Expert Advice
I smile knowingly as I read the farmer’s checklist, he wants to “avoid the mistakes farmers typically make” in succession planning. I don’t pretend to have the exhaustive list, but in eight years of coaching I have seen many scenarios that you don’t want to repeat.
I am extremely grateful for the three neighbours who showed up with three extra combines to harvest on the last sunny Saturday of September; it really made a huge difference in reducing the stress on our farm. When I relayed this story to an easterner, he said, “Wow, they still do that out there! Neighbours here are so competitive for land; that never happens anymore!”
Today I have encountered three acquaintances who are all dealing with different kinds of loss. A husband whose wife is suffering from a stroke. A woman whose nephew is suffering from a mental illness. Someone who has just buried her mother a few short weeks ago and is thankful that she got to celebrate her loved mum’s life with a funeral. She is also her mother had taken the time to write a will and have everything in order.
Succession planning requires good communication, but this doesn't mean ineffective meetings. The number one problem with meetings is the lack of structure.