That can be an incredible attribute when it comes to communication.
Too often in today’s world, we listen to formulate an answer, rather than listening for the sake of truly hearing another person. By being slower to fill in open space in conversation, introverts allow the person they’re speaking with to fully describe a situation or problem. Once the issue has been revealed and the other person is totally finished talking, then a solution can be formulated.
Introverts Can Network Effectively
It’s a common belief that introverts don’t like socializing. But that isn’t necessarily true. Those with introverted personalities typically like to spend time with others, but they like to do it in smaller groups and in shorter bursts.
That’s not a weakness—it can actually be a positive when networking in the franchising space! While there are certainly some events and conferences where you’ll have to be around large groups, the “dirty work” of franchising is done face-to-face and in interactions with one or two other people, including customers, other franchisees, and potential vendors.
Introverts Run on Creativity
While this isn’t the case for every introvert, many people with introverted personalities tend to be quite creative. When a problem emerges, they’re likely to retreat into their minds to daydream and brainstorm up a solution.
There’s even a whole subgroup of introverts called “thinking introverts,” who have creative imaginations and spend a lot of time working through their thoughts. Sounds like the perfect attribute in a franchisee, right?
Yes, an introvert can be the perfect franchisee! Ready to find the franchise of your dreams? Get in touch today to find your match.
If you are ready to work with a company that cares, consider becoming a franchise consultant with us! We can help you get started toward a new and fulfilling career today. Contact us to learn more.