Surviving As A Couple In Business

Step 4: Lose The Ego

There is no room for power-plays in a family business. You must create and maintain a harmonious environment for yourself and your staff members, even if it just the two of you. Your harmony together (or lack thereof) can make a huge difference in sales, customer service and productivity. You must be united in your efforts to succeed—a constantly bickering couple creates tension and makes the entire office environment toxic.

Step 5: Check In With Each Other

Hold meetings on a weekly basis. If you aren’t doing this already, it is a great idea is to schedule weekly—or even daily—meetings. These are meetings held at the office—not at home in the evenings—where you can discuss expenses, profit and loss statements, goals and any problems either person has encountered. These meetings should not be combative or argumentative. All the communication should be constructive and in line with carrying out the goals of the business.

Step 6: Refer To A Board Of Advisors

Creating an outside board of advisors is great way to avoid conflict—any problems that you and your spouse are having trouble solving can be referred to the advisory panel, which is comprised of trusted people with expertise in different areas of business. A good mix would include a CPA, attorney, banker and marketing expert, as well as someone who has retired from your industry. Even if you are not looking for a solution from the board,, the panel can act as a sounding board for any challenges that your business might face. You can meet with the advisory board quarterly or meet one-on-one, as necessary. (Note: Check with your local chamber of commerce to see what programs they have to help businesses grow. Many have formal groups that meet and act as advisors. There also are private companies that have programs designed specifically for executives from non-competing industries to get together.) Regardless of what method you choose, it is essential to have a group of professionals or trusted friends that will give you honest feedback.

Remember, at the end of the day you are going home together. Try to keep things in perspective and leave shoptalk at the office. To survive in today’s competitive marketplace, you must be able to successfully conquer the work-life balance. When you maintain balance, you can have a successful business and marriage.

Zelda Fraden is a consultant, speaker and entrepreneur who inspires others to turn obstacles into opportunities and flourish in the face of adversity. As the former president of Women Business Owners of North Florida and a past recipient of the regional SBA Family-Owned Business of the Year Award, Fraden helps improve businesses of all sizes. For information on consulting and speaking engagements, visit www.ZeldaFraden.com or call (904) 260-9331.