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Cash flow problems are one of the most common reasons businesses fail. A cash crunch can occur at any time, for any number of reasons. But don’t worry, there are solutions available to help your business get back on track. For instance, the philgeps opportunities that are available to businesses needing that bit of extra financial help. Also, consider the tips below that will help a business that is struggling financially. Times are hard and we need to keep our options open.
Loans from Financial Institutions
One option is to apply for a loan from a financial institution, such as a bank. However, not all businesses are eligible for loans, and the interest rates can be quite high. You need to have a good credit score, in particular, to qualify. It may also depend on having a long-standing good relationship with the bank. If you have been struggling financially recently that may not be the case. It depends on how long you have left it before asking for help.
Seeking Out Investors
Another option is to seek out investors who may be interested in funding your business. They will likely want a say in your business and require equity, but they can bring much expertise to you, as well as have the vested interest and drive required to help your business to survive or develop to its full potential.
Looking for Ways to Reduce Expenses
If the income is not coming in as you had hoped during a certain period, you may need to look at cost-cutting measures. Perhaps we should have considered these anyway, but there is nothing like a financial crisis to make us more focused on what we are doing. In a way, it is good that we have not found earlier these areas where we can save, because now we have some wriggle room. Typical business costs that could be saved include:
- Rent: Consider renting a smaller building or one just out of the main area of a city or town.
- Wages: Review what each member of staff does, and is capable of, to see if it is possible to have someone double up and take on another’s duties at lean times. You might be able to run on less staff. It is better than going bankrupt and losing all your staff to the current economic times.
- Suppliers: See if suppliers will change their terms and allow you longer to pay. They would rather that than you go bust and end up owing them money you cannot pay.
- Travel: Look at working from home as much as possible to save on travel costs.
- Marketing: Look to cut the areas of spending that have not proved effective for spreading your message. Focus online more because that is where most people are looking now rather than picking up flyers. Always be compatible with mobile devices.
Revenue Management
If you are in the process of selling products or services, it is important to manage your revenue carefully. This means invoicing promptly and keeping a close eye on what is owed to you. It also means chasing up late payments as soon as possible.
There are many products available that can help you with this, such as accounting software that can automate the invoice process and send out reminders for payments that are due.
Look Into Government Funding
Depending on what type of business you have, there may be government funding available to help you through a cash flow crisis. This could be in the form of grants or loans, so it is worth investigating what is available to you.
Cash flow problems are a common issue for businesses, but there are solutions available. It is important to act quickly if you find yourself in this situation so that you can minimize the damage. The longer you wait, the more difficult it will become to fix the problem. Look for your solution today!
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