3-CIRCLE MODEL

The 3-circle model above indicates the various dimensions within a family business: places that individuals are within the family business system. Specifically, there are 7 different "places" for every person associated with a family business:

1. Family member
2. Family member, working in the business
3. Family member, not working in the business, with ownership
4. Family member, working in the business, with ownership
5. Non-family staff member, no ownership
6. Non-family staff member, with ownership
7. Non-family member, not working in the business, with ownership

Each person, regardless of place within the system, has his or her own unique perspective, needs, wants, and desires. Clearly communicating these needs in an atmosphere of mutual trust and respect is a major step in creating harmony with a family business. BCG assists in the identification and sharing of individual needs and expectations based upon the 3-circle model.