Employment policies are essential for all businesses that reach a significant size. However, for family businesses, especially those owned by large multigenerational families, employment policies require more careful consideration. One crucial aspect that family businesses must address is determining which family members will work in the business and establishing clear parameters for their involvement. By setting appropriate policies for both the business and the family and effectively communicating them, these companies can ensure that they employ individuals who are best suited for their respective roles. This approach also promotes a shared understanding of the expectations and requirements for working in and succeeding within the business.

We collaborate with our family business clients to evaluate their employment practices and address a wide range of questions that are central to establishing effective employment policies. Some of these questions include:

• Who is responsible for making decisions regarding the hiring and promotion of family members, and what criteria are used in the process? What policies are in place specifically regarding the employment of family members?
• What mechanisms are in place for providing and receiving honest feedback to and from family members?
• How are family members recruited, trained, and treated as employees? Are mentoring programs established to support their development?