I’ve never managed staff before. Will a franchisor assist me in this area of the business?

Louise Harris writes:

One of the reasons a franchisor may have franchised is to avoid having to employ local people who are at a distance.

Responsibility for recruitment and employment lies firmly with the franchisee and, as a business owner, it’s incumbent on that franchisee to ensure they follow the correct legal practices in this regard.

However, if managing staff is a key part of the business model, the franchisor should be working to assist in recruitment and management of personnel. This might include guidance on advertising, interviewing, employment contracts and employment law relevant to your industry.

Some businesses provide access to a centralised HR service that gives access to advice and guidance - in particular, the law around managing hours, contracts, disciplinary issues, etc.

We provide guidance on all of this through a HR adviser, who is also available in the event of a problem or just to ask about the best options when managing an employee in any situation.

In general though. if managing staff is part of the role, a franchisee will need to be ready to do so and, if they have no experience, pick a franchise that offers the full spectrum of support.

Louise Harris is franchise director of Wilkins Chimney Sweep. She sits on the British Franchise Association board and chairs the membership committee.