Family businesses succeed when leaders set clear expectations, treat everyone equally, and separate family roles from business responsibilities with disciplined accountability. Mike Moreau shares insights from decades of coaching and his own experience running a family business. Mike is the founder of Proactive Leadership Group, where he’s helped over 1000 companies build healthier, more scalable organisations.

Mike explains why assumptions, special treatment, and unclear roles create conflict and dysfunction. He outlines his five keys to success, including defining values, clarifying expectations, and maintaining candid communication. He also discusses succession planning and why it’s critical to confirm the next generation truly wants to lead. Consistent reviews and scorecards keep everyone aligned. 

Takeaways 

• Family businesses struggle when roles and expectations are unclear or assumed. 
• Treat family employees equally to build respect and maintain healthy work dynamics. 
• Define clear roles, responsibilities, and expectations to avoid conflict and confusion. 
• Quarterly reviews and scorecards keep accountability high and performance transparent. 
• Start succession planning early and confirm heirs truly want leadership roles. 
• Special treatment for family breeds resentment and undermines team morale over time. 
• Core values and clear behaviours help align everyone around a shared culture. 
• Make improvements systematically and give yourself grace to avoid feeling overwhelmed. 

Mike was on also on Episode 13 of The Evolution Podcast:  https://evolutionpartners.com.au/podcast/013-the-importance-of-a-coach-with-mike-mirau/ 

Follow Mike Mirau
https://www.resultsimproved.com/ 

Books on this episode
The Family Business Manifesto by Michael Mirau https://amzn.asia/d/4Z4XMDp
Reset: How to change what’s not working by Dan Heath https://amzn.asia/d/azS24uY

Watch the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheEvolutionPartners 

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Books – Learn more about our books https://evolutionpartners.com.au/books/
Made to Thrive: The practical, prescriptive guide on how to be a great CEO
Onboarded: How to bring new hires to the points where they are more effective faster. A business case for leaders on why you should commit to an effective onboarded process.
Onboarded for Managers: Helping managers bring new hires to the point where they are more effective faster. 

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