Ready team? Let’s go! Whether or not you knew you were signing up to be a franchisee AND a cheerleader, it’s a role you took on all the same. And it’s your time to shine.
We are living in a strange world right now, and an additional part of your job to keep workers happy, healthy, and encouraged … even as things spin uncontrollably around us.
If you’re not a complimentary type of boss by nature, this might be hard. You’ll have to remind yourself to speak positives out loud. Considering the great effects, however, it’s worth teaching yourself a new skill. Keep your workers in good spirits with these smart tactics. The results will create a better working environment for all.
Cheer Up Franchise Employees
Remain positive. Offer compliments. Tell folks it’s ok to be frustrated and unsure. After all, we are dealing with a worldwide crisis; no one is expected to have this thing under control, least of all you, the business owner and your employees. The key is to acknowledge others’ feelings, and then show them how to work through them.
One of the best ways to do this is to lead by example. Put on a brave face and work (and work hard!) even on days where things are difficult. Your workers will see this and be encouraged to do the same.
Something as simple as not complaining or saying something in a positive way can make all the difference. For instance, rather than saying, “Hey you didn’t ring that service up correctly” could be better said with, “Hey show me what you did. Do you think we could put it here instead?” can offer a world of encouragement when your employee needs it most.
Offer Self Care For Franchise Workers
Whenever possible, encourage workers to take care of themselves. On days off, ask if they’re going to relax or enjoy their time. If it’s in the budget, you can consider gift cards or coupons for something to help them recharge. This can be anything from purchasing a new beauty product, to music credits, to suggestions on a new hiking trail. Consider what each employee enjoys most and see if you can reach them with their own interests.
This is an extra step that takes very little time, but allows you to get to know others and show you care about their well-being.
Suggest Mental Health as a Franchisee
There are many available resources to anyone struggling (or anyone wanting to work on their mental health). All of which can be accessed remotely. Without getting personal, gather a list of resources. Focus on those that take your insurance or are providing free services during COVID for further accessibility.
At the very least, remain open minded about mental health topics. Ensure your workers are in a safe space where they can grow positively in their career.
If there are other resources that would benefit your employees, consider offering those as well. If they need healthcare options, help covering bills, childcare, etc., gather a list of local programs accessible to them, and share the list. To avoid putting anyone on a spot you can even offer said list in an email to all, or placed in a communal area.
This can be a touchy subject, whether or not to avoid getting personally involved as a business owner who wants to help their employees. However this is a way you can stay distant, while ensuring they have the information that’s needed to help them move forward.
Get Vulnerable as a Business Owner
You don’t have all the answers, and that’s a fact that’s ok to admit. Your workers might even respect you for admitting that fact. Show your confidence in decisions, but the pandemic is a new ballgame, you don’t have to be an all-knowing franchisee. Simply put your best ideas forward and lead with a positive attitude. You can encourage your franchise workers, simply by admitting you have faults. A little humility can go a long way, especially when leading from the front of the pack.
As a franchisee, remember that you’ve got this – every change brought on by COVID. The pandemic is taking a toll, but you’re working hard to come out ahead. Don’t forget the state of your workers in this process. Now more than ever, they need a leader who can take them through the darkness and show them a way to find a new normal. Help relieve stress and offer tangible help whenever possible. It’s a step that will also create a better, more successful working environment, too.