Start Managing the Integration When the Merger Is Announced
Things begin changing in an organization as soon as your people learn that a deal is in the works. The possibility that they might be acquired and merged causes people to think and act differently. A new set of organizational dynamics comes into play immediately. Attitudinal shifts and a new set of employee concerns can alter the corporate climate significantly.
It’s a mistake to assume that the transition period starts when the deal is closed, when the papers are finally signed. Weeks and even months can go by before the merger/acquisition is finalized. Due diligence work, regulatory approval, and the negotiation process itself can drag things out for a long time.
Problems, however...
