The Human Side of Selling a Business
April 23, 2024

The Human Side of Selling a Business

Varun K. Marneni, CFP®, CEPA

When selling a business, it’s important to focus on the implications to your business and personal wealth. Yet there is also another critical dimension to this decision: how it can impact your family. Our experienced team at CPC Advisors understands the complexity of this transition and is committed to guiding you through the sale while prioritizing your family’s welfare. Here are some considerations to ensure a smooth transition for your loved ones:

Embrace open and honest conversations. Before you make the final decision to sell, initiate candid conversations with your family. Share your motivations for selling, your dreams, and how this change might impact their lives. Encourage them to voice their concerns, ask questions, and express their emotions.

Prepare for Role Changes. Selling your business may mean shifts in family roles. Discuss these changes openly and ensure everyone understands their new responsibilities post-sale. This clarity can help alleviate uncertainties and prevent conflicts within the family.

Set up family meetings and governance. Consider establishing regular family meetings or a family council to facilitate decision-making and communication. These forums provide a platform for everyone to participate in important discussions and decisions, fostering unity and understanding.

Address the emotional impact. Acknowledge that selling a business can be emotionally charged for both you and your family. Be there to offer emotional support, patience, and understanding. Encourage family members to seek professional help if they struggle to cope with the emotional aspects of this transition. Family therapists, counselors, and even mentors can help your family navigate this journey with resilience and harmony.

Engage trusted advisors. We understand that selling a business transcends a mere financial transaction. It also represents a profound life change for your family. Our experienced team specializes in assisting clients by facilitating open communication and family meetings, all aimed at fostering unity and understanding throughout this transformative process.

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