Dear Alton,

Many people believe that working with family members may be easier and more fun than working with non-related coworkers. In fact, working side-by-side with members of your family can be a very trying and challenging situation, as you’ve experienced first hand.

Consider the fact that you know these people inside and out, their “hot buttons,” and you bring a healthy dose of “baggage” to this new working relationship. All of these things could spell disaster when you least expect it. Following these general guidelines will help keep you all happy during work and play:

Keep it all business, not personal.
All parties must agree to be as professional as possible when in the workplace. Any personal feelings need to be left at the door and should never seep into the office. 

Appoint a referee.
Identify someone that all parties trust to be objective and fair and give them the task and permission to step in and intervene when arguments or incidents in the workplace are based on irrational and/or personal feelings. Sometimes family members tend to be overly critical of their related coworkers or the opposite and play favoritism. Having an objective third-party to monitor such tendencies will go a long way in creating peace at the office.

Keep open lines of communication.
As in any relationship, harboring ill will or negative feelings towards someone will only result in resentment and a potential “blow up.” It is particularly crucial to building effective working relationships to communicate often with your family members. Conduct a litmus test to determine if things are working well or if there are problems brewing and what steps you’ll need to take to resolve those issues.

Do your job.
Regardless of the current state of affairs between you and your family members, it should always be your top priority to do your job, and to do it well. Make sure you are always performing at a high level so that your competency as an employee is never questioned. If you and your family members are meeting or exceeding the requirements of your job, any squabbles or issues that may arise between you will be less damaging to your reputation and credibility.

Remember to always demonstrate respect for other people in the workplace, especially your relatives. If you remain as professional and appropriate as possible, irregardless of any deep-seeded feelings and attitudes towards family members, you should have no problems making work a family affair.
Good luck!

Seymour