Nothing kills communication and collaboration quicker than a family member who refuses to shut up and won’t listen to others! We’ve all experienced coworkers or family members who can’t seem to give other people sufficient airtime to express their opinions. There are a variety of reasons why some people won’t shut up and let other […]
The Best Strategy for Avoiding Family Business Landmines: Communication
Family business landmines exist below the surface in every family! Most families know the landmines exist but tiptoe along hoping none of them will go off and cause the business and the family significant damage. I’ve always liked to say – hope isn’t a strategy! Every successful family business I have worked with has a […]
Families need to educate the extended family on the need for conflict in the family business
Conflict is inevitable in every successful business. There are always competing priorities, limited resources and tough decisions to be made. Successful family business families communicate this reality to the extended family so as to head off the disappointment before it even happens. Tough decisions need to be made for the family business to be successful […]
What conflict feels like for the family business father
Life’s gone full circle. It seemed like yesterday I was on the wrong end of some tough decisions from Uncle Walsh during my family business career. All of a sudden, I am the boss and having to dole out difficult decisions with my children in my business. Life’s funny that way. The good news is, […]
Consistent culture of accountability needed for cousins entering the family business
With every new generation entering the family business there is increased risk of inconsistent performance and skills that can doom family business longevity. The best strategy to avoid this risk is to create clear and measurable standards of performance for the next generation. That needs to start sooner for most families. The most successful families […]