The acquisition is coming. OK, it isn’t official yet. Right now, it’s really just hallway whispers, vague rumors, and an endless series of closed doors and private meetings. Still, everyone can sense it. Some are excited; others are just nervous. (And yes, some are completely unaware and out in the cold.) But whether you are the acquirer or the acquired, an insider or an outsider, there are certain rules that can boost the likelihood of your success. Here are 10 tips to surviving – and thriving – in an acquisition, from both the company and personal perspective:

1. Be open-minded. Now is truly the time to be ready for anything. Whether from an individual or broad enterprise perspective, know your strengths while also being willing to sell your capabilities and potentially branch out, trying something new. Individually speaking, flexibility is key; take on whatever role is asked of you. Or, volunteer for the responsibility nobody seems to want.
2. Be focused. There is an endless supply of work to complete (probably both in and out of the office). Get it done, one step at a time.
3. Be prepared. It’s OK to have an insurance policy, a Plan B for what you will do if this doesn’t work out, both as a company and an individual. In fact, this peace of mind is exactly what will help you to achieve the next rule.
4. Be positive. As a guiding principle, this tip may actually be the most important of the rules. Following acquisitions, the fate of a company and in particular an individual is quite often a self-fulfilling prophecy. The person who stays positive, pitching in without concern for the end game and who might ultimately get what, so to speak, is the one everybody wants to keep around. One more thing: Don’t assume the person who plays a certain role on the acquiring company (accountant, marketer, legal team lead) is automatically the most qualified individual for the long-term role. Oftentimes, a broader pool of talent is seen as another benefit from acquisitions and mergers.
5. Be both realistic and rational. As the expression goes, “Just because you’re paranoid doesn’t mean they’re not out to get you.” These are tough times, budget-crunching times. The writing may well be on the wall. That’s fine. Follow the signs and the other rules. Be upfront about it even. However, remain calm throughout the process (at least on the outside, in voice and actions). Don’t look for every sign to panic. Again, remember that self-fulfilling prophecy.
6. Be kind. It’s a time of endless first impressions. Simply being nice and easy to work with will go a long way in building relationships and reputations. You will be surprised how far this gets you.
7. Be culture and brand conscious. What is the old and new company’s culture? What is your own personal brand? Give careful thought to these and then back it up. If your company – and you as an individual – do not have compatible cultures and values, this marriage probably shouldn’t even make it to the altar.
8. Be genuine. If you are seeking matching values, a compatible culture, a positive outlook, and more – all in the name of a successful outcome – none of it really matters unless the actions and activities are sincere. Yes, there is an element of a lot of people ultimately having to consider their own best interests, but even that fact of life is one that should be acknowledged fairly openly.
9. Be well-rounded. Now more than ever, you need to take breaks from it all. Go for a walk. Work out. Spend a little time with family and friends. There is way more to life than this acquisition. This too shall pass.
10. Be goal-oriented. That means long-term and short-term. True, this entire deal and where you are headed should be part of a long-term, clearly articulated plan, but you won’t ever get there unless you accomplish something today. Identify one to two of those near-term items, go do it, and then check it off the list. You’ll feel better for getting started and knowing that progress is underway.

And here’s one more tip, as an added bonus:

Be clear. If you can’t identify and communicate it, it won’t be successful. That’s where good communications is the key – both internally and externally – ensuring your strategies and values are aligned, and that you establish a culture, mindset, and business objectives that remain in place for years to come. Start by contacting www.acqcomm.com today.

© 2017 Acquisition Communications, LLC