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In my many years of owning different businesses, including a franchise, I have always subscribed to the philosophy that hiring employees is one of the most important functions of any owner. A poor hire will drain your time, patience, and bank account (when you finally cut ‘em loose). But a good hire will add measurably to your success.
In a franchise, it is no different. However, a franchise employee often comes with specialized skills or knowledge. And while any employee can be difficult to manage at times, the key is finding and hiring the right employee from the start.
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Clarify the Position and Role
You may need a cashier, or you may need a certified electrician. But you need someone to complement your skills and satisfy the picture you have of the role.
Even if you’ve hired an employee before, clearly describe your vision in a job description that covers key skills, hours, and wages. Based on what you want the employee to do, prepare yourself with interview questions relevant to real-life situations. Provide scenarios or opportunities for the employee to demonstrate their acumen and methodology for problem-solving.
And if you can, have others meet your candidate, especially if the new hire will be interfacing with them regularly.
Ready Your Physical Site (if necessary)
When a new employee joins your team, it affects several things: current employees, the new employee, your customers, and you. Before the employee starts working for you, review your franchise site.
Just like having guests for dinner, a new employee reminds us that we might need to clean the bathroom and ensure there are enough chairs. Create a comfortable environment and culture for employees to begin their journey in your franchise. From communication boards and employee meetings to safety protocols, employees need a solid base to do their job effectively.
Guidance and Training
Sometimes, I’ve hired someone who was a good personal fit but who needed training on the actual job function. This can be risky, but it is easier to train a skill than change a personality. But remember training is always necessary no matter how skilled an employee might be.
In a franchise, there will be some form of training that is specific to the brand. The franchisor guided you through the proper training for your business. Based on the role of your new employee, you will do the same. Explain your expectations and model the behavior. Then, watch your new employee complete the same task and guide him appropriately.
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Your franchise staff can be an asset to your business, and as owners, we have the most important job of hiring the right ones. By hiring carefully, your employees will contribute to your successful business’s smooth operation.
Anne Daniells is a co-owner of Enterprising Solutions, a professional services firm specializing in corporate communication and financial improvement for businesses where she shares decades of corporate and entrepreneurial experience—including franchise ownership—in her writings on business culture. She has authored hundreds of articles for publications including AllBusiness.com, TweakYourBiz.com, and MSN.com. Reach out via her website for more on where corporate culture, communication, and human architecture collide.