The landlord of my shop assumed that the stylist that contact her, for me, was the business owner and gave her a contract to sign. When I found out about this, she (stylist) had already signed! I figured that it was legal. Of course, I signed my contract. It is almost time for renewal and I've asked the landlord about not allowing the stylist to sign again for I am the business owner. She assumed that she (stylist) was because she had contacted her for all information. The stylist has lost all respect for me as the business owner and is doing her own thing and I've come to realize that the customers all think that she is the business owner. How should I go about gaining control of my business. The name is registered as sole proprietor and I hold all the responsibilities. Please help!

First, have you sat down and talked about this with her? If not, then that should be done asap. I would try initially to set the record straight politely if possible. If that does not work then you have no other choice but to 'drop the hammer.'

At this point you have no idea how she may even be hurting your business by saying things to your customers.

You are the owner, boss and cut the checks, she is an employee and apparently disrespectful of you. And any other employees that you have will also lose respect for you, this WILL happen. Or at best your stylist will divide the shop and attitudes will dive. If these efforts do not work then I believe that you have no choice but to terminate her with cause after you give her two written notices that you should ask her to sign, though she may not.

Good luck and take charge as a responsible owner should.

Stringer