When you are considering a sale of your business, there is a process to prepare for going to market. While there are many initial considerations, maintaining confidentiality throughout the process is the most important rule a business owner must adhere too.

Whether it be employees, customers, vendors, landlord etc. once word gets out that the business is for sale, research has shown that the value of the business can drop over 50%, not to mention the fallout of employees leaving, customers looking for new vendors, etc.

While you are excited about the prospect of selling your business (which is completely understandable), and moving on to the next chapter of your life, maintaining confidentiality can't be overstated. You will have plenty of opportunities to tell people once the business has been purchased!