Adamson Advisory

Do You Have Any Sacred Cows?

I have worked through many merger negotiations, several as managing partner of my own firm, and even more during consulting engagements.

As an acquirer, there is one question I have always asked. I suggest that you should ask the same question as you approach any merger/acquisition situation.

Here’s the question: Do you have any sacred cows?

A “sacred cow” can be described as one that is often unreasonably immune from criticism or opposition. Someone or something that has been accepted or respected for a long time and that people are afraid or unwilling to criticize or question.

Often the topic of sacred cows does not come up when the two firms are in the discussion stage. However, if not talked about up front the sacred cow situation will undoubtedly surface once the two firms are living together. It is also wise for the firm being acquired to ask the same question of the acquirer.

Most often the situation is a long-time employee that cannot be terminated (for any reason). Sometimes, it is even a partner whose performance hasn’t been up to par for years.

Another example is software. I have heard many firm leaders say, “We will not change our tax package.” To me, that is a deal breaker. For optimum efficiency, the entire firm should be using the same software packages. Develop the entire technology plan (hardware and software) up front and document how the conversion will be implemented.

Before you sign on the dotted line, be sure you can live with the sacred cows.

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