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Sibling rivalry, nothing new, but in a Family Business if left unchecked can become a major problem presenting challenges for all concerned! 

Addressing it is crucial! Ignore and the consequences can be great! 

Adopting proactive strategies, planning and communication is key to taming and tempering negative competition and contentious issues. 

Why, how does rivalry occur?  

It can happen when emotional needs are not being met. Siblings compete for parental recognition, attention and reward that can translate to and present in the Business environment. If unresolved, rivalry festers and relationships can become toxic as siblings strive to prove their worth.   

Strategic differences are also factors, such as differences in Business direction, values or approach.  There may also be assumed expectations. All these can manifest as conflict, arguments and disagreements over leadership roles, authority, decision-making or succession planning. 

Consequences: 

Sibling rivalry if left untamed has the power and potential to impact and threaten the stability of the Business activities, family relationships and future of the family entity. Such disputes are destructive resulting in decreased trust, difficulty in reaching or making decisions, and weakened morale.  Worst case scenario family's are torn apart and the Business colapses. 

Example:

In the family Business, siblings, two brothers are competing for leadership, resentment, tensions and conflict are causing friction and disunity. To mitigate or diffuse this situation requires effective communication and consultation between all parties concerned. Roles and responsibilities, along with growth and promotional opportunities need to be negotiated, planned and articulated. Entitlement or right by age or gender shouldn't be a factor.  These pathways and boundaries must be established to avoid toxic rivalry. Early intervention, succession planning and strong governance policies are key interventions. 

Solutions:

• Deal with issues sooner than later is critical, don't let them fester
• Take steps to build bridges to unify disjointed and sometimes toxic relationships
• Engage external, expert professional help if needed. 

Proactive Mitigation: 

• Separate personal and Business matters 

• Adopt ‘best practice’ Business policies 

• Implement strong governance 

• Discuss plans with your children and advisors  

• Seek independent, impartial advice to get the best results for all concerned, now and in the future. 

Takeaways – Taming sibling rivalry 

1. Sibling rivalry may still exist, the key is to have pro-active policies and strategies in place to guide, manage and mitigate.  

2. Deal with any issues as they arise.  

3. Create a healthy work-family environment that acknowledges all members' abilities, aspirations and expectations.
4. Provide equal opportunities.