Family Businesses: Clearly Defined Roles

Like any successful organization, it is essential that a family business have
A clear mission, a statement of purpose and goals.

* A clear chain of command -- lines of authority -- for
decision making.

* A clear plan to accomplish goals and provide for orderly
succession.

* Good communication among family members and with nonfamily
employees.

These factors are doubly important in a family business because of the strong motions that can arise and the confusion that can occur in their absence.

Rights and responsibilities are different at home than at work, and it is imperative that family members keep this fact in mind.

At home family relationships and goals are the prime concern. Language is personal, attitudes are subjective, roles -- husband/wife, parent/child, family/relatives/in-laws -- are all traditionally defined.

At work, however, the success of the business must be paramount.

Language becomes more impersonal, attitudes more objective.

Family members who work in the business must accept the boss/employee relationship, as they would in any other business.

Their job descriptions must be clear, in writing and adhered to. So there can be no disagreement.

Problems arising at home should be left there when the workday begins and workplace problems should not encroach on home life.

Family members who accept and observe the home/business dichotomies not only avoid strained personal relationships, but also convey an important message to all employees that in the workplace business goals come first.

This, of course, is the ideal situation. :-)

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