Managing Your Firm’s Flow: The Key to Working Less and Earning More
Author: Financial Cents
In this article
Funds serve as fuel for businesses. Without the right amount of cash, a business will not come to life or even exist. Companies need to maintain enough cash for various reasons. When there are unexpected expenses or a need to invest in new infrastructure, having enough funds is what will make it possible. Continuously generating cash is also what ensures a business’s survival. After all, you cannot pay your employees or your suppliers without it.
If you want to ensure you always have cash on hand for your business, you have to manage it properly. This article will provide a quick overview of how you can do that and be smarter with your company’s money.
The Secret: Finding the Balance
The key to wisely managing your business’s money is by retaining a good cash flow. Cash flow is the amount of cash and its equivalent that goes into and out of your business. Start by acknowledging that money flows both ways. You get cash from customers or clients buying your products and services, and money goes out of your business when you pay for your taxes and other expenses.
Not having enough money on hand can negatively affect your business. It might force you to take out a loan that will only incur interest over time. If not settled immediately, this loan might put you in debt, which is why having inadequate cash reserves is one of the top reasons that young businesses fail to succeed. Without enough money, your business cannot function properly, and it can lead to it shutting down.
On the other hand, having too much money in your business is often seen as a good thing, but that is not always the case. It could also mean that you are missing many opportunities to invest and make your money grow.
A cash flow report enables you to see all sides of things. With a better perspective, you can better manage your money.
How to Improve Your Cash Management
Three business aspects determine a company’s cash flow:
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- The business’s operations
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- Its financing activities
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- Its investment activities
For better cash management, you need to look into these business activities and see which offers the best opportunities to grow your money and prevent cash flow emergencies. Here are some things you need to apply:
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- Have an inventory – By knowing exactly what items you need and how many, you can manage your expenses better
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- Set up a collection schedule – Not following up on late payments also affects your cash flow. Make sure to follow a specific schedule to avoid forgetting the payments you need to collect. Utilize accounts receivable to manage this process better.
Good profits can be a sign of a successful business, but that is not the only reliable reference. Having a healthy cash flow can help you see your company’s status from a better standpoint.
Conclusion
Learning about your business’s cash flow is the best way to understand how your company is doing, and your accountants can help you see your situation better. Your accountants play an important role in keeping your business in check. Make sure that you provide them with the tools they need to perform their duties well.
Are you considering using project management software for you accounting firm? Financial Cents is the software you’ve been looking for. Let our program help boost your firm’s profitability. It is not only recommended for businesses but also for CPA firms that need a solid management process. This program has a time-tracking feature perfect for your accountants’ needs. Start your free trial today.
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