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When Will You Celebrate Your First Deal?


A few days ago in London, I hosted our quarterly Business Buyer’s Academy mastermind meetup.

Fifty of my very best students gathered near the iconic London Bridge to share ideas, deepen our learning, network and meet me and my team.

London Bridge Dealmaker Wealth Society Conference

It was an epic day!

Not only did we do some exciting new mindset training so this all-star group could perform at an even higher level…

And some deep-dive sessions on financing, deal origination and deal execution…

But we had two deals done right in the room!

In addition to those two, another 10 students had recently closed deals… and we celebrated by presenting each buyer with a “tombstone.”

No, I’m not talking about the gravesite marker…

“Tombstone” is a Wall Street term describing the paper document used to announce big deals like initial public offerings, stock listings and mergers and acquisitions. The name derives from the simplicity of the document, with centered text and lots of white space.

The one below is the 1987 announcement of Chrysler’s acquisition of American Motors from Renault.Chrysler Corporation acquires American Motors Corporation

For my students, I hand out a crystal glass trophy to commemorate their deal.

Like the one presented to Nick Bradley. Nick acquired a U.K.-based professional services business with absolutely no money down.

Carl Allen and Adam Markley Celebrating Deals

It’s a big achievement that deserves a massive celebration!

Your first deal is a significant moment. You shift from employee to employer and move into a totally different way of life.

Being a dealmaker is an identity. It’s a lifestyle of choice – if you want it.

Our day in London ended with tons of networking and Q&A… followed by a delicious VIP dinner at my favorite local French restaurant.

Networking is so important… whatever you do in life.

My tribe loves networking at our events. They collaborate on deals, support each other and hold one another accountable.

American entrepreneur, author and motivational speaker Jim Rohn once said, “You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with.”

Pick these people carefully. They should be in a position to push you. To set higher standards. To move you forward.

That’s how you improve your results… and your life.

Until then, bye for now.

Carl Allen

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