It’s worth stating at the outset that although there’s nothing intrinsically wrong with building a business with the sole intention of a successful exit, it’s by no means a dead cert. First, your business idea and execution have to be successful (most aren’t). Second, even if your idea is successful, depending on your sector, you’ll have to convince a buyer of its value and growth potential in a fairly crowded marketplace.
Third, you’ll need to find a way to enjoy the process, even while focused on the ultimate prize. Whether you’re in the tech space, fintech, insurtech or any other sector, you’ll probably feel safer planning for an exit even if you have no intention of selling. The exit As I mentioned above, to build a business that leads to an exit is not in itself a red flag.
But what of the long-time successful entrepreneurs who say that the exit will take care of itself, so long as founders focus exclusively on building a successful business? And are the veteran entrepreneurs who say entrepreneurship probably isn’t for you if you’re seeking a fast exit in four years, all wrong? According to some, many business founders have to be dragged kicking and screaming to the mergers and acquisitions table, and few go willingly, eagerly holding their hands out for the cash. For many who’ve been around the startup scene for a long time, it’s a bit like marrying off your first daughter; you’re happy for her, but a part of you would rather it wasn’t happen.