6 Things You Should Never Say To Your Employees

One of the most desirable features of becoming a Canadian franchisee is that you get to be the boss. Unless you are working alone or with an equal partner, your new franchise will mean you'll have to act as a supervisor for other people, too. How you treat those employees matters because it will have an effect on how successful your company is.

If you've never really acted as the boss before, doing so now can be a bit of a culture shock even with the franchiser's guidance on hiring and monitoring staff. Some people become too authoritarian while others try too hard to be liked and lose their employees' respect as a result. To strike a balance between those two extremes, here are some statements that should never come out of your mouth.

"This is how it's always been done."

Even a franchise with a proven business model can be improved. Cultures shift, times change and rules must be adapted as a result. Once your employees have a solid grasp of the system, they're more likely to challenge it. As long as they are expressing their ideas in a mature way, they deserve your attention.

"I'm the owner."

It's very important to not let being your own boss go to your head. Don't keep emphasizing rank. Your employees know you are in charge and will not appreciate being constantly reminded of it.

"What's the gossip today?"

As tempting as gossiping may be, it's not a wise move for an owner. It's you, the boss, who sets the company's tone. If you are gossiping about employees, you're giving all of them the impression that it's okay, and that will lead to a toxic work environment.

"I'm just too busy."

Starting a business, even just a part-time one, is going to demand extra hours and work at the start. You're going to be very busy, but you simply can't afford to show a lack of empathy toward or be dismissive of your employees. Instead of rejecting them when you feel overwhelmed, ask them to come back when you're available--and see it through!

"it's just a small client."

For some franchises, such as home care or fast food, customers are one size and this won't apply. However, in other sectors--such as business-to-business services--you'll deal with clients that vary in size. Employees need to learn not to treat smaller-scale clients as if they are less worthy. Doing so is bad for customer service and can even cause competition among your staff as they argue over who gets to handle bigger accounts.

"I'll just do it myself."

Even if you're a hands-on manager, your business won't grow if you are doing everything yourself. Your staff has to learn to become self-sufficient, and they won't if you keep stepping in and prevent them from getting experience.

Becoming your own boss is a new experience for many people. As you run your new business, it's important to keep your goals and your staff in mind.