Preparation: Motivations For Selling Your Company (EP.03)
Sep 23, 2019
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Brent Beshore, a specialist in business transitions, and Emily Holdman, an expert in strategy development, dive into the emotional motivations behind selling a business. They reveal seven core reasons for this significant decision, highlighting that it's not all about financial gain. The duo discusses the challenges of timing a sale, the importance of legacy, and how personal circumstances play a crucial role. They even liken the selling process to dating, emphasizing self-awareness and finding the right buyer.
Understanding personal motivations for selling a business, such as health issues or pursuing passions, is crucial for informed decision-making.
Planning the timing and structure of a sale with a focus on legacy and self-awareness can lead to a successful transition.
Deep dives
Understanding Motivations for Selling
Identifying the motivations behind selling a business is crucial for entrepreneurs. The reasons can vary widely, such as exhaustion from the demands of running a company, a desire for freedom, health issues, or obligations that require more time and attention. For instance, some entrepreneurs may seek to transition out of their business to pursue personal passions, such as art or other careers, highlighting how life circumstances can heavily influence this decision. Recognizing that motivations often extend beyond financial gain is essential, as personal well-being and future aspirations play significant roles in the decision-making process.
The Importance of Planning for Transition
Planning the timing and structure of a business sale remains a significant undertaking for sellers. Entrepreneurs should proactively consider the implications of their choice rather than leaving the decision to fate, which can result in complications or family disputes later on. A framework of questions about desired outcomes, ideal buyers, and timelines can guide sellers towards a successful transition. By contemplating these factors early, sellers can better navigate the complexities of the marketplace and ultimately make informed decisions related to their business's future.
Legacy and Self-Awareness in Selling
Legacy becomes increasingly important for successful entrepreneurs as they contemplate selling their business. This extends beyond financial considerations; it encompasses how they wish to be remembered and the impact of their decisions on employees, clients, and the broader community. Self-awareness plays a pivotal role in this process, as recognizing personal strengths and weaknesses can influence the choice of a suitable buyer or partner. Ultimately, the decision surrounding the sale is not just transactional; it embodies a significant chapter in an entrepreneur's career that demands thoughtful consideration of their values and future goals.
Why do you want to sell and what do you want to get out of it? In this episode, we discuss the 7 root motivations for transitioning your business and share a “cheat sheet” to help you lay out your personal priorities as you consider selling your business. Discussion with Brent Beshore and Emily Holdman starts @ 6:14.
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