FranShip Mentorship Program

A diverse ecosystem of franchisees, franchisors and suppliers representing every stage of the journey

IFA’s mentoring program capitalizes on the depth and breadth of this knowledge, pairing early career and emerging novices with experienced industry veterans. Mentors provide encouragement, ongoing support  and guidance that promotes a mentee’s professional and personal growth by helping them develop skills and navigate challenges  within franchising.

Her Success and Franship Podcast

Curious to learn how the Franship Program works? Ali Kraus, CMO of Benetrends, is joined by IFA’s Sydni Konohia to discuss how to get involved on the mentee level. Later, Franship Mentor, Dawn Abbamondi, CMO of SMB Franchise Advisors and her Mentee, Paul Ehlinger, CEO of Flamel.ai reflect on his entry into franchising and how the Franship Program has supported his growth!

How It Works

Step 1 – Provide completed enrollment form and top 3 picks for a potential mentor. Mentor picks should align with your role in the industry. For instance, franchisor mentees should select franchisor mentors.

Step 2 – You will be matched with an available mentor. The matching process is based on your responses to the enrollment questions as well as size, industry, needs and additional factors like franchise system experience or franchise ownership history.

Step 3 – Work with your mentor to schedule meetings and identify goals and objectives for the mentoring relationship. Plan to meet on a quarterly basis for one year, spending 30-60 minutes together each time either virtually or in person. It is recommended that at least one of the meetings be face-to-face at an IFA or industry event.

Step 4 – We want to hear from you!  Both mentees and mentors are asked to complete periodic evaluations of the program to help IFA collect ideas for improvement. There is also a final survey that must be submitted at the end of your FranShip relationship.

 

Enrollment Forms

Are you a life-long learner committed to enhancing your knowledge and skills, growing professionally and personally as a franchisor leader or franchise owner?

Do you have at least five years of experience in the franchise industry and exemplify leadership, creativity, and a true desire to provide advice and knowledge to those newer to the community?

Become a Mentee

Enroll

Become a Mentor

Inquire
Keys to a successful FranShip
  • Familiarize yourself with the other’s business model
  • Take time to get to know each other during initial training
  • Maintain each other’s privacy and confidentiality
  • Set specific goals and expectations for the relationship
  • Understand that this is a relationship of mutual respect
  • Encourage openness and create a positive environment where ideas and options are freely discussed
  • Respect each other’s time
  • Establish duration of meetings and contact information
  • Keep meetings specific, focused, and as productive as possible
  • Track progress against goals and milestones and have feedback sessions to support long-term success

“One of the greatest gifts anyone can give is the sharing of their time and knowledge. The mentors of Franship are committed to helping fellow IFA members grow both personally as well as professionally within the franchising industry. Franship will strive to bring together the experiences of yesterday with the needs of today.”

John Rotche, CFE, Founder, The Franchise Mentor

Meet The Team

Sydni Konohia, CFE
Sydni Konohia, CFE

Senior Manager, Member Services & Recruitment

202.662.0767

skonohia@franchise.org

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