Friday, March 21, 2008

The Hunt

So, I decided to take the plunge to look for a business to purchase. I was looking for an existing business that had a strong core of customer service and product/service quality. With some background in lean manufacturing and product development, I thought I could add value to a business that was on "auto pilot."

I looked at a lot of sketchy businesses. Just like buying a house, you have to balance the asking price of a business with the value and future prospects. Instead of concentrating on the quality of local schools, neighborhood safety, and the kitchen, I spent a lot of time looking at product line depth, workforce, competition, and that intangible "gut feel."

Dealing with business brokers was an educational experience. I found out that, like most things in life, there are good ones and bad. The bad ones will tout a "piece of crap" as the best thing since Dean Kamen and the personal transporter that would save the world. The good ones end up matching qualified buyers with quality companies priced at reasonable levels.

After looking at over 15 companies, I hadn't found the right one. Then, I went to play poker and everything changed. Stay tuned for what happened next...

After my first post, I got a call from Paul Bieber. He is another blogger for USGlass. He shared many good insights with me about blogging, the industry and how the two can mix with family and personal observations.

So, on a personal note, I am very luck to a fantastic wife. Jean and I have been married for almost 18 years. Jean has always trusted me in my career moves and risks. She rides the highs and lows with me. I have never been one of those macho guys who feel like they have to be the king of the house. Jean is definitly the boss of the house. We have four great kids - Matthew 14, David 12, Katie 9, and Michael 6. She manages our "happy chaos".

Thanks Paul for encouraging me to share a little about myself and my family.

No comments: