How do I stop my business partner sacking our new general manager?

Dear Aunty B,

My business partner and I have hired a general manager four months ago. One of his roles is to set up processes and systems. My partner, who is very disorganized, is up in arms and says he is slowing the business down and wants to sack him.

I think he is doing a good job and we need to give him time. How do I convince my business partner who actually works in another state and not head office to back off? I have more experience in business and I know that it takes a while to get these systems up and running. But he is on the phone to me daily and the other day I got so annoyed I hung up on him.

L,
NSW

Dear L,

A common problem I am afraid. Your business partner is scared of change and can’t see the future.

Reassure him that this is a very difficult stage that all small businesses must pass through. Give him case studies – and there are plenty on SmartCompany he can access – where this type of transition has taken place. Explain that it is almost always painful. (Don’t tell him that it often doesn’t work first time.)

If he continues to pester him, explain that you are very busy and suggest a specific time every week to discuss the situation.

Make sure you have set goals with the GM so you can report back to your business partner that the strategy is working.

Lastly, protect your general manager from your business partner as it will undermine him. And make sure your business partner is not discussing the situation with staff.

Good luck!

Your Aunty B

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