Corporate Prophets Pillows

The new boss brought a sense of urgency.

'Please remember that these figures could be off as much as two dollars.'

Moses on the web

'We manufacture micro computing circuits. We're looking to hire someone who can anticipate the next small thing.'

It was getting worse. Bob's power suit kept wanting more and more, whereas Bob just wanted out.

'The World will speak hip-hop tomorrow.'

"Work hard, make the sacrifices and in 25 years you could be just like me!"

"Maybe we should have another look at the 'business as usual' idea."

"The new revenue stream is finally kicking in."

'I hate his kind. They use their integrity and hard work to advance their careers.'

'You've become like a son to me, Alvin. But the company has strict rules against nepotism, so I have to let you go.'

Smiling businessman with rising profits

Genius

'Insofar as hard figures are still unavailable, our Mr.Rendleman has written a poem which explores the essence of the firm's situation.'

"Remember that optimistic, slightly crazy, throw a dart at the wall forecast? We beat it."

"Oh, I can't complain"

'This is why we can't have nice things... '

'I say, let's not be hasty in enforcing the mandatory retirement age.'

What Business People often say (and what they really mean)

"Leadership is about more than delegating all of your work."

'Now think, Harris, what did you do different on that day?'

'They say money can't buy happiness. Find out what can.'

'You said you wanted more responsibility, so I'm making you responsible for everything that goes wrong.'

"I'm not asking for a raise. All I'm asking for is a little warmth and human understanding."

'Yes, it's easy to make a mistake in a conduct dismissal, Bob. But as mistakes go this is a big one.'

'I think you'll find these projections somewhat exaggerated, but in a good way.'

"Yes, I know, Munger. But Wallace Stevens didn't scribble his damned verses on company time."

"No, no - I'm just looking for a balance of power that corrupts in moderation."

"I hope you don't mind, but I stuck in a little prayer for General Motors."

"Love your feng shui!"

Perhaps we could get the Saatchis to pain a pretty picture.

'Here's the improved margins you said you wanted to see this year, Tom.'

'Consensus on a Friday afternoon...what a lovely way to begin the weekend!'

'If i had my life to live over again... I'd make the same mistakes sooner'