Running your own business requires careful thought and planning. But even with all that, it’s hard to avoid feeling financially stressed from time to time. Handling the stress productively can help your business succeed. But avoiding it in the first place can also make your job far more enjoyable. Here are seven ways to sidestep financial stress before it appears:
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Establish good accounting habits:
You can avoid much financial stress by knowing your exact financial condition every day and tracking your cash flows against your budget. You should purchase either a good accounting system in-house, subscribe to an online accounting package, or hire an accounting service to do your books. You should stay on top of your accounting entries and generate reports frequently to see where you stand. Using this information, you can respond to upcoming cash crunches early and take actions, such as delayed spending, to reduce the problem.
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Invoice promptly:
Always invoice immediately when providing a service or sending goods. Encourage prompt payment with terms like 2/10 net 30. That is, you’ll grant them a 2% discount if they pay in 10 days, but in any event, the full amount is due in 30 days. After sending out invoices, remember to follow up promptly. You can automate your email and SMS service to help you maintain contact with the people who owe you money.
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Adopt money-saving ideas:
For example, consider renting equipment rather than buying it. This can avoid an enormous outlay of cash that you can instead deploy elsewhere. Also, renting equipment relieves you of repair costs should it break down. You can rent office space, or better yet, work from home if possible. If you have staff, see if they are interested in working remotely, as this too can save you (and them) money. Put on your thinking cap and we’re sure you’ll discover dozens of smart ways to spend less money.
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Keep it legal:
One temptation some business owners succumb to when finances get tough is to cut corners and adopt shady practices. Besides being unethical, it will surely elevate your stress level rather than reduce it, and in the long run can lend you in hot water. Keep it honest, and whether you succeed or fail, you’ll know you did so legitimately.
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Use an LLC:
A limited liability company can reduce stress by protecting your personal assets from your business creditors. If you run a sole proprietorship, a creditor or legal opponent can sue you in court and if they win, seize your home, car and other assets to collect the money due them. An LLC shields you from personal liability for your business debts without having to set up a corporation.
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Do your own marketing:
It’s become much easier to manage our own public relations, thanks to the internet and social media. You have the opportunity to effectively engage with people on a personal basis. Social media accounts are free, and you can do online advertising in any amount that is comfortable. Build up your website with good content to improve your position in web searches. Learn the ways of the SEO masters to help build website traffic, increase prospects and convert them to customers.
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Use debt wisely:
Cash flows in a small business are often uneven. This is compounded by any seasonal aspects to your business. The wise use of debt can mitigate these problems by providing injections of cash when you need it. Moreover, a short-term loan can let you take advantage of opportunities that pop up from time to time. For example, you might have a supplier who offers you a great deal on inventory. A loan could allow you to buy up the extra inventory and then use the increased profits to easily repay the loan.
Conclusion
The key to reducing financial stress is to spend less, earn more, husband your cash and rely on credit when you need it. If you are interested in a low cost, convenient business loan, contact us at IOU Financial — we’d love to hear from you.
