Franchising’s high-achieving franchisees share views on key topics.

By Steven Snell and James Jacobsen

How have you been successful in getting your employees to understand and buy into your mission?

Given the nature of the senior care industry, the employees of Always Best Care tend to be passionate about our company’s mission from the onset. Unlike other industries, the typical workday for any caregiver varies from case to case, at times being a 365-day job. While their passion carries through in the work they do, it can be even more challenging for business owners to create a unified company culture when their network of employees works remotely and are on different schedules at all times.

Through trial and error, we have established certain forms of communication to instill our company mission that work best for our employees as a whole. Each quarter, we distribute a digital newsletter that has a specific focus on a topic or task that we feel will benefit our employees the most. Subjects vary from updates on internal documentation to on-the-job safety tips. For time-sensitive initiatives, we have an automated system, which instantly sends out text message alerts to the entire team. We also have morale boosters in place to motivate staff and recognize those who go above and beyond their call of duty each month. These individuals are rewarded with a monetary bonus. It’s very important to me to make sure my employees are recognized for their hard work, and we often include personalized notes on their paychecks to express our appreciation. In my experience, performing these little acts of thankfulness has gone a long way for improving the overall morale of our employees and driving the success of the company.

Steven Snell owns and operates Always Best Care of Palm Beaches and Treasure Coast franchises in Florida.

At Fazwest Group, we recognize that communication built around a common purpose, or mission statement, is a collaborative effort and plays a huge role in our success as a franchise. From Day One, the company mission statement and fundamentals of providing excellent guest service is discussed with new team members and throughout their onboarding and orientation process. Day-to-day, our leadership team enforces these values and communicates the importance of teamwork, which makes all the difference. Employees who embody our pursuit of company excellence are recognized throughout the year and can earn various rewards and “morale boosters.” From a personal hand-written note, to a plaque, or salary increase, it is important to always reward those who recognize and carry out your team mission. Mandated semi-annual employee reviews also present an opportunity for our associates to be acknowledged for their efforts and dedication. The pursuit of excellence is never ending and it’s imperative to create an environment where your team feels valued and appreciated. Your organization and entire brand as a whole will reap the benefits of employees who understand and exemplify your mission.

James “Jamie” Jacobsen is president of Fazwest Group, LLC., an award-winning franchisee group of Fazoli’s, America’s largest fast casual Italian chain.

 

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