Survival mode

Black Enterprise, April, 2008 by Marcia Reed Woodard

COMPANIES ARE CONSTANTLY IDENTIFYING OPTIONS THAT WILL ENSURE survival. "Mergers and acquisitions could be the answer for struggling businesses," says Michael S. Harper, principal and director of business development at Platinum Financial Group L.L.C. Harper explains that the quick-growth strategy most often reserved for corporate titans is being adopted by enterprises at all levels seeking to gain market share, create cost efficiencies, and eliminate competition.

To lead his team's efforts in this area, Harper, enrolled in Loyola University's Certified Merger & Acquisition Advisor Credentialing Program last June. The five-day course--provided by an exclusive partnership between Loyola and the Alliance of Merger & Acquisition Advisors--supplied an in-depth overview of valuation methods and approaches, financing alternatives, and legal structuring. In addition, participants who successfully complete the certification test are awarded the professional Certified Merger & Acquisition Advisor designation.

Harper shares from his class notes these tips for buying and selling success: Stick to a strategy. Make certain your motives for merging or acquiring a business align with the firm's overall strategic plan.

Find the right fit. Look for buyers, sellers, and partners that complement the goals and strategic objectives of each business.

Reach a fair market price. Assess a value for all tangible and intangible aspects of the business.

For more information about Loyola University's Certified Merger & Acquisition Advisor Credentialing Program, log on to www.luc.edu/exec-ed/cert_cmaa.shtml.>

COPYRIGHT 2008 Earl G. Graves Publishing Co., Inc.

COPYRIGHT 2008 Gale, Cengage Learning