Family members can be a real help to small businesses, but you have to be aware of the possible pitfalls. Family businesses can be tumultuous, exacerbating existing divisions and strife. They can also be a wonderful way to keep your family together. Let’s discuss ways in which it can go well and how it can fail.

There are few people in the world you know better than your family. There’s often a deep level of trust built over the years that can’t be replicated in other relationships. Family members might then seem to be the perfect choice for business partners. But it’s not that simple.

Family dynamics are complex, and adding the stress and responsibilities of business ownership into the mix can create uncomfortable situations. Before you partner with a sibling or parent or hire another member of your family, consider these pros and cons. You might decide the benefits don’t outweigh the possible costs.