Trusted service provider relationships

Search / recruiting

Branding / PR

Finance, etc

Exit optimisation

Knowledge / contacts with relevant buyers

Exceptional

Good / credible

Mediocre / incomplete

Misconception that being good / credible across the board is what VCs look for

Can always add credible attributes to the mix later

Calls with current / prospective customers or partners

Meeting broader team

Brainstorming around strategy

Identifying key hires post closing

Formal presentation to VC partnership

Some additional reference calls with partners / customers

Personal reference calls

Legal / accounting audit (if relevant)

Growth rate

Team quality

Strategic fit with buyer community

Hiring (quality & speed)

Partnerships

Valuation and dilution at subsequent rounds