Five questions to ask before you sell your company

1. What exactly do I want from the exit?

Most owners want several things at once: financial security, recognition for what they built, a good future for the team, and some say in what happens next. A sale optimises for the first — sometimes at the cost of the rest. Write down what matters, and in what order.

2. Who already runs the company day to day?

If there are managers who know the business, its customers and its people, they may be the natural successors — not as buyers, but as stewards. Ask them. Many owners never do.

3. How much do I need, and how soon?

A strategic buyer pays at once. A succession to stewards usually pays over several years, from profits and patient outside capital. If you need the full amount immediately, a sale may be the only way. If you can wait, more options open. How you get paid

4. What would a buyer do with it?

Be honest about who is interested. A competitor may merge and move production. A fund will usually aim to sell again within a few years. Neither is wrong — but you should know before you sign.

5. Do I want the company to outlive my ownership?

If the answer is yes, steward ownership is worth an afternoon of your time. It is the only option that locks in independence after you — while still paying you fairly.