A merger or acquisition can be beneficial to the mutual growth of a company or simply a necessary step. However, as it is challenging for some companies to make a successful transition, it is important to carefully prepare for such a large step in your business’ future.

• Start Early. Avoid a time-crunch in the merger or acquisition process by giving your business plenty of time to prepare. The earlier you start planning, the more time you will have to come up with a strong plan and to anticipate any pitfalls you might run into. Starting early will also give you more time to deal with challenges when actually implementing the merger or acquisition, making for less stressful and more successful proceedings.
• Assemble a Team. It is important to have a strong team that will guide your merger along, plan ahead, and actually make the merger or acquisition happen. Your team should include an insider team from within your company and an outsider team of specialists or advisors, an attorney and an accountant. Make sure your insider team has strong leadership and is full of people motivated to work for what is best for the company rather than for themselves.
• Perform Due Diligence. Be informed as to what exactly you are getting into. No one wants to fly blind into a business-changing deal. Make sure you take an in-depth look at binding contracts the company has already agreed to, expenses the company has for operating and developing its product or service and the company’s tax history. Conducting due diligence is a lengthy process and it is important that you do not forget to check on certain aspects of a company’s history. Doing some research on what you should look at as well as employing an attorney will help you to be thorough.

A merger or acquisition may seem like an overwhelming step with a lot to be wary of. We are here to help. Our attorneys can be a part of your team and help guide you through the process. Contact us today to find out more!

Photo Credit: buddawiggi