Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Whitney Goulish. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Whitney, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. We’d love for you to start by sharing your thoughts about the pros and cons of family businesses.
Thoughts on family businesses are complex and multifaceted, reflecting both the unique advantages and the potential challenges these enterprises face.
Unique Advantage
Family businesses are often characterized by a deep sense of passion, heart, and commitment. The owners typically invest not just their financial resources but also their time, energy, and emotional well-being into the business. This personal investment can lead to a stronger connection with the community and customers, as family business owners often strive to build lasting relationships and contribute to the local economy. They want to give back to the community in whatever way is helpful, whether that is through local fundraising efforts, or supporting the local Little League. They exist not for the money but, for the relationships it brings. They tend to know their frequent customers personally, which can foster a sense of loyalty and trust.
Commitment and Leadership
For a family business to thrive, there needs to be total buy-in from all family members and employees involved, regardless of position. This includes a shared understanding of the business’ vision, goals, pricing, offerings, and operational strategies. While consensus is crucial, it is equally important to have clear decision-makers who can guide and lead the business. These individuals are often the backbone of the operation, handling finances, making tough decisions, and working extensive hours to ensure the business’ survival and success.
Challenges
Despite the potential for success, family businesses face several challenges. Financial stability can be precarious, especially without the backing of corporate investors. Rising costs and competitive market pressures can quickly deplete resources, and local support may wane during economic downturns as consumers seek the lowest prices, often found at larger corporate establishments.
Family dynamics can also pose significant challenges. Disagreements among family members about the direction of the business can lead to operational issues and conflicts. For instance, some family members may want to sell the business, while others may be committed to continuing and growing it. These internal conflicts can damage the business’ reputation and overall performance.
Customer Relations and Reputation
The way customers are treated is critical to the success of any business in any industry, and family businesses are no exception. Poor customer service can lead to a loss of customer loyalty and a damaged reputation, which can be particularly devastating for family businesses that rely heavily on community support.
Seeking Expert Help
Given the complexities and potential pitfalls, it is essential for family businesses to recognize when they need external help. Hiring experts or consultants can provide valuable insights and strategies to get the business back on track or achieve its goals. This proactive approach can help mitigate risks and ensure the long-term sustainability of the business.
Family businesses embody a unique blend of personal passion, community commitment, and entrepreneurial spirit. While they offer many advantages, such as strong community ties and personalized customer service, they also face significant challenges related to financial stability, family dynamics, and customer relations. By recognizing these challenges and seeking help when needed, family businesses can navigate the complexities and achieve lasting success.
Whitney, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
My name is Whitney Goulish, and I am the President and Founder of WG Business Enterprises LLC. With over 14 years of experience as a Business Operations Executive, I have dedicated my career to helping businesses turn challenges into opportunities. At WG Business Enterprises, we live by our motto: Delivering Business Insights & Proven Leadership That Drive Enhanced Operational Performance.
About WG Business Enterprises
WG Business Enterprises exists to empower businesses like yours to thrive, whether you’re a start-up needing guidance, an established company seeking operational change, or a business leader managing a critical project. We specialize in turning red numbers into black, optimizing operations, and equipping leadership teams with the knowledge and strategies they need to succeed long-term.
I founded WG Business Enterprises to provide more than just quick fixes—we deliver lasting solutions. Our work goes beyond solving immediate problems; we strive to teach the why and how behind our recommendations. This ensures that you’re not just resolving today’s challenges but are prepared to navigate tomorrow’s opportunities with confidence.
How We Can Help
WG Business Enterprises takes a customized, hands-on approach to meet your business’s unique needs. Here’s how we can help:
Business Operations Optimization: We’ll analyze your operations to identify inefficiencies and implement strategies that reduce costs, streamline processes, and maximize profitability. From small operational tweaks to large-scale reorganizations, our expertise ensures results you can see and measure.
Leadership Development & Empowerment: Effective leadership is at the heart of any thriving organization. We work closely with business leaders to build confidence, improve decision-making skills, and foster an empowered, results-oriented team culture.
Financial Performance Improvement: Struggling with cash flow or profitability issues? We’ll help you identify hidden financial opportunities, restructure budgets, and establish actionable plans to improve your bottom line.
Project & Change Management: Whether you’re launching a new initiative, restructuring your operations, or implementing new systems, we’ll guide you through every step with expert project and change management strategies that ensure success.
Custom Business Support: Need a flexible, dependable partner? We handle diverse tasks—from creating policies and managing logistics to handling urgent operational needs—with meticulous attention to detail.
Why Choose WG Business Enterprises?
We know you have options when it comes to business consultants. Here’s what sets WG Business Enterprises apart:
Tailored Solutions That Work for You: We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Every business is unique, and so is our approach. We take the time to understand your goals, challenges, and culture, crafting customized strategies that align with your vision.
Hands-On, Relationship-Driven Approach: At WG Business Enterprises, you’re not just another client. I’ll work with you directly, offering a personal and transparent partnership that ensures your voice is heard and your needs are prioritized.
Proven Expertise Across Industries: With over a decade of leadership experience spanning non-profits, healthcare, food and beverage, retail, and more, I bring a diverse and adaptable skill set to the table. Whatever your industry, I’ve likely tackled challenges like yours before—and delivered measurable results.
Long-Term Value: Our goal is to not only solve your immediate challenges but to teach you sustainable practices and strategies that empower your team for years to come. When we’re done, you’ll have the tools and knowledge to maintain and build on your success.
Commitment to Integrity and Excellence: You can count on us to deliver honest assessments, practical solutions, and unwavering dedication to your success. We’re not just here to “check a box”—we’re here to make a meaningful, lasting impact.
Let’s Make a Difference Together
My passion for this work stems from knowing that the right guidance can be transformative. Helping a family-owned business avoid closure or equipping a start-up with the tools for success is not just my job—it’s my calling.
If you’re ready to solve complex problems, increase your ROI, and build a stronger, more efficient business, let’s connect. I’d love to schedule a consultation and discuss how WG Business Enterprises can support your goals.
Have you ever had to pivot?
When I quit my full-time job to start working for myself, it was a leap of faith—a decision made almost on a whim. But it didn’t take long for me to realize I had made the right choice. Owning my own business has been an incredible journey, one that has given me freedom, flexibility, and the chance to build something meaningful on my terms. For the first time, I’m setting ambitious goals and creating a vision for the future, charting a path for how big I want my company to grow. The corporate world had left me disillusioned. Despite years of stellar performance, working in every department, earning a Master’s degree, and stepping up whenever needed, I kept running into organizations with poor leadership, stagnant cultures, and a refusal to adapt. Promotions were rare, higher-level positions were out of reach, and the voices of those below the top tier were often ignored. Frustrated, I realized it was time to break free and create something different—not just for myself, but for others too.
Now, I’m building a business that truly makes a difference. I have the opportunity to transform struggling family-owned businesses, stepping in when they’re on the brink of collapse and offering a last-ditch effort to save not just their operations, but their livelihoods. It’s exhilarating and nerve-wracking to know I can help turn a failing business around, adding value to their bottom line and, in some cases, completely changing their financial future. That impact is what drives me. In today’s constantly evolving environment, helping others grow their book of business or find new paths to profitability is critical.
What I’m doing now is about more than just personal success; it’s about empowering others. I’ve taken the frustration I felt in the corporate world and channeled it into creating solutions. I’m not just building a business for myself—I’m helping others achieve what they might have thought was impossible. That’s the difference I want to make, and it’s why this pivot into entrepreneurship has been the most rewarding decision of my life
How do you keep your team’s morale high?
Managing and growing a team effectively involves a multifaceted approach that encompasses various strategies to enhance communication, build camaraderie, and foster a positive company culture.
Evaluating and improving company culture is crucial for team management. This involves reviewing the current culture, identifying areas for improvement, and making necessary changes with input from senior leadership. A positive company culture should be balanced, making all employees feel welcome, heard, and respected.
Clear and open communication is essential for effective team management. Ensure that there are clear lines of communication between management and staff, and that all employees feel included through collaborative efforts. Regular check-ins, open feedback channels, and tools like Slack or Trello can streamline communication and reduce misunderstandings.
Building camaraderie among team members is vital for a cohesive and motivated team. This can be achieved through various fun and team-bonding activities, both during and after work hours. Here are some ideas:
– Volunteer Together: Organize a day for the team to give back to the community, which builds camaraderie and leaves a lasting impact
– Team Cooking Class: A cooking class encourages teamwork, creativity, and laughter while everyone enjoys good food
– Outdoor Adventure Day: Plan activities like hikes, nature walks, or escape room challenges to create shared experiences beyond the office.
– Game Night or Trivia Challenge: Host lighthearted competitions such as board games, trivia, or karaoke to relax and engage with colleagues.
– Holiday Party: Celebrate the season with a festive gathering that gives everyone a chance to unwind, connect, and celebrate their hard work.
Providing opportunities for professional growth is a powerful motivator. Offer staff opportunities to grow through professional development courses, classes, and learning opportunities. Host trainings for senior leadership that directly relate to managing teams, which can help them better support their team members.
Setting clear expectations and goals is fundamental to team management. Senior leadership should set clear goals and ensure that management shares and encourages lower-level employees to understand these expectations on a daily basis. Use tools like Gantt charts and timelines to visualize progress and deadlines.
Offering incentives can significantly boost team morale and motivation. These incentives don’t have to be monetary; they can include gift cards, merchandise, or other items that staff would appreciate. Ensure that any incentives are achievable regardless of position, so everyone feels included and motivate.
By implementing these strategies, you can create a positive and productive team culture that fosters growth, morale, and collaboration among team members.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://wgbusinessenterprises.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wgbusinessenterprises/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100093012210685
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wg-business-enterprises/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@WGBusinessEnterprises
Image Credits
M Suarez Photography