Keeping Your Business Afloat: Cash Flow Tips

Managing cash flow is like playing a never-ending game of financial Tetris for small, micro, and artisan businesses.

It's all about keeping those blocks (or dollars) aligning perfectly to avoid toppling your business structure. Here’s how some nimble businesses stay financially flexible and thrive.

Cash Flow Essentials

Simply put, cash flow is the money dance — funds coming in, funds going out. 

Positive cash flow keeps the music playing, meaning you’re earning more than you’re spending. Staying rhythmic in this dance helps you handle the bills, grow your business, and deal with surprises efficiently.

Straight from the Pricing Playbook:

Tip #1. Forecasting and Planning

Knowing what’s coming helps you prepare better. You may need to adjust your stock based on seasonal trends, keeping cash ready for the essentials and avoiding unnecessary extras. Planning helps to avoid last-minute or hasty decisions.

Tip #2. Stay on Top of Invoicing 

Getting your invoices out promptly might sound simple, but it's a game-changer for keeping cash flowing. Setting up applications like Xero to invoice immediately after service delivery and nudging clients politely with automated reminders helps keep cash flow as regular as clockwork.

Tip #3. Keep a Lid on Costs 

Every dollar saved is a dollar earned. Keep your spending tight - especially at startup phase - by negotiating with suppliers for the best deals, proving a penny saved is a penny earned.

Tip #4. Save for a Rainy Day

It’s wise to stash some cash away for unexpected downturns. Stash away a small portion of every sale into a rainy day fund, proving a little prep can go a long way when storms hit.

Tip #5. Balance Those Bills

It’s all about timing. Keeps your cash flow healthy by timing your payments to suppliers just right, ensuring there’s always money in the bank when you need it.

Tip #6. Tech to the Rescue

Today’s tech tools can be a lifesaver. Stay on top of your game by using real-time financial tracking, cloud-based software can help you to be able to make smart, quick spending decisions - even when away from the office!

Why It Matters

Great cash flow management is the secret sauce to business success. By adopting these strategies, you're not just surviving; you're setting yourself up for growth and stability. Your Number Man Johan Czanik reminds us that with some smart planning and a proactive approach, any small business can turn financial management into a growth strategy. Solid cash flow management can make or break your business. 

Ready to tighten up your cash flow game? Apply these tips and tailor them to fit your unique business landscape. With a little attention and action, you can keep your business financially fit and ready to take on the world! 

Need to dive deeper? Schedule a 1:1 Mentoring Session with Shelley or download our Pricing Playbook today