Freedom Of Choice Don't force your kids to join the family business -- let them decide.

Expectation is a powerfulrepellent . . . especially in a familybusiness. "If kids grow up thinking everyone expects them tojoin the business, they'll wind up resenting it," saysSheila Strauss, whose two daughters have joined her husband'sfamily business as the fourth generation involved in The StraussInsurance Agency in New York City. Still, the Strausses admit itwas a wonderful feeling when the kids came to the business of theirown free will. "I didn't feel the need to pass the batonwhen they weren't in the business," says Sheila'shusband, Marvin, "but now I'm happy they're here toaccept it."

How can parents be assured their children don't feelpressured but, at the same time, present a choice that'sappealing and might eventually lead to a career in the familybusiness?

The Early Years