Bonus: Strategic Formation of Advisory Teams for Exit Planning

Thinking about selling your business—or just preparing for the day you eventually will? Learn how to maximize value and avoid costly mistakes before it’s too late.

In this episode of Sterling Insights, co-host Ray O’Connell sits down with James Gorzynski, Certified Exit Planning Advisor and M&A expert. Together, they explore the essentials of exit planning and business value growth, sharing valuable insights and practical tips for business owners. James draws from decades of experience in accounting, CFO work, and M&A transactions to discuss the importance of timing, strategic planning, and building the right advisory team, offering actionable advice for entrepreneurs preparing for future transitions. This episode is a must-listen for small and mid-sized business owners, providing both knowledge and tools to navigate one of the most critical moments in business ownership.

Key Takeaways:

● 🕰 Start Early: The most successful exits are planned years in advance—time is the one resource you can’t get back.
● 📊 Three-Legged Stool: Align your business, personal, and financial goals to ensure a well-rounded exit plan.
● 🤝 Build Your Advisory Team: Don’t go it alone—surround yourself with CPAs, estate planners, M&A advisors, and other professionals.
● 💡 Flexibility is Key: Exit planning is business strategy; you don’t have to sell now, but planning early gives you options.
● 🚫 Avoid Waiting Too Long: Waiting until retirement age or after business value declines severely limits your options.

Quotes from James Gorzynski:

● "The biggest piece of advice is time is something you can’t get back."
● "Exit planning really is business strategy—it doesn’t mean you’re exiting now, it just means you eventually will."
● "Start building your advisory team today. Knowledge is power, and you can never start too soon."

🔗 Conclusion: Exit planning isn’t just about selling your business—it’s about protecting your legacy, your wealth, and your future options.

Connect with James:
⁠LinkedIn⁠
⁠Facebook⁠
⁠Instagram ⁠@certifiedexitplanners_