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We talk to successful multi-unit operators regularly here at Franchise Update Media. These busy on-the-go people share great insight and wisdom with us through our profile stories in Multi-Unit Franchisee magazine. Here, from our archives, are some insightful responses from some of these franchisees.
Describe the importance of community involvement to you and your company:
Jersey Mike's has a great mentality when it comes to giving and community involvement. We as a family feel the same way and are always looking for new ways to get in the community and serve. Giving back is very important to us as a group.
What are the kinds of leadership qualities you look for in your team members?
Being a good team player, being punctual and communicating, and being a good person with a "happy-to-be-at work" attitude. The most important thing in the food industry, or any restaurant, is customer service. If the customer comes in and loves the experience they had while getting their meal, they are going to come back. The biggest thing is that they respect the brand. It is such an important brand and we are very high on it. If they are going to put on the Jersey Mike's uniform, they have to follow all the rules and be a team player.
Adrian Gonzalez, multi-unit franchisee of Jersey Mike's
Describe the importance of community involvement to you and your company:
We encourage our general managers to recognize certain people around all of the holidays. For example, we allow all of our teams to bring in their mothers on Mother's Day to dine with them--and the same for fathers on Father's Day. In addition, we encourage each to bring in a veteran for lunch on Veteran's Day. At Thanksgiving and Christmas we encourage our teams in each restaurant to make the holiday special for a family in the community or within their restaurant. Many enjoy this opportunity in their trade area to give a little back, and it is great to see the smiles on so many faces when the GMs do these simple acts of kindness. It is very rewarding for me.
What are the kinds of leadership qualities you look for in your team members?
General concern about people. Have self-awareness. Integrity without question. Self-motivated. Lead by example. Delegate. Inspire others. Set targets and ensure everyone knows the targets and goals. Help others get where they want to go.
Bill Byrd, multi-unit franchisee of KFC, Taco Bell, and Capriotti's Sandwich Shop