The time to join a next-generation round table is when things
are going well, says Paul. "Future family business leaders can
learn more about the governance process of family businesses when
they're not in crisis," she says. But you must be willing
to commit time to the group—that's the only way to build
trust and confidence among participants and become a contributing
member.
Next-generation round tables are frequently sponsored by family
business programs affiliated with universities—which means
the family might have to be members of the program for its junior
members to participate in them. But that's not always the case,
so check out the family business program near you. If there's
no such group around, consider asking a family business advisor
whether he or she would like to facilitate a next-generation group,
or form your own. The process of clarifying one's own future
and learning about other family businesses outside of earshot of
your own could prove invaluable.
Patricia Schiff Estess writes family business histories and
is the author of two books: Managing Alternative Work
Arrangements (Crisp Publishing) and Money Advice for Your
Successful Remarriage (Betterway Press).
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