When running a business, you may come across opportunities that do not usually come often. For instance, you may identify a struggling, but high-potential business in the same industry as you, but in a different location. It may be a smart business move to acquire that business, inject some capital and turn it around. Once the business is on its two feet, it will serve as a great platform for expanding your market share.

It is always a good idea to consult the experts before making any capital intensive decisions. After all, you risk buying a white elephant while thinking you’ve make a smart business move. To find the best acquisition consultant, you will have to spend a little bit of time comparing the top consultants. From there, it will be possible for you to make an informed decision. Below are things to take into consideration when searching for the best acquisition consultant:

i) Licensing and Accreditation

Only licensed and accredited consultants should be given any consideration, so you have to check the issuing authorities of the licenses as well as their expiry dates and license categories. This is crucial because you don’t want to hire a quack to offer the required services. What you want is to get consultancy services from the most competent acquisition advisor.

ii) Experience

Since service providers usually get better and better over time, it is recommended you compare the experiences of the shortlisted consultants. Only those with many years of consultancy experience and have previously worked with many corporate clients should be accorded special consideration. Experience is a great teacher, so consultants are bound to get better and better with time as they handle more and more acquisition transactions.

iii) Reputation

It is imperative you read reviews written by experts and the previous clients of a firm about the quality of service offered by a given consultant. You will also need to check how different firms have been rated. This will tell you a lot about the quality of service they normally offer. The most competent consultants will have high ratings, many testimonials and plenty of rave reviews. Therefore, be sure to take time to consider all the necessary factors.

The consultancy fees charged by the shortlisted consultants must be compared. This is because you want affordable services. By requesting and comparing quotes, you will be in a good position to pick out the most competent, and also the most affordable consultant.