The Ultimate Exit Planning Checklist

By kalwiggins / June 7, 2025

Transcript

(00:01)
Hi, I’m Steph with Synergy. Thinking about selling your business?
Whether you’re planning to exit in a few years or just want to be prepared, having the right strategy can make all the difference.
Today, I’m sharing the Ultimate Exit Planning Checklist—10 steps to help you maximize the value of your business.

(00:27) Step 1: Clarify Your Goals
Are you looking to sell to a competitor?
Transition to a family member?
Or set up an employee stock ownership plan?
Defining your goals will guide every step of your plan.

(00:41) Step 2: Get Financially Organized
Buyers need to see clean, accurate financial records.
If you’re not sure where to start, we can help you get everything in order.

(00:55) Step 3: Streamline Operations
Document your processes.
Automate where possible.
Ensure your business can run smoothly without you.

(01:07) Step 4: Maximize Profitability
Cut unnecessary expenses.
Improve your margins.
A lean, efficient operation is more valuable to buyers.

(01:24) Step 5: Build a Strong Leadership Team
A business that thrives without the owner is incredibly attractive to potential buyers.

(01:33) Step 6: Strengthen Your Brand
A great reputation and a loyal customer base significantly boost your business’s value.

(01:43) Step 7: Secure Contracts & Recurring Revenue
Predictable income streams make your business more appealing and less risky to buyers.

(01:51) Step 8: Identify and Reduce Risks
Minimize dependency on key clients, suppliers, or even yourself before going to market.

(02:03) Step 9: Get a Professional Valuation
Knowing your business’s true worth helps you negotiate confidently and set realistic expectations.

(02:19) Step 10: Plan Your Exit Timeline
The earlier you start, the more prepared you’ll be for a smooth and profitable transition.

(02:30) Final Thoughts
Exiting your business is a big decision—but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
At Synergy, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
If you’re ready to start planning, reach out. We’d love to help.

Are you thinking about selling your business—now or in the future? Before you take that leap, you need more than just a willing buyer—you need a well-thought-out exit strategy that ensures you leave on your terms and maximize your return.

In this short but powerful video, Steph from Synergy walks you through a 10-step exit planning checklist every business owner should consider. Whether you’re aiming to sell in a few years or just want to be prepared, these steps will make your business more attractive and your transition smoother.

Why You Should Watch

Selling a business isn’t like flipping a switch—it’s a strategic process. This checklist highlights the most essential areas to focus on before listing your business or engaging buyers. From cleaning up your finances to building a leadership team that can run things without you, each step adds real value to your company.

Whether you’re planning to exit via sale, family succession, or an employee stock plan, this checklist is your blueprint.

📌 Key Takeaways from the Video

Here are 5 of the most valuable tips, with timestamps, to guide your exit planning journey:

Clarify Your Goals (00:27)
Define what a successful exit looks like—are you selling to a competitor, passing it on to family, or creating an ESOP? This decision guides all other planning.
Get Financially Organized (00:41)
Buyers want transparency. Clean, accurate financials are essential. If you’re unsure where to begin, professional help can streamline the process.
Streamline Operations (00:55)
Your business needs to function smoothly without you. Document systems and automate where possible to show buyers your company can thrive independently.
Maximize Profitability (01:07)
A lean operation with strong margins is more desirable. Cut waste and boost efficiency to drive your valuation up.
Build a Leadership Team (01:24)
The less your business depends on you, the more valuable it becomes. Invest in team development early.

Bonus Tip: Start Early

Planning your exit years in advance puts you in control. You’ll have time to boost valuation, reduce risks, and create a smooth handoff—making your business irresistible to buyers.

Ready to Take Action?

At Synergy, exit planning isn’t just about selling—it’s about making your business the best it can be while you still own it.

Watch the video above now!

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