Family matters
I was fortunate. I was born into a wonderful family. Each of my four siblings and I have certainly chosen individual paths, but it is amazing how interconnected we remain and how we can still rely on each other when necessary.
Recent events certainly demonstrated how vital family can be. Several weeks ago, as a result of a massive stroke, my father passed away peacefully surrounded by his wife of 60-plus years and his five children. It was during the days leading up to and following Dad’s death that I realized more than ever that family matters.
It is my belief that our professional lives also are draped in “family” matters. The reliance on one another to do our individual parts is just as strong. This demonstrates virtually every trait that a family embodies.
Joining a family-run business 20 years ago had its advantages. The sense of shared commitment to a common goal was not something that needed to be oft repeated. It was simply understood. And a keen sense of caring extended from the halls of our company to each and every client relationship.
Even though our business has been run independently by its management for nearly 11 years, many of the same philosophies and standards remain. An inherent attitude of teamwork and passion is ever present. This can also be said about our interactions with business partners, clients and industry contemporaries — it is indeed a family.
Please take time to share some of the familial characteristics that you see in your workplace. I can only imagine that the list will become quite lengthy.
Dave Wendland is VP and co-owner of Hamacher Resource Group, a retail healthcare consultancy located near Milwaukee, Wis. He directs business development, product innovation and marketing communications activities for the company and has been instrumental in positioning HRG among the industry’s foremost thought leaders. You may contact him at (414) 431-5301 or learn more at Hamacher.com.