New Store Openings represent an exciting chapter of growth but can often put your company’s operations to the test. While managing training across new locations can be challenging, properly training your team is essential for maintaining consistent success at every store.
This guide gives you two simple ways to train your team: a flexible, self-paced option or a structured, group-based option. Choose what works best for your needs.
What is New Store Opening (NSO) Training?
NSO training is all about getting your team ready to succeed. It includes two main parts:
Now let’s look at the two ways to set up your training program →
Option 1: Structured, Group-Based Training
This option is best if you have trainers available and want each store team to learn together. It focuses on teamwork and step-by-step learning, which is especially useful for maintaining consistency across multiple locations.
How It Works
Before Training Days:
Share training guides and resources with all employees.
Set clear goals for what team members need to learn.
Create a schedule with daily training steps for each store.
Training Days:
Include individualized learning every day at each store.
Encourage teamwork and peer-to-peer learning.
Track progress and give feedback regularly through regional check-ins.
Follow-Up:
Regional managers or trainers hold regular check-ins with each store.
Use tools like Opus to track training completion across locations.
🐔 Looking for inspiration? Big Chicken used a trainer-led approach with self-paced materials and cut their training time from 10 days to 7, streamlining the process across multiple openings. Learn more here.
Option 2: Flexible, Self-Paced Training
This option works great if you have limited trainers or need flexibility for each opening. It combines online learning with hands-on practice and validation, allowing teams at different locations to progress at their own pace.
How It Works
Pre-Work:
Team members complete online modules at their own pace.
Use virtual classrooms for basic training.
Include short quizzes to check understanding.
1:1 Hands-On Training:
Managers or designated trainers at each location show key tasks.
Team members practice while getting real-time feedback.
Validation:
Regional or store managers check skills during scheduled check-ins.
Use simple assessments to confirm they’re ready.
☕ See it for yourself! Clutch Coffee needed a way to flexibly track training relying solely on their managers and shift leads. See how they used Check-ins as a tool for engagement and accountability here.
Steps to Start Your NSO Training
Assess Your Needs: Think about your team size, timeline, and the number of locations. Consider the realities of NSOs and if you need the flexibility to evolve your schedule on a case by case basis.
Pick Your Option: Decide if you want flexibility, structure, or a mix of both depending on your trainer availability.
Customize Materials: Adjust training content to fit the unique needs of each location. For example, stores in high-traffic areas may need extra focus on quick service, while others may benefit from specialized training on local customer preferences. Tailored training improves performance and ensures every team is prepared.
Track Progress: Use tools like Opus to monitor training completion across locations.
Launch and Improve: Start training and adjust based on feedback from store teams and regional managers.
💡 Pro Tip: Start simple. If you’re short on time or staff, use self-paced training at certain locations while focusing trainer resources where they’re most needed.
Best Practices
📚 Centralized Training Resources
Host all training materials in a single platform like Opus, so every store has access to the same high-quality resources.
📣 Leverage Your Leaders
Use shift leaders or managers to oversee training progress across multiple stores. They can address specific challenges and ensure consistency.
📊 Standardize Key Metrics
Use the same performance metrics across all stores to evaluate training success and identify areas for improvement.
FAQs
Why do I need to customize training materials for my stores?
Each store operates differently depending on location, customer preferences, and staff experience. Tailoring your training content ensures it fits your store's unique needs. For example, you might need extra focus on managing high-traffic times, training on special menu items, or addressing the specific customer base. Customized training helps your team feel more prepared and confident, leading to better performance.
How long does NSO training take?
It depends, but most training lasts 2-4 weeks.
How many trainers do I need?
If using trainers, aim for 1 trainer per 4-5 team members per store. For self-paced options, you’ll need engaged managers at each location to oversee progress.
Can I mix both options?
Yes! Many businesses use a mix of self-paced and group training to meet the needs of multiple stores opening at the same time.
What if I’m still hiring new team members while training?
If you’re onboarding new hires during training, create a rolling schedule for pre-work and hands-on sessions. Pair them with experienced team members or a buddy to help them catch up.
What if I need to fast-track the process?
If you’re short on time, focus on the most critical tasks first. Skip detailed pre-work and jump straight to hands-on training for high-priority skills like customer interactions, safety, and key operational tasks. Validate learning with quick check-ins.