How do I tell my staffing agency’s clients and temps it is being sold?

An agency lives on two groups who both need to feel safe: clients who rely on it to fill roles, and workers who rely on it for pay. News of a sale that reaches either group by rumour can send both looking elsewhere. A short, planned announcement protects the business you are selling and the people in it.

Staff first, before anyone outside

Your recruiters and account managers may be asked about the sale as soon as others hear of it. Tell them first, privately, and give them the key points. Decide who may speak to clients and workers, and what to say when they do not know an answer. Ask your lawyer whether any confidentiality terms in the sale limit what can be shared and when.

Key clients next, with the buyer

Your largest and longest-standing clients should hear from you personally, not by email. If the buyer is willing, introduce them together. Explain who they are, why they bought, and that the client’s contact and service stay the same. Invite questions and write down any concern about contract terms to pass on to the lawyers.

Workers on assignment

Workers want to know three things: will I be paid, on time, by the same process, and will my assignment continue. Say what you know and are able to promise. Whether employment continues, and on what terms, is a question for your lawyer. Never answer it in a hallway.

Timing against closing

Announce close enough to closing that the news does not sit and spread, but with enough time for the key conversations. Agree the plan, the wording and the dates with the buyer in writing. Follow up with the same message in writing, and keep the buyer and the seller reachable for questions during the first weeks.