Making big profits in small markets

Even though most businesses want everyone to be their customer, this is not necessarily the right approach to making a profit. Instead, it is often best to think small in order to get big. To maximise your sales and profits, businesses should start narrowing their market to get a niche. Focusing in on a small…

Donating to charity

With so many charities competing for donations, it can pay to spend time researching to make sure your money is used for the cause you want to support. Just as important to making sure that the charity you donate to actually receives your donation. Here are some aspects to consider before you make a donation:…

Cash flow statements

Contrary to what some business owners may assume, a cash flow forecast is different from a cash flow statement Cash flow forecasts look forward while cash flow statements look at the past to report cash generated. Cash flow statements are critical financial statements and are very useful in determining the short-term viability of a business;…

Why your cash flow is out of control

Cash flow is one of the biggest obstacles facing small businesses trying to secure funds for their growth. On top of ongoing expenses and bills, poor cash flow strategies can negatively impact a business’s customers, staff and clients. Here are some of the potential reasons why your business’s cash flow may be out of control,…

What are profit drivers?

Profit drivers are determinants that have a significant impact on a business’s bottom line. They are often categorised as financial and non-financial drivers. Financial profit drivers are directly connected with dollar figures and are most commonly considered in relation to profit. Examples of financial profit drivers include: price fixed and variable costs sales volume inventory…

Tips to achieving business loans

Applying for a bank loan can be a difficult process. But despite the borrowing challenges facing small business owners, it is possible to have your loan approved. Bankers are not in the risk business, protecting their capital is paramount. Their careful examination of the integrity of a business has made it a priority for businesses…

Getting rid of products to improve profit

Businesses looking to improve their profitability may need to consider cutting under-performing products and services. There are a few simple ways to decide which products should stay and which should go. 80/20 rule An often used marketing and business rule states that businesses should focus their attentions on the 20 per cent of products that…

When is the best time to register for GST?

The Australian GST system can appear to be quite complicated for some small businesses just starting out, due to the different types of GST goods and services, such as input taxed, GST-free and GST taxable. Input taxed items are commonly financial services or products and rent from residential property. GST-free items are goods and services…

Lending options for your business

Whether your business is experiencing sudden growth or financially struggling, it is crucial to manage your cash flow effectively. Cash flow gaps or being unable to access extra funds can put a real strain on a business. However, there are lending options available to businesses that can help with different cash flow needs. Before considering…

Cash flow strategies for small businesses

Without profits and positive cash flow, a business is going to struggle to survive. This is why cash flow strategies should be taken seriously. Aim for long term financial stability When setting finance and cash flow goals for the business it is important to aim for long term stability.  Businesses should realistically assess how and…