Dear Corporate Shrink

Involuntary workaholic

Dear Corporate Shrink — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 23:34:36 +0000

My wife complains I’m a workaholic. She actually told my kids she’s considering divorce. I own my business. It does very well but it’s because I work long hours and many weekends. How can I make her understand? (more…)

Not appreciated

Dear Corporate Shrink — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 23:31:25 +0000

I’m 28 and have been working for the same marketing company for the past 5 years. I’m repeatedly told I am a key to the company’s success. However, over the past two years there have been false promises regarding salary increases and bonuses. The company is doing very well. Should I be looking for another job? (more…)

Not wanting to hurt feelings

Dear Corporate Shrink — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 23:27:39 +0000

My wife and I own a business with over six million in annual sales. My oldest son is getting married in about a year. He works for us but owns no part of the business. The plan is for all our kids to own shares in the company. Our attorney is suggesting we draw up a prenuptial. It feels awkward. Is a prenuptial necessary? (more…)

Doing what’s fair

Dear Corporate Shrink — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 23:25:05 +0000

We are retiring after having owned two restaurants for over thirty years. My wife insists we give one each to our two sons. Our older son is irresponsible and I know he will run the business into the ground. Should we just sell the two restaurants? (more…)

Confused but eager to start

Dear Corporate Shrink — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 23:22:52 +0000

It may sound silly, I would like to start my own business but I can’t decide in what. How do I narrow the choices? (more…)

Proud father and business owner

Dear Corporate Shrink — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 23:19:20 +0000

My son is 23 and just graduated college with a degree in finance. I would like for him to take over the family business in 5 to 10 years. What are some suggestions for making this happen? (more…)

Frustrated team member

Dear Corporate Shrink — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 23:12:38 +0000

I am part of a senior management team. Revenues are down and we have cut costs to the bone. There’s much blaming going on but in my opinion, the real problem seems to be an indecisive and fearful CEO. The Board is beginning to finally ask the tough questions but it seems too little too late. What do you think are my options? (more…)

Frustrated job hunter

Dear Corporate Shrink — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 23:09:50 +0000

I love my job and co-workers but the travel demands are interfering with family and home life. I decided to look for a new job almost a year ago but I’ve had no success. I’m told that searching on the ‘Net is not enough. Frankly, I don’t know what kind of job to look for. My husband is becoming frustrated. Can you make some suggestions? (more…)

Revenge or resign

Dear Corporate Shrink — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 23:06:06 +0000

Last week I shared an idea with a new co-worker. She took it to my boss as if it was hers. I’ve also seen this person take credit for work others do and deny blame for her mistakes. I keep getting headaches and losing sleep over this. I keep imagining slashing one of her car tires. Should I quit my job? (more…)

At the end of my rope

Dear Corporate Shrink — Mon, 01 Oct 2007 23:04:19 +0000

I think my boss is bipolar and it’s making my life miserable enough that I’m ready to quit. He not only regularly screams at me, but does it in front of my direct reports. I admit I make mistakes but sometimes he’s just wrong. He constantly changes his mind which makes more work for everyone. There are several good employees looking for other jobs. Often he forgets what he said. He’s only in his early 40’s so I know it’s not old age. Can you offer any ideas? (more…)