Avoiding Disappointment When Cashing Out: A Guide to Business Valuation
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Understanding Business Valuation
When it comes to selling your company, it's essential to avoid feelings of disappointment related to the sale price. You may have heard that businesses like yours typically sell for a certain range or follow industry standards. While these benchmarks can be informative for situations like tax planning or divorce settlements, they might not reflect the true value of your business.
The Key to Personal Valuation
The most effective method to ensure satisfaction with your business sale is to determine its value on your own terms. Consider what the company means to you and how much effort you've invested. Establishing a clear personal valuation before entering negotiations is crucial for avoiding regret later on.
Take, for example, Hank Goddard, who founded Mainspring Healthcare Solutions in 2007. Initially aimed at helping hospitals manage their equipment, the company evolved into a sophisticated platform for ordering supplies. Goddard and his partner sought funding from friends and family, and as the business expanded, they encountered various challenges, including the need to replace their entire management team and resolve product and operational issues.
After years of hard work, when it was time to sell in 2016, Goddard recognized that he had dedicated a substantial portion of his career to Mainspring and wanted to reap the rewards of his efforts, while also providing a fair return for his early investors. Accruent, a competitor, approached him with an offer based on one times revenue, which they believed was fair considering a similar acquisition they had made.
However, Goddard was adamant that his company was worth five times revenue. Although this figure was ambitious, he stood firm in his valuation. After a year, Accruent returned with an improved offer of two times revenue, but Goddard still declined, understanding the growth potential of his newly developed application and the difficulty of selling to existing hospital clients. He reiterated that his asking price was five times revenue in cash.
Ultimately, Goddard achieved his desired sale price. Having a clear understanding of your business's worth before negotiations can help mitigate emotional decision-making and ensure you don't feel let down by the outcome. Instead of relying solely on industry averages, take the time to establish what your business is truly worth to you personally.
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Chapter 2: Managing Disappointment
In this video, "How to Deal with Disappointment in Life," you’ll find strategies to cope with disappointment effectively. The insights shared can help you navigate challenging emotional landscapes, particularly when it comes to significant life events like selling a business.
Chapter 3: Coping with Difficult Times
The video titled "How To Handle Disappointment During Difficult Times" offers valuable advice on managing feelings of disappointment. By applying these techniques, you can build resilience and maintain clarity in your decision-making process during challenging transitions.