With a few simple steps, franchisees can create an ideal workplace culture
Employees can make or break your business. Happy employees tend to stay longer and keep the day-to-day operations running smoothly. Unhappy or dissatisfied employees will ultimately move on to something else and disrupt your business. Franchise owners who want to improve employee retention and engagement should examine their workplace culture. Is yours in trouble? A few tweaks may be all that’s needed to make things right. Try implementing the following tips to keep your employees from looking elsewhere.
Create a team environment
We have all heard the saying that there is no ‘i’ in team. And as corny as it sounds, it rings true in creating a strong workplace culture. Feeling like you are part of something bigger is motivating. Employees who are committed and engaged at work perform better and are less likely to leave. With a team environment, there are no favorites. Everyone is treated as an equal contributor with valuable ideas and contributions. A good team environment makes employees feel like “we’re all in this together.”
Breed positive energy
Positivity breeds positivity. Set the tone for an upbeat environment. It all starts at the top, so lead by example. If you are negative, you can’t expect employees to be cheerful. Conversely, keeping a positive attitude creates an optimistic environment. Smile and share encouraging words; it’s contagious.
Create leaders
Not only should franchisees be leaders, but they must create them in order to scale their businesses. Give your employees autonomy and provide them with opportunities. Make it known that they’re not just there to follow orders, but to become leaders, pathfinders, and role models. According to TINYpulse, employees who feel in control of their careers are 20 percent more likely to stay with a company.
Be a mentor
As a leader, it is your responsibility to be your employee’s advisor, guide, and teacher. You rose to where you are for certain reasons; shedding some light on your experience will inspire and motivate your employees.
Communicate clearly
Communication is essential both inside and outside the office. If you aren’t able to communicate with your employees, you’re headed in the wrong direction. Communicate early and often about company values, expectations, and long-term goals. Encourage feedback and be open to ideas. TINYpulse reports that employees who don’t feel comfortable giving upward feedback are 16 percent less likely to remain at their companies.
Have fun together
What’s work without a little fun? Team building and outside-of-work activities can bring the team closer together and build important relationships. As they say, the company that plays together, stays together.
Take on causes
Companies that give back are able to attract and retain employees. Employees want to do more than just make a living, they want to make a difference and feel good about what they do. TINYpulse says that employees who believe their company has a higher purpose are 27 percent more likely to remain at their in their jobs. When employees align with their company’s mission and values, they generate positive feelings about their work and who they represent.
Reward employees
Everyone wants to be appreciated for their hard work. According to TINYpulse, employees who say there’s a low level of respect between colleagues are 26 percent more likely to quit their jobs. Show your employees that you see them, notice their efforts, and acknowledge them for their devotion to the team. Respect and recognition go a long way and could help keep the best employees on your team.
Create goals
Leadership and setting goals go hand-in-hand. One of the first things you should do as a franchise owner is set goals with your team. This will not only keep you and your employees grounded, but it motivates your team with something tangible to work towards. Be sure to set both individual and team goals — one cannot happen without the other.
Be authentic and transparent
We know that it’s important to communicate clearly, but it’s equally important to be authentic and transparent in your communication. It’s also a great way to show your employees that you care. Check in on your employees by sitting down with them on a regular basis to see how they’re doing. Employees will appreciate the interest you show.
A strong workplace culture starts at the top. As a franchise owner, you create the culture and set the tone. If you follow these ideals closely, an ideal work environment with employee satisfaction, engagement and retention will be sure to follow.