A guide for the corporate rebel

Chuck wants to leave his current employer and start a competitor. He was aware I had done that and sought my advice. Here it is.

1. First, don’t say, write, email or otherwise record your thoughts on this until you’ve done step two. It will come back and haunt you, probably labeled “Exhibit A.”

2. Retain a very good business lawyer. That would be someone who not only knows all the pertaining law and precedent, but who is skilled at rational negotiating resolution of issues. There will be a lot of emotion about this and someone who can calm the waters and resolve the conflicts outside of court will serve everyone well.

3. Be selective about which current co-workers you will allow to join you. Don’t relieve your future competitor of their problem children. The temptation may be to minimize their ability to respond by taking a lot of people, but you’re doing them a favor by hiring those who always have complaints, negative things to say about everything and who are at the center of most tension. Your job is to drive the new organization’s growth, not become the mayor of Loserville by accumulating the malcontents who will be attracted to the conflict inherent in rebellion. The same is true with problem customers and suppliers.

4. Be prepared to play hardball. No matter how much you toe the legal line, someone can still sue you. And, they will sue for an amount intended to rock you. Also, they will probably seek injunctions and take other measures to divert your attention and shake your resolve. Be mentally tough and ready for it and prepare your staff to do likewise.

5. Keep your eye on the ball. Companies who focus on their plans and goals do well. Those who obsess with their competitors often fail.