My boss is moving forward with franchising - without input or buy-in from me (VP of Operations) or my co-worker

Question

I was promised a raise at my annual review last December; I still have not gotten it. And now my boss (owner of the company) has cut a check to a franchise attorney. I am VP of Operations at our 3 person company, and I do bookkeeping for the company in addition to other duties. He cut the check (maybe thinking I wouldn’t see it). I think franchising is not a good idea for this company for many reasons. I understand I am not the owner, but I have helped grow this company from a young start up to the company it is today. I feel my trust has been betrayed, and I don’t even know how to face him. I am actively seeking employment elsewhere (due to various factors - maxed out, not valued, etc), but I am seeking advice for how to deal with the situation while I am still here.

M Elizabeth Ingram · Answer

As far as the raise, (especially if you have it in writing), now might be a good time to remind your boss and see why it hasn't happened yet/when it will be happening.
On the franchise end, your boss may not think that it's any of your business at this point; hiring an attorney doesn't mean that he's actually going to franchise - it could mean that he's looked at the process and decided against it.   Depending on your relationship or if it's truly bothering him, you can ask him about it.  'Hey, I saw the check you cut for the franchising attorney, and I was wondering if there was anything you needed help with while you work with him/her....'

Anonymous · Answer

Good input. I followed up on my raise in August. I don’t feel comfortable asking again because of how he treats me and my coworker. I did ask about the franchise and was dismissed.  He can’t seem to make time for a 5 minute conversation. He did not put down a retainer with a franchise attorney to not franchise. I just need to find something else and leave ASAP. I helped grow the company and have been ignored when I have asked about part ownership and a 401k.  I don’t think that’s good management or how one should treat people who have worked hard to develop a business.

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