Transparency in business. Who would of thought that it would be such a hot topic? Transparency franparency in the world of franchising. No way! So, what is business transparency?
Tateru Nino from Massively.com says that “Transparency is the ability to conduct business in a clear and accountable way, especially associated with the human part of the business.” Nino also thinks that being transparent means that you “Must easily be understood, clear, frank and candid.”
That certainly makes sense to me. How about you? Since you are working with other humans, doesn’t it make sense to make sure that you are actually being human, yourself?
If you happen to be the franchise salesperson, and you’re sharing information about your franchise concept with a prospective franchise owner, can you easily pretend that the person on the other end of the phone, or that may even be fact to face with you, is your mom, or dad? (Or your sister or brother) Think about it. What are you saying? Does it need to be changed?
Chris Brogan, co-author of Trust Agents says that, “There’s no question that the Internet has changed the way we do business—especially when it comes to marketing. Consumer environments are short on trust and populated by consumers who are cynical, savvy, and informed. Though it’s easier than ever to reach your customers, it’s less likely that they’ll listen. Today, the most valuable online currency isn’t the dollar, but trust itself.”
The internet has really changed everything, hasn’t it. Will you continue to fight the change, start to change, or be the change? Your choice.
(And by the way, because of the internet, everyone that interacts with you and your franchise operation will know which choice you made)
