Dear SaaStr: How can I handle a distrustful, lying, and micro-managing CEO that I am reporting to at a startup I co-founded?
Quit. If you are that angry — It’s Time. But — quit quietly with grace. Leave if not happy, pretend happy. Leave “Pretend Grateful.”
If you are that upset and angry, and have also tried some cofounder counseling, and you still don’t trust your co-founder … it’s time to move on.
But do it gracefully, and with respect, and quietly, and with plenty of notice. And after all — your equity just might be worth something, someday.
And don’t complain to the VCs. Investors almost always back the CEO unless there is fraud, malfeasance, or inappropriate behavior. It’s not worth it.
Say Thank You, give plenty of notice, and just move on with grace. No matter how you are feeling. It’s the best way in the end.
It’s not a small world, but it’s one that echoes all the time.
And a related post here:
