Don’t fall in love with the target.
Otherwise, you will overpay.

Focus on the team.
The right people in the right role can make anything work.

Find the best experts.
Don’t try to solve everything by yourself.

Follow a process and focus on adding value.
Stop the process if it doesn’t make sense.

Be ready for surprises.
You will find unexpected news after the closing.

Manage based on priorities.
Don’t try to solve everything on day 1 of the integration.

You cannot overcommunicate during change.
Be proactive and clear in your communication, especially during restructuring.

Manage people, not Excel sheets.
People and processes are the leading indicators. Financial results follow.

Having a problem is not a problem.
Not solving it is.

Keep your eye on the value capture.
Don’t get distracted.