You want to exit your business in the next couple of years, but don’t want the whole world to know…
Off market and under the radar means you can spend time preparing for a successful exit, without spooking your customers or worrying your staff.
Here are 4 tips to discreetly market your business in the build-up to an exit, without letting the cat out of the bag:
🔹 Nurture industry connections. Raise your profile through attending, speaking and sponsoring events, to engage with potential acquirers, build relationships and put out feelers.
🔹 Position yourself as ‘highly acquirable’ with customers and vendors, subtly reference company milestones, such as top hires, new customers and revenue growth.
🔹 Commission an independent valuation. You’ll find this often opens the door to opportunities through the connections of the people you commission. EXTRA TIP: Don’t ask your accountant or a business broker.
🔹 Partner with M&A advisers and investors who can do much of the heavy lifting and choreography on your behalf.
Covertly marketing your company as a prime acquisition target, while still commanding a premium valuation, requires a light but deliberate touch 🙂
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