When it comes to training and development in franchising, there are so many ways to deliver the content, best practices, and insights.
While traditional group training in a classroom environment is still the norm at franchise headquarters, ongoing development for unit owners and their teams is vital. No one wants to be stuck in a classroom for weeks on end, so alternative delivery methods like eLearning or on-the-job training are on the rise.
With so many creative ways to acquire best practices and insights, training and development in franchising has never been more accessible or engaging.
The shift to on-demand training
The trend of on-demand training is not slowing down. Not only can employees learn at their own pace and schedule, but intuitive tools like a learning management system can make the process even easier. On-demand training is not only convenient but it’s also cost-effective.
With traditional classroom learning, there are added expenses associated with the physical space, instructor fees, and materials. On the other hand, on-demand training can be delivered through digital platforms at a fraction of the cost. Modern franchisors are utilising on-demand training videos, webinars, and virtual instructor-led courses to provide the best possible education for their franchisees and their front-line employees.
This type of self-paced learning allows for a consistent experience for everyone in the system regardless of geography or time zone. It also eliminates the need for long-distance travel which can save both time and money.
The benefits of ongoing support
Franchisors should always be on the lookout for better ways to support their unit owners. It is crucial to equip front-line employees with the knowledge and skills they need to be successful. That in turn makes that location and brand successful.
With on-demand training, franchisors can provide immediate access to necessary information in a convenient way. Employees are more likely to absorb the content when they have control over their own learning schedule and rate. This type of ongoing education is essential for businesses today because it enables employees to stay ahead of trends, keep up with changing regulations, and maintain operational excellence across all units in the system.
On-demand training isn’t just about saving time or money; it’s about making sure your franchise stays competitive within its market.
Franchisors training employees
FranConnect recently performed an analysis of training systems from over 2,200 brands as disclosed in Franchise Disclosure Documents (FDD). It has discovered that on-the-job training is the key to location growth in the franchise world.
And it gets even more interesting. Franchise verticals with the highest overall training hours (QSR, real estate, and lodging) require the most on-the-job training. They also boast the most classroom training.
Franchise owners can no longer ignore their employees’ needs and must take a more active role in ensuring their brand’s standards are met.
Gamification and creating brand culture
Starting off on the right foot with employee training involves more than just showcasing the steps. A two-step process merges expertise with engagement to ensure that trainees fully comprehend the material.
Asynchronous training doesn’t require live instructors . A responsive LMS platform, opens the door to gamification methods that inject fun and creativity into the learning process.
Blending methods and leveraging technology can inspire a team to understand the what of the process, the how and the why too.
Gamification is a dynamic approach to employee training that harnesses the power of games to satisfy our innate human desires for rewards, competition, and achievement.
By adopting game mechanics like points, levels, and challenges, gamification creates a stimulating and engaging workplace culture that fuels skill development, fosters camaraderie, and strengthens company culture.
Training plays a crucial role in shaping the employee experience. Gamification primes staff members for success and equips them with the tools they need to thrive.
In summary, training your employees can be a complex process that requires more than just an outline of material.
Brands need to take the initiative to invest in effective learning management systems and gamification strategies. With these techniques in place, businesses have the power to unlock employee potential and increase sales performance of individual locations, thus boosting your brand and ultimately – sales.
For more information on FranConnect’s world-class learning management system, World Manager, offering training, development, and communications, click here.
