9 Financial Strategies for Small Businesses
Jake Cutler, MSc, CLFP
Leading Fintech Entrepreneur | Innovating Small Business Lending | SaaS Solutions for Equipment Sellers, Sales Teams & Finance Brokers | Streamlining Workflows | AI & Data Enthusiast
Statistics show that around 66% of small businesses have financial challenges, where 43% of them say that paying operating expenses is their prominent issue. Looking at these numbers, it is not shocking to know why the total loans given to SMEs amounted to $750 billion in 2021.?
Small businesses should have a financial strategy to grow, succeed, and not end up buried in loans and debts. First, you need to understand that business is not a hobby and have a realistic growth plan. Second, you should understand the role of cash flow management and consider other investment opportunities.?
Small business owners need to have a well-planned financial strategy to help them achieve their targets and objectives. Read further to know more about handling your business's finances and prepare for emergencies.?
9 Financial Tips for Small Businesses
If you are just starting, have been in business for several years, or are looking forward to making some changes - this article is for you.
Here are nine important finance tips that will help you get your small business off on the right foot:
Start With an Emergency Fund
Just because you are starting on your own does not mean that problems will not come up. Every day, you need to replace items, employees will make mistakes, and there is always the chance for human error when dealing with money. Make sure to have enough saved away in case of unexpected costs.
Make the Most of Your Credit
Your credit score is essential, and using it wisely can save you a lot of money. Ensure that you know the interest rates on all types of loans before deciding to take one out with your bank. Sometimes it might be worth paying off an extra hundred dollars for the interest rate to be lower in the long run.
It is a Business, Not a Hobby
If you want to succeed in business, you have to treat it like it from the very beginning. The best way to do that is by setting up your finances from day one to avoid surprises when tax time rolls around. It will also help you save money before it is too late.
Cash Flow Management Requires Attention to Detail
Cash flow management is a lot more than just having a lot of money in your checking account at the end of the day. Pay attention to all kinds of expenses, from accounts receivable and payable to loan payments and general ledger accounts.?
Be sure to have a good handle on everything before the money starts coming in.
Don't Let Your Numbers Fool You.
Numbers can be misleading if you do not break them down and see exactly where the money is going as it comes in and out of your business. If you are not sure how to do this, talk to an accountant or financial advisor to develop a cash flow statement for you.
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Alternatively, you can keep on reading more small business news, and you will find all kinds of helpful information about the best ways to manage your money and save for later in life. You do not need to wait until it is too late - start planning now.
Be Realistic About Growth Plans
You might get an idea about how successful your business can be after a big sales month, but make sure that you are setting realistic goals for the future instead of getting ahead of yourself.?
There is nothing wrong with dreaming big and believing in your company, but be sure to keep your feet on the ground and work hard to keep moving forward.
Consider Other Investment Opportunities
Investing in your business can increase your profits, but it is also essential to find other investment opportunities. You do not have to put everything on the line just for your business - set aside some of your profits for personal use so that you can enjoy the fruits of your labor.
Keep Your Priorities Straight
Above all, remember that you have to keep everything in perspective and only work on one task at a time to get it done right. You might feel like there is not enough time in the day, but taking breaks and working on one project at a time will help you get the most done without wasting time or making mistakes.
Plan Ahead for Growth and Expansion
Before you start to grow your company, be sure that you and your employees are well trained in handling everything from paperwork to customer service, especially if this is not something that comes naturally to you.?
A good way to ensure that everything is safe and secure is using a records management service like Iron Mountain.
Conclusion
Whatever the size of your enterprise, you need to handle funds properly to achieve your business objectives and target. Having a well-planned financial strategy and considering the tips mentioned above may give you a better understanding of your current cash position, future cash flows, and use of funds.?
Suppose you are struggling with your small business' finances, no problem because we got you. Shoot us an email at [email protected] to get started.
Sources available on request -
Founder Of The Trade Stars | Zoho CRM Developer | Strategic Relationships at Ampli-fi.io | Small business automations | Software Development | Invoicing and Marketing for small construction and trade companies |
3 年All about the numbers!
Empowering Startup founder to build and lead high performing & innovative teams - Make the impossible possible and succeed your greater mission by hiring your first 25 people right.
3 年100% to take your startup seriously from the beginning! True for people as well! Surround yourself with great people from day 1 and you can not just more likely succeed but also faster. Thanks for the insides on the financial side Jacob, appreciated!
Truly thoughtful and insightful!! Thanks a bundle for sharing..
Good One ??
Daily tips for AI & automation.
3 年Great post Jacob!