As a small business owner, you know that there are many financial responsibilities that come along with the job. It’s not always a breeze to stay on top of all the latest news and updates related to tax laws, investment opportunities, and more. In this article, we’ll share seven unique small business financial insights – so you can make sure you’re making the most of your finances!
Introduction to our small business financial insights
Business owners wear many hats. You’re the CEO, the sales team, the marketing department, and oftentimes, the janitorial staff. With so much on your plate, it’s easy to let some things fall by the wayside – like your business finances.
But if you want your small business to be successful, you need to have a firm handle on your finances. To help you out, we’ve put together a list of small business financial insights you need to know.
Keep reading for tips on everything from bookkeeping to budgeting to cash flow management. By the time you finish this article, you’ll have a better understanding of how to keep your business finances healthy and growing.
1: Understand Cash Flow
In order to manage your finances successfully, it is critical to understand cash flow. Cash flow is the movement of money into and out of your business. It is important to track your cash flow so that you can see how much money you have coming in and going out, and when. This will help you to make informed decisions about how to best use your resources.
There are a few things to keep in mind when tracking your cash flow:
- Make sure to include all sources of income, including sales, investments, loans, and grants.
- Track all expenses, including operating costs, taxes, and interest payments.
- Create a system for recording transactions so that you can easily track your cash flow over time.
- Use software or online tools to help you track your cash flow if needed.
By understanding your cash flow, you will be able to make better decisions about how to use your resources and grow your business successfully.
2: Track Your Expenses
If you want to get a handle on your finances, it’s important to track your expenses. This will help you see where your money is going and where you can cut back. There are a few different ways to track your expenses, so find the method that works best for you.
You can use a simple spreadsheet to track your expenses, or there are also some great apps that can help. Whichever method you choose, make sure you track all of your expenses, including business and personal expenses.
It’s also a good idea to track your expenses by category, such as marketing, office supplies, travel, etc. This will help you see where most of your money is going and where you might be able to save some money.
Once you start tracking your expenses, it will be easier to create a budget and stick to it. Having a budget is essential for any business, but it’s especially important for small businesses. A budget will help you make sure you are spending wisely and not overspending in any one area.
3: Have a Financial Plan
When it comes to your small business, having a financial plan is key to success. Here are a few tips to help you get started:
1. Know your numbers.
This means understanding your revenue, expenses, and profit margins. Having this knowledge will help you make informed decisions about where to allocate your resources.
2. Create a budget.
Once you know your numbers, you can create a budget that will allow you to track your progress and ensure that you are staying on track.
3. Have realistic expectations.
Don’t expect to become an overnight success. It takes time to build a successful business, so be patient and focus on the long-term goal.
4. Seek professional advice.
If you’re not sure where to start, seek out the advice of a qualified accountant or financial advisor. They can help you create a financial plan that fits your specific needs and goals.
4: Monitor Your Credit Score
If you’re not monitoring your credit score, you could be in for a rude awakening when you try to secure financing for your small business. A low credit score can lead to higher interest rates and even loan denials, so it’s important to keep tabs on your score and take steps to improve it if necessary.
There are a few different ways to check your credit score. You can order a free copy of your report from each of the three major credit bureaus once per year, or you can sign up for a service like Credit Karma that offers free monthly updates.
Once you have your report, take a close look at each item listed and dispute any errors that you see. If there are negative items that are accurate, start working on a plan to pay them off and improve your score over time.
Monitoring your credit score is an important part of maintaining a healthy financial status for your small business. By staying on top of your score, you can avoid costly mistakes that could put a strain on your finances.
5: Utilise Technology to Make Finances Easier
There are a number of ways that technology can help you manage your finances more effectively. Here are some tips:
- Use online banking and budgeting tools to keep track of your money.
- Use apps to help you stay organised and on track with your finances.
- Use online bill pay to save time and money on postage and avoid late fees.
- Keep an eye on your credit score so you can make sure you’re getting the best interest rates possible.
- Use financial planning software to map out your long-term financial goals and create a plan to reach them.
6: Get Professional Help When Necessary
If you’re not confident in your ability to manage your small business finances, it’s okay to seek professional help. A financial advisor can help you create a budget, track expenses, and make sound investment decisions for your business.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help when it comes to managing your finances. A professional can give you the insights and guidance you need to make smart decisions for your business.
7: Prepare for Taxes
As a small business owner, it’s important to be prepared for taxes. Here are some tips to help you get started:
- Know what tax deductions are available to you. There are many deductions that can help reduce your tax bill, so it’s important to know what you’re eligible for.
- Stay organised throughout the year. This will make it easier to file your taxes and keep track of your expenses.
- Use tax software or a professional accountant. This can help you save time and money when it comes to preparing your taxes.
- Keep track of changes in the tax code. The tax code is always changing, so it’s important to stay up-to-date on the latest news and developments.
- Plan for estimated taxes. If you expect to owe more than £1,000 in taxes, you’ll need to make estimated payments throughout the year.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that you’re prepared come tax time.
Conclusion
We hope this article has given you a better understanding of the financial insights you need to know as a small business owner. If you follow these tips and keep your finances organised, it will make all the difference in helping your business grow. Don’t be afraid to ask for help if needed, as there are plenty of resources available that can guide you through any financial obstacle. With hard work, dedication, and guidance from trusted advisors, success is within reach!
Having a fully thought out financial plan for your business will allow your business to grow. Check out the infographic below for tips on business expansion!
Infographic created by Excellere Partners, an entrepreneur investment partner