In this episode, Carol Dewey challenges the myth that your business must be perfect before it’s ready to sell. The truth? Strategic buyers aren’t looking for perfection—they’re looking for potential.

Carol unpacks how smart acquirers see opportunity in imperfection and how business owners can reframe their flaws as selling points. From understanding the difference between fatal flaws and fixable flaws to positioning your business story in the right way, this episode empowers business owners to view their companies through the eyes of strategic buyers.

Key Takeaways:

💡 Perfection is overrated. Buyers value potential more than polish.

💡 Your flaws can be your edge. The right buyer may see your weaknesses as opportunities.

💡 Think synergy, not symmetry. Strategic buyers look for how your business complements theirs.

💡 Differentiate fatal vs. fixable flaws. Clean up compliance issues, but highlight fixable ones.

💡 Preparation beats perfection. A transferable business is far more valuable than a flawless one.

Action Steps for Business Owners:

1. Tell the right story. Frame your weaknesses as opportunities for growth.
2. Identify the “who” before the “fix.” Find buyers whose strengths fill your gaps.
3. Document your core strengths. Make your intellectual capital and relationships clear.
4. Build recurring value. Even small recurring revenue streams add predictability.
5. Work with advisors who understand M&A psychology. The right story + strategy = maximum value.

Carol’s Closing Thought:“Your business will never feel ready. What matters is preparation, not perfection.The goal isn’t to build a perfect business—it’s to build a transferable one.”
Resources Mentioned:

📘 Free Download: 8 Key Drivers of Company Value

📅 Book Your Complimentary Lifestyle & Legacy Assessment: Schedule with Carol

💬 Website: www.perpetualwealthfinancial.com

💬 LinkedIn: Carol Dewey

🎧 Listen & Subscribe: Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube