You may be one of many business owners who worked hard to create a business that allows you to meet your non-financial goals. Whether it’s your business’ commitment to improving your community, the happiness of your employees or your influence within the industry, it’s likely that you commit to excellence within your business that goes beyond profit margins.

This is the legacy that your business could leave behind after you sell it -- and you may want a buyer that will continue its legacy and commitments.

If the legacy of your business is essential to you, your selection criteria for buyers gets narrowed down. Ideally, you will find someone who shares the same values and is willing to discuss the vision for your business.

However, finding a Company that shares your vision, or is willing to discuss it, compounds the difficulty of getting your ideal transaction done. You may get impatient and eventually be tempted to make unnecessary compromises.

To meet your financial and non-financial goals, you can hire an M&A advisor who understands the importance of your vision and legacy. An experienced M&A advisor can negotiate on your behalf to close a transaction with a buyer that is a good fit for your business and understands the value your legacy creates.

It takes time, work and a proven transaction process to cultivate and negotiate with potential buyers that will maintain your legacy and pay you a strong value. When you look for an M&A advisor, make sure to find one that’s committed to your business culture. This ensures that you’ll get the best value for your business without sacrificing your legacy.