The Art of Exit Preparation

A Strategic Guide to Maximizing Exit Certainty and Value

The Art of Exit Preparation series is a three-part series designed for CEOs, investors, and executives looking to plan a successful exit. This series takes a deep dive into the essential stages of preparing for a successful sale, from understanding buyer motivations to creating a tailored, proactive approach to cultivating buyer interest.

Based on decades of experience across 300+ successful exits, we share proven strategies to help companies not only attract the right buyers but achieve higher valuations and greater certainty during the exit process.

Part 1

Preparing to Be Bought, Not Sold: The Foundation of Successful Exit Preparation

Many M&A processes fall short of expectations. This post explains why many growth-stage companies should begin preparing for exit well in advance—6 to 18 months before a formal sale. We’ll highlight how taking a proactive approach helps companies avoid pitfalls and increases both their chances of securing the right buyer and achieving a higher exit value.

Part 2

Before the Starting Gun: Essential Actions for Exit Success

Many companies overlook critical pre-sale actions, leading to suboptimal outcomes. In this post, we outline the practical steps companies can take to build the right foundation before entering the sale process. By establishing clear goals, assigning responsibilities, and setting up a structured preparation process, companies can significantly improve their chances of a smooth and successful exit.

Part 3

Cultivating Serious Buyer Interest: How to Engage Buyers Early in the Exit Process

Engaging buyers early can make all the difference in the final sale outcome. This post discusses how to build genuine buyer interest before the formal sale process begins. By strategically engaging with potential buyers, companies can position themselves as more attractive acquisition targets, increasing their chances of negotiating a successful deal at a better price.