Business market

The effects of the Global Financial Crisis (GFC) are far reaching, and are impacting on every country in the world. Huge corporations are failing, mum and dad investors are hurting, and retirees are wondering why, after years of careful planning for a happy retirement, they are needing to return to the workforce.

As a small business owner, the challenges imposed by the GFC are significant, and in many cases, unless steps are taken now, an increasing number of small businesses will cease to exist, as financial pressures mount.

So, what can you do, as a small business owner, to lessen the impact of the GFC on your small business? Here are some ideas to get you thinking:

Trim the fat

When things are going well financially, we tend to overspend, increase debt, and sometimes lose sight of the full financial health of our business. Now is the time to look at every aspect of your business with a microscope. Where is your money being spent? Can you still afford those little luxuries like a new leased car, or the latest mobile phones, or that office renovation that you were planning? Are your staff working overtime, and if so, is it necessary?

Review your running costs

Go through your regular running costs, item by item. Expenses such as rent, phones, electricity, motor vehicle expenses, consultancy and professional costs (for example accountants and lawyers).

Can you relocate to premises with lower rent? Will your current landlord consider deferring the next scheduled rent increase (it doesn’t hurt to ask)?

Are your employees making an excessive number of personal calls? Are you taking advantage of toll free numbers when calling long distance? Is your current telco providing you with the best deal available? Have them review your usage patterns to see if they have a more suitable plan available for you.

Are you making sure that you are not wasting an excessive amount of electricity? Consider using low energy globes where possible. If you need to purchase new equipment, does it have an energy rating, and could you save money by purchasing a more energy efficient piece of equipment? Consider installing movement sensors to lights in low traffic areas, so that they turn off when you leave the room.

Vehicles are high cost items. Are you getting the best deal on fuel? When your car needs maintenance, is it cheaper to have it serviced by a small shop rather than by the auto dealer (be careful to check that your warranty is not voided if you have it serviced elsewhere). Are you getting the best deal on insurance? Shop around. This also applies to insurance for all other areas of your business, and this is an area where real savings can be made. But a word of caution. If you are considering a cheaper insurer, read the fine print, and compare the cover that you receive.

Are your suppliers giving you a fair deal? Negotiate with them, but always remember that you need to have an alternative that can still supply to the desired quality.

Are you over staffed? Can less people do the same amount of work? If you employ managers, could their work be done as efficiently by less senior staff?

Review your business plan

Now is the ideal time to review your business plan. If you don’t have a plan, then draw one up.

What are the priorities for your business, now and into the future? What are the threats to your business survival, and how can you combat those threats? What are the strengths of your business and how can you build on your strengths?

Your business plan should be flexible and able to move with the times. If you need help in developing a plan, there are specialists that can help. Maybe your accountant can offer assistance.

The bank

We all know that bank’s like to charge for their services, but have you considered that there may be a better deal available from another bank? Review your account keeping costs. Review the interest rate being charged on any loans that you have, and if they are excessive, talk to your bank. If they won’t negotiate, consider relocating to a cheaper bank.

Summary

The GFC has given small business owners the ideal opportunity to review their business operations. Be thorough in your review, and reap the rewards. The GFC won’t last forever, and when things improve, you will hopefully have a leaner, more efficient, and more profitable business.

Dave Curran has 30 years experience in management and finance. Dave has worked extensively in the public and private sectors, and has worked at senior management level in the banking industry. He has provided finance to thousands of clients over the years and has an in depth understanding of the requirements of lenders.

Thanks To : Hotel Business Furniture Industry Computer Company University business