Joan Berta

Professional Services

Succession Planning
Over 60% of Canadian companies whose owners are 55 plus years of age have not addressed the succession issue. This suggests that they have not faced the future and have not addressed the reason they started the business. Many have sacrificed family, friends, health to make the business successful. They have earned a life beyond the business and do not know "how to get there". That is my job, where I can contribute.
Sibling/Partner Conflict
Isn't it amazing that children brought up in the same home are different, regardless of gender. My role is to identify where the conflicts originate and facilitate a consensus that works for all. While this is an oversimplified statement, families have values, and ultimately, those values prevail. Bringing everyone back to his or her values is the key to finding the consensus.
Estate Planning Management
Why do businesses exist? Often the owner started the business out of necessity, - no job, no future, no security. However, at some point in the evolution of the business, the owner(s) must face their past. Do they want this business to move to the next generation? Do they want an asset to leave as a legacy? If the plan is to sell the business, the asset changes from a business to 'cold, hard cash'. Managing the estate planning process to minimize taxes and maximize family wealth is paramount to realizing the potential.
Coaching
Business owners are often very lone wolves. They have focused all attention on building and securing the business. They have not built a security zone where they can talk freely about their needs, concerns, vision. As a coach, my job is to open the door to possibilities; be the sounding board, and direct traffic away from the owner to allow for clear thinking.
Quarterbacking the Process
This is a process. It needs a quarterback, a traffic director, a process manager. My skills, experience, and training have helped numerous companies to reach their potential and execute the plan for achievement.