We now need your help!

If you started your own business or work in a family business we'd really like to hear your views about succession. We have devised a survey for different roles within the business, please select the description which best describes your role and follow the link to the survey -  it should take no more than 10 minutes of your time.  Are you a…

Did you start the business?

-and have not yet considered succession,- please click here

-and now have the next generation of family members working with you - please click here

-with no intention/ opportunity for family succession - please click here

Did you succeed/ inherit or might succeed/ inherit

-and have not yet considered your succession - please click here

-are now considering/ bringing in your successors - please click here

Are you a family member working in the business but not a potential successor,

- please click here

 Are you a non-family member/ employee in the business in the business?

-please click here

 To enable us to capture the views of other family members and key managers in your business please also forward this wesbite page  and ask the relevant people to respond directly.

Or, if you would prefer to talk to us or request a postal survey please  email us or call us on 01603 516446  skype: SMELouise

Cut off date for responses 16 February 2012

Guidance Notes for Survey Respondents

We invite you to participate in our research into succession planning. You should only participate if you want to; choosing not to take part will not disadvantage you in any way. Before you decide whether you want to take part, it is important for you to understand why the research is being done and what your participation will involve. Please take time to read the following information carefully and discuss it with others if you wish. Ask us if there is anything that is not clear or if you would like more information.

What are the aims of this study?

Successful succession rates are very low –we want to understand why and identify how succession can be improved.  One of the outcomes of this research will be the development of practical services to support local business and their advisors in their succession and growth processes.

What benefit do I get from participating in this research?

In appreciation for the time taken to complete the survey we will offer you free summary of the research and invite you to a training event in the forthcoming months.

Who will be taking part in this study?

First generation businesses and Family Businesses – in this case, including the founder, successors and non family managers. 

Who will see the research?

The research will only be viewed by the researchers involved in the study before it is amalgamated so no one business can be identified.  All information given by you is confidential.

What do you need to do?

You are asked to complete an online questionnaire (see above) by clicking on the relevant links or by contacting us to request a phone or postal survey.

Funding and partners

This research has been part financed by the European Union (ERDF) Baltic Sea Region Programmes 2007 – 2013 (Best Agers). We are conducting the research in collaboration with The Norwich Business School, Norfolk Knowledge. Further information can be found on our website.

Confidentiality and ethics

The names and personal details of respondents will be kept confidential (unless otherwise specified). We are registered with the Information Commissioner and treat any information accordingly. We also work within the Code of Ethics provided by the Market Research Society and The Social Research Association.

Contact details for more Information

If you need further information, please contact:

Dr Louise Humphries: Social Marketing East: 01603 516446: louise@socialmarketingeast.org