{"version":1,"type":"rich","provider_name":"Libsyn","provider_url":"https:\/\/www.libsyn.com","height":90,"width":600,"title":"#350 Confidence, First Deals and Sector Experience","description":"From First Deal to Big Exits: What Real Dealmakers Are Doing Differently Host: Jonathan Jay Format: Live panel Q&A \u2014 Riverside Studios, Hammersmith Guests: Seven Inner Circle members Overview Seven of Jonathan Jay's Inner Circle members \u2014 experienced business acquirers \u2014 answer unscripted questions from a live audience. This episode focuses on exit strategies, building deal confidence, and how to get a first acquisition over the line. Exit Strategy The panel agree: start with the end in mind, but hold the number loosely. One member is building a \u00a325m technology group by 55, with a \u00a3100m goal by 60 \u2014 but stresses the journey matters more than the figure. Another runs multiple buy-and-build projects in parallel, generating a new exit every 3\u20136 months and ultimately targeting a move into private equity. The consensus: build like you're selling, even if you never plan to. Confidence & Competence Business skills are transferable \u2014 sector experience is helpful, not essential. The panel recommend starting with your own supply chain, where trust is already established. Find an accountability partner more productive than you, and lean on your community: you don't need all the answers, you just need people who do. When Letters Don't Work One audience member sent 30,000 letters and got just 10 responses \u2014 all broker-listed at inflated prices. The panel's diagnosis: check the letter against the proven template, iterate in smaller batches, and never dismiss a broker-listed seller. Reignite their original motivation, get in front of them face to face, and help them see the deal on the table today is more valuable than a higher number that may never arrive. Key Takeaways \u2022       Your exit goal will evolve \u2014 treat it as a waypoint, not a destination. \u2022       Sector experience isn't required \u2014 core business skills transfer everywhere. \u2022       Your supply chain is your best first target \u2014 the seller already knows and trusts you. \u2022       Meet sellers face to face \u2014 a phone call alone won't close a deal. \u2022       Follow the system precisely \u2014 one small deviation can kill your response rate. ","author_name":"Business Buying Strategies from The Dealmaker's Academy","author_url":"https:\/\/www.thedealmakersacademy.com","html":"