Preparing for a business sale
A reputation & continuity planning checklist

SAMPLE RESOURCE FOR REVIEW. General communications planning only; not legal, financial or transaction advice.

01 / The story
[ ] Describe why a sale is being considered without overstating certainty.
[ ] Clarify the intended outcome and the matters still open for discussion.
[ ] Agree boundaries for confidential information with the deal’s advisers.

02 / Business continuity
[ ] Identify the questions customers may ask about service and continuity.
[ ] Prepare manager guidance for employee questions within approved disclosure boundaries.
[ ] Record the key relationships that need continuity through a change in ownership.

03 / Communication readiness
[ ] Confirm the approval process for messages, spokespersons and external enquiries.
[ ] Prepare a holding response for speculation, reviewed by appropriate advisers.
[ ] Check that claims about the business can be substantiated before use.

04 / Transition planning
[ ] Map the milestones between a proposal, agreement and completion.
[ ] Assign owners for changes to customer, employee and partner communications.
[ ] Schedule a review of stakeholder feedback after each material announcement.