Since the founding of America, family businesses have been the backbone of our nation, with each one representing a cornerstone in its local community. There is just something special about patronizing small companies who treat their customers like family members.
However, how much do we really know about what it’s like to be a part of a family business?
To get an insider’s perspective, we recently visited with father and son team Barry and Zac Carver of Serra Chevrolet-Buick-GMC of Nashville. Barry is the Serra’s owner, and his son Zac is the company’s sales manager.
Barry, how did you get into the automotive business?
“I have always been intrigued by cars. I began my automotive career cleaning dealership service departments in Dayton, Ohio while I was in high school. Over the years, my passion for automobiles has increased from there, and this October, I will celebrate 40 years in automotive retail.
Zac, how did you decide to follow your father in the automotive business?
“My decision to follow my father into the automotive business was inspired by a mix of personal passion and the values that he instilled in me.
Zac, how long have your worked with your father?
“I have worked for my father for more than 15 years. I started out as a lot attendant at our Jackson campus in 2008.”
What are some of the challenges of working together in a family business?
Barry
“This is a great question, and one that I have been asked many times. I wouldn’t describe it as a challenge, but rather it’s a privilege to be able to have one of my three kids display the drive, intellect and passion for the industry.”
The car business can be stressful at times, but very rewarding if you keep the customer at the center of all that you do. I learned many years ago that any successful organization recognizes that customers, or as we prefer to call them guests, are the center of our universe, and every process that we implement should have them in mind.”
Zac
“Working together in a family business presents personal challenges, such as maintaining professional respect during disagreements, and clearly defining each person’s role. For instance, to foster objectivity among colleagues, I avoid referring to my father as ‘Dad’ or ‘my father’ in the workplace. Instead, I use his name or his title.
Another key challenge is aligning myself with his vision for the business. I’ve learned that my role is to support and execute his goals for the store, rather than prioritizing my own ideas. Keeping this perspective at the forefront guides my decisions and interactions, ensuring a cohesive and professional working environment.”
What is your most memorable moment of working together, so far?
Barry
“I enjoy attending Zac’s sales meetings. He is high energy, and he approaches each meeting with intensity and excitement. His goal is for everyone to takes something away from the meetings that can be shared with a guest to assist them in making an informed decision.”
Zac
“My most memorable moment of working with my father in the business was the acquisition of the Clarksville campus in late 2023. Witnessing the intricate process of acquiring a dealership, from negotiations to finalizing the deal, gave me a profound appreciation for the effort involved.
Seeing how quickly positive results began to emerge at the new location was incredibly rewarding. As a child, I wasn’t able to experience such a significant milestone in my father’s career, so being a part of this achievement made it especially meaningful, and it strengthened our shared commitment to the business.”
How has working together impacted your family life outside of the business?
Barry
“I believe that it has made us closer, and it has helped us to develop a mutual respect for one another.”
Zac
“Working together in the family business has significantly strengthened our relationship. Outside of work, when we gather with our entire family, my father and I share unique conversations about the business that are special to us. These moments, filled with shared experiences and insights, have been incredibly enjoyable, and they have deepened our bond, both professionally and personally.”
What advice would you give to other fathers and sons considering going into business together?
Barry
“Always respect one another’s opinion, and remember, you may not always agree.”
Zac
“My advice to fathers and sons considering a business partnership is to cherish the unique opportunity and to view success as a way to honor that privilege. By treating the business with purpose and gratitude, you not only ensure its success, but you also deepen your own personal relationship.”
Serra Chevrolet-Buick-GMC of Nashville
2340 Gallatin Pike North,
Madison, TN 37115
615.239.0802
“My advice to fathers and sons considering a business partnership is to cherish the unique opportunity and to view success as a way to honor that privilege. Also, always treat the business with purpose and gratitude."