How do I pass my translation agency’s relationships with interpreters to a buyer?

Start by writing down who your interpreters are, which languages and settings each one covers, and how each is booked. A buyer cannot value a roster they cannot see. Note who works only with you, who also works for competitors, and who takes the awkward last-minute calls.

Next, decide when to tell them. Most owners wait until a buyer is committed and a confidentiality agreement is signed, then speak to the most important interpreters in person before anything is announced to the wider pool. Interpreters are independent and can walk away, so how they hear the news matters as much as what you say.

Plan the introductions. Bring the buyer to a coffee or call, explain that rates, booking habits and payment dates will stay the same for now, and say how long you will remain available. Keep a list of anyone who sounded uneasy and tell the buyer honestly, since that is part of due diligence. Finally, put the roster, rate sheets and booking history into the data room so the buyer can check your account of the relationships. Keep a private note of what each interpreter said, so you can raise any early doubt with the buyer calmly.

Key takeaways

• Write down every interpreter, language and booking pattern before talking to a buyer.
• Tell the key interpreters yourself, in person, before the wider pool hears.
• Stay available through a handover period and report any doubts honestly.