How can I leave the staff that I love?

Dear Aunty B,

I would like to sell my business but there is one thing stopping me. I feel so grateful for the assistance that my senior staff have given me in building this business that I could not think about them being tossed onto the street.

How can I disappear with all the money to a comfortable – and well-earned retirement mind you – while securing their future? I know it would be a silly request but can I make them keep my staff?

Chris G

Dear Chris G,

Don’t we love our senior staff? Of course they would have no idea of the sleepless nights we have as we think about their future.

Okay. Here is what you must do. Talk to the potential buyer about the senior team. Make sure they fully understand how important they are. In effect provide references for them.

Ask also about the firm’s future plans. Do they fit into it? If you are absolutely adamant that you would not sell the company if their jobs were in jeopardy, then you could set their employment as a non-negotiable condition.

But Chris, people move on and they may well decide to follow you to a new life!

Good luck,
Your Aunty B

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