Handling an Acquisition

Award winning expert in change communication and delivering effective change, Helen Coley-Smith, gives a few pointers on how to handle a possible acquisition.

- Provide regular updates during this time of uncertainty.
- Make sure to aim your communication at people who are likely to be most concerned, unfocused or unproductive.
- Brainstorm the questions people will have, and the potential benefits to them of an acquisition.
- Show them that you care through both what you say and how you say it.
- Tell the truth.
- Get to the point quickly.
- Give people only the information they need.
- Outline any choices the organization has/people have.
- Keep your messages and supporting facts short and simple.
- Filter out negative expressions and get rid of jargon.
- Offer additional support to those who need it.
- Have CEO’s acknowledge what is going on and address it head on.
- Supplement e-news update with an online Q&A site.

For more information about handling an acquisition, go to the hub.