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A recent Forbes article describing a seemingly necessary “Great Reset” got me thinking about franchisees as they look to regain some normalcy in such an uncertain time. However, rather than rehashing old norms or relying on what “was,” the article called for us to define a “new normal” by seizing this opportunity to start afresh.
The global pandemic must be a catalyst for new ideas and methodologies. This is ideal for aspiring franchisees. Our economic future cannot pause and wait for the old normal to return. Rather, we must collectively reconsider what we envision in key areas:
Work’s Purpose. While franchisors do care about the old norm of creating shareholder value, a reset would also consider the value to customers, team engagement and ethical operations. Franchises do the first two very well through direct B2C and B2B relationships that are personally driven by the franchisees. The ethical question part is one that focuses on how a franchise helps improve communities. Because franchises are so reliant on their territories, franchises are well-positioned to create purposeful work that satisfies customers, values employees and improves its community.
Caring Leadership. To make purposeful work a reality, an organization needs leaders who care about the team and its ethical impact on the world. Also, caring leadership includes characteristics like curiosity, openness to change and commitment to balance. I think anyone who decides to open a franchise is very curious, ready to change, and must constantly balance all stakeholders in an organization. As we reset our operations during a pandemic, these traits are especially helpful, and franchising is the place to find more of the same like-minded survivors.
How We Work. This means where and when work happens. Many franchises are already home-based or mobile. Building flexibility as a factor of costs is natural for such franchises. Today, choosing when a franchise operates is one of its benefits. Fewer days dedicated to work will likely add productivity, not reduce it. Maybe split shifts to accommodate new home-schooling needs works well for energy savings, employee retention, and profit. Think outside the old normal to find better ways to operate.
Franchises make sense in this crazy year of change and unknowns. Franchising’s dynamic entrepreneurs are a significant part of the Canadian economy, and they remain dynamic and flexible. Change is accepted with ease compared to large organizations, making franchises an excellent opportunity when scheduling, purpose and hands-on leadership are needed.
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.