People get comfortable with their jobs and their lives. Often change is something to be put off. It can actually be feared. It’s easier to keep doing what you’ve always done, getting stuck in that old routine. In the business environment, staff can intensely dislike change and struggle with the concept of new processes or workflows and generally doing things differently! However, great business leaders need to recognise the need to adapt and develop constantly in order to take their operations to the next level.
One of the world’s foremost leadership authors, John C Maxwell suggests that “hope is the foundational principle for all change and that if people do not have hope, they will not change”. Therefore, perhaps a better way to consider change is in a positive light, and as an action to reach a higher level or achieve a greater goal. As we have discussed in previous articles, a change in mindset and belief are important as they directly influence behavioural change which ultimately results in improved performance.
“A person who refuses to risk change fails to grow.” John C Maxwell
We need to understand as the world evolves, we need to evolve as leaders too. This may mean introducing daily habits to drive change. Perhaps to improve learning about a topic, you need to read for 20 minutes every day? Or, to get in shape, eat better and visit the gym on a regular basis? In our franchised businesses, we may need to adapt to the competitive landscape by making improvements to marketing, operations or to become more innovative.
“Everything begins with a thought.” John C Maxwell
We can certainly drive change by our thoughts and actions and as leaders we should do. However, change can also be imposed upon a business. Think how the global pandemic forced many organisations to pivot their strategy and offering in response to the new virtual environment at that moment in time?
To set up for success, a great leader will create a business which is resilient and accepting of change. As a leader you will set the tone. If you are comfortable with change then your team are more likely to accept it too. Even to the point that your people will start to instigate positive changes when they recognise a better way of working or a new opportunity for example.
As well as expecting and accepting change is part of the development of a business, a great leader will also be able to identify and strategize what needs to change to take the franchise to the next level and be brave enough to take that calculated risk. Change is all about making improvements to achieve, it should be viewed positively, be driven by behaviour and most of all be expected and accepted.
For more information about Papa John’s multi-unit franchise opportunities please see: www.papajohns.co.uk/franchise
