Every seasoned Canadian franchisee will agree: launching a new franchise often feels like navigating controlled chaos. The business is fresh, the routine is still unfamiliar, and while there’s a semblance of order each day, complete consistency remains elusive.
Crafting employee schedules for your new franchise mirrors this experience. One day, an employee calls in sick, throwing off your plans. The next, another employee achieves record-breaking sales. In the early stages of your franchise journey, you’ll encounter various situations, and effective staffing is key to maintaining equilibrium. Before settling into a routine, consider the following tips for scheduling employees in your franchise.
1. Identify Your Top Performer
Identify the employees who excel in efficiency, task completion, and revenue contribution through improved processes or sales. There’s likely someone on your team who embodies these qualities—a reliable “hub” for scheduling patterns. Leveraging their capabilities ensures adequate coverage during demanding shifts or when mentoring new employees.
2. Automate Scheduling Management
Explore employee management software options provided by your franchisor or available in the market. Such software streamlines scheduling tasks, empowers employees to manage their shifts, and reduces administrative burdens. Enable employees to seek coverage for their shifts independently when necessary, fostering autonomy and efficiency.
3. Cultivate Transparent Communication
Clear communication is paramount in preventing scheduling misunderstandings. Whether using handwritten schedules or digital tools, ensure accessibility and clarity for employees. Maintain consistency in communication methods, whether through voicemails or texts, to avoid confusion regarding shift changes or updates.
4. Maintain Flexibility
Accommodate employees’ preferred time-off requests whenever feasible. Flexibility fosters goodwill and enhances productivity by acknowledging employees’ individual needs. When you demonstrate flexibility in scheduling, employees are more likely to reciprocate by volunteering for extra shifts during busy periods.
Crafting employee schedules for your new franchise may feel daunting initially. As you acclimate to the rhythm of your business, prioritize a robust staffing system that accommodates both employee preferences and your franchise’s operational demands.