As so often happens, a couple of friends or family members share some common interest or idea and decide to form a business together. This may lead to an outstanding venture for all bringing great joy and success. Even if it does just that, differences of opinion about various parts of the business may cause a rift in the relationship and possibly impact the business. Communication in the workplace may already be tricky. When a personal relationship plays into the mix, it can be downright difficult.
Oftentimes, business partners who are couples, friends, or family members see each other so often that they believe they can talk about the business with each other anytime and anywhere. While that may be true, it is important to have a designated time to check in with each other on a regular basis to see how things are with the business, if you are together and individually, where you want to be work-wise, and where you hope to go in your employment situation.
What if you now want to go in different directions? When that realization exists, it can be a pivotal moment. Fear that changing the business relationship will harm the personal relationship may prevent someone from wanting to share their truth.
If the conversation occurs with openness, dignity and respect, the business partners may discover that the next chapter for the business, whether they operate it together, it dissolves, or one person takes over, may ultimately create a happier and more content life for each person individually.
Business mediation provides the space for constructive conversations about ownership, management, and employee matters to clarify needs, consider options, and create ideas for conflict resolution in a private, confidential setting.
