The Listing Magazine

Your Online Guide to Royston and Beyond

Get in touch today! Magazine deadlines are around the 13th of each month

01763 248447 hello@thelistingmagazine.co.uk

  • Email
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • LinkedIn
  • Pinterest
  • Twitter
  • Home
  • Coronavirus
    • Activities for Adults: How to Fill Your Time at Home
    • Activities with Children During Lockdown
    • Business Support During Coronavirus
    • Coronavirus Self Isolation Deliveries List
    • Community Support Groups During Coronavirus
    • Mental Health and Wellbeing During Coronavirus
    • Open for Business
    • A Word from The Listing
  • Magazine Archive
    • Business Profiles & News
    • Community News
    • Herts YOC 2020
    • Hidden Royston
    • Julian’s Business Tips
    • Looking After You
    • Museum Musings
    • My Local Life
    • News from Royston Market
    • Out and About
    • Professional Tips
    • Spotlight On…
    • Tallulah’s Kitchen
    • The Listing News
      • Reviews
  • Business Directory
    • Business Networking
  • Clubs & Societies Directory
  • What’s On
  • Advertise with us
    • About the Magazines
    • Meet the Team
    • Artwork & Advert Design
    • Booking Deadlines
    • Distribution
    • Testimonials
    • Contact us
  • Marketing Services

Helen Froggett-Thomson: How To Avoid The Pain and Increase The Pleasures of Working With Your Family Part 2

February 15, 2020 by Tom Fox

Helen Froggett-Thomson from The Accountancy Practice shares some more of the strategies which they have employed to hand the business over to the next generation. The Accountancy Practice gained a coveted place in the finals for the prestigious Hertfordshire Business Awards in 2019, for Best Family Business.

This is the second part of a two part feature. If you’d like to read the first instalment covering points 1-6, which offer tips on how to avoid overwhelm, limit stressful encounters and guard against demotivation, please click here.

It’s important that when you work with members of your family, you aren’t in business mode all the time.  Especially if you work from home. You NEED some down time. No matter how hard this may be to create. Forcing yourself to go out, say to the cinema or a gig, having a spa treatment or a meal out provides you with a different environment to recharge. And while you’re at it, ban ‘work talk’!

7. PLANNING LIKE A PRO: To avoid ‘talking work’ the rest of your waking hours, try to plan in set meeting times, with outcomes and action points agreed like you would for standard business meetings.  Quick morning planning meetings can work well so you both know what’s going on that day, and agreeing your daily priorities can significantly decrease the chances of dropping the ball and ending up blaming each other for any problems. Don’t rely on memory and ‘who said what’. Create a list using whatever method works best for you. Make it as easy as possible for everyone to know exactly what’s expected and by when to help life run as smoothly as possible.

8. CREATE CLEAR ROLE BOUNDARIES:  Try to create discrete and separate roles within the business with no overlap. This will mean that everyone has clear responsibilities and it’s best to document them. Simple but very effective and it’s something that often gets overlooked in family businesses where too much is assumed.

9. AGREE GROUND RULES : Bad feeling can simmer and boil over, and combined with historical ‘frank and open exchange’, can mean that tempers flare and arguments can arise. Which apart from being indulgent and damaging to respect levels all round, can have an unpleasant effect on non family members who witness any of these exchanges. ‘Things getting personal’ can be a disaster for a business. Emotions need to be curbed in the way they would for non family members. It’s easy to revert to old roles and it’s something to keep a watchful eye and ear on.

10. ASSUME NOTHING: I’ve already mentioned assumptions and this can be a big factor working with family. You ‘assume’ you can trust people and this can give you a blindness, a false reassurance. I would advise that you follow up things that do not resonate happily, in exactly the same way that you would follow up a unexpected comment or extreme reaction from a non family member. Letting things go because ‘it’s just mum having an off day’ or ‘you know what dad’s like’ is lazy and will cause problems that could mean the end of the business.

11. ADULT TO ADULT COMMUNICATION: It’s a good idea to turn the tables and encourage the offspring to ‘train their parents’ in how to be better communicators.  I would strongly recommend looking into transactional analysis if you want to help your family business thrive. Adult to adult communication is the only way forward for any business and when running a business with your family, you already have the odds stacked against you.

12. THIRD PARTY INVOLVEMENT: If the going gets tough, consider involving a calm non family member as an unofficial (or official if needed) mediator in conversations which you know are going to be tricky or you know have provoked disagreement in the past. Make sure they know why they are there. Help prepare the ground rules by agreeing that interruption is not allowed, very difficult in practice– they may need to constantly remind people to hear the other’s point of view.  And obviously arguing and shouting are a complete no-no. They must be prepared to call time out on a meeting that is getting heated, without getting sucked into it themselves.

13. LOOK AHEAD: Handing over the business should ideally be done over a two or three year period. It’s taken the original boss years to get their experience and insight and it’s unreasonable to expect the next generation to know everything overnight. Patience and respect need to be continually revisited.

14. PASSING THE BATON: Working out a plan together for sharing the knowledge on the key roles and responsibilities is critical to sustained and consistent success. Some of it can be gained from the parent and other areas would be best found outside the business (on open courses, networking meetings or industry events) to give the new director external perspective, to gain their ‘tribe’ in the industry and make a name for themselves as separate to the founder, and most importantly, discover new ideas with which to take the business forward.

Working happily side by side with your family can be one of the most productive, life affirming experiences for all involved. Helping to create a legacy to pass onto the next generation gives a sense of continuity and purpose, and like any business, it has its unique challenges and opportunities. I wish you and your family all the best!

If you’d like to get in touch or discuss any of the issues raised in complete confidence, please email Helen@theaccountancypractice.com. I would love to hear from you.

Share this:

  • Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
  • Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window)
  • Click to email this to a friend (Opens in new window)
  • Click to print (Opens in new window)

Filed Under: Business Profiles & News, Helen Froggett, Professional

Business Profiles

Business Profile:  Is It Time To Do Estate Agency Differently In Royston?

Business Profile: Is It Time To Do Estate Agency Differently In Royston?

Is It Time To Do Estate Agency Differently In Royston? A new estate agency owned by a familiar local face opened in Royston in September and promised to do things very differently. They’ve certainly done just that! Neil Wise, from Fowlmere, until 2019 owned another estate agency in Royston. But after several years of outside investment and … [Read More...]

Melbourn Springs:  Ambulance Crews Receive Gifts

Melbourn Springs: Ambulance Crews Receive Gifts

Melbourn Springs:  Ambulance Crews Receive Gifts The Ambulance Staff Charity (TASC) is a charity established 5 years ago to support frontline and support staff with their mental, physical and financial wellbeing. The charity does not receive any Government funding and relies solely on donations. Karen Allen, the General Manager of Melbourn … [Read More...]

Domestic Abuse: A Note For Employers

Domestic Abuse: A Note For Employers

Domestic Abuse: A Note For Employers In the months during and after the first lockdown, Herts Domestic Abuse Helpline saw a 32% increase in calls and emails. As we near the end of the second lockdown, we want to remind everyone that they are not alone. For the 16 Days of Action, (Nov 25 – Dec 10) we’re highlighting how employers can be part of a … [Read More...]

News From Royston Vets: Keep Your Pets Active

News From Royston Vets: Keep Your Pets Active

Royston Vets: Keep Your Pets Active Joint problems are very common in dogs and cats and can even affect young animals, significantly affecting their day to day life. As pets age, wear and tear in the joints can dramatically reduce mobility and cause joint pain. Excessive wear and tear can also be caused by inherited conditions such as hip … [Read More...]

Business Profile: Birdhouse Counselling

Business Profile: Birdhouse Counselling

Business Profile: Birdhouse Counselling Wondering about counselling? There are many kinds of counselling and because it matters to feel safe and comfortable with your choice, here are some words about Birdhouse Counselling with Kate that may be useful for you in your search. People use counselling in different ways and in these uncertain … [Read More...]

More Business Profiles

Open for Business

5 Reasons to Shop Local

5 Reasons to Shop Local

5 Reasons to Shop Local One unexpected and welcome outcome from the first Coronavirus lockdown is the way in which many small businesses adapted and kept trading and now with the second lockdown … [Read More...]

Open for Business: Flamingo Paperie

Open for Business: Flamingo Paperie

Flamingo Paperie have a number of new craft kits and craft paper, ideal for children whilst you are at home during lockdown. View the different projects available here in their online … [Read More...]

Open for Business: Bumpkins Nursery

Open for Business: Bumpkins Nursery

Open for Business: Bumpkins Nursery Bumpkins is open for business and delighted to be supporting the children of key workers throughout this time. We are missing seeing the happy smiling … [Read More...]

Open for Business: Barbara’s Flowers

Open for Business: Barbara’s Flowers

Open for Business: Barbara's Flowers Barbara’s Flowers are still delivering. If you would like to send a bouquet to someone special, simply call Barbara on 01763 246200 or 07730 435643. … [Read More...]

Open for Business: Kelly’s Kitchen

Open for Business: Kelly’s Kitchen

Open for Business: Kelly’s Kitchen Kelly from Kelly’s Kitchen in Royston has been running weekly live bake alongs on her Facebook page with her two children. So far they have made Banana Bread, The … [Read More...]

More Open for Business

The Listing Royston January 2021

The Listing SG8 Villages January 2021

Find us on Facebook

thelisting

Royston’s monthly magazine issued online & delivered to 16500 households in Royston& surrounding SG8 villages
https://linkin.bio/thelisting

The Listing
Instagram post 17874005885123302 Update from @eachhospices... Please hold on to your donations, urges children's charity waiting to open shop in Royston...⁠⁠East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH) is asking everyone with donations for its new Royston shop to hold on to them and says any left outside could result in the charity having to pay a disposal cost.⁠⁠EACH has acquired the High Street premises formerly occupied by Woolworths. The signs are up and the grand opening had been scheduled for Thursday, 21 January. Following the announcement of more government restrictions, the good cause says it now intends to open just as soon as possible.⁠⁠Sarah Throssell, EACH Acting Head of Retail, said: “We’re obviously very sad to have to postpone the opening, though realising it is for the right reasons. We’d had such a brilliant show of support from everyone in Royston who had heard about us coming to town, whether they were offering to come along and shop, volunteer or make donations.⁠⁠“We’d now like to ask people to hold on to their donations, if they possibly can, rather than leaving them outside the shop where they are likely to become damaged and result in a disposal cost. The team who will run the shop have been furloughed for the time being, along with all our staff who keep our network of 43 other shops across the region running and bringing in vital money. This means there will be no-one there to take in donations.⁠⁠“We will finally throw open the doors when it’s possible, but until then we thank everyone for their support so far and hope you all stay safe.”⁠⁠For more details about the charity and for anyone interested in more information on volunteering at the new shop, once it is open, can call Sarah on 07540 335680. ⁠⁠For the latest information check EACH’s website at www.each.org.uk or its social media accounts.⁠
Instagram post 17892711307842402 The arrival footpaths into London Luton Airport need to change, and you can help shape how.⁠⁠Have your say... your feedback is important to help shape the final proposal. More information, including details of online meetings and how to submit your response can be found by visiting: www.london-luton.co.uk/ad6⁠⁠This consultation runs until Friday 5th February 2021.⁠Email can be sent to; AD6@ltn.aero⁠⁠As advertised in January magazines: www.thelistingmagazine.co.uk⁠⁠#LondonLutonAirport #NATS
Load More... Follow on Instagram

What's On Upcoming Events

Jan
17
Sun
all-day Messy Church @ Online
Messy Church @ Online
Jan 17 all-day
Messy Church @ Online
Held on the third Sunday of the month. All families welcome to join in and enjoy a fun video and lots of creative crafts. Visit www.facebook.com/rmcmessychurch for more information.
10.30am Royston Methodist Church Sunday ... @ Royston Methodist Church
Royston Methodist Church Sunday ... @ Royston Methodist Church
Jan 17 @ 10.30am – 12.00pm
Royston Methodist Church Sunday Service (Via Zoom) @ Royston Methodist Church
Join us for our Sunday service via zoom, either on your PC, laptop, iPad, tablet, mobile phone or home phone. Information about joining the meeting and what to expect is available on the church website, at  www.royston-methodist.org.uk/ under the “Notices” section. Rev Charity and the Church Stewards are doing all they can to continue to serve us all as a church whilst the crisis continues and thereafter.
Jan
20
Wed
8.00am Royston Outdoor Market
Royston Outdoor Market
Jan 20 @ 8.00am – 2.00pm
Royston Outdoor Market
Every Saturday, 8am – 2pm, at Royston Market Square.
Jan
21
Thu
8.00am Royston Business Networking @ Online
Royston Business Networking @ Online
Jan 21 @ 8.00am – 9.00am
Royston Business Networking @ Online
Every Thursday 8-9am, online Connect with local businesses! Each session includes a one/two minute introduction, break-out rooms to have a one-to-one catch up then rejoin the main group for leads, tips and referrals! To find out more about attending email, Tony at tony.field@amixan.co.uk To find out more about the group and our current members visit, www.roystonbusinessnetwork.co.uk or email, info@roystonbusinessnetwork.co.uk
Jan
23
Sat
8.00am Herts Country Market
Herts Country Market
Jan 23 @ 8.00am
Herts Country Market
Every Saturday, 8am at Royston Corn Exchange.  
8.00am Royston Outdoor Market
Royston Outdoor Market
Jan 23 @ 8.00am – 2.00pm
Royston Outdoor Market
Every Saturday, 8am – 2pm, at Royston Market Square.
Jan
24
Sun
10.30am Royston Methodist Church Sunday ... @ Royston Methodist Church
Royston Methodist Church Sunday ... @ Royston Methodist Church
Jan 24 @ 10.30am – 12.00pm
Royston Methodist Church Sunday Service (Via Zoom) @ Royston Methodist Church
Join us for our Sunday service via zoom, either on your PC, laptop, iPad, tablet, mobile phone or home phone. Information about joining the meeting and what to expect is available on the church website, at  www.royston-methodist.org.uk/ under the “Notices” section. Rev Charity and the Church Stewards are doing all they can to continue to serve us all as a church whilst the crisis continues and thereafter.
Jan
27
Wed
8.00am Royston Outdoor Market
Royston Outdoor Market
Jan 27 @ 8.00am – 2.00pm
Royston Outdoor Market
Every Saturday, 8am – 2pm, at Royston Market Square.
Jan
28
Thu
8.00am Royston Business Networking @ Online
Royston Business Networking @ Online
Jan 28 @ 8.00am – 9.00am
Royston Business Networking @ Online
Every Thursday 8-9am, online Connect with local businesses! Each session includes a one/two minute introduction, break-out rooms to have a one-to-one catch up then rejoin the main group for leads, tips and referrals! To find out more about attending email, Tony at tony.field@amixan.co.uk To find out more about the group and our current members visit, www.roystonbusinessnetwork.co.uk or email, info@roystonbusinessnetwork.co.uk
9.00am Barrington C of E Primary School...
Barrington C of E Primary School...
Jan 28 @ 9.00am – 10.00am
Thursday 28th January 2021 and Thursday 17th June 2021 For both of these collections, donations of clothing can be left in bin bags at the front of the school, before 9 am. Bag2School accept the following ‘good quality’ items for RE-USE*: Men’s, Ladies’ and Children’s clothing Paired shoes (tied together or elastic band around) Handbags Hats Bags Scarves and ties Jewellery Lingerie Socks Belts Soft toys Household linen Household curtains Household towels Household bedding (bed sheets, pillow cases and duvet covers) * We reserve the right to refuse any unsuitable items We DO NOT accept: Duvets and blankets Pillows and cushions Carpets, rugs and mats (including bath, shower and toilet mats) Soiled, painted, ripped or wet clothing School uniforms with and without logo Corporate clothing and workwear Textile off cuts, yarns or threaded material
Jan
30
Sat
8.00am Herts Country Market
Herts Country Market
Jan 30 @ 8.00am
Herts Country Market
Every Saturday, 8am at Royston Corn Exchange.  
8.00am Royston Outdoor Market
Royston Outdoor Market
Jan 30 @ 8.00am – 2.00pm
Royston Outdoor Market
Every Saturday, 8am – 2pm, at Royston Market Square.
Jan
31
Sun
10.30am Royston Methodist Church Sunday ... @ Royston Methodist Church
Royston Methodist Church Sunday ... @ Royston Methodist Church
Jan 31 @ 10.30am – 12.00pm
Royston Methodist Church Sunday Service (Via Zoom) @ Royston Methodist Church
Join us for our Sunday service via zoom, either on your PC, laptop, iPad, tablet, mobile phone or home phone. Information about joining the meeting and what to expect is available on the church website, at  www.royston-methodist.org.uk/ under the “Notices” section. Rev Charity and the Church Stewards are doing all they can to continue to serve us all as a church whilst the crisis continues and thereafter.
Feb
3
Wed
8.00am Royston Outdoor Market
Royston Outdoor Market
Feb 3 @ 8.00am – 2.00pm
Royston Outdoor Market
Every Saturday, 8am – 2pm, at Royston Market Square.
View Calendar
The Listing, 2 Kiln House Yard, Baldock Street, Royston, Herts SG8 5AY
Call us on 01763 248447 or click here to send us an email
Copyright © 2021 , The Listing
  • Contact us
  • Advertise with us
  • Privacy Notice
loading Cancel
Post was not sent - check your email addresses!
Email check failed, please try again
Sorry, your blog cannot share posts by email.
This site uses cookies: Find out more.