Learning by Example: The Value of Work Ethic in Family Businesses

Growing up, work was never just something that happened outside the home, it was a core part of our family dynamic. Listening to Tom and Shirley recount their childhoods, I was reminded that for generations, the notion of “everyone pitching in” wasn’t just an expectation, it was a way of life. Tom talked about helping his dad on the farm while his sisters helped their mom with chores, learning early on how teamwork and diligence could get things done. For Shirley, Saturday routines meant cleaning the house before anything fun could happen, reminding us that responsibility comes before reward.

Working together as a family shaped our conversations, too. As Kim rightly pointed out, dinner around the table wasn’t just small talk, it was business talk, brainstorming and troubleshooting together. It’s funny looking back and realizing that not all families operated this way, but for us, it meant learning to show up for work every day and give it your best, no matter your role.

Teaching Kids Responsibility Through Business

One topic we dived deeply into was how working together in a business teaches kids responsibility. As parents, we discovered that providing opportunities for kids to earn their own money, accept consequences (like coming to work if you got kicked out of school for the day), and get their first taste of employment gives them valuable life lessons. Kim shared stories of her children growing up at the Dairy Queen, learning to dip dilly bars and do dishes, first as preschoolers, then as teenagers taking on actual shifts.

Our businesses, especially grocery stores and restaurants, were often the first jobs for dozens, if not hundreds, of local kids over the years. And truthfully, when kids know what’s expected of them and are held accountable, they rise to the challenge. Watching our own kids and so many others grow into responsible, capable young adults gave me confidence that the lessons learned in family businesses translate well beyond the store or restaurant floor.

Advice for Involving Your Kids in the Family Business

If you’re considering bringing your children into your business, start with their interest level, if they’re not at least a bit interested, it won’t stick. Make it about more than the money, because financial incentive alone isn’t enough. Treat your own children the same as other employees: pay them fairly, make them progress through the same steps and promotions, and avoid as much nepotism as possible. In our experience, while your children might rise faster because they’ve absorbed so much over the years, they still need the structure and exposure to every level of the business.

But remember, not all kids will stay with the business forever, and that’s okay. Some may leave, explore other passions, or return years later with new skills. Be proud of the foundation you give them and don’t be afraid to implement rules and guidance around money, work hours, and savings. For example, we always encouraged our kids to save half their paychecks, and those habits often followed them into adulthood.

Perks, Pitfalls, and Practicalities

An interesting point came up regarding tax benefits: you can pay your kids for bona fide work in your business, and their income (up to a certain level) is often tax-free. Funding a Roth IRA for your child each year can mean huge rewards decades later. Compound interest really works its magic.

But there are pitfalls, too. Tom shared how today’s trades struggle with hiring because of drug testing and shifting attitudes toward responsibility. It’s a reminder that not every challenge can be solved by family business alone, but strong values can give your kids a head start.

Why Family Business Matters

Reflecting on decades of family business, I’ve seen firsthand how sharing the workload, respecting individual roles, and teaching responsible habits has helped us thrive, not only as entrepreneurs, but as a family. These lessons are timeless, whether you’re working on a farm, running a restaurant, or managing multiple businesses. The rewards are far greater than financial gain. They’re about building character, confidence, and lifelong skills.

If you’re on the fence about involving your kids in your business, start small, set clear expectations, and enjoy the journey. And above all, cherish the memories you make together, those are the real dividends of mixing family and business.

Listen to episode 68 right here and make sure to check out our other blogs!