Here's how you can enhance your assertiveness skills as a franchisee to overcome obstacles.

One thing I have found personally helpful and something I often recommend, if the person hasn't done one already, is taking a DiSC assessment, or some other variant. The feedback DiSC and others offer can be very helpful in understanding ourselves. From that understanding we can then find a way to navigate the situation by not only thinking about our own style, now that we know what it is, but, by also, thinking about the styles of the people involved in the situation. The key for me is always thinking about everyone in the situation. And then, communicating. Communication is always the key. And understanding those involved makes it easier to communicate.

In my experience in coaching franchisors through situations like the one described, you have to stand up for yourself. And be direct and communicate what your position is. You must always lookout for #1, and the #1 is you. Because, and think about this one, it is ultimately YOU who is doing the work. The franchise company had an idea and they did a ton of work to create what you purchased, but, as I said, it's YOU who is waking up everyday putting in the hard work. So, stand up for yourself. Take a hard line. What's the worst that could happen? They say no. Then what? You pitch something else, and this keeps going back and forth until you reach agreement. Now imagine that didn't happen, and they simply said YES! Imagine how that would feel.

In any negotiation, and this is a negotiation, clarity is king. You must be clear about what you are asking for. As an example, let's say you are negotiation or re-negotiating, a contract extension and you want a higher commission rate on your sales. And let's say you have been part of this franchise for more than 5 years now, and you are performing well. On your side, you feel justified in asking for more. On their side, why? This is working. They are making money and so are you, why should things change. This is exactly where you need to be prepared and super clear in your explanation as to why you feel you deserve more than you are receiving now. Always be clear.

When conveying your needs or negotiating terms, clarity is key. Avoid using ambiguous language that leaves room for misinterpretation. Instead, practice articulating your thoughts in a straightforward manner. For example, if renegotiating supply costs, be specific about the changes you need and why they are crucial for your franchise's sustainability. Clear communication minimizes confusion and demonstrates that you are serious and well-informed about your business needs. This approach not only fosters understanding but also builds trust and respect in your professional relationships.

Maintaining composure is vital when practicing assertiveness. It's easy to let emotions take over in stressful situations, but staying calm helps you think clearly and communicate effectively. If a conversation becomes heated, take deep breaths or ask for a moment to collect your thoughts. A calm demeanor conveys confidence and helps de-escalate tensions, making it easier to reach a resolution. Remember, staying calm not only helps you express your viewpoint more clearly but also fosters a more positive and productive dialogue with others.

To enhance your assertiveness skills as a franchisee and overcome obstacles, start with regular reflection on your assertive encounters. Ask yourself: What went well? What could be improved? Did you express your viewpoint respectfully, without infringing on others' rights? Were you able to balance listening and speaking effectively? This self-assessment will help you refine your assertiveness skills over time, making you a more effective communicator and a stronger franchisee. Regular reflection is key to continuous improvement and success in managing your franchise.

In addition to the importance of regular reflection and sharing personal stories, consider emphasizing the value of continuous learning and seeking feedback. Attend workshops, read relevant books, and engage with other franchisees to learn new assertiveness techniques. Also, don't hesitate to ask for feedback from your team and peers; understanding how others perceive your communication style can provide valuable insights for improvement. Lastly, remember to celebrate your successes. Recognizing your achievements, no matter how small, can boost your confidence and motivation, reinforcing your commitment to becoming a more assertive and effective franchisee.