Involving family in a business

Section 1 : Pros of involving family in a business

We Africans love to hire from our families and our cultural groups. Here are a few reasons it can go well.

You know each other
It takes time to develop a strong working relationship with strangers, and there’s no guarantee the chemistry will ever click. Family members, by contrast, know each other deeply — their communication style, strengths, weaknesses, and personal quirks. You know what to expect and aren’t afraid to challenge each other when necessary. Good family relationships can translate to good working relationships.

It can save you money
It costs time and money to run ads and interview prospective employees. Family members don’t require any of that. You may also be able to pay them less. As stakeholders in the business, they can be compensated for their time in other ways.

Family looks out for each other
Tightknit families will do almost anything for each other. In a stressful business situation, this can be a real boon. You’ll have instant access to a strong support system. If long hours are required, you’ll have dependable help that’s less likely to complain. You’ll look out for each other in business as you do in life.

Decision making is easier
When family is involved, you can have constructive conflict without damaging the relationship. You can quickly hash out issues because you already know what each other thinks. Because families tend to unite around common goals, reaching a useful consensus on important issues can happen quicker.

You can trust each other
If your family is close, then there’s an implied trust. This is an enormous advantage. You don’t have to worry about people stealing from you. You can leave temporarily knowing the business is in good hands. You’ll feel comfortable that everyone involved with the business is working hard for the benefit of everyone else.

Work can be more enjoyable
Many people derive significant joy from being around their families. By bringing them into your business, you’re transferring that fun, supportive environment to your work. Days that might otherwise feel like drudgery are improved by surrounding yourself with your favorite people.