Starting a new business could be an exciting idea for a young entrepreneur. However, you must keep in mind that multiple factors contribute to the success of any business venture. One of the most perplexing issues could easily be financial management.
A young entrepreneur is up against several financial difficulties including securing capital, managing cash-flow, demarcating between business finance and personal finance, etc. But no worries; here are some effective tips to avoid some common financial mistakes committed by inexperienced entrepreneurs:
Creating a Cash Reserve Always Works
It is a good idea to initiate a business venture only after creating a solid back-up. It always helps to create a cash reserve. Starting a business may not involve very high costs, but there is always a possibility that profits won’t come in for quite some time initially. You need to keep some cash aside for paying off tax no matter what your margins are. Develop a habit of saving. Save a little amount every week without fail.
Staying Away from Overinvesting in Business Helps
In case you are depending on personal cash reserves, savings or credit cards for starting a business, it is a good idea to stay away from overinvestment traps namely top-notch computer systems, posh and up market office or even inventory overload. You should concentrate solely on creating a high quality product and ensuring a good customer experience. If you operate your business online or from home, you could easily avoid these pitfalls.
Keeping Debt-Income Ratio in Mind Always Works
It is necessary to keep track of debt-income ratio particularly, if you are repaying credit card debt or student loans. You do not stand a chance of getting business loans even if your income is good enough to make the necessary repayments.
It is therefore best to start a venture only after clearing all your personal debts. Contact a national debt relief company and opt for debt settlement or whatever is suggested by the experts. You need to go into the business, 100% debt-free so that you are eligible for the business loans. You may not be requiring financing currently, but capital injection may be required in future.
Talking to a Financial Expert: A Good Idea
It is best to seek advice from a tax advisor or an accountant if you are a newcomer in business. Expert advice could prove to be extremely useful in ensuring that you are following the tax regulations to the dot and avoiding any tax related mistakes.
The most common pitfall could be that you would end up paying excessive tax. A consultation with a tax or financial expert may not be an expensive affair. Moreover, tax franchises usually offer free initial consultation. This is good enough for you, provided you have done your homework well and you are ready with the perfect questions.
Paying Yourself a Salary: A Must
When you have started your own business, it is obvious that you would love to devote all your time, effort and money to the business alone. You would certainly be tempted to invest all the profits from your business back to the business again, without really thinking about your own financial requirements. But it is necessary to set aside an amount as your salary so that you can take care of your personal monthly expenses and that your personal finances are not in jeopardy. It is essential that your personal finances are completely separate from your business finances.Personal finances can be segregated and easily tracked using online money manager software from companies like Mint.
Keeping Business and Personal Finances Completely Separate: A Wise Decision
It is a good idea to keep your business and personal finances completely separate. This gives your business the much desired credibility and definitely diminishes your personal liability. You are now in a better position to take care of your bills, taxes and other monthly payments.