Keys to leading an award winning franchise business – collaboration, transparency and trust

“If you are building a business, teams or even relationships, you cannot afford to be right at all costs. Leaders understand one of their main roles in an organization is to build a firm foundation by promoting collaboration, transparency and trust.”

Since 1988, engineer Stacy McCall has been building her franchise businesses, ServiceMaster by Stratos and ServiceMaster Facility Services by C & C. Nearly 30 years later, her business was awarded the highest honor a ServiceMaster® franchise can receive. Here, and in honor of Women’s History Month, Stacy shares her advice for other women looking to grow their business.

What’s the best career advice you’ve been given?

Early in my engineering career when frustrated over a seasoned veteran’s actions in the oil field, I had a manager say, “Stacy, you can’t be right at all costs.” As years roll on and I reflect on my experiences, I see how important that advice truly is. If you are building a business, teams or even relationships, you cannot afford to be “right at all costs.” Leaders understand one of their main roles in an organization is to build a firm foundation by promoting collaboration, transparency and trust. None of this would be possible if you focus on being right at all costs.

What advice do you have for women looking to grow their own business?

Hire for culture even during times of rapid growth. With so many businesses across all industries looking to hire these days, leaders may be tempted to temporarily lower standards in an effort to bring on new talent. This temptation should be avoided at all costs, though, because it is a direct threat to a company’s culture. It sounds harsh, but it is that serious. The importance of hiring for culture is something our leadership team holds tightly to, especially during challenging seasons.

What do you wish more people knew about being a woman in business?

Even in 2024, being a female business owner is challenging, especially when you’re operating in a male-dominated industry. I wish more people were aware of the challenges we face so they could be more cognizant about how they interact with female leaders. Early on in my career, I had to fight to have a seat at the decision making-table. I was young. I was a female. In the 1980s, both characteristics meant I had two strikes against me before I ever walked in the door. I encourage women to have confidence in their leadership skills and intelligence, no matter their age, gender or race.

What’s an accomplishment or win that makes you especially proud?

In 2019, ServiceMaster by Stratos received the Marion E. Wade Award, the highest honor a ServiceMaster franchise can receive. It was an immensely gratifying feeling to see my team receive external recognition for their continued dedication and commitment to our work. Investment is a top priority for our leadership team – in our people, in our company and in our city. To see each team member’s hard work be honored in such a big way makes me really proud to lead this company and brings me a great deal of joy.