Integrating family, friendship and business networks in family firms

Purpose This paper considers the multiple social networks of small family businesses and dynamic interactions between them. It analyses family, friendship business way additional ties within become visible when they are considered together rather than separately. Design/methodology/approach Semi-structured interviews thirteen family-owned managed used to establish patterns networking. A detailed case study is then presented, allowing a deeper qualitative analysis interaction different types networks. Findings The findings explore rationalities employed in networking how aspects their individual contribute development. Research limitations/implications suggests that multi-rational theoretical perspective solely business-related perspective, deepens understanding dynamics behavior may be influenced varying degrees by rationalities. Practical implications Business tends deliberately encouraged support agencies, often via deliberate development events. manner which use develop would enhance direction effectiveness such investment. Social Family businesses, especially micro- small- SME integral communities based. By viewing space, we acknowledge importance community around them integrated nature rural areas. Originality/value value this research lies proposition smaller areas surrounded inter-woven community.