How to Manage Money In a Small Business: 5 Helpful Business Finance Tips

Whether you run a tiny business or a sizable enterprise, you should always have your money on your mind and your mind on your money.

If you are reading this, I bet you are a small business owner. Or, perhaps, you are an aspiring entrepreneur looking to start your own tech or consumer goods and services business. Either way, money management should be at the core of any business strategy.

From cash flow efficiencies to capital expenditures, you should have your mind on your money and your money on your mind at all times. There are various ways to help manage the flow of cash in and out of your business, and many models to help make use of suitable credit facilities and investment capital.

Below I will share a few basic tips to help make the most of your business dollars and how to set your business up for success, from a financial standpoint.

Never Mix Personal and Business Finances

I know it is easy to use business income for personal expenses with the excuse that you will reconcile both at a later date and time. However, if the business has to grow, it needs to be self-dependent.  Have a separate business bank account and credit card(s) for the firm and another for personal use.  Doing this will help you keep a clean track of your expenditure.

Learn

As a beginner, you need to gather all information about finances. Remember you have a vision of growing your business into an empire one day.  Some basic knowledge is necessary.  This information is easily accessible online. You will be putting yourself in a position to win by reading some basic accounting and business management books.

Minimize Cost

When it comes to small businesses financial management, cutting cost should always be considered.  As the business evolves, consider using cheaper services.  For instance, if you need software, going for open source will be a better option than purchasing an expensive one. 

While focusing on minimizing cost, don’t forget to focus on receivables.  At times you might find that you are late on getting invoices paid.  To avoid such cases, make sure you regularly check your books and records and always keep them updated. 

Take advantage of Professional Advice

Professional advice from accountants, lawyers, consultants, etc. Can be very helpful.  These types of professionals will help you understand where your business stands finance-wise and what you need to do to achieve certain financial goals. You don’t necessarily have to hire the professional full time; part time will do just fine.  Also, make sure you hire someone you know well and trust.

Monitor your Business Performance

Carefully monitoring all business income and expenses is critical.  Make sure you compare old statements with current ones to try to spot material trends.  Having an idea of how money flows will help you in projecting future revenues, expenses, and cash flow. 

Consider your Team

When analyzing your business’ expenditure pattern, do not forget to check out the most important aspect, employees.  You need to know how much you are spending on salaries and wages, and whether improvements can be made. You might realize you, in fact, need to add incentive to the employees or at times cut down on the number of employees you have. This will, however, depend on how the business is doing. 

Owning and managing a business can be overwhelming and stressful at the same time.  Failing to properly manage finances can easily lead to the doom and destruction of your business. By keeping the above tips in mind, your business will stand firm despite any challenges.