Why Franchisees Also Double as Project Managers

They may not need a hard hat, but many franchisees also double as project managers.

While they may not be working on a multi-million dollar construction site, many franchises offer project-based services to clients in all kinds of areas – from landscaping and renovations, to digital support and management.

Managing a project is different than day-to-day operations, of course, and it’s crucial for franchisees in these types of roles to put on their PM hard hats, roll up their sleeves, and expect for the unexpected.

Here are 4 Keys to Success for the Project-Managing Franchisee:

1. Details, details, details. Take care of logistics. When a key project is on the line, it’s that much more important to pay attention to every detail. To ensure this is done, be sure to follow your franchise’s systems and processes to a tee, and to compliment that with a logistics-tracking system. This could be as complicated as a spreadsheet or tracking software, or simply a file system you have in place.

2. Track and control costs to ensure profitability. Before you begin a project, be sure to factor in your anticipated costs and charge accordingly. Once a project begins, be sure to limit your expenses, ensure maximum personnel efficiency and scheduling, and look to deliver the best possible services at the lowest cost to your business.

3. Focus on scope and quality management. If you’re working on a multi-week project, it’s important to break it down into smaller pieces – or work scopes – so that you can hone in on details and keep morale high. By doing this, you’ll also have a better ability to deliver high-quality service and track it through each scope of work.

4. Multi-party communication is key to project success. You need to communicate – clearly, concisely, and regularly – with all parties involved in a project, from your managers and staff, to the client and any sub-contractors. Hold regular meetings and phone teleconferences to update on any changes and receive feedback, and send e-mails to update on more pressing matters.

To learn more about entrepreneurship through franchising, attend our free monthly webinar, Franchise Ownership as a More Stable Career Path. The webinar is free, but you need to pre-register, which you can do online by clicking on the linked seminar title.

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