In my new book on Family Business Succession Planning, I don’t discuss much about sibling rivalry because I haven’t encountered much of it over the years.  The popular TV series “Succession,” where intense jealousy and disdain for fellow siblings abounds, is certainly not the norm. 

Instead, I have found that most siblings learn early on where their strengths and those of their sibling lie.  These businesses are often larger and more complex than smaller family businesses, which makes dividing up the responsibilities – and the ownership – logical, and, in many cases, necessary.

Instead of sibling rivalry for ownership or dominance in a business, what I often encounter is a different style and personality between two or three different siblings or other family members.  One may be hard-nosed and driven while another is more laid back.  One may be older and at a different stage in life, and thus may want to retire earlier than another.  One may work harder than another, thus causing friction in work ethic.  And one may simply be more capable than another in contributing to the leadership, management, and success of the business.

There is no one “quick fix” for any of these problems, but companies that do sibling ownership well share in the rewards of having capable, trusted alter-egos “spot” for each other when travel, vacations, health issues, or other absence occurs.  When sibling ownership is done well, these businesses can be among the most satisfying and rewarding of all, and the most successful in a business transition from the controlling owner.

If you have questions about this, or could use some help, feel free to drop me a line or give me a call.

Tags: Brother, Business Development, Company, Complex, Discuss, Ego, Family Business, Jealous, Knowledge, Leader, Leadership, Leadership Excellence, Leadership Skills, life, Logical, Manage, owner, Personality, Planning, Responsibility, Rivalry, Sibling, Sister, Strength, Success, Succession, The Mind of a Leader