What to expect when expecting... a transaction!

<p>Keeping with the theme of providing guidance throughout a process, we felt it would make the most sense to talk you through the emotions that will come with a transaction. During this podcast we will discuss what to expect; before, during and after a transaction.</p><p>Getting to the emotional state whereby you are ready to sell your business is a rollercoaster of a journey, filled with ups and downs and at times filled with doubts and fear.  </p><p>Having a trusted advisor guide you through the options surrounding a potential exit or merger of your business helps ensure clarity and proper understanding of the pros and cons of each option.  </p><p>Let’s dive in...</p><p><strong>BEFORE:</strong></p><p>When we begin working with a client our first focus is to establish a clear understanding of the intended outcomes a seller (or buyer) is looking to achieve. Through a detailed process we are able to establish metrics and milestones that would be required to achieve such outcomes - we will walk through the valuations we are seeing in both existing and adjacent categories in both like and opposing markets/audiences. Second is to determine what financial results are going to need to be met to achieve the valuation the parties are seeking.  Often we will leverage our SVP model to help a client achieve required metrics both in growth and earnings. This will enable the seller to either buckle down and get to the number or reduce expectations and proceed to market with a lower valuation and alternative suitor profile.</p><p> </p><p><strong>DURING:</strong></p><p>Usually once we get to the phase of marketing the company for sale (or start the hunt to find the ideal asset) we have a solid foundation for what the process will look like and who will be invited to participate.  This stage can come with some personal baggage when existing owners begin carving out who they are not willing to consider as a suitor.  These discounted suitors are usually competitors or operators that have a track record of executing less than admi