“It’s almost in the bag. There’s just one aspect we need to agree on and then we can seal the deal” .. goes a report from the negotiating team to their principal.

“ That sounds good, we are heading to a game changing partnership that will open great horizons for us! I wish you success!”…says a reasonably impressed principal, considering the strides that have been taken thus far into the transaction process.

At this point, the remaining issue could either be resolved in the manner envisaged by the interested party or indeed go south! If it is a deal maker or breaker, it is a critical moment.

When do we celebrate the deal? At the point when 99% of the issues (which took great skill and tact to achieve) are agreed or when the remaining 1% is closed and the ink is drying on the paper?

My view is that whereas there may be a number of milestones that may have been achieved in the negotiation/transaction process, it’s not over until it’s over. Introspection will lead you to identify personal or single party achievements and distinguish them from the end game which is a signed deal.

The real bragging party is when it’s a wrap and we say, “We have bagged it. Signed, sealed and delivered!”

Anxious to hear experiences in that regard.

Let’s share…