We tend to gravitate toward what feels familiar. That’s why many business owners think about growth in terms of organic strategies like opening a satellite office or expanding capacity. M&A feels big and risky, like something only large companies do.
Most entrepreneurs are a rare breed, full of optimism and confidence. But that same optimism it takes to run a business is the same sense of faith and certainty that can make them feel invincible. Every economic downturn is the last, every prospect is the next big sale, and every good leader retires happily with their family.
Unfortunately, none of us are invincible. And if you’re like many business owners, a significant portion of your wealth—and your family’s income after your death—is tied up in the business.
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If you’re one of the several million baby boomers thinking about selling their company in the near future, you might be wondering how long the whole process will take and what to expect along the way.
In a nutshell, if you have a focused advisor who is actually working the deal, expect two months of initial prep, 30 to 90 days for marketing, one month for negotiations, and roughly 60 days to handle due diligence, financing and legal. Here’s the process in more detail.
Just like real estate brokers, investment bankers (IBs) bring buyers to sellers. IBs typically work on commission-based fee structure, incentivizing them to see the sale through to completion. They’re an invaluable tool to owners contemplating a sale. Here’s what you need to know about selecting the right investment banker for your needs.
It’s not easy to have the tough conversations. But as business owners, we need the courage to confront problems, particularly when we see something that goes against our core values. Failing to address issue areas can lead to dysfunction, toxic work environments, and weakened business value.
Growing companies constantly seek growth opportunities, whether by entering new markets or unveiling new products and services. Each opportunity demands thoughtful communication that helps stakeholders see the value of the transaction and supports the deal to a satisfying conclusion. The right communication strategy gives you control over the narrative, and can even increase the value of the deal. Follow these six best practices.
Paul Simon says, “There must be 50 ways to leave your lover.” There may not be quite that many ways to leave your business, but these are some of the more common:
People buy, sell, and merge businesses for many reasons. No matter the motivation, due diligence is key to a successful sale. An M&A Advisor and DealCoach can help guide you through the process.
With the summer months coming up, DealCoach & Cornerstone Business Services’ Scott Bushkie wrote a timely article for the Green Bay Press-Gazette highlighting the importance of time away and how that enhances the value of your business. Whether it’s a family trip to a cabin or a long weekend for a child’s soccer tournament – that time away gives your management team a chance build trust and help you move the business forward.
There will be a learning curve, no doubt. But take those bumps in the road to learn and coach your team, and in the long run – when you’re transitioning out and are ready to exit – there will be more interest in your business.