EPISODE 13: A Daughter’s Voice
A Daughter's Insight: The Complex World of Family Business
Navigating the world of family business is like walking a tightrope, balancing between professional responsibilities and personal relationships. I (Kim) recently sat down with our oldest daughter, Ashley, on the Mr. & Mrs. CEO podcast. She provided her insight on this intricate dance.
In this week’s post, Ashley offers a rare glimpse into the dynamics of working within a family business from the perspective of a child deeply embedded in its operations.
From Family Business to Finding Her Own Path
Ashley's journey is emblematic of the challenges and rewards that come with growing up in and contributing to a family enterprise. Having worked for Darren & I, and playing a significant role in building a million-dollar business, Ashley’s experience is rich with lessons on adaptability, skill development, and the nuanced complexities of mixing family with business.
Recently, Ashley transitioned to a new job, working outside the family business, which marked a significant chapter in her life. For her, it brought to light a common concern for many who spend their formative years within the family business framework: the struggle to recognize the value and transferability of their skills in the broader job market. Within our conversation on the podcast, I came to realize that Ashley hadn’t viewed her pivotal role in their business as equivalent to any external job. This highlighted a crucial aspect of family business culture: the underestimation of one's professional growth and contributions.
Learning, Growing, & Moving Forward
In her story, Ashley acknowledges the unparalleled flexibility and learning opportunities that working in the family business provided. This included managing people (staff schedules, supplier orders, and customers’ expectations), understanding accounting systems, and enhancing customer support skills and product knowledge. However, she also recognizes the emotional complexities of leaving the business and stepping into the unknown — a journey fraught with self-doubt and anxiety… but also growth and self-discovery.
It’s critically important to navigate both internal and external relationships related to the family business. Open communication, especially when difficult conversations are necessary, is a crucial skill that translates to all aspects of life… not only in family businesses. While it can be uncomfortable at times, this type of communication is the necessary catalyst that strengthens family bonds far beyond the boundaries of business.
Would She Do It Again?
When asked if she would work in a family business again, Ashley recognizes the double-edged sword of such experiences, but leans on the affirmative side, given the strong relational foundation and both the personal and professional growth it fostered. From Ashley’s perspective, while family businesses may present unique challenges, they also offer unmatched opportunities for learning and development.
A Reflection for Family Business Owners
Ashley’s story can be reflected the shared realities of countless families in business together. It serves as a reminder that the success of a family business is not just measured by its financial achievements, but also by the strength and resilience of the family relationships at its core.
To all of the family business owners and members out there — I encourage you to recognize the value of the roles that you play; to cherish the growth and learning that comes from your unique situations, and to continuously strive for open communication and understanding. In the world of family business, it’s not just about the business… it’s about the people who make it what it is.
Ashley's journey from being an integral part of a family business to forging her own path outside of it offers invaluable lessons for both current and aspiring family business members. Her story highlights the complexity of such endeavors, but also the profound personal and professional growth they can lead to.