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