In the professional services space, founders are often super-focused on client delivery and business growth. But while you’re managing deadlines, budgets, and relationships, there’s one critical piece that often gets overlooked: governance. Some see it as a box-ticking exercise—but done right, governance is a game-changer. It’s the backbone of a better-run business and can be a driver of higher valuations.
A close friend reached out to me after the company she founded failed its second due diligence. The buyer’s reasoning was harsh. “We don’t understand your numbers. And we think you don’t understand them either.”
Ouch.
Frustrated and anxious, she asked me: what does it take?
Only four things, I told her. Do this and I guarantee it won’t happen next time.
In this session, we review recent research from over 200 acquirers that suggests the 5 attributes that make a firm an attractive acquisition target, and the 4 attributes that scare acquirers away. The research quantifies how “attractiveness” drives up valuations and how you can increase the worth of your firm.
