There are a lot of determining factors that help build success in the franchising world. Having the right people, a good location, and adherence to a business model are usually the first things that come to mind. A factor that also plays a major role in determining success and failure is culture. Culture has a direct impact on employees and their drive. A culture with positive reinforcement motivates people to do their best and look forward to being a part of their work environment. A negative culture almost guarantees failure. 

Brand vs. Culture: An Understanding 

Brand and culture are sometimes used in conjunction with one another to the point where the two concepts can be confused. A notable difference between the two must be understood by anyone entering the business world, including franchising. The easiest way to describe them is that brand is your company’s external representation or personality, while culture is the beliefs and values that help determine how your business or franchise operates. Examples of culture include the processes and practices of how people are hired and treated or how a company defines itself e.g., environmentally conscious or community-focused.

A brand is what your customers see, your products, services, and how your franchise is thought of by the people who come and visit your establishment. Culture is what happens behind the scenes. It’s the world that you and your employees know of and experience daily. While brand and culture are different from one another, they do share a common ground. Brand loyalty draws customers in and keeps them coming back for more. Culture is what lowers a turnover rate and keeps your employees wanting to do their very best in a positive environment. 

Measuring Franchise Culture 

Measuring the success of your brand is relatively straightforward. Profits and reviews speak volumes about how successful your franchise brand is. But what about culture? Can you measure it? And if so, how? 

It all starts with the very top regardless if it’s a franchise or non-franchise business. A company's leadership team sets the tone that franchises and employees are expected to adhere to. There are four main principles that set a culture in motion in a positive way. These are identification, development, communication, and demonstration. These are the building blocks that all successful franchises are built upon. 

By creating a culture where open dialogue between leadership and workers is encouraged, a positive work environment can be built, and trust can be established. Working together to reach a common goal is what distinguishes successful franchises from failed ones. 

Your Opportunity Awaits…

Culture and brand are the yin and yang of success in the franchise world. But you’ll never be able to create, grow and protect them if you don’t seize the right opportunity when it comes knocking. At FranSave, we can help you seize the right opportunity to get on the fast track to success and stay there. For more information, visit us at fransave.com.