[Sexualgirl2009]

I bought a coffee shop from my friend. She lives on the property that the shop it on. She comes in every morning for a coffee. I have no problem with her coming behind the counter and making her own coffee. But then she starts talking to the customers and ringing up the drinks like she still owns the place. And she has told my employee when i was not here to do things.

I dont know a nice way to tell her i dont want her doing this anymore.

Please give me some advice on how to say this kindly.

Thanks!

[CHANDLERS WISH]

It's hard because you wouldn't have expected that, and this is your "baby" your new journey, she had hers.

I would firstly, as a business owner myself, speak to your employee and let her/him know that in future if this person does approach with directions of the business, for her/him to state, " I'm sorry but that's not the way ...........wishes for me to run it or do it", i've been instructed differently.

That way you are taking it off you and making it clear to the employee that you are the boss.

When your friend goes to ring up $, try getting to the till, smile at her and say that's ok I've got it.

Also try sitting with her with a coffee, and tell her how excited you are with the business and being a "boss"... Tell her you want to start developing relationships with the clients so that the regulars get to know you, "oh by the way, could you maybe not ring up the coffeee's? That way I can get to know the people .. And, then generally chat about the business.

If that doesn't work, you have no choice but to talk with her.

CW

[tasha_correa]

Next time she does it do this:
Smile and say "This is no longer your shope. So, let me serve you and enjoy being waited on. I know that you are trying to help, and it MUST be really hard to get out of the habbit of working while you are here, but I have things under control right now and would like you to take it easy."

And for her telling your employees what to do, just do what CW said. Let them know to be respectful and to reply to her that she needs to relax and they got it under control.
She really does mean well, and if you let her know that you understand that she wants to help, but you and your employees have got every thing under control.
(you can even tell her that you will let her know if you would ever need her help with the business because she has such great knowledge of how things work)

[vintage_butterfly]

It's hard when you take over something someone else has been doing. It's hard for them to get out of the habit, but she's hurting you in a sense. This is your business now and I agree with CH above, but also feel it may come down to having to politely tell your friend it is your business venture now and she needs to let go. Respectfully telling someone how you feel is sometimes the best way, but if she doesn't get the hint it may have to be more forceful. Good luck with the new business and may it be a success! (I'd like some coffee right about now myself...)