Cash flow is the lifeblood of a small business, and in light of our current global economic crisis, cash flow management is even more critical than ever before. So how can your business focus on cash flow management as restrictions ease and our country begins to reopen? Well, here are 5 top tips on how to actively monitor and manage cash flow within your business. And remember, don’t make any major decisions about software implementations, or credit services without speaking to your bookkeeper first.
1. Get your accounts in order
It’s never been easier to have clear, organized accounts. There are a plethora of cloud-based accounting software tools out there that are easy to use and easy to set up. It is VITAL to understand how your business is performing, and the only way to do that is to have an overall picture of your business accounts.So now is the time to get out of the receipts-in-a-shoebox habit, and get yourself organized.
What’s more, a reliable accounting system will help you track and report on key business metrics. Having a good handle on these business metrics will help you manage your cash like a pro – and take advantage of new opportunities.
2. Plan, budget & monitor
Now that you can see where your accounts lie,
it’s time to analyze and monitor your budgets, expenditure and projected
earnings. To keep your doors open once we’re all allowed out again means
knowing your ‘cash in’ and ‘cash out’, and ensuring the cash-in will be enough
to cover all expenses.
Beyond that, managing expenses is critically important. While not spending is
ideal for making sure “cash-out” is less than “cash-in” – it’s not really how
business works and is not an option for most businesses. So while limiting
spend is recommended, there will undoubtedly be times when you need to invest
more to guarantee a return.
Although forecasting during uncertain times is difficult, it’s more important
than ever to track and predict your business earnings, so you can accurately
plan for the future and prioritize spending to achieve your goals (and
viability).
3. Collect your debts
While everyone is having to juggle their
accounts as supply chains the world over are disrupted, you still need to
maintain your invoice terms and ensure your customers know they still need to
pay their accounts.
While being direct and fair with your customers or suppliers is the way to go,
don’t be afraid to put formal policies in place and take further action if you
need to.
There are many ways to ensure your invoices are paid on time, like offering
convenient payment options, or discounts for early remittances. Numerous cash
advance businesses can take the sting out of long payment terms, and there are
payment options for customers that offer pay-by-the-month conveniences. But be
sure to understand the costs of providing these services, and know that often,
the convenience comes at a price. Talk to your bookkeeper and accountant about
different options for your industry and be sure to read the fine print.
4. Be on top of your stock
Stock management is vital for cash flow. The more stock you have, the more money you have tied up just sitting on your shelves. Not enough stock and you risk losing sales while you wait for re-ordering. It’s a delicate balance, but one that is imperative to get right. COVID-19 has created an unusual time for some businesses, and stock that might have flown out the door is now sitting idle on your stockroom floor. But getting back on track should be simple – and it’s the perfect time to implement new systems to make sure you’re on top of your stock in the coming months.
Take inventory regularly and invest in stock management software that can give you real-time access to stock availability. By undertaking regular stock checks and working with your bookkeeper to calculate your inventory turnover ratio, you should be able to manage your stock, so it has a positive impact on your cash flow.
5. Have a financial emergency plan
Cash flow shortages are often difficult to predict, particularly when an unprecedented global economic crisis causes them. But you should always have a plan in place to access additional capital if you need it. Numerous government support packages are currently available, so check with your bookkeeper or accountant to see what assistance you are eligible for.
We can’t predict the future, but we can be prepared by keeping up to date with business trends and having a solid overview of where your business stands. In doing so, you can quickly adapt your business model and carry your success through any more uncertainty 2020 throws our way.
To find out more about managing your cash flow, call Opulent Accountants on 03 8838 8726.
