By John Francis
Whether you’re a founder, executive, or key team member, here are five practical ways to build a stronger, healthier franchise brand today:
1. Clarify the Roles of Franchisees and Franchisors
Misalignment leads to frustration. Revisit your org chart and job descriptions. Ask: Who owns what decisions? Who supports vs. who delivers? Clear expectations = better relationships.
2. Create (or Refresh) a Franchise Advisory Council
Advisory Boards aren’t just symbolic—they’re strategic. Done right, they foster trust, communication, and collaboration across your system. Don’t wing it—structure matters.
3. Stop Selling, Start Supporting
Instead of pressuring franchisees to comply, ask how you can help them succeed. A supportive culture creates compliance naturally —and builds long-term loyalty.
4. Evaluate the Health of Your Franchisee Relationships
If you haven’t had candid conversations with your franchisees lately, schedule a few now. Use open-ended questions: What’s working? What’s not? Where do they feel stuck?
5. Join a Mastermind Group for Franchisor Leaders
Peer-to-peer learning is a powerful accelerator. Being in the room (or Zoom) with other smart franchisor executives creates perspective, accountability, and momentum.
