M&A Communication Tools
Tool 1: Suggested Core Message Content for Stakeholders
The typical content shared with stakeholders.
Tool 2: Employee Communications Survey
Survey to evaluate the effectiveness of communication efforts during the integration process.
Tool 3: Communications Planning Matrix
Communication planning template that should be completed by each Integration Team.
Tool 3 Example: Communications Planning Matrix
Completed example of a Communications Matrix.
Tool 4: Communication Effectiveness Criteria
Matrix of criteria by which merger integration communications should be judged.
Tool 5: Communication Event Evaluation Form
Template to assess communications events. Can be adapted/edited for specific circumstances.
Tool 6: Acquisition Press Release Outline
The key topics to cover.
Tool 7: Announcement Presentation Outline to Acquirer’s Employees
Outline of presentation by CEOs.
Tool 8: Announcement Presentation Outline to Acquired Company’s Employees
Outline of presentation by CEOs.
Tool 1: Suggested Core Message Content for Stakeholders
- Strategy behind the deal
- Statement about how the acquired company’s people, competencies, and capabilities will help the company grow in a strategic way
- Location of new company’s headquarters
- Statement as to whether some groups/people will be required to relocate
- Financial background on acquiring company
- Recent revenue growth
- Market share
- Stock symbol
- Acquiring company headquarters, major locations, and number of employees
- Key customers of acquiring company
- Overview of products/services of acquiring company
- Financial background on acquired company
- Recent revenue growth
- Market share
- Stock symbol
- Acquired company headquarters, major locations, and number of employees
- Key customers of acquired company
- Overview of products/services of acquired company
- Statement about how the company will treat duplicate positions/locations, etc. (i.e., will there be lay-offs, will offices/plants be closed?)
- Statement that focuses employees’ attention on serving clients and maintaining the revenue stream during the transition
- Explain how teams have been formed to identify and begin to address integration-related issues (list teams)
- Why the merger/acquisition is a positive event for customers
- Statement as to anticipated changes in roles and responsibilities of groups/people
- Statement as to the degree of integration anticipated between the two organizations
- Statements related to benefits and policies changes
- “For now, there will be more questions than answers…” — explain where employees should go with questions
- Statement as to the financial security of the new company and how, moving forward, there will be plenty of opportunities for employees interested in being a part of a successful and competitive company
- Statement as to whether or not the company plans to make additional acquisitions