As we begin a new year, many family business leaders are asking the same question:
How do we re-energize our people and reinforce a shared sense of purpose heading into 2026?
In our latest video, we explored a simple but powerful approach—one that’s often overlooked and always underestimated.
You can watch the video here, or scroll down to read the highlights.
The Most Practical Way to Re-Energize Your Team: Ask Them What They Think
When asked for one practical tip to help leaders strengthen purpose and culture in the new year, Jay’s answer was surprisingly simple:
“You might try asking them what they think.”
It seems almost too simple, but that’s exactly why it’s so effective.
In many family businesses, employees quietly wonder whether their perspectives matter.
Whether justified or not, it’s easy for team members to feel unheard or unimportant.
And when people feel undervalued, engagement drops, long before performance does.
As Jan explained, simply asking for someone’s thoughts can be one of the most meaningful actions a leader takes.
Even if their suggestion isn’t implemented, the act of asking signals:
- You’re important
- Your input is valued
- Your voice shapes the future of this company
When people feel seen and heard, they feel connected. And connection drives commitment.
Why Asking Questions Matters More Than Having the Answers
Leaders often put pressure on themselves to know it all.
To have every solution, every next step, every strategic answer.
But as Rob reminds us:
“Leadership has the questions. Your people, and your customers, vendors, and suppliers, have the answers.”
If you want to improve customer service, ask the customers.
If you want to improve operations, ask the employees closest to the work.
If you want to understand opportunities or challenges, talk to the partners who see your business from the outside in.
That’s where the gold is.
At Ferguson Alliance, we help leaders build the confidence and skill to ask better questions, questions that bring clarity, invite collaboration, and unlock insights from the people who know the work best.
Because culture is not built by pronouncements.
It’s built by conversations.
Participation Builds Purpose
When employees feel they can contribute, when they know their ideas matter, they don’t just “work for” the business.
They participate in the business.
That sense of participation strengthens:
- Engagement
- Loyalty
- Ownership thinking
- Team cohesion
- Purpose alignment
Heading into 2026, the most effective leadership move may not be a new initiative, incentive, or program.
It may simply be a thoughtful, genuine question.
Want to Strengthen Purpose and Culture in Your Family Business?
If you’re thinking about how to deepen engagement, build stronger leaders, or reinforce a culture of stewardship in the year ahead, our team would be glad to help you take the next step.
Reach out today for a consultation with one of our experienced family business advisors.