• Consider many options. Such options include: selling the business to family members or trusted employees, selling to a third party or liquidation.

• Begin planning early. The most successful planning starts five to 10 years before you want to actually transition out of your business.

• Assemble a transition team. This should include your attorney, accountant and other critical advisors like your banker, insurance provider, etc.

• Set “life” goals. Exit planning is a proactive process that takes control of the future of your business. So, decide what you want to see happen with the business while you’re alive with help from any advisors.

• Assess all assets. Determine the cash value of your business before any decisions are made.

• Identify key players in a business. Determine which leaders will comprise future management and what role such benefits as incentive plans, profit sharing and more have.

• Train future leaders. Training needs for the next generation of management should be assessed and planned.

• Plan for the unexpected. A succession plan should include “contingencies” in case of death or other emergencies.

• Monitor and allow for flexibility. A succession plan should be monitored and revisited over time to be sure it is working and to make any necessary adjustments.