Ask HN: How should we respond to private equity calls?
We like the product and our customers, and are inclined to continue doing what we’re doing. We’re also open to selling, taking some money off the table, and semi-retiring.
A couple of potential acquirers have contacted us. While these haven’t worked out, it made sense to talk. They were familiar with our product and operate in the same space.
Lately, we’re getting calls from private equity groups and investment banks. Their messages feel boilerplate (brief introduction + request for a phone call).
We’re happy to talk to potential buyers. That said, these calls feel like vague prospecting calls. My gut says they’re indiscriminately cold-calling startups like ours en masse.
Am I making a mistake by (politely) passing on these calls?
P.S., I’m posting this under a throwaway account as I’d prefer to remain anonymous.