Are you a business owner who is interested in selling?  If so, there are some strategies you should undoubtedly use.  At the top of the list is the all-important offering memorandum.  The offering memorandum, often referred to as a selling memorandum, is a straightforward but highly effective way to help you obtain the highest possible selling price.

Shaping the Executive Summary

The offering memorandum must be factual.  However, at the same time, this memorandum allows for a bit of business promotion and selling, which can be included in the executive summary portion of the document.  After all, potential buyers will want to know more about your business and why buying it would be a savvy decision. 

In short, the executive summary section of the offering memorandum goes over the highlights of your company.  It should include an outline of several key factors.  Everything from an outline of the ownership and management structure, description of the business and financial highlights to a general review of your company’s products and/or services should all be covered.  Additional points to include would be variables, such as information about your market, and the reason that the business is for sale.

Your executive summary, simply stated, is extremely important.  A coherent and compelling executive summary will motivate prospective buyers to learn more.  In short, you want the executive summary of your offering memorandum to shine.  It should capture the attention and the imagination of anyone that reads it.

Other Essential Elements to Include

Some elements are absolutely a must to have in your offering memorandum.  An overview of your company and its history as well as its markets and products are all good places to begin your offering memorandum.  Other key elements ranging from distribution, customers or clients and the competition should also be included. 

Factors such as management, financials and growth strategies should not be overlooked, as many prospective investors may flip to those sections first.  Finally, be sure to include any competitive advantages you may have as well as a well-written conclusion and exhibits.  The more polished and professional your offering memorandum, the better off you’ll be.

An easy way to improve the overall quality of your offering memorandum is to work with a seasoned business broker.  A professional business broker knows what information should be included in your offering memorandum.  He or she will also know what not to include.  Remember that your offering memorandum may be the first point of contact between you and many prospective buyers.  You’ll only get one chance to make a first impression.

Copyright: Business Brokerage Press, Inc.

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