I’m 24 and work for a small information technology firm of 12 employees. I’m a good worker and actually indispensable, given that no one else in the group can do what I do. The company owners don’t seem to have direction and they have broken some promises made to me on salary and money towards furthering my education. I’m ready to quit today but my mother keeps telling me to smile and do my job, while my dad sounds furious at the owners and says to look for another job. Which side are you on? (more…)

I am a 46 year old machine tool worker. I go through periodic layoffs but this time my company is closing for good. I have a small side business doing handyman work. Is this the time to try to expand it and become self-employed? (more…)

I have been working for an information technology company for the past eight years. I am bored and tired of working for the man. The money is ok but I keep wondering if I should test the waters of self-employment. How do I determine whether the right move is to take the plunge? (more…)

I am the CEO and owner of a family business. I have been hoping to retire soon but I feel trapped. I have two sons in the business but they simply don’t get along. I have a daughter who doesn’t want any part of the company but I think she’s the smartest one. She has an MBA and runs a business twice as big as ours. My wife is putting pressure on me to sell the business and be done with it. I’m tempted to do it and move to Arizona. Suggestions? (more…)

I am the founder and owner-manager of a small $6 million in revenues manufacturing company. I have a plant manager but I’m the director of sales, marketing, and pretty much the executive team. My main outside professional is my accountant. At times I think I can use another sounding board but I don’t want to bother with a board of directors. I’m not sure what my next move should be.

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