Open War in the Office Arena

It’s hardly surprising that given man’s experience in wartime, there are so many words and phrases used in the business world that relate to war:

Hostile takeover: an unsolicited corporate takeover, not supported by the existing management and board of directors of the company being targeted.

Golden parachute: A clause in an executive employment contract that provides the executive with a lucrative severance package in the even of termination.

Poison pill: a device designed to prevent a hostile takeover by increasing the takeover cost, usually through the issuance of new preferred shares that carry severe redemption provisions.

Ambush or guerilla marketing: To tie a firm’s name to its competitors’ advertising.

Arrows to fire: Points to mention and/or tactics to take.

Hired gun: A consultant with expertise who may have better knowledge than almost any employee. Usually brought in to make large stuff reductions.

Author: Janet Carr

Fashion, beauty and animal loving language consultant from South Africa living in Stockholm, Sweden.

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