There’s one common denominator that all franchisees have in common: they’ve all been employees. Likely many times over. They’ve worked for the man, whether big companies or small, they’ve had bosses, they’ve been on the bottom of the totem pole and worked their way up. Maybe not to the absolute top, but to some degree, they were able to raise their status and gain promotions within a company. That’s great work experience, and it allows you to give better insight to those around you, and while helping to build your franchising brand.
In fact, you can use this experience heavily in your favor, along with other events from your past and allow them to let you become a better boss. Because you’ve lived on the other side of the time clock, you have a solid idea of what works and what doesn’t. You know what steps to take to motivate the team, what’s terrible for morale, and more.
Don’t forget your professional past when planning for your future franchise. Look to your own insights in a number of areas so that you can become the best boss possible.
Aside from looking at your own experiences, you can:
1. Put Yourself in Employees’ Shoes
We get it, you’re busy! As the franchisee, you have much on your plate and that can make it difficult to spread yourself across all projects as needed. That’s also why you need employees to help you keep the business rolling – you need them to perform certain tasks, help with everyday business transactions, and more. However, don’t forget what it’s like to be the low-man, either. No one likes taking all of the grunt work … and doing so can actually be bad for morale.
Keep this in mind when divvying up duties and creating roles at your company. Keep workers happy and don’t be afraid to dive in and do the dirty work to show anyone can do the necessary work, all while providing some surefire mood boosters.
2. Communicate Regularly
Another way to stay on the same page as your employees is to talk with them often. We’ve all had the boss who shows up, scares everyone and points out what they are doing wrong, then bolts just as quickly. As a franchisee, you don’t want to be that type of boss. Instead, talk with your workers. Get to know them, learn what they’re good at, what they like, and personal details that allows you to know them on a more in-depth level. This will humble you in their eyes, and it will give you better insight as to who’s on your team and what they can provide going forward. Not to mention it’s a great tactic for employee retention.
3. Start Slowly
If at first you feel uncomfortable delegating work, start handing off items little by little. Ask workers to step in where you need their help. Talk to other professionals about taking over tasks that fall within their expertise (for instance, your accountant or lawyer). As a franchisee, you don’t have to think about yourself as the big boss, but rather as a business owner who needs help getting everything done. This can help with your own comfort level and determining what to do yourself, vs. what’s better at being handed out.
4. Give Yourself a Pep Talk
Yes, really! A pep talk can go a long way! Remind yourself why you signed up as a franchisee in the first place. Make a list of what makes you a good boss. Remember that this is your dream job, the one you’ve always wanted! A little motivation can help get your head in the game and to remember that being the boss is simply part of franchising, and why you’ll be successful at it going forward.
5. Remain Organized
As in, over the top organized. The last thing you need as a new business owner is to lost track of days, due dates, tasks, or anything else that’s important to the business. Use apps, a planner, sticky notes – whatever you need to ensure you stay on task and that all items get checked off your list on time. This will also set a good example for your employees that you don’t slack off or procrastinate, and that you expect them to have work completed on time as well.
6. Look at the Big Picture
Ultimately, your goal is for your franchise to grow. You’ll want and need employees who have that same vision in order for them to be a good fit. While the brand won’t hit as close to home for them, at the very least, they need to be diligent as an employee and to work hard at their job. If there’s room for growth or future incentives, like job recommendations, bonuses, or a raise program, they’ll likely be more dedicated to help you reach that franchising goal.
As a new business owner, it might seem intimidating to suddenly become the boss (even if you have previous experience above others). However, by using your past positions, common sense, and remembering key guidelines, you can help create an ideal scenario from going from worker to boss with your franchising brand.