Peter Roper The Family Business Man
Member driven, encouraging, supportive, educational
Experience on hand when you need it
One big family
Relevant and timely event programme

Peter's #Thought4TheWeek - Don’t underestimate the power of friendship with a family business

Peter's #Thought4TheWeek - Don’t underestimate the power of friendship with a family business

Last week we were lucky enough to co-host an event at Worcester Racecourse with one of our very long and highly supportive members FBCManby Bowdler.

Neil Lloyd and his team really made sure we were very welcome and the small group of Family Business Practice Members had a most enjoyable day at the races!

We were very lucky with the weather; the venue staff were a delight (particularly Rachael who looked after us) and everyone really relaxed and had a good time.

It occurred to me whilst having a quiet moment in the stands that for most of the attendees this was one of the very first events they have attended since lockdown. Most admitted they felt quite strange at first because they were simply out of practice at attending anything. However, after a little nervousness, they were delighted with the day.

Indeed, both Anny and I admitted the very same thing in the car on the way home (an adventure as we drove across the course in a bouncing car to get out of the car park!).

What’s the point, Peter?

This event was a celebration and in support of a very good charity The Buddy Bag Foundation. Outwardly then a business do’ with a charitable connection.

But it was far more than that.

It gave the opportunity for just a few members of the Family Business Practice to spend quality time with each other in friendship after what has been (and undoubtedly will continue to be, unfortunately) a tough time. The last two years have seen friendships maintained through the practice via zoom: friendships I feel for many will have a lasting impact.

Friendships in business, particularly family business, are the bedrock of doing far more than just business with each other. Friendships are the stuff that makes the world continue turning, a hand to lend when appropriate, an ear to listen to when a challenge needs some collective thought.

Don’t underestimate the power of family business friendships, which are much stronger than simple networking relationships which are forged usually so that one person can get business from another. 

Long term business friendships are longer-lasting, more effective and are still available when the chips are down – I know from personal experience.

Make friendships in business.

The Family Business Practice is very good at helping you to create friendships – if you haven’t been for a while there are lots of online and offline events to choose from CLICK HERE to find out more

Go on you know you want to!

Until the next time…

Peter

Peter Roper The Family Business Man

Back to list