You're working remotely in franchising. How can you build trust with your team?

1 Communicate clearly and frequently

Communication is key to any successful team, but especially for remote ones. You need to establish clear and consistent channels of communication with your team, such as email, phone, video conferencing, or instant messaging. You also need to communicate frequently and proactively, not just when there is a problem or a deadline. Share your goals, expectations, feedback, and progress with your team, and encourage them to do the same. Listen to their concerns, questions, and ideas, and acknowledge their contributions. Communication is a two-way street, and it can help you build trust and rapport with your team.

2 Be flexible and supportive

Remote work can offer many benefits, such as flexibility, autonomy, and work-life balance. However, it can also pose some challenges, such as isolation, distraction, or burnout. You need to be flexible and supportive of your team's needs and preferences, as long as they don't compromise the quality and timeliness of their work. For example, you can allow them to choose their own work hours, as long as they are available for meetings and collaboration. You can also provide them with the tools and resources they need to work effectively and efficiently, such as software, training, or equipment. You can also check in with them regularly and offer your help and guidance when needed. By being flexible and supportive, you can show your team that you care about them and their well-being, and that you trust them to do their best.

3 Recognize and reward

Recognition and reward are important motivators for any team, but especially for remote ones. You need to recognize and reward your team's achievements and efforts, both individually and collectively. You can do this in various ways, such as sending a thank-you note, giving a shout-out in a meeting, providing feedback, offering incentives, or celebrating milestones. You can also ask your team for their input on how they would like to be recognized and rewarded, and tailor your approach accordingly. By recognizing and rewarding your team, you can boost their morale, engagement, and loyalty, and show them that you value and appreciate their work.

4 Foster collaboration and connection

Collaboration and connection are essential for any team, but especially for remote ones. You need to foster a sense of teamwork and belonging among your team members, and create opportunities for them to interact and cooperate with each other. You can do this in various ways, such as setting up regular meetings, creating online platforms for discussion and brainstorming, assigning tasks that require collaboration, or organizing virtual social events. You can also encourage your team to share their personal and professional stories, interests, and goals, and to support and learn from each other. By fostering collaboration and connection, you can enhance your team's creativity, performance, and satisfaction, and create a strong and cohesive remote work culture in franchising.

5 Lead by example

Finally, you need to lead by example as a remote leader in franchising. You need to demonstrate the behaviors and attitudes that you expect from your team, such as honesty, integrity, accountability, and professionalism. You also need to show your team that you are committed, passionate, and enthusiastic about your work and your vision, and that you are willing to learn and grow as a leader and a franchisor, franchisee, or franchise consultant. You also need to be transparent and authentic with your team, and share your challenges, successes, and feedback with them. By leading by example, you can inspire and influence your team, and earn their respect and trust.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?