Working With Family

Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Ginny Parsons on July 1, 2009 at 12:17am

You are both very lucky - not many family businesses have the opportunity to pass from one generation to another these days. You'll probably have a newer approach to marketing and because you are a woman there are some terrific financial opportunities available right now through the USDA Business and Industry loan programs which could help your transistion. The social networking for new business and maintaining customer contact will take a different time schedule than what may have been used in the past - and resistance is very high - I know because my son dragged me into the new medium. Be very respectful and patient with each other - he must be very good at his job because he's still in it after 30 years... and in this economy. And he's lucky you are interested enough to participate. Good luck!

Permalink Reply by Kirsten McDonough on July 1, 2009 at 11:27pm

Thank you for your reply.. I am taking everything in and hope to gain experience from all of you... Thanks for your encouragment and I look forward to more discussions in the future. Thanks so much!

Permalink Reply by Nancy A. Reffle on July 1, 2009 at 12:56am

Ginny has a lot of good points. With our economy right now, I would review all the marketing strategies he has in place. Be prepared to put new marketing stradegys into play as it has become very different now than it has been for preceding the past 2 years. Market, Market, Market. Become very familiar with all the social media and be come consistent with your Marketing. Most of all have fun!
Nancy
www.coeurdalenegifts.com

Permalink Reply by Kirsten McDonough on July 1, 2009 at 11:29pm

Thank you for your reply... As I said I am listening to everyone and hope to implement everyone's ideas. Thank you for your enthusiasm and I look forward to more discussions in the future. Thank you so much!

Permalink Reply by Norma Semling on August 10, 2009 at 6:37pm

This is interesting because both of our sons work for the family business that I started by myself 28 years ago. I can tell you the most important thing you need to know is not to mix family business(personal issues) with the day to day operations of your working relationship. It is so important to leave work at work and home at home. It is difficult at times to do just that, but it will keep everyone happy at both places. The business we are in is also a wholesale business and I take pride in it because it is something I started on my own. Wholesale businesses can be very rewarding. I am sure your father has built his company with all of the knowledge and trials and errors and no doubt would like to see you follow in his foot steps. It must be in your heart to do so if you wish to continue building the family name. I wish you the very best

Permalink Reply by Kirsten McDonough on August 10, 2009 at 10:11pm

Thank you Norma... I will remember that important point... I know we both have to bite our tongue at times and listen to each other.. and not talk about work at home...sometimes this IS hard.. I will keep it in mind as we continue.
Thanks again and have a great night!