The Necessity of Having a Franchise Policy Manual

 

Let's face it, rules can be annoying, bothersome, and sometimes downright unnecessary -- or are they?  Aside from the Constitution of the United States, the next largest compilation of laws and rules would probably be a Franchise Disclosure Document, or Franchise Policy Manual; at least it seems that way!

 

The Franchise Policy Manual varies from franchise to franchise, but even though it differs in wording, the content is still basically the same. These Franchise Policies are rules that are rigid and inflexible they delineate time off, available work hours, vacation time, sick time, absenteeism for the franchise. This accomplishes the entire franchise being on the same page, so to speak.

 

Although employee handbooks are quite necessary in larger businesses, simply due to the large number of employees, it is even more important in franchises. Some of these franchise owners keep their franchise atmosphere extremely laid back, and casual with the intention of making all of the employees feel unique and valuable.  While the idea is good, the end result could be very bad.

 

Listed below are just a few reasons why it is imperative that Franchise have a Franchise Policy Manual:

 

·         Practices as well as errors from both the past and the present serve as "policies" if there is no policy manual available for consultation.

 

Example - An employee, when first hired is an exemplary model of good behavior. There is no policy manual -- the employee begins showing up late, missing days, etc. When the Franchisee questions this behavior, they reply, "I've been doing it since I started, and NOW you don't like it?"

 

·         Although your franchise is small, the same laws apply governing Civil Rights, and anti-discrimination laws.

 

A policy manual is the best way to organize and circulate your franchise policies in regards to these laws. Because they can be confusing, a Franchise Policy Manual will establish clear and concise policy. 

 

·       A Policy Manual Lessens the chance of any litigation being brought against the franchise or franchisee, by communicating franchise policy in a clear and concise way.

 

·         Franchise Employees need to see that they are being treated fairly and that standards apply to all employees equally.

 

 

The Franchise Policy Manual doesn't have to be boring and difficult to read, keep it soft toned. Fashion the Franchise Policy Manual to create an atmosphere respect in the workplace. Do not make it a never-ending list of "do's and don’ts". 

 

The Franchise Policy Manual...... a necessity!