9 Times to Take the Professional High Road

9 Times to Take the Professional High Road
Holding your head up even when others don’t – this is a lesson we are often taught. And one that’s impossibly hard to follow. When something unpleasant strikes, it’s just so satisfying to get petty. To immediately give a situation what it “deserves”.

But it’s certainly no way to do business, either.

Because, in franchising, you have to be gracious and nice to others … even if they don’t seem to deserve it.  Doing so is an easy way to keep your reputation in check, and ensure you aren’t burning even the weakest of bridges.

When times get tough, it’s better to be the bigger business owner. Such as instances wherein:

Like it or not, you simply have to keep your mouth shut. You can certainly stand up for yourself and your business, but it’s also time to put an end to the “well this is what they did” type of behavior. Which will only fuel the situation. Unfortunately, this is just another part of being a business owner; the sooner you grow thick skin, the better.

There will come a time when a patron will stretch the truth, usually to try and make life fall in their favor. No matter how much experience in the industry you have (and faith in your own services), it’s best to move on. All you can do is try to keep others happy, and take note of untrustworthy shoppers.

We all have bad days, but as a franchisee, you can’t let it show. And you certainly can’t let your stress affect your employees or customers. Do your best to shove those bad moods down deep, then let them out at a more appropriate time.

Perhaps you’ve gotten news that another branch is opening nearby. Maybe you had an uncomfortable experience with a shop down the street. When dealing with other business owners, heads are bound to connect, and that’s ok. What matters is how you deal with the situation, and how you represent your brand in that process.

No matter how hard you try, you won’t be able to make everyone happy. It’s simply impossible. With varied personalities and renditions as to what took place, not everyone will get along. Don’t dwell on these facts that go wrong, instead, use it as a chance to learn about others. Even if you don’t agree, it’s an easy way to learn.

This is a situation that can apply to anything – whatever it is that’s making you want to lash back. This is also a good time to breathe in deeply, and move on. Taking the high road for your business, even when you don’t want to, will help ensure you’re doing right at all times.

Chances are, a bad experience with a customer won’t be your last interaction with them. Here’s where you really become tested. As they continue to come in your shop or ask for your services, remain polite. Every single time. It will be a challenge, but one that eventually pays off. Even if you don’t earn their respect, others will see said efforts, and know you’re a person of your word.

Dealing with folks who don’t follow their word can be frustrating, but the only thing to control is how you react … and how your business reacts. Use this instance as a chance to step up your own game and to smooth out what could easily become a rough patch.

This scenario can be a hard pill to swallow. Losing funds, when it’s not your fault, is no easy task. But at the end of the day, you have to weigh whether it’s worth it to point out how you’ve been wronged, or if you should take the loss. Most times you’ll find that it’s easier to simply write off, as unappealing as that might sound.

When opening your franchise, you’ll learn that there are situations that won’t be pleasant. There’s nothing saying you can stand up for your business (and yourself), but you should also remain gracious and respectful, even when that’s difficult.

Set yourself as a stunning example for a way to move forward with professionalism, even in tough scenarios.