The SmallBizLady Buzz - Issue 190

How are you staying on top of your end-of-year finances?

Profit is how we keep score in business, but all too often many business owners don’t check in on the money until tax time. Don’t let your fear of math be the reason why you are not on top of the finances in your business. You need to sweat the financial details or have an accountant who does. For example, how many receivables are you expecting before the end of the year? What is the plan for that money? Can you pay some vendors in advance to avoid paying too many taxes? You need some tax planning advice now, so make an appointment. After December 31, the only thing your accountant can do is tax preparation, so get on your tax avoidance strategies now. Here are a few more suggestions:

1. Develop Your 2024 Budget. What key investments are you going to make in your business in 2024? What conferences will you attend? Do you need new software or equipment? How much more will you invest in marketing monthly? (Hint: Look at the ROI of marketing investments this year first!)

2. Define your Personal and Business Goals. Everyone should have 3 goals, 2 business goals and 1 personal goal. It’s makes it a lot easier to say no to opportunities that don’t align with your goals. Suggestions: Work on my sleep hygiene, take 30 minute breaks daily, add staff, upgrade to AI software, or add a new content strategy.

3. What is Your End Game in Your Business? How long do you plan to work? Are you saving anything for your retirement? Are you building a business you can sell one day? You need to start planning your business exit 7-10 years ahead of time. Start by thinking about what you want to do.

The most important thing is to be intentional about how you are running your business. Track your progress and profitability on a regular basis. Look for ways to create recurring revenue. This will improve your financial positions.

Now check out the featured article of the week, 20 Ways to Prepare Your Small Business for 2024.

-----------------

20 Ways to Prepare Your Small Business for 2024

Amidst the hustle of your busy holiday season and the drive to conclude 2023 on a high note, it’s crucial to turn your attention to planning for the upcoming year. The arrival of 2024 is imminent, and the strategic groundwork you lay now will pave the way for your small business’s success in the new year. Seizing the opportunity to implement key strategies before January arrives can significantly impact your operations, adaptability to market trends, and overall positioning for success. Continue reading....

-----------------

Have you gotten your ticket for SmallBizLady’s 1-Day Virtual Startup Bootcamp Yet?

Join us Tuesday, Jan. 16th, 1pm ET/4pm PT. Join this immersive day filled with learning , networking, and inspiration. Whether you're an aspiring business or a side hustler looking to build a full-time business, this event is for you. Learn what you need to know before you start, how to fund your business, e-commerce secrets, and how to buy an existing business. General tickets $97/ VIP $197 - don't miss out! Secure your seat today!

-----------------

Let them choose their favorites

Are you looking for a unique way to a holiday gift to a customer or your hard-working employees? Send a sweet Sugarwish gift through email or text. You don’t have to pick a gift, give them a few options, and let them choose. They can even do same day online delivery. Starts at $25 delivered. And free shipping is included. Make your employee gifts simple this holiday.

-----------------

Podcast: Developing Content with SEO in Mind with Kendra Lee

Checkout my recent podcast: Developing Content with SEO in Mind with Kendra Lee

Kendra Lee is an author, speaker, and revenue generator. She is the founder of KLA Group, a sales consultancy and marketing agency that helps small and medium businesses get seen, get heard, and gain traction to achieve their dreams.

She's also the author of The Sales Magnet. For more information, you can go to KLAGroup.com . we talk about how to drive more revenue from your website, starting with the content that you are creating. For more information, you can go to www.KLAGroup.com

-----------------

Time is running out to qualify for a $10K grant from Verizon.

The grant period is open between now and 12/20/23. To qualify, simply register for Verizon Small Business Digital Ready , and complete any combination of two courses, coaching or attend a community event. Plus, access free, proven online tools and support that can help you succeed in the digital economy. Personalized Learning, 1:1 Coaching, Peer Networking and Incentives. Register today!

-----------------

Opportunity Awaits!

We're on the lookout for two commission-based sales superstars who thrive on discovery calls. If you have a passion for sales and love creating magic with clients, we want to hear from you! Email your resume and cover letter to [email protected] and embark on a rewarding sales journey.

-----------------

Subscribe and don't forget to leave a comment below!

Melinda F. Emerson,?“SmallBizLady” ?is America’s?#1?Small Business Expert. She?is an internationally renowned keynote speaker on small business development, marketing and social selling. Melinda is also the president of the Quintessence Group, an award-winning marketing consulting firm based in Philadelphia, PA, serving Fortune 500 brands who target small business market. LinkedIn named her a Top Voice for 2019 in Small Business and Entrepreneurship.?In addition to being a former NY Times columnist, she is frequently quoted by media organizations including The Wall Street Journal, Fortune, MSNBC, CNBC and Fox News. She is the host of?#Smallbizchat ?LIVE and The SmallBizChat Podcast. A prolific writer, Melinda has published more than 5000 articles on her blog?www.succeedasyourownboss.com . Her small business advice is widely read reaching more than 3 million entrepreneurs each week online. She is the bestselling author of?Become Your Own Boss in 12 Months, Revised and Expanded ?and?Fix Your Business, a 90 Day Plan to Get Back Your Life and Reduce Chaos in Your Business.