Articles 
Does having an exit plan mean you have to sell your business?
In building a business, there are many things you put into its development and growth, but when it comes to an exit the focus is almost always on money.
That’s why, for many people, an exit plan is synonymous with an intention to sell – but it doesn’t have to be that way.
First impressions matter, but substance creates value
When selling a house, experts talk about ‘kerb appeal’ and in retail, ‘window dressing’ is essential in attracting shoppers.
In both cases, the objective is to create a positive first impression that makes someone want to take a closer look. The same principle applies when preparing a business for exit.
Why successful business exits start earlier than you think
If your eventual exit from your business is important to you, your future and that of your family, you will want a good outcome. That means having a plan.
For various reasons, many business owners put off planning their exit and then decide they want to get out. At that point, there is often far less opportunity to influence the outcome.
Succession planning – preparing your business for the future
Who will take on the leadership of your business when you eventually step down? Have you taken steps to ensure the transition is smooth, structured and successful?
Many business owners assume succession is something to leave to a future buyer. However, that can be a mistake. A well-developed succession plan is one of the most valuable parts of effective exit planning.
What makes your business attractive to buyers
When you still have more to achieve in your business, the idea of an exit plan can feel premature. Why divert time and energy away from the day-to-day if you have no intention of selling any time soon?
However, exit planning is not just about you leaving your business – it’s about building a better one.
Are you ready to sell your business?
There are two aspects to being ready to sell your business: are you ready and is the business ready? When contemplating the final stages of your business ownership journey, it’s essential to ensure both are aligned.
Preparing your business for transfer of ownership is only part of the equation – your personal readiness for the transition is just as important.
Do you need a co-pilot in your business?
What’s in a name? Business adviser, mentor, coach or consultant – when you need effective business advice, it’s better to focus on attributes rather than labels.
The real value comes from finding someone who offers the right experience, perspective, and support to help you grow your business — especially when considering the long-term future and the potential exit.
Your ten-minute business review and plan for the year ahead
Over the past few weeks, we’ve been inundated with hints, suggestions and cajoling about this being ‘a great time to reflect on the year just gone and plan ahead’.
But, in practice, how many of us do an effective review – and, more importantly, make any changes as a result?
Help! I’m not a natural leader
If you’re a business owner, you’re a leader – whether you want to be or not.
For some, building and leading a team, getting the most out of people and nurturing talent are some of the most rewarding aspects of the job. It’s what gets them out of bed with a spring in their step.
Wish you could clone yourself? You need a business adviser
Trying to grow your business and develop your exit plan while you’re knee-deep in the day-to-day can feel impossible.
This is especially true if you run a creative or technical business that relies heavily on your own skills and knowledge, or you’re the principal new business winner.
Downloads
We’ve written a number of guides on selected business subjects that will set you and your business in good stead for whatever future you may choose.
These are free for you to download and to make use of in your business, so please help yourself.