Are you “planning” to search to buy an SMB? Or stuck in the "I'll start tomorrow" phase? Or worse yet, telling yourself you will search when the time is right? Do these QUICK 10 things to get started TODAY:

1. Create a search name. Do NOT include the word “capital” unless you want to be asked where your capital comes from. You are not a capital group. Ask me how I know 😂

2. Form an LLC to shield yourself from NDA liability. Lawyer is not necessary - just go to your state’s Secretary of State website. Or call @smblawgroup

@smblawgroup 3. Make a website. Include your Big 3/Second 2 (link in bio for more on this). Add your picture—make it personal. No suit. A couple experienced advisors. Bonus points if it includes your spouse and/or pet. Use Wix or call @ImSamThompson

@smblawgroup @ImSamThompson 4. Create an email address with your new website domain. Keep it short, since you’ll type it a zillion times. Ask me how I know 🤷‍♂️

@smblawgroup @ImSamThompson 5. Get a CRM. If you take more than an hour to decide which CRM, your priorities are wrong. Shipped is better than perfect. I used to use @pipedrive, now @HubSpot

@smblawgroup @ImSamThompson @pipedrive @HubSpot 6. Assemble a list of deal sourcing sites (@withkumo_, @AxialCo, @BizBuySell). Then set up automated searches using your Big 3/Second 2. You are not too savvy to use these sites. Great deals get done here.

@smblawgroup @ImSamThompson @pipedrive @HubSpot @withkumo_ @AxialCo @BizBuySell 7. Create a list of every business broker you can find in the state(s) you’re targeting. Name, email, phone number. Add them into CRM. I'm not a fan of engaging a buy-side broker, since searching is your job, but @SMBJackieHirsch and @ClintFiore can convince me otherwise.

@smblawgroup @ImSamThompson @pipedrive @HubSpot @withkumo_ @AxialCo @BizBuySell @SMBJackieHirsch @ClintFiore 8. Update your socials to reflect your intentions to buy an SMB. You will be googled by owners and brokers. Make sure they’ll find what you want them to find (harder if you’re working a job and need to stay confidential).

@smblawgroup @ImSamThompson @pipedrive @HubSpot @withkumo_ @AxialCo @BizBuySell @SMBJackieHirsch @ClintFiore 9. Get your Deal Team lined up. Bank. Lawyer. QofE. Insurance. Tax. @sbabmarks, @SMB_Attorney, @KHendersonCo, @JermanMichael, @andyharbut, @MrJoshFro, @smbtaxattorney, @SMBJackieHirsch. There are many stellar professionals in this community now.

@smblawgroup @ImSamThompson @pipedrive @HubSpot @withkumo_ @AxialCo @BizBuySell @SMBJackieHirsch @ClintFiore @sbabmarks @SMB_Attorney @KHendersonCo @JermanMichael @andyharbut @MrJoshFro @smbtaxattorney 10. Start calling brokers. Like right now. No emails. Don’t write to “ask for time to talk” or write to “see if you have any listings that fit my criteria.” Just call. Build relationships. Drop off coffee. Network at ACG. Happy hours. Lots and lots of calls and visits.