The dark side of succession (Part 3)
When behavior hurts the business: 2 Samuel 14:29-30
We have seen how Joab, King David’s general, brought David’s “handsome” son, Absalom, back to Jerusalem. But, because of earlier family conflicts, David refused to see Absalom. Two years pass, and Absalom finally appeals to Joab to get an audience with his father. Here is what happens:
Then Absalom sent for Joab, to send him to the king, but Joab would not come to him. And he sent a second time, but Joab would not come. Then he said to his servants, “See, Joab’s field is next to mine, and he has barley there; go and set it on fire.” So Absalom’s servants set the field on fire. (2 Sam. 14:29-30)
Absalom was growing impatient. He wanted to see his father, and he needed Joab to escort him. But Joab ignores his repeated requests. So he destroys Joab’s crop in order to get his attention! Now we have another clue as to Absalom’s character. We can perhaps understand why he killed his brother (for raping his sister). And we know that many people see Absalom as attractive. Now appears that Absalom is used to getting his way. He throws a massive temper-tantrum, demolishing something of value to get noticed. In the verses that follow, Absalom does get an audience with his father, and his destructive act goes unpunished.
Some behaviors by family business members cause you to shake your head in disbelief or frustration. They might not set a field on fire, but may do something equally destructive. They might directly compete with the family business (which they own or will inherit) to pad their personal balance sheet. They might intentionally cause the loss of a good employee who challenges their ego. They might hurt the profitability of the business in order to maintain social standing. Instead of building, they burn; instead of helping, they harm. And if they are in line to lead the business (or think they are), real value can be destroyed.
Have you ever witnessed behavior by a family member that harms the business? How have you attempted to address your concerns with your family business partners?