Key Teaching Competencies for Success in Family Businesses: a Strategic Approach in Higher Education

Abstract

Purpose: The main objective of the study is to develop essential teaching skills for the successful management of family businesses, proposing a strategic teaching plan that covers everything from student training to the creation and effective management of these companies, contributing to economic growth and meeting social demands. Theoretical Framework: The theoretical framework highlights the importance of preparing students to manage family businesses, focusing on specialized instructors. It underlines the crucial role of family businesses in economic growth and argues that proper training can reduce failure rates in this type of business. Design/Methodology/Approach: A quantitative and qualitative methodology was used, with a descriptive-correlational approach and a non-experimental cross-sectional design. The research was carried out in Mexican universities with a sample of 180 professors. Data collection included surveys and interviews, assessing key competencies such as communication, leadership, problem-solving, and financial management. Findings: The results indicate that, according to the teachers surveyed, the most relevant competencies for successful family business management include communication skills, leadership, problem-solving, teamwork, financial management, human resources, marketing, sales, innovation, and entrepreneurship. The research highlights the importance of specialized training and the need to align family and business interests. Research, Practical & Social Implications: It is suggested the implementation of a strategic educational program in higher education that covers from training to the management of family businesses, adapting to the changing demands of society and the business environment. Originality/Value: The study addresses a relevant issue and proposes concrete measures to improve training in entrepreneurship and family business management in the academic field. It proposes a comprehensive strategic teaching plan, establishing the necessary competencies for teachers and providing specific guidance towards the creation and management of family businesses.