Cash flow is the incoming and outgoing cash from any business and represents the company’s operating activities. Every entrepreneur and small business owner instinctively knows that cash flow management is critical to keep their business successful. Many startups fail because they don’t have a healthy cash flow.
Trying to juggle all of the responsibilities that come with being an entrepreneur can be challenging enough without worrying about running out of cash at any moment. Managing cash flow effectively is essential for every small business and those looking for financial assistance from investors before starting their own company. But what does this mean? How do you go about managing it properly so that your startup doesn’t run out of funds before making its first sale?
For a small business to be healthy, it is essential to keep track of its cash flow and grip on the expenses and income. Here are some things a new entrepreneur should do to be in charge of the cash flow situation of their business.
Planning ahead
Having a forecast that lists all costs expected and income each month is essential for every small business. It is crucial to include all items, even if they seem relatively small, and be aware of any seasonal variations in your monthly forecast. Talking to an expert if you cannot formulate a plan on your own can be a good idea.
Be regular and fast with invoices.
Remember that an invoice delayed is a payment delayed. Send out invoices swiftly and set up payment terms with your clients at the beginning of the business relationship. Be prepared to charge late fees or interest on overdue payments. Other alternatives include having options such as reordering and advance payment or an early payment discount that could influence clients to pay up earlier.
Inventory management
Managing your business’ inventory well is another way of controlling cash flow. Holding too much inventory can become a hurdle. Monitor all stock records to keep track of inventory available.
Maintain a good relationship with your bank
Having a good banking partner can be very important to a startup or even an older small business. A good bank will help your business by sanctioning overdrafts and credit lines when you need them. Keep communication open with the bank and stay in their excellent books during other times.
Use technology to keep track of cash flow.
While keeping an eye on the books is a way to maintain control over the cash flow situation of any business, it can also be helpful to use technology to keep track of the incoming and outgoing cash. There are online and mobile tools available for this purpose, and using them when the company is small can help the transition as the business grows bigger.
As a small business owner, you know that cash flow is critical to your success. If you don’t have the money to pay for new inventory or payroll, it can be challenging to keep up with orders and stay in business. Hopefully, this gives you some valuable points to keep in mind.
