They're Not Listening!

Ever feel like you’re talking to a brick wall? You’ve put together an excellent support structure, your team is on hand to help, and you’ve got a tried-and-tested system - so why aren’t your franchisees listening?

If you’re nodding along, you’re not alone. Franchisors worldwide experience the same frustrations. But here’s the real question: is the problem really that they’re not listening, or could it be that the message isn’t landing in the way you intended?

The Franchisor-Franchisee Communication Gap

It’s easy to assume that when a franchisee ignores advice or pushes back against guidance, they’re being stubborn, disengaged, or just not committed. But more often than not, the issue isn’t a lack of willingness - it’s a mismatch in communication styles.

As a franchisor, you’re dealing with a diverse group of people. Some franchisees thrive on direct instructions, while others need time to process information and ask questions before taking action. Some respond well to data and logic, while others are driven by emotions and values. If we don’t tailor our approach to different personalities and learning styles, our words fall on deaf ears - not because franchisees don’t care, but because they don’t connect with the way the message is delivered.

Common Reasons Franchisees ‘Don’t Listen’

1. Information Overload – Too much guidance at once can be overwhelming, leading to inaction.

2. Unclear Expectations – Are you assuming they understand what you mean, or have you checked for clarity?

3. Resistance to Change – Change can be scary. Some franchisees may need reassurance rather than instruction.

4. Lack of Engagement – If they don’t feel heard, they’re less likely to listen in return.

5. Different Priorities – Are you framing the advice in a way that speaks to their goals and motivations?

How to Bridge the Gap (Pun Fully Intended!)

The good news? Communication is a skill that can be developed. In next month’s blog, we’ll deep dive into Effective Communication & Active Listening, covering practical techniques to get franchisees engaged, aligned, and taking action. But for now, here are three quick wins:

1. Ask More, Tell Less – Instead of giving instructions, ask questions that guide franchisees to their own conclusions. This builds buy-in and ownership.

2. Adapt Your Style – Learn to spot different communication styles and flex your approach accordingly.

3. Create Two-Way Conversations – When franchisees feel heard, they’re far more likely to listen.

Stay in the Loop

We’re on a mission to help franchisors build high-performing, engaged networks. If you want to receive more insights like this and be the first to read next month’s blog on Effective Communication & Active Listening, sign up to our mailing list today (below).

At Franchise HQ, we help franchisors and support teams develop the skills, strategies, and confidence to bring out the best in their franchisees. If you’re ready to transform the way you communicate, let’s chat about The BRIDGE Programme - our in-depth framework designed to enhance franchisee performance through industry specific training and support.

Got a frustrating franchisee challenge right now? Drop us a message - we’d love to hear your thoughts.

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