There are times when it is clear a family member has become a manager in the business before they were ready for the position and responsibilities.

Like most family businesses, the legacy and future of a dairy farm often depends on relationships linking multiple generations.

Who is going to own your dairy farm when you’re gone? Whether you’re going to transition the farm to a family member or liquidate and sell, the decision often involves multiple generations.

For Pennsylvania dairy farmers Donny and Shari Bartch, working through a complex and lengthy transition process, combined with their passion for innovation and technology, has positioned the family’s Merrimart Farms for the future.

A family business retreat is often a multiple-day event that brings together key people in the business for an in-depth discussion about topics important to the business’s future.

Are you sometimes left wondering if your employees understand the farm’s priorities and goals? Do your employees ever feel they get conflicting messages and wonder, “What does the boss want?”

“Elaine, I am feeling paralyzed and overwhelmed with this farm transfer thing.” “How do I talk to the kids without emotions running wild?”

Leadership depends on relationships. When farm employees are connected to you and the people on your team, it can boost performance and help create an organized, high-functioning operation.