Whether you already own a business with multiple locations or you are thinking about it, it’s a big undertaking. You have high costs, a long to-do list, and a host of employees who are depending on you to make good decisions. There are two ways of looking at a multi-store franchise. You can consider it a blessing because it’s a sign of a successful business. Otherwise, you can consider it a curse because it is overwhelming. If you are going to take your business as far as it can go, you’ll need to embrace the power of the positive. You need to believe in your product or services or no one else will. Take some advice for anyone managing a multi-store franchise to bring out the best in your business.
Always Start with a Plan
You need to figure out how you can grow. Don’t be content to stay where you are. That’s great if you are doing well. Ask yourself how can your company do better. Research other companies that are hitting the ball out of the park. Talk to gurus in your field. Don’t be afraid to follow someone else’s example. They always say copying someone is the greatest flattery. You can use what works for someone else, tweak it, and make it your own.
Make Improvements to Your Locations
Personally visit all of your stores often. This is not something you should leave up to someone else. You should be an active participant in your business. You should be approachable. When you walk in the door, you’ll keep everyone on their toes. This is your opportunity to talk with your supervisors in each location to find out what is working well and what isn’t. Don’t be afraid to give your stores a facelift if they need freshening up. Pay attention to the grounds. Every aspect should be its best for your stores. Determined your top property manager requirements before you hire a third party to manage your locations. Hiring a property manager can significantly help maintain and improve your locations.
Hold Conferences with Your Staff on a Regular Basis
Touch base with your team at least once a month. You can put everyone at ease by treating it as your coffee club. Bring in refreshments. Show your appreciation before you open up the floor for discussion. This is your opportunity to share your goals and concerns. Be sure to keep the lines of communication open both ways. Running a successful business needs give and take, especially when you can’t be everywhere at once. Your employees need to feel like they are an important part of your business model. If you don’t have anyone working for you, you can’t keep the doors open. Show respect for their input. Recognize staff members who go above and beyond to help your business to thrive.
If It Isn’t Broken, Don’t Fix It
Far too many business owners think they have to change everything to revive their stores. It’s like throwing out the baby with the bathwater. Take a look at what you like about your stores. There’s a good chance the positive aspects are what brings in your consumers. Customers are often loyal to a store because it welcomes them every time. Giving it a complete overhaul may make them feel like the store is no longer theirs. Improve your existing model. It may be as simple as fresh paint, new landscaping, and jazzing up display windows to make a splash. You can also offer your customers exciting new promotions or rewards programs to show them how much you appreciate their business.
While managing a multi-franchise can be daunting, it can also be exhilarating. Never lose your drive. Surround yourself with a solid team that is as excited about your business as you are. Delegate authority to people you can trust so you don’t spread yourself too thin. If something isn’t working, look for solutions. Don’t forget to involve your staff in problem-solving. Keep plugging away day after day through the good times and the bad. If you have a good business model and are willing to learn from others, you are going to excel. The journey of a thousand miles in a successful business venture begins with a single step.
