The Family Business 'Generation Gap' Can Undermine Success

The upcoming generation of family firm leaders often don't see things the same way as their parents and grandparents do. Professor Peter Jaskiewicz has explored this disconnect deeply in his new book co-authored with Sabine Rau, entitled "Enabling Next Generation Legacies: 35 Questions that Next Generation Members in Enterprising Families Ask." 

In this interview with Familybusiness.org Editor Kimberly Eddleston, Professor Jaskiewicz explores the insights revealed by the book, which drew on the authors' discussions with older and younger generations at more than 100 families around the world and on insights from other academics. He discovered that money, opportunity and succession were all topics that sorely need more discussion between the generations at family businesses. The costs of not talking? A disaffected younger generation that is unsure of where they fit, that may seek their fortunes outside the family firm, and that falls short of the sense of duty and stewardship they need for leadership.

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