Clearing the Fog: Why Direct Communication Matters in M&A and Business Transformation
In this episode of the How2-Change Words of Wisdom podcast, Dan Leyland sits down with Dan Adler, Partner at Apiary Capital, to uncover the simple yet profound power of direct communication. Drawing on decades of experience in private equity, Adler shares the best piece of advice he’s ever received: "Always return someone’s call on the day they reach out." In an industry driven by high-stakes deals and ever-increasing complexity, Adler’s advice is a beacon of clarity—a way to cut through the noise and maintain human connection.
Why does this matter? When left unanswered, even minor issues can snowball, causing confusion, misalignment, and stress. But a timely call clears the air, helping professionals focus on core goals rather than anxieties. Adler’s insights reveal that direct communication is a critical skill for leaders in M&A, integration, and transformation, offering not only efficiency but also a touchpoint for building trust and addressing complex, often emotional concerns.
Through the "Clearing the Fog" metaphor, this episode illuminates the role of clear communication in navigating ambiguity and resolving issues promptly. As Adler explains, voice conversations are uniquely powerful for expressing tone and sentiment—elements that email lacks. In a world where inboxes overflow and CC lists mushroom, he advocates for the lost art of picking up the phone, pointing out that even the toughest issues seem lighter with the right conversation.
At How2-Change, we know that transformation success hinges on more than post-deal integration. It starts pre-deal, with rigorous due diligence, synergy modelling, and a clear governance structure. Our proprietary How2-Change Reality Check® ensures that these crucial early steps are executed with clarity and precision. Designed to act as a “fog-clearer,” How2-Change Reality Check® establishes streamlined communication pathways, sets up effective governance frameworks, and provides a structured approach to due diligence.
For M&A professionals, having the right people communicating in the right way can mean the difference between a seamless integration and a fragmented one. With the How2-Change Reality Check®, we don’t just prepare organisations for integration; we equip them to succeed from the outset. By kicking the tyres on deal assumptions, stress-testing synergy models, and ensuring transparent information flows, we help clients bridge the gap between vision and execution, transforming intent into measurable results.
Whether you're a leader in M&A, a private equity professional, or simply someone looking for practical advice on handling complex, fast-paced environments, this episode offers actionable insights that can make an immediate impact. Hear directly from Dan Adler as he breaks down the importance of clarity, direct communication, and proactive problem-solving in business.
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Join us as we explore how straightforward advice, like returning calls on time, can serve as a foundation for building trust and driving transformation forward. After all, even in the fog of change, a clear call can guide the way.
The How2-Change Reality Check®: Adding Clarity to Pre-Deal M&A DynamicsTune in for Insights on Navigating Change