When I tell many people that I work with my father, it's often met with different remarks.
"I could never do that", to "I'd like to work with mine but I'd strangle him!".
Now at times I must admit it's a challenge! When you disagree it's easier to lash out, knowing that despite anything you say or do, you're related after all so you can get away with it.
We do have our differences in opinion, and we do have cross words at times. I think any co-founders would, related or otherwise. Ultimately I feel incredibly blessed to be able to work with my father.
The idea to work together was born out of a combination to be in control of our careers (we both came from large companies) and a mutual love of creating software products.
At work, my dad is "Charles". I think calling him that has helped reaffirm this is a business, not a Sunday get together. It also helps reaffirm with the team that there's no special treatment as a result of the relationship.
Most of all it works because our skills complement each other. Coming from a consulting background I've found my skill set has evolved into a strategy, management and sales role.
My love of spreadsheets and management tools has certainly saved our bacon when we've had to hit critical deadlines. As a result, I've stepped into the CEO role at BlackCurve, overseeing the growth of the company.
Don't let that fool you into thinking Charles has taken a back seat. He still gets into the office at 7 am, well before the first team member arrives. Charles has lived and breathed code most of his career, and I'm in awe of his ability to problem solve and deliver complicated builds with a sense of calmness.
Knowing he has my back when it comes to the delivery of our product is fantastic, and it allows me to focus on growing the company. Here's to the next chapter of working together Dad.
