How can franchisors promote diversity and inclusion in their franchises?

1 Assess the current situation

The first step to promote diversity and inclusion in a franchise system is to assess the current situation and identify the gaps and opportunities. Franchisors can use various tools and methods to collect data and feedback from their franchisees and their employees, such as surveys, interviews, focus groups, audits and benchmarks. The data and feedback should cover aspects such as demographics, culture, engagement, satisfaction, retention, performance, innovation, customer loyalty and social impact. Franchisors should also review their policies, procedures, systems and practices to ensure they are aligned with their diversity and inclusion goals and values.

2 Set clear and measurable goals

The second step to promote diversity and inclusion in a franchise system is to set clear and measurable goals that are aligned with the franchisor's vision, mission and values. The goals should be specific, realistic, attainable, relevant and time-bound, and should reflect the needs and expectations of the franchisees and their employees, as well as the customers and the communities they serve. Franchisors should also communicate their goals and expectations to their franchisees and their employees, and provide them with the necessary resources, support and guidance to achieve them.

3 Provide training and development

The third step to promote diversity and inclusion in a franchise system is to provide training and development opportunities for the franchisor's staff, the franchisees and their employees. Training and development can help to raise awareness, increase knowledge, build skills and foster attitudes that support diversity and inclusion. Training and development can cover topics such as unconscious bias, cultural competence, communication, teamwork, leadership, conflict resolution, problem-solving and innovation. Franchisors should also encourage and facilitate mentoring, coaching, networking and peer learning among their franchisees and their employees, as well as external experts and stakeholders.

4 Recognize and reward

The fourth step to promote diversity and inclusion in a franchise system is to recognize and reward the efforts and achievements of the franchisor's staff, the franchisees and their employees. Recognition and reward can help to motivate, inspire and retain diverse talent, as well as to reinforce positive behaviors and outcomes. Recognition and reward can take various forms, such as feedback, praise, appreciation, awards, incentives, bonuses, promotions, career opportunities and public recognition. Franchisors should also celebrate and share the success stories and best practices of their franchisees and their employees, and showcase their diversity and inclusion initiatives and impact.

5 Monitor and evaluate

The fifth step to promote diversity and inclusion in a franchise system is to monitor and evaluate the progress and results of the diversity and inclusion initiatives and activities. Franchisors should use the data and feedback collected in the first step to measure and compare the performance and impact of their franchisees and their employees, as well as their own. Franchisors should also solicit and incorporate the input and feedback of their franchisees and their employees, as well as their customers and other stakeholders, to identify the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and challenges of their diversity and inclusion efforts. Franchisors should also report and communicate their findings and recommendations to their franchisees and their employees, and make the necessary adjustments and improvements to their diversity and inclusion strategies and actions.

6 Collaborate and engage

The sixth step to promote diversity and inclusion in a franchise system is to collaborate and engage with the franchisees and their employees, as well as with other relevant and interested parties, such as customers, suppliers, partners, regulators, media, industry associations and community organizations. Collaboration and engagement can help to build trust, loyalty, commitment and accountability, as well as to leverage the diversity of perspectives, experiences, ideas and resources. Collaboration and engagement can involve activities such as consultation, dialogue, feedback, participation, co-creation, co-delivery and co-evaluation of the diversity and inclusion initiatives and activities.

7 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?