Don’t Stop Believin’

1. “Time Is On My Side” – The Rolling Stones: Start Preparing Early

Like the Stones sang, time can be your greatest ally. Proper preparation is the key to a smooth sale. Keep your financial records current, address legal issues, and gather essential documents. This ensures that when the right buyer shows up, you’re ready to roll.

Waiting too long to start can lead to missed opportunities. The best time to sell is when your business is doing well, not when you’re scrambling to fix problems. Planning ahead helps you control the timing and stay in the driver’s seat.

2. “We Will Rock You” – Queen: Make Your Business Stand Out

First impressions matter—buyers want to see a business that’s ready to “rock.” Just as Queen’s anthem commands attention, your business should do the same. Clean up your workspace, resolve personnel or tax issues, and present everything professionally.

Neglecting these details can lead to a longer sale process and a lower valuation. Make sure your business looks like the headliner it is, not a disorganized opening act.

3. “Money” – Pink Floyd: Focus on More Than Just the Price

While Pink Floyd may have had “Money” on their minds, selling your business isn’t just about the highest offer. Deal structure, taxes, and long-term involvement are equally important. Sometimes, a part-cash, part-stock offer might be more valuable in the long run.

You also need to consider your role after the sale. Will you be training the new owner or staying on for a transition period? Thinking beyond the price will help ensure you’re making the best deal possible.

4. “Take It to the Limit” – Eagles: Avoid Mispricing Your Business

Setting the right price for your business is crucial, just like hitting the high note in the Eagles’ classic. If you price it too high, you could scare buyers away. Too low, and you might sell yourself short.

Work with a business broker or financial advisor to get a proper valuation. They’ll help you determine a price that reflects both the market and your business’s true worth, so you can “take it to the limit” without overstepping.

5. “With A Little Help From My Friends” – The Beatles: Get Professional Help

Even The Beatles needed each other to make magic happen, and selling a business is no different. It’s a complex process, and trying to go it alone can lead to expensive mistakes. You need a solid team—brokers, lawyers, and financial advisors—to guide you through.

Choose experts who know your industry and have a track record of success. Their expertise will help you avoid pitfalls and ensure you get the best possible outcome.

6. “Don’t Stop Believin'” – Journey: Market Yourself and Stay Involved

As the frontman of your business, buyers want to see your passion and involvement. Just like Journey’s anthem inspires people to keep believing, your presence can reassure buyers that they’re making the right choice. Even after you hire professionals, stay involved in the process to keep the momentum going.

Showing buyers that you believe in the future of your company can go a long way in building trust and confidence.

7. “Who Are You” – The Who: Vet Potential Buyers

Before you sell, ask yourself: “Who are you?” Just as The Who’s lyrics suggest, you need to understand the buyer’s intentions and financial standing. Not every potential buyer is the right fit for your business.

Take time to vet each buyer. Do they align with your company’s values? Are they financially capable? Getting to know your buyers can prevent future issues and ensure a smoother transition.

8. “Take It Easy” – Eagles: Don’t Overcommit to One Buyer

“Take it easy” and avoid rushing into a deal with the first buyer who shows interest. Negotiating with multiple potential buyers gives you leverage and reduces the risk of making a hasty decision that you might regret later.

Having options can often lead to a better deal, so be patient and don’t let the pressure push you into a quick agreement.

9. “I Can See Clearly Now” – Johnny Nash: Be Transparent About Issues

As Johnny Nash sang, “I can see clearly now,” and so should your buyers. Transparency is key when selling your business. Trying to hide problems—whether it’s taxes, operational issues, or personnel conflicts—can backfire during the due diligence process.

Being upfront about any challenges helps build trust with buyers and allows you to address potential problems before they derail the deal.

10. “Here Comes the Sun” – The Beatles: Plan for the Transition

Once the deal closes, you’re not necessarily done. Buyers may need your help post-sale to ensure a smooth transition. Whether that’s training the new owner or temporarily staying involved, it’s important to have a clear plan in place so both parties know what to expect.

Just like “Here Comes the Sun” brings hope for a new day, a well-planned transition ensures the new owner is set up for success and your business continues to thrive.

Final Thoughts: “Born to Run” – Bruce Springsteen

Selling your business can feel like your “Born to Run” moment—it’s thrilling, and you want it to be a success. By preparing early, avoiding common mistakes, and staying involved in the process, you can ensure your business sale hits all the right notes.

Remember, selling isn’t just about securing the best price; it’s about finding the right buyer, making a seamless transition, and leaving your business in good hands for the encore.

About Karry Kleeman

Karry Kleeman is a dynamic sales leader with over 20 years of experience driving transformative growth in the technology sector. Known for his ability to identify emerging needs and offer provocative, disruptive solutions, Karry excels at engaging enterprise customers by pushing them beyond their comfort zones. His approach involves connecting with key decision-makers, such as mobilizers, and delivering insights that challenge the status quo.

Karry’s leadership is marked by his talent for motivating teams to top performance, whether he’s working in the trenches or presenting in the boardroom. His high-energy style and expertise in managing change have consistently led to success, including revitalizing underperforming international operations and increasing revenue by 108% in just four years.

With a deep understanding of multicultural business landscapes, Karry has extensive experience across five continents, making him adept at navigating the complexities of global markets. His innovative strategies and global acumen continue to drive exceptional results in the technology space.