In this episode of Empathy at the Table, Tony speaks with Jan van der Putten, a seasoned expert in mergers and acquisitions. Jan shares his journey from corporate finance to executive coaching, emphasising the emotional and psychological aspects of M&A.
He discusses the importance of trust, cultural nuances in negotiations, and the evolution of leadership styles in the corporate world. Jan also reflects on his transition to life in Barcelona and his ongoing journey to learn Spanish.
Takeaways
M&A involves not just transactions but emotional journeys.
Trust is a critical component in successful negotiations.
Cultural understanding can significantly impact deal-making.
Listening is essential for building trust and rapport.
The integration process is as important as the deal itself.
Soft skills enhance leadership effectiveness in M&A.
Every M&A project is unique and requires tailored approaches.
Building informal relationships can facilitate negotiations.
Authenticity in leadership fosters better team dynamics.
Continuous learning, like language acquisition, is vital for personal growth.
Sound Bites
"M&A is part shepherd, part psychologist."
"It's a real emotional journey for the people involved."
"A good deal is a win-win."
Chapters
00:00
Introduction to Mergers and Acquisitions
03:37
The Emotional Landscape of M&A
06:44
The Role of Trust in Negotiations
09:42
Cultural Nuances in Global Deals
12:36
The Importance of Listening
15:44
Navigating Challenges in M&A
18:44
The Shift from Hard Skills to Soft Skills
21:50
Personal Reflections and Future Aspirations
keywords
Mergers and Acquisitions, Corporate Finance, Emotional Intelligence, Negotiation, Trust, Cultural Differences, Executive Coaching, Leadership, Integration Process, Business Strategy