bconley

I agree with Tom, if there is any way to springboard your construction business off the existing business it could be an ideal situation for you.
Having the existing infrastructure, building, accounting systems, references, cash?,etc. is invaluable, take advantage of that if you can it will get you to your dreams quicker and your fathers dream will live on as well.

Bill

newenergy

I worked with/for my Dad for a few years in my mid twenties and then again for a couple in my mid thirties. It was great and I'm glad I got the chance to do it.

I don't know how you can work it out, but hopefully you can and have a good relationship with your Dad, whatever happens with the business.

marketingmaven

Wow, some of these posts are just heartbreaking. It is sad to hear that so many have had experiences with a family business that have changed the very meaning of their own family.

To help guide you through the many nuances of a family business, you might consider working with a life coach who specializes in family business. I personally don't know any but you could try google or ask for references.

I hope you find peace in whatever decision you make.

__________________
Manassas Remodeling Contractor
Manassas Replacement Windows
Manassas Kitchen Remodeling
Manassas Bathroom Remodeling

N.Schiffer

Thanks as do I, I don't think it will completely destroy us. But thanks for all the insights!

__________________
Nick Schiffer
Specializing in Custom Sheds
Custom Carpentry
& General Construction

skipdow

When you work for family you accept treatment that you would quit over with someone else.You also can excel at your job and give 1000 % because its family. It all depends on your relationship with your Dad. You have to decide where you need to be and whatever your decision make sure you tell them why.

72chevy4x4

wow-there's a lot of advice coming your way.

just a couple of considerations and questions;
1) now that you are finishing school, do you have enough knowledge to be a functional business partner with your dad?
2) does your dad really have a 'business'-i.e. is there anything there other than his connections to GC's/customers who keep coming back to him? Is there a business name/phone number that brings in business that could be bought...those things have value

If the old man (a show of respect not degradation) can't run a successful business and you have a desire to be equals, than approach him after you've taken some time to write down what your desires are. When you're scrapping around trying to make what money you can, you do what you can do to feed yourselves. If business is good, too many directions is not good. Pick a few areas to focus on and do it. maybe the best option here is to be equals in business-divide the responsibilities and hire a bookkeeper to do the books, that way you both know where the expenses are going.

If on the other hand he does not have anything to offer to make a living from, because face it, you're probably straight and going to have a wife and kids some day, give 1-2 months notice and move on. the long notice is a feather in your cap-you're trying to make sure pop can fill the gap.

I'm curious, is he paying you wages for the hours you put in? If so, bringing back other guys on the payroll shouldn't be too hard of a swing, unless he hasn't been paying payroll on you but was on their wages.

best of luck w/ your decisions-blood's forever, so do it in love. It's crazy how sour things like this can turn.

N.Schiffer

He does run a successful business, and for the most part does very well. Economy isn't helping, but why go into that, everyone got hit by it. I get paid for what I put in, that's never been a issue, but paying me to do two peoples job is cheaper than paying 2 people to do it. I got a lot to think about and really appreciate all the inputs. I'm sure you guys will find out soon enough what I end up doing.

__________________
Nick Schiffer
Specializing in Custom Sheds
Custom Carpentry
& General Construction

Zinsco

Follow your heart. That's why you have one.
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72chevy4x4

maybe with the economy the way it is w/ guys looking for work, you would be able to find someone to do the other persons job even though it's likley not full time-this may free up some of your time for development of the business.