Many internal and external factors affect the success and growth of a business. If you own a franchise that has experienced little to no growth and staffing challenges, you may need to improve your management’s leadership skills. These are a few tips to improve these skills.

Adopt an Open Communication Policy

As the owner, you are the primary policymaker and example for your management and staff. When you regularly communicate with these individuals, you set an example of regular communication. These regular discussions also help you identify potential problems early before they start affecting the business.

To open your communication, you can stop into the facility regularly and talk to the staff and management. However, you can also open discussion groups or forums on your corporate website or through social media platforms. You should get back to any person who contacts you within 24 hours.

Be Professional

As the owner or manager, you are expected to act professionally. You need to treat every person on your staff with respect and kindness and emphasize the importance of exceptional customer service. Watch your tone and how you speak to others to ensure you remain professional. Don’t act in ways you wouldn’t want others to act in the store or toward you. Be an example that your staff can emulate.

However, keep an eye on employee morale. You need to integrate enthusiasm into your workplace, providing an energetic and comfortable atmosphere.

Adopt Time Management Strategies

Business owners and managers have significant drains on their time. You are probably regularly interrupted and distracted by what is going on in the store. However, great leaders understand the importance of carefully managing their time.

Spend time learning about ways to manage your time better. For example, automate everything that you can. Find ways to focus on the highest priority tasks. Take breaks and seek balance in your life. Create a block schedule, where you spend 25 minutes on one task or focus on it until it is finished, followed by a short break and then another 25-minute time block. Learn to prioritize your tasks so that you do the most important projects first. Don’t be afraid to say “no.”

Build a Network of Franchisees

One of your most useful assets is your network of fellow franchisees. These individuals can tell you about the management and challenges of other types of franchises. They can also give you tips on effective leadership and management strategies. You may even get inside information about new opportunities.

A great benefit of owning a franchise is that most of the initial work, from securing suppliers to building a work process, is already done. However, you are responsible for developing proper leadership skills.