Should I tell my yoga students before or after I sign a sale?

Keep negotiations quiet until the terms are firm. Students who hear a rumour may worry about their class pass, their teacher or the studio’s future, and some may leave before you have anything to tell them. Share the news with only the few people who must know, such as your lawyer, accountant and perhaps a key teacher under confidentiality. Some sellers tell a few trusted students early, but doing so risks the news spreading before you are ready.

Once the sale is agreed, plan the announcement with your buyer. Decide the date, the wording and the channels: in class, by email, and on the studio’s social pages. Explain what stays the same, what may change and who to ask. Tell your teachers first, so they are not surprised. Be honest if a student asks you directly; you can say you are not able to discuss it yet, without telling them something untrue.

Finally, be present afterward. Introduce your buyer in class, answer questions kindly and hold a few events where students can meet them. Your lawyer can tell you what the agreement says about when you may announce, and your accountant can help you with prepaid passes. Give students a way to say goodbye, whether through a final class or a gathering, because many of them care about you personally.

Key takeaways

• Keep talks confidential until terms are firm.
• Tell teachers first, then students, with your buyer beside you.
• Explain what stays the same, and be present for questions afterward.