After the initial stress of buying into a franchise business subsides, the training is complete and doors are finally open, the next step is building a healthy clientele.

While a quick Google search suggests letterbox drops and flyers are a great way to get the word out, that only present a small fraction of the total customer acquisition process.

So how can new franchise owners develop a strong client base that will generate sales?

The modern consumer is often spoilt for choice, meaning that, particularly for considered purchases, competition is high.

What sets a strong franchisee apart from an inexperienced one is the ability to chart the customer journey.

When you understand where your customers are coming from, how to promote your product and how to keep them coming back, you stand a far greater chance of developing a loyal customer base.

Along with Kelli Ponting, owner of franchise marketing agency, The Marketing Lab, we put together this video infographic to help you master the five stages of the customer journey.