The dark side of succession (Part 4)

My last reflection focused on how King David’s son, Absalom, got the attention of his father by burning a field of crops owned by Joab, David’s key general. Now back in his father’s good graces, Absalom begins to build a base of loyal followers:

And Absalom used to rise early and stand beside the way of the gate. And when any man had a dispute to come before the king for judgment, Absalom would call to him and say, “From what city are you?” And when he said, “Your servant is of such and such a tribe in Israel,” Absalom would say to him, “See, your claims are good and right, but there is no man designated by the king to hear you.” Then Absalom would say, “Oh that I were judge in the land! Then every man with a dispute or cause might come to me, and I would give him justice.” And whenever a man came near to pay homage to him, he would put out his hand and take hold of him and kiss him. Thus Absalom did to all of Israel who came to the king for judgment. So Absalom stole the hearts of the men of Israel. (2 Sam. 15:2-6)

Absalom’s sights are set on his father’s position. Instead of directly challenging or quarreling with his father, Absalom cleverly befriends the citizenry. He first positions himself close to the people and personally meets them. Then, he legitimizes their claims while subtly undermining David. Next, he suggests how he would rule differently — the political promise. Finally he touches each person, making them feel special. Machiavelli may get the credit for theories of modern political behavior, but Absalom gives him a run for his money!

Transfers of power in the family business can also be quite political. Constituencies with a stake in the outcome include siblings, parents, cousins, in-laws, non-family partners, employees, professional advisors, and even vendors. And, power can take many forms. There is political power like Absalom’s; there is also financial strength, legal standing, managerial control, moral authority, and generational deference. Even the person who seems to have the least amount of “legitimate” control has the ability to create chaos, which is a huge source of power in a family or family business.

Have you ever witnessed someone like Absalom, who is highly skilled in undermining legitimate authority and in eager self-promotion? Who are the people, and what forms of power, play prominently in your future succession plans?