Is your company ripe as an acquisition target?

The M&A market was down significantly in 2022. According to Bloomberg, Q1 of 2023 saw the third lowest global quarterly deal volume in 10 years. Only Q1 of 2013 and Q2 of 2020 had lower quarterly deal volumes.

That said, if you’re working for a PE backed company, you may not have had to worry about being acquired recently. Whew!

Given industry predictions for later 2023 & 2024, it may be a good time to revisit career strategies for professionals working at PE backed companies and/or companies that are potential acquisition targets.

Overall, facing a potential acquisition can be a challenging time, with potential changes to roles, responsibilities, possible career advancement or maybe job security. By taking proactive steps, you can navigate this transition effectively and position yourself for continued success.

Stay informed and proactive:

• Stay up to date with news and announcements related to any potential acquisition.

• Seek clarity on the impact of an acquisition on your role, team, and the organization as a whole.

• To the extent it’s appropriate, proactively engage with leadership and HR to express your interest in staying with the company and discuss potential opportunities.

Update your skills:

• Assess the skills and competencies required in the new organization post-acquisition.

• Identify any gaps in your skillset and take proactive steps to address them through training, certifications, or additional education using internal resources where available.

Build strong relationships:

• Network with colleagues from both your company and (again – where appropriate) the acquiring organization to establish new connections and gain insights into the new corporate culture.

• Strengthen relationships with key stakeholders, including managers, supervisors, and decision-makers, to increase visibility and showcase your value.

Be adaptable and flexible:

• Embrace change and demonstrate your ability to adapt to new processes, systems, and structures.

• Show willingness to take on new responsibilities or projects that align with the company’s evolving needs.

Explore external opportunities:

• Keep an eye on the job market and explore external opportunities that align with your career goals. Know what’s out there!

• Update your resume and online profiles to reflect your current skills and experiences.

• Attend industry events, join professional associations, and engage in networking to expand your opportunities.

Navigating your career after your company has been acquired requires a proactive and adaptable approach. Being aware and staying informed will be the first steps in positioning yourself for success in the new organizational landscape. Remember, change can bring new opportunities for growth and development.

If you want to talk this through, give me a shout. I’ve helped many professionals through this stage in their career!

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