Managing any company is hard work, but that challenge is multiplied when family members are involved. It is tough to be the leader that is needed, while still maintaining the personal relationships behind the scenes.
A financial plan could get ruined from inter-family arguments, and any tensions like that should be kept separate from the professional side. Balance is achievable, though, and clarity about the business direction is key for reaching financial and personal success.
Manage business and personal relations perfectly
Forbes magazine highlighted several crucial strategies for business management from Kevin Allen, author & founder of a business growth consultancy.
First off, a common misconception for managers is that quality leadership starts at the top. Instead, think about it in the reverse: bottom-up, according to Allen. What that means is to understand what the employees want, and which factors motivate and drive them. This is doubly important when dealing with family, and not understanding basic desires can have negative consequences, especially in regards to a financial plan and business strategy.
Allen added that nobody sets out with the goal of working poorly. Instead, it helps to look at the business environment, and what changes could be made to help everyone.
“Leadership is not telling people what to do,” said Allen. “Even if you have the title, people will determine whether you’re worthy of being followed. All over the world at 6 o’clock, people go home to the person they love and say, “Guess what happened today?” It’s a definitive moment. Whether you’re galvanizing that moment [as a leader] is a measure of greatness.”
Make the investment in a family business worthwhile for everyone involved, and the working environment will improve.
Transition a company from one family member to another
The hallmark of a quality family business is one that can be passed down through the generations. Financial tips were worth it if a company can succeed through multiple levels of a family, and a winning strategy starts at the top.
It is hard to succeed without first stumbling, according to Mashable. What that means is it is OK to let younger family members try and fail at lower stages of the company. Don’t be overprotective, and let the learning curve happen.
In addition, trust the family to take over the reins when it comes time to retire. Nobody benefits from constant backseat managing from the former show-runner, Mashable noted. Great communication can help make the generational switch seamless, and don’t leave the company with unrealistic expectations about its future.
Instead, work in tandem within the family business, and soon everything will be operating smoothly.