01 / The reason
Why am I considering a transition?
What has changed? Is the question about retirement, succession, liquidity, growth, an unsolicited approach or something else?
A worksheet for business owners
What would a good
next chapter look like?
Use these prompts privately, with your existing advisors or as a starting point for a conversation with ThirdSide.
Print or save this page as a PDF using your browser’s print options. Write only what you are comfortable discussing; detailed confidential records can follow through an agreed process.
02 / The financial outcome
What do I need to understand about the economics?
Consider timing, proceeds at closing, later payments and any continuing investment. Which financial questions need work with my advisors?
03 / The company and its people
What would I want a buyer to understand?
Think about employees, customers, the company’s identity, products and role in the community. Which priorities matter most, and what would I want to ask?
04 / My next chapter
How involved would I want to be afterward?
Consider responsibilities, authority, time and how long a handover might fit my plans. What do I want more time for?
05 / The business today
What would help someone understand the operation?
Outline the main products or services, important relationships, my role and any information that needs organizing. Keep sensitive details in the appropriate confidential records.
06 / The next conversation
What are the three questions I most want answered?
Choose the questions that would help me decide whether to explore a sale, prepare first or consider another path.