Small businesses are everywhere these days, and small to medium-sized businesses account for about 38% of the Canadian GDP. While every business has different needs and values, there are a few practices that make sense for everyone. 366 Technology shares steps you can take to ensure that your small business runs smoothly.
Manage your money safely and easily
Keeping your finances and cash flow in check can be a frustrating process. Making sure your expenses are under control and that payroll is streamlined and stress-free can be a chore — but it doesn’t have to be. Establishing a business bank account through the right platform can simplify the process, making it easier to stay on top of your financial responsibilities.
When shopping around for an online business bank account, look for an account that truly serves your business, and that offers a variety of features, such as automatic bookkeeping, high-yield interest rates, and free and immediate instant deposit. Not only does this type of account offer better insight into your overall financial picture, but it can also free up some of your time so you can focus on other things.
Organize and purge
While having a bank account that works for you is essential for keeping your finances in check, it’s also important to stay organized throughout the year so nothing slips through the cracks. If your filing system is out-of-date, for instance, you might have old invoices that were never paid. Getting organized is the first step and includes both paperwork and digital files. Purge unnecessary items, change passwords, and do a physical count of your inventory twice a year. If necessary, update your website at the same time and ensure that it’s accessible to every type of customer by incorporating video content and captions. These practices will help save you money in the long run as you can stay on top of any mistakes.
Stay on top of regulations and guidelines
Staying organized is crucial as an entrepreneur, and that extends to your knowledge of up-to-date codes, laws, and government regulations. Things often change from year to year, and you might find yourself facing fines or worse if your business isn’t in compliance. Consider utilizing the services of a lawyer who can help you understand and stay in front of these changing regulations to avoid any issues down the road. Another option is to engage business consulting services. You can find qualified professionals through online job boards and hire based on reviews and rates.
Give back
As a business owner, it’s up to you to contribute to your community. Look for ways to give back, such as hosting an event for charity, supporting other local businesses or groups, or sponsoring school events. It’s also important to support your employees, especially if you’re able to offer remote work or assistance with childcare.
The best business practices will vary depending on where your business is located and the kind of resources you have, but there are several things you can do to boost your presence in the community and protect your company at the same time. Keep these tips in mind whether you’re just starting out or are looking for ways to make positive changes to your business.