The question of whether or not to join a family business is a tough one. You have been given an opportunity, that’s for sure, but it is smart to carefully evaluate the situation before you jump in. I recommend asking yourself the following:
- Are you personally passionate about this business? If you’re not, it may not be right for you.
- Do you have experience in the field? If not, are you willing to learn, and do you think you have what it takes to be successful?
- What does the future hold? Will you be an equal decision-maker, and will you be able to grow with the company?
- And perhaps most important, will joining the family business be at all awkward? You may feel like you have to justify your existence to outsiders down the road. Some folks deal with that better than others.
As you contemplate these points, consider who it is that will be teaching you the business. The answers to your questions will help you decide if joining the family business is the right decision. Good luck!