Out of the 30 million U.S. companies, 99% are small businesses. If you’re starting a new small business, you want to do everything possible to make it a success.

This is no easy task, and unfortunately, many new businesses fail. Running a successful new business comes with plenty of ups and downs. And while you can’t predict the future, smart small business management is a necessity to help your business grow and thrive. 

If you’re looking for some strategies for new small business owners, we can help! Here are 7 small business management tips for success.

1. Separate Personal and Business Finances

Many new business owners make the mistake of mixing their personal and business finances. This is almost always a bad idea. Don’t put business expenses on your personal credit card. Don’t accept payments into your personal account.This will blur the lines between your personal finances, business expenses, and profits. 

Consider your business a separate tax entity. You don’t want to deal with a business audit that involves your personal finances. Things can get messy, even if you have nothing to hide. From the beginning, keep your personal and business finances separate to maintain better records and avoid trouble with the IRS.

2. Automate Your Processes 

They say “time is money.” This is a universal truth in the business world. As a small business owner, there are only so many hours in the day to get things done. Your time and attention are critical to the success of your business. That’s why automating processes can be beneficial to your growing business.

Automate processes whenever possible. Consider which small business apps and software could benefit your business. Consider using auto-responder tools for managing emails. Using QR codes can help minimize errors and save time.

Since the pandemic, QR codes have become increasingly popular. Starting early with automated processes can give you and your employees more time to focus on what matters most.

3. Invest in Employee Training

When you hire employees, you want them to be able to perform their roles well so you can concentrate on other things. This all begins with training. When you make employee training a priority, you’ll have a more efficient and knowledgeable team. Investing in your employees now will pay off in the long run. 

Take the time to provide proper training. Give them the opportunity to learn and grow in their skillset. Make sure they understand their position and what you expect of them. A strong onboarding process and excellent employee training will help you develop a more confident, efficient, and invested team around you.

4. Communicate With Employees

Lack of communication with management is one of the main reasons good employees leave. Running a business well includes building relationships with your employees. It’s important to let all employees know you care about them and value their input. Keep the lines of communication open.

Have regular meetings and discuss what’s going on with the company. Establishing a strong work culture can help boost morale and keep employees invested. Know your employees and take an interest in their lives. Let your employees know you’re available and care about the important role they play in the success of your business.

5. Plan to Spend Money to Make Money 

Small business owners can jeopardize their own success by failing to take advantage of opportunities. Look for opportunities that can pave the way to higher revenues.This could include new technology, adding a new product, or outsourcing time-consuming tasks. Establish trigger points that signify when it’s time to move or expand, including:

• Meeting revenue goals for a few consecutive months
• Reaching targeted goals for sales or new customers
• Spending a certain number of hours on administrative tasks

If you find you’re spending more and more time on administrative tasks, you need to make a change. That’s time you could spend on building new revenue streams, engaging with customers, or marketing your business.

6. Build a Strong Team

Building a strong team around you is essential for a small business owner. This may include your employees, mentors, partners, vendors, or anyone that plays a role in your business.

Each one is a vital part of the growth of your business. Having a strong support system is a necessity as you weather the ups and downs that come with business ownership.

Developing relationships with other business owners and taking an active role in the community is good for your business. You can’t run your business alone. Invest in your business by investing in the ones who will help you succeed.

7. Create a Healthy Work-Life Balance

Running a small business is more than a full-time job. It can be overwhelming and stressful, to say the least. You may want to go full-speed all the time. But, in time, this can start to affect your physical and mental well-being. 

Slow down when you can, and remember to take care of yourself. Spend time with family, eat healthily, and try to get enough sleep. 

Balancing your personal and business life isn’t easy. You have to take proactive steps to slow down, have a little fun, and practice self-care.

Tips for Small Business Management

Starting a business is hard work, but maintaining one is even harder. Taking the time to plan some small business management strategies can help you reduce your stress and run your business more efficiently.

As a new business owner, it’s also important to protect yourself and your investment with the right business insurance coverage. This allows you to concentrate on growing your business without the constant worry of unexpected liability.

We’d love to talk to you about your business insurance needs. Contact Northeast Insurance Services today for a free quote.