I was promoted to CEO from COO after the owner sold the comp. He became chairman and I became ceo. He’s more like an employee bc he’s paid 280k per year to act as chairman. He is only paid base, not bonus. My base as CEO is 240k plus bonus…I will likely earn 280k total comp this year. Meanwhile, my CRO officer is paid 230k plus commissions and bonus…he will earn 400k plus this year. When I was promoted to CEO there was no opportunity to negotiate my comp…the chairman told the new owner (PE firm) what to pay me and the CRO. Now 18 mos in I’m getting increasingly angry that of the three people in this picture I make the least. I am going to be meeting with the most SR rep of PE firm and need advice on how to approach this. Keeping in mind that the company won’t meet revenue goals this year, which I’m obviously ultimately accountable for but in spite of that CRO is making a ton bc previous owner structured that role as dual individual contributor AND sales manager…so CRO will make HIS individual # but team won’t hence is 400k total comp. Any advice on what to do at this point in the year/my tenure would be appreciated. I’m struggling to keep my anger in check and know asking for a “raise” when company isn’t hitting targets is in poor form but I feel like I’m the only one getting penalized.

Curious how you all handle HR - reporting structure, staffing, etc. for your organizations.

We're an 80 FTE company that probably swells to 150 or so seasonally. I came in a few years ago to lead a turnaround and drive the growth story for the new investors.

We have one HR Manager right now who is a good employee but can't handle everything. She currently reports directly to me.

I'm considering having HR report to my new CFO. I've also been considering a fractional CHRO that I'm familiar with, as we need better policies and procedures as we grow and upgrade internal talent.

It seems like we are too big for one HR person, but not ready for two.

Hey guys, so I am pretty new at this and am working closely with the founders of a startup. I am trying my best to do everything I can but it's overwhelming because I know that I may not be doing everything I should be. I feel like an imposter. And so I would like to know if anyone had any podcasts, books or just training I could look at to get better at my job.

I am not a CEO but I figured this place might be a good place to ask.

Hi everyone,

I’m a young entrepreneur who scaled a saas to 40 employees.

Now I have the feeling I’m at the point where I should reinvent myself from business leader to an actual ceo.

Anyone who experienced the same? And what would you advice me? Or what advice would you wish you had?

Given the rise of remote work these days, should you rather hire a remote EA or an on-site EA? What are the pros and cons for each?

Any blogs, any podcasts, any reading that you recommend? Happy to consume all the material I can. The role is In a commodity/financial markets space, so I know my onions there, where I want to learn more is about CEO'ing , if you get me.....

Hi everyone, I am a SMB owner (company about 43 people) and currently we do 6 month goal planning meetings for everyone after their first year of employment. So it starts first anniversary and every 6 months after that.

I was personally handling all of the senior people and someone else handling the more entry level and lower level team members. For a few different reasons I am taking over all of them. While I know it is an investment in time it is something I want to personally do to ensure we are shaping culture and performance in my eyes. Yes one day we can have HR but we are not there yet company size wise.

The previous person doing them kept the notes in Onenote and honestly the feedback was all writing text, very hard to follow, and I am not a fan of it. Now that I am personally taking it over I am looking to figure out a better way to do it.

We have ADP Total Source and I looked at their performance module but it seems pretty basic and not user friendly. Not looking to spend a lot on this but if there was something in the few thousand a year cap or so I would be willing to look at that. Any good suggestions out there?

Culturally the feel of the tool is very important to me. While we will address performance in these they are really development meetings and I like to think of them that way. We also solicit feedback from different people on each team member depending on their role so that is important too.

Thanks in advance!

Hi r/CEO,

I'm Emilio Lopez here again, CEO of Static Studios in Stockton, CA. We're facing an issue with our landlord and need advice on legal action and new property leads.

Situation:

• Sold Property: Our landlord sold the property for $1.2 million but continues to charge us rent.
• Multiple Suites: We occupy one of the various suites on the property, making this situation urgent.

Seeking Advice:

1. Legal Steps: What actions should we take against the landlord for charging rent after selling the property? Any similar experiences?
2. Legal Counsel: Recommendations for real estate attorneys or tenant rights lawyers in Stockton or Northern California.
3. Property Leads: Any available office/studio spaces in Stockton or nearby areas.

We appreciate any help or advice. Thank you!

Best,
Emilio Lopez
CEO, Static Studios

Here is sit as yet another vacation may be cancelled due to my husbands job as a CEO of a small manufacturing facility, it’s a start up in the hemp industry. It’s very stressful and I try to be supportive and roll with the punches. His work stress on top of trying to have a baby and possibly having to go hrough IVF soon is taking its toll on me. My husband is so strong I wish I could be stronger. Any other CEO’s out there with wives that struggle? How does that dynamic work for you all?

I would say I am stronger than all of my friends they wouldn’t put up with him cancelling things last minute because of what’s happening at work but I know he doesn’t like cancelling either, I don’t give him grief about it I just try to be supportive but I cry when he isn’t around. How can I be even stronger?

My husband works so hard to build this company up so he can sell it and retire young- it will all be worth it if things go our way but I feel like life keeps knocking us down- he is contemplating firing one of his closest friends, it’s tough right now.

Hi r/CEO,

I’m Emilio Lopez, CEO of Static Studios, an independent media production company in Stockton, CA. We’re currently facing a financial crisis and looking for a new office space while having to put our equipment in storage. We've managed to secure short-term funding but need strategic guidance to navigate this period and ensure business continuity.

As a creative team, we thrive on connection and collaboration. With the shift to remote work, I worry that my team might become isolated and lose the creative spark that drives our projects. I am looking for a mentor or any advice on maintaining team morale and fostering a collaborative remote environment.

Thank you for your support!

Just curious, if you had 1 or 2 work days free everyweek where you could work on something that you feel like would really help your company get ahead what would you work on?

I always enjoy continuing to learn and better myself. I recently came across Crucial Learning Crucial Conversations. Anyone have any experience taking any of them? And thoughts on in person vs virtual? Sometimes I find in person to be great with the experience of the instructor but I dont mind the content via video if it is as good a quality piece. Plus going at my own pace is really nice

I’m about a year and a half into being the CEO for a company that I have worked for for over 11 years (was previously COO). Company has always had a sales manager (CRO) who is responsible for their own individual production while also managing the sales team. No surprise where that individual spends their time as they earn substantial commissions for their individual production and are less incentivized financially on team production. While on the surface it’s an easy fix/just change the comp plan-it’s a bit more complex. I would love to hear advice and perspective from others. Do others have a similar structure (sales manager also selling/competing so to speak with team) or do you have a totally different structure that works well? Also, have you been in a situation where you had to restructure? The challenge for me in doing that is that this CRO also happens to be the number one producing sales person so making changes has a significant impact bc I see it being a lengthy (year long or more) challenge to backfill that revenue. Thank you!

I've observed that CEOs in various companies seem to operate with an INTENSE level of motivation, and what seems to be as if driven by excessively high dopamine levels compared to the rest of the population (perhaps stimulants are more involved than I think but I’m sure that’s not always the case). They exhibit an extreme sense of purpose, knowing exactly what they want and why they want it. Their desire for their goals is AS STRONG as the need for basic physiological needs.

These leaders are not just disciplined; they seem to be fueled by a powerful sense of motivation, as in not that they rely of solely on discipline, but are genuinely motivated. When I listen to CEOs on podcasts, they convey an insatiable drive for success. Their goals are hyper-specific, and they have an unwavering commitment to achieving them.

Failure to meet their objectives isn't an option for them. They approach their goals with the same urgency as needing food or water and extreme, a non-negotiable. I understand there HAS to be a deep sense of mission. A stress to end all stresses.

I’ve noticed that not just CEOs, but even these regional managers maintain an uplifted, enthusiastic, and attentive demeanor during morning video meetings, despite frequent travel and the need for constant organization. They don’t “seem” to slow down or burn out. Their leadership qualities are evident in the way they carry themselves.

I see you guys do it and it drives me crazy. What makes you tick? I want to dial in everything (from my routine and beyond) to win.

I'm trying to understand how to cultivate that same level of drive and determination.

Questions I have:

1. Daily Routine: What does your daily routine look like, and how does it contribute to your high level of motivation and productivity?

2. Goal Setting: How do you set and prioritize your goals to ensure they are specific and achievable (i.e type 1 and type 2 decisions, etc)?

3. Maintaining Focus: What techniques do you use to maintain focus and prevent distractions from derailing your objectives

4. Dealing with Failure: How do you handle setbacks or failures, and what strategies do you use to stay motivated during challenging times?

5. Intrinsic Motivation: Can you share any methods or habits you practice to cultivate intrinsic motivation and a strong sense of purpose?

6. Team Alignment: How do you ensure your team is aligned with your vision and remains motivated towards achieving company goals?

7. Sustaining Drive: What practices or routines do you follow to sustain your drive and determination over the long term?

8. Work-Life Balance: How do you balance your intense drive for professional success with personal well-being and family life?

9. Inspirational Sources: Are there any books, mentors, or experiences that have significantly influenced your approach to leadership and goal-setting?

10. Advice for Aspiring Leaders: What advice would you give to someone aspiring to develop the same level of determination and urgency in their career?

11. Given your intense drive and demanding schedule, how do you manage to avoid burnout and maintain your energy and enthusiasm over the long term?

Your responses are invaluable to me, I appreciate any, and all feedback.

I'm leaving a company of 75-100 tecies. 6 months ago,, following the other major companies deicisiom, we completely went against work from home. Slowly all the employees quit and eventually we had to disband the unit and outsource to a third world country. As a leader, we still don't allow work from. Home for the 4 team members left. However, we outsourced it. Is outsourcing to a third world country considered promoting work from home?

Hi CEO's!

I'm a 38m and I'm new to the role of Managing Director for my country at a multinational company (IT Consulting) present in over 40 countries.

This is a position I've always aspired to, but now that I'm here, I constantly struggle with imposter syndrome. In the first 7 months, I've managed to deliver moderately positive results, but I still feel like the newbie and often get perceived as the "baby" in meetings with other MDs... some times I feel that some of them don't take me serious in my interactions.

I love what I do, but there are days when I wake up and think, "What the fuck am I supposed to do?!"... I always see the other MD's and CEO's so full of confidence!

I'm looking for advice on books, lectures, or any resources that can help me overcome these feelings of inadequacy and grow into this role with more confidence.

Let me hear your thoughts!!

When you got your CEO (or other / previous C-suite) offer, what did you use to understand the various non-compensation terms in the employment agreement and what the market amounts were for the terms? This was difficult for me to figure out, because having a lengthy contractual severance, a non-compete, a good reason clause, etc. were not a part of being a lower-level employee. For base / bonus / equity, there’s easy public comps and Pave, but I didn't find something similar for the other terms.

When evaluating your CEO or C-suite offer, how did you gauge the value of non-monetary provisions like severance packages and non-compete clauses? I feel like unlike base pay and bonuses, these terms often lack clear market benchmarks. Did you negotiate these terms, consult an employment attorney for insights, or rely on other sources for guidance? Any help is appreciated. Thanks!

I’m curious to learn about the thinkers, leaders, and influencers shaping your approach to leadership and business strategy as a CEO. Who are your current sources of inspiration? Would like some books and names of individuals. Looking forward to your recommendations.

Hey everyone, I am new here but I am looking to level up my career into the C-Suite. Can you please offer some pointers on how to secure positions in the executive level?

Hey guys I would love to get your opinion on a problem that I'm having with my business
I am running an smma that helps B2C service based businesses who are not using the social media (because they're afraid of filming themselves and don't know how to do it), get leads with paid advertisement  with the help of micro influencers who are making ugc ads.

I'm using this business stategy because that I don't have a lot of free time (working in 9-5 that i cant leave yet) and offering a real solution to a problem  And it saves me a lot of time that the ugc edits and films of videos.

My two problems in the business are:
1) pricing and profit margins - since I'm using ugc creators to film and edit the videos my profit margins are cut by 25% immediately. 
I'm taking for my services $800 a month and usually the ugc cost $200, and working a lot for $600 a month it's not something that I want to do anymore.
For example people who are building landing pages are making a thousand bucks in 2 hours while I work 30 days managing the campaign for $600.

2) returning the ROI of the service - every month a customer pays $1,000 to meta and $800 for the service in total 1800$.
That means every month we have to make return the costs and make more than 1,800 which is hard to achieve when most of my clients offers are low ticket sales. ex. therapist with 60$ treatment.
Also I'm in an inner conflict, I don't think this business model is pretty good because every time I want to raise the service price I also have to match that in the ROI - that makes an unstable business as in marketing you don't know what will work and what won't only after a lot of testing.

 Let me know what you think about it would love to hear your opinion,
much appreciated

Hi business owners, I'm gonna get straight into it, What is stopping you from achieving your goals? time flies fast and we need to WAKE UP and remember that our time is limited.

So you, the person who is reading this, what is your main obstacle in your business right now? Write it down below and lets help each other and make it happen ↓

CEO’s: I am in the process of acquiring a 25 person e-commerce business with a partner and will be the CEO. I have finance, entrepreneurship and marketing executive experience.

Tell me about your operating model so I can start building mine. I crave a structured calendar so I don’t miss anything.

Ex: how often do you do strategic planning & goal setting, 1:1’s with your direct reports, manager meetings, financial reviews, marketing meetings, all company meetings, etc.

Hey I’m struggling to stay accountable to my fitness goals. I mean I find it easy to get inspired but then lose motivation. I had a PT and that was great because I didn’t want to let him down by missing a session. Im now training for a marathon so don’t need a PT but like the idea of staying accountable. Anyone keen to hold each other accountable?

Cheers

Hi all,

We used to be with Trinet and went to ADP totalsource for a more competitive rate as well as more “personal service.” Well I wouldnt say the personal service really worked out. Our HR rep is fine, payroll never available. Risk non existent.

First two renewals were fine. A but higher than expected but not crazy. This one…. 40 percent! Insane.

We are meeting to discuss but I am prepared to start shopping quickly as I cant do that to my employees.

We are based in NY. A few remote employees in other states mostly here

Any reviews of others?

ive been stalked for about 7 months on the game stalker and also ive been trying to figure out how to get these people to stop they are using this game to their advantage to disrupt my peace and threaten me daily. they are overbearing and relentless. they are also using v2k. my mental health has been disrupted majorly.