Our resident corporate Agony Uncle, CEO Ken Cheng, tackles business challenges – so you don’t have to.
Dear Ken Cheng,
My business is running out of money, so much so that they’ve shut off the running water in our office, and soon they will shut off the electricity. I just need to make it through to next week. What can I do?
– Trent, CEO, Stoke
Ken Cheng:
Some people believe what you should do is be honest with your employees in all circumstances. This is a huge mistake.
In times of hardship, you have to constantly project an air of success and all your “failures” need to appear intentional.
The building didn’t shut off the running water – you did. That’s right, as part of your plan to motivate your employees, they are now taking part in a 5-day Hunger Games style challenge. They will have no access to water or electricity and must fend for themselves, and whoever performs the best will receive rewards and prestige as the inaugural winner of the Survival Challenge.
People like flashiness and spectacle, and there is no better way to cover up your company’s near bankruptcy than with something like this
Tell them that for the next week, your employees must find a way to get their work done under these circumstances, even if it means spending out of their own pocket (they will not be reimbursed.)
You hit them with this and the company being in trouble will be the last thing they expect. After all, what failing business could possibly provide such glorious entertainment for their employees?
Never ever admit to being in trouble, whether in business or in your personal life. Instead, cover up your problems at all costs with elaborate schemes. You might even discover your company operates better this way. Who needs water and power when you have drama?
To have your business issues addressed or to book Ken Cheng for your event: [email protected]
