I just noticed that a company got "acquired" today. Who the company is, isn’t important. It’s the usage of the word "acquired" that always seems to make my skin crawl whenever I see it.
I guess the difference with me is that instead of seeing companies, I see people with ideas. Instead of seeing acquisitions of ownership, I see relationships of mutual respect and understanding. I’m sure people in these companies feel great when they get acquired by a prestigious company but I’m wondering how they’ll feel when they’re sold off to someone else at a later date (which I saw happen to another company just the other day).
"Sorry honey. We’ve had a great five years living together but it’s just not working out for me anymore. I’ve decided to sell you off to my friend Tony who’s going to acquire you. He’s a great guy and I’m sure you’ll be happy with him."
Ugh.
