Your Business May Be A Family Affair, But Is Everyone On Board?
When starting companies we often have family in mind. You wouldn’t be alone if you have dreams of your children running your business one day. In many ways, a functioning company is the best inheritance. It’s the gift that keeps on giving. And, keeping things in the family can put your mind at rest. You won’t have to deal with selling shares or entrusting outside employees. So, this option stands to be as good for you as it does your kids.
Of course, a company is nothing to take lightly. As such, there’s every chance you’ll want to train them while you’re still in the driving seat. All the better for taking the pressure off their shoulders and putting your mind at ease. There’s just one issue. While you can think of nothing better than inheriting a company, your kids might not feel the same. Teenagers, for example, often resent their parents. And, given the company is so close to you, they may also come to resent that. Pushing at this stage can only drive them further. So, before you pile business responsibility on their shoulders, look for these warning signs they might not be ready.
They don’t show any interest
Getting teens to show interest is tough sometimes. But, they are usually passionate about things they care for. As such, a lack of interest in the business is a sure sign that they aren’t ready to get involved. If they get a glazed expression every time you talk about the company, they clearly aren’t ready. Back off, and let them come around on their terms.
They’re acting out
Teens often act out. It’s all part of testing boundaries. But, if your teen acts out often, they may be fighting against business expectations. It may be that a disappearance follows every big business discussion. In extreme cases, your teen may even find themselves in trouble with the law due to these displays. If this happens, contact a lawyer who deals with juvenile cases and can fight your teen’s corner. Then, think about why they’re acting that way. Is it related to feelings of pressure? Sit down and ask them how they’re feeling. While it’s not always easy to get teens to open up, you should be able to gain some idea. If company pressures are pushing them over the edge, take a step back. They’ll come to the company when they’re ready, but that’s obviously not now.
They make mistakes
What if your child does seem interested, but makes mistakes each time you ask them to do something? In many ways, this is what these early preparations are about. Your teen has likely never even had a job before, so mistakes are to be expected. Bear in mind, though, that your reaction is vital. If you lose your temper, you could turn them away from their efforts. Instead, accept that mistakes are going to happen. Merely provide the best training possible to set them up for their later managerial role.