Beginning the Process
Once a business family decides to engage Dr. Daniel, he conducts an initial series of interviews to assess the nature of the difficulties or challenges facing the enterprise and the family. Typically, these occur at your business, but in some circumstances, the interviews can be accomplished elsewhere.

Who is Interviewed?
In most enterprises, Dr. Daniel interviews each shareholder or owner and their spouse, as well as other family members who are likely to someday own shares in the enterprise. At the discretion of the CEO, Dr. Daniel may interview select non-family managers and key advisors such as the firm's corporate attorney, the family's estate attorney and/or their CPA.

What Else Does the Assessment Cover?
It is most beneficial for the CEO to provide Dr. Daniel with a tour of the facility. Often, a review of key financial and legal documents may be extremely useful to ascertain overall financial, estate planning and long-term management needs.

Building a Genogram
Utilizing the various sources of information outlined above, Dr. Daniel typically creates and utilizes a genogram to clarify the nature of the business and family relations within the firm and the family.

NEXT