In business, strategy is the leprechaun everyone’s hunting—mysterious, elusive, and rumored to hold the key to untold riches. But much like the fabled pot of gold, what many call “strategy” is just a shiny illusion. The real essence of strategy isn’t found in buzzwords or lofty visions—it’s in the grounded, unglamorous work of making tough choices and following through on them.

Before scaling, businesses must establish operational discipline by standardizing processes, defining roles, and aligning teams. Overemphasizing sales without this foundation leads to chaos. Successful scaling requires a clear, systematic approach to ensure sustainable growth and long-term success.

Middle-market companies have a diverse range of debt and equity financing options, each with its own advantages and challenges. By carefully considering their specific needs, strategic objectives, and market conditions, these companies can effectively leverage financing to support their growth and long-term success.

Rising interest rates challenge PE firms dependent on cheap debt, requiring a shift towards restructuring and treasury management skills. Hiring external consultants helps manage turnarounds, stabilize companies, and prepare for recovery without long-term commitments.