Negotiating the sale of your business can vary significantly, not only between bidders but also with any particular potential buyer. The process selected and terms dictated by the seller in a transaction will impact the “price” paid. It is fundamental to understand how the selling process will impact what you receive for your company.

The panel will discuss and elaborate on best practices, industry myths and misconceptions, and alternatives for consideration in designing a process to structure your transaction for a fair price.  Through an interactive discussion you’ll learn:

• Why companies should be sold, not bought
• How to decide on the breadth and nature of a sale process
• Why timing and deal tension matters, and how to create it
• Which terms have an impact on price, and which do not
• The roles an advisor can play through the sale process, and when and how to manage them

In order to attract a wide range of financial and/or strategic buyers, you must identify the areas of risk within your business well in advance. Potential buyers and their advisors will be on the lookout for red flags and trouble spots once an offer is on the table; this is your chance to learn about “deal breakers” that work within your business so that you and your advisors can prepare. Common challenges that will be discussed include:

• Working capital and tax structure issues
• Declining company or economic performance during the process
• Unsophisticated legal counsel
• Delays in obtaining third-party consents
• Tactics to avoid major post-sale surprises
• “Deal fatigue”