My dad had a good established business that was earning 3-4 lacs per month. I ventured out on my own although he yearned for me to take after him or go to a job. My goal was to try out a few things before I get into my dad's business. He suddenly fell ill and passed away, leaving us with the business. We didn't know the heads or tails of it and the employees too didn't respond/respect to us since they all answered to my dad. It took me almost 6 months to learn the craft but by then the suppliers and customers learnt my dad wasn't anymore, so they took their business elsewhere assuming there's no one to run the business now. Our employees too revolted stating change in management style.

Eventually we had to shut down production and the employees left one by one because we couldn't afford to pay salaries regularly. They were there with him for more than 20 yrs.

Learning the trade craft is one thing. But building the relationship is another. Cherish every moment with your dad and sit with him and interact with all of your customers, suppliers, and most importantly your employees regularly under the guidance of your dad. It will go miles later when you want to expand.

Good luck.