As we begin to transition into the fall season, the question on everyone’s minds is what 2021 will bring. By all accounts, things seem to be on the upswing, which means it’s a great time to start scheming up new ways to grow your franchise portfolio through the next 12 months. The global pandemic has forced many restaurant franchises to re-evaluate the way they do business, and that’s a very good thing. It has helped tighten the belt, instill discipline and foster clever adaptation in a volatile market. While franchises are focused heavily on inward thinking, now’s the time to embrace a few tips that are guaranteed to spike your success rate going into 2021.
Positivity
Nothing is more important than having a positive attitude, especially given the chaotic and torrid climate that 2020 has wrought on the world. With so much negativity and tragedy that has taken place, patrons are yearning to get out of their houses and reclaim their enjoyment of life all over again. Franchises should be embracing this attitude wholesale, and not just as a marketing tool. Internal positivity can go a long way to boosting the morale of employees which can have an immediate trickle-down effect to visiting patrons. People are quite perceptive when it comes to attitudes, and a negative vibe in a restaurant franchise environment is guaranteed to spell trouble. Now more than ever, it’s important for franchises to step up, put on a genuine smile and enjoy serving patrons all over again.
Stay Connected With Your Team
These days, franchises are composed of people with a shared passion for making the best out of the business. That means letting them know that they’re part of something bigger, and that they actively contribute to it. Being connected to one’s workplace is especially important for this generation which has largely eschewed corporate politics in favor of a community-driven workplace. Hiring and retaining great talent means making sure they feel valued and part of the success of a shared vision. This translates to success which can open up new opportunities both for you as a franchise owner, and your employees who may be in line for higher positions, particularly if you start opening up multiple locations.
Be An Effective Leader
Many franchise owners believe they’re the epitome of management brilliance and courageous leadership. Sometimes it’s wise to take a step back and attempt to poke a few holes in that narrative for your own sake, and that of your business! There is always room to improve, and franchisees can begin by attempting to keep day-to-day operations as consistent as possible. Employees can tell when things start to go off the rails, and that can make them feel uneasy and insecure. Operational challenges should be dealt with logically, and that includes delegating duties to the correct employees, innovating when unforeseen circumstances arise, and leading by example. You are the rock that your employees look to for guidance and security. You don’t have to be perfect, but you should be stable.
Make The Customer First, All Over Again
With so many challenges facing restaurant owners over the past few months, many have been forced to take a step back and put more focus on operational costs in order to stay afloat. Too much of this can divert attention away from the main revenue source – happy customers. Luckily, as things open back up, patrons will start flocking to your establishment, and that means doubling down on their satisfaction as if it was day one – because in many respects, it is. Until the threat of the pandemic has abated, patrons will feel uneasy in any public space, so make sure you’re reassuring them that your franchise is committed to their health and safety, while at the same time making them feel welcome, addressing any concerns they might have, and delivering awesome food and even better service. This is an opportunity to generate a grassroots relationship with your customer base and draw them closer to your brand.
Celebrate Your Wins
2020 has been rough on everyone, which means celebrating victories regardless of their size is absolutely vital. Every small victory is another step towards a return to complete normalcy, and that day will come. In the meantime, your employees want to enjoy these incredible moments so they can be inspired to repeat their success. If your franchise location broke a record for most patrons in a single night, celebrate it. If a new dish was unleashed to rave critical reviews by your customers, shout it out. And if you spot a rise in 5-star reviews on various online review sites, yank everyone into a room and share the good news. Contrary to popular belief, it is quite alright to feel positive as we move into 2021.
Owning a restaurant franchise in Canada is still a lucrative opportunity, so don’t be afraid to reach out for information on franchising with us. We’re here to answer any questions you might have. Contact us today!
