So you’ve purchased a franchise, now what? Does it come with human resources support?
There are some franchises that do offer Human Resources support as part of the package, along with their marketing materials and requirements when it comes to specifications around the business. However, the majority do not offer Human Resources support. So, how do you manage the human resources side of your business? Seek out a professional HR Firm, like ThryvX, which offers human resources support and partnership, specifically for franchise owners. Your HR Consultant will support and help you maneuver through these issues and help you in creating a good foundation of policies and procedures that will protect you and your franchise now, and going forward.
Getting Started – Things to Do…
- Make sure that all your employees have an employee-contract with you, the Franchise owner
- Create a Company Handbook
- Have Written HR Policies to address government legislated areas like the Employment Standards Act and Human Rights Code
Establishing clear written HR policies creates a solid foundation for any business. Be sure to include the franchise policies in your company handbook. Having written policies makes training of new staff easier and allows everyone on staff a reference tool when there are questions regarding policy.
As a franchise owner, or any business owner, having a company handbook with company specific policies and all the governing regulations (to learn more read our post on HR for Start-ups) is your foundation. A handbook will ensure staff are aware of the rules, employment conditions and provides guidance. Your handbook should contain information like the hours of work the individual is expected to work, uniform requirements, if there is any, when the employee is expected to sign in and out for their shifts, etc.
Compliance with all the health and safety regulations and policies is imperative. You should ensure that you understand the kind of hazards that can be in your workplace and plan to address these issues and train your staff, so they are safe in the workplace.
You should also remember the fact that you just started this franchise and you would really want to focus on marketing and selling. Be cautious of any discrimination or preferential treatment, whether intended or not, that could result in a Human Rights Claim. You should also be cautious about not just hiring from a particular race and ensure you hire based on the fact that the person is capable and the most qualified and best fit for that position.
We understand that it can be daunting as a new business owner to even know where to begin when addressing HR issues. It is important to take the time to assess where, how and when you need to be compliant in your day to day practices.
As a new organization, you need a solid Human Resources foundation. This shows that you’re committed to having a strong, secure and healthy environment for your staff. Most importantly, it also protects you and your finances as the employer. Ensuring that you are compliant and that you have policies in place give you a sense of security so you can focus on managing and growing your new business.
