Author: Jennifer Brazer

When you have an accident at work, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits depending on the state you are in. These benefits will cover your medical expenses, pay for your time off, and protect your job when you are out if the accident requires medical leave. It can even cover some compensation if you have permanent damage due to the accident. Workers’ compensation will only provide coverage if the workplace can be found negligent or at fault. Here are seven tips for a successful workers’ compensation case.

Act Fast

No matter what state you are in, almost all claims have a deadline to be filed. This period begins when the incident occurs and varies according to each state and according to the claim type. This time limit is called the statute of limitations. This statute of limitations is in place to ensure that a person can’t come at any time to make a claim months or years after the accident. Therefore, you must plan to act as quickly as possible. There are some exceptions for going past this period, but even with great cause filing a claim after this timeframe can make it more challenging to earn the compensation you deserve. 

Another issue to consider is that a lawyer needs time to study the case in detail and prepare an appropriate legal strategy. The more time you give your lawyer to prepare, the better chance you will win your case if the case requires a lawyer’s intervention. 

Get Witnesses

If you have an accident at work and there are witnesses, be sure to take note of these people’s names and their contact information: colleagues, supervisors, contractors, and anyone who can attest to what happened will help successfully settle your case. Some cases are straightforward and easy to determine, while others are more complicated and require witnesses to help get it resolved successfully. 

Consult a Doctor

The most important issue is your health and well-being, but going to the doctor will also serve as evidence in your favor. As soon as possible, please make an appointment with your doctor, whether for a follow-up after an emergency room visit or an initial appointment to determine damage. Remember that some injuries may seem mild at first, but then they become complicated and could even endanger your life if not treated. Also, keep in mind that if you do not receive medical help immediately, the insurance company could use that as evidence that your injury “was not so serious” and could reduce your chances to win your workers’ compensation case.

Write Down the Incident Immediately

As you know, insurance companies are, in the end, a business and will always try to find a way to reduce your payments. One of the things that they will seek for this purpose is the consistency of statements made regarding the incident. To avoid inconsistencies, it is crucial to write down the incident’s details as soon as possible. If you cannot write, have someone you trust to record the incident for you. The vital issue is that you have a record of the incident while it is fresh, and you have the information to review so you can remain consistent in the details. 

Be Aware of What You Sign

It is typical for the insurance company to ask for a signed authorization to access your medical documents, which is reasonable provided it is closely linked to the issue in question, that is, the injury for which you are seeking Worker’s Compensation. If the insurer asks for access to documents unrelated to this injury, do not sign anything. They may be looking for more reasons to avoid paying their compensation using their past medical history, for which they could use evidence of past injuries or use of alcohol or drugs. If you are unsure or do not understand well what you are asked to sign, do not do it until a lawyer reviews it first. 

Do Miss Any Appointments or Treatments

If you do not attend your doctor’s appointments or treatments, the insurer may decide you are cured or no longer need treatment. This determination could be used as an argument to cut back or deny your benefits. If you find it difficult to get to an appointment or treatment, be sure to reschedule as soon as possible. It is important to take it very seriously and be disciplined, as the insurance company is interested in proving that your injury does not merit compensation.

Find A Lawyer 

In some cases, injured people find themselves in complicated situations that are not easily settled. You should consult a lawyer you can trust as soon as possible to ensure you are fully compensated for your accident and any subsequent injuries. Understandably, most people are not litigious. However, if you are injured while doing your job, you should be covered if it was no fault of your own, and a trustworthy lawyer will ensure that your compensation is the maximum you deserve.

About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.

Most startups come with a meager budget while remaining promising. Every new startup has the potential to create influential revolutions in their respective industries. These startups can cascade into societies at a local and global level. We live in a world of fast dynamics, where millions of businesses launch each day. This makes it challenging to select one market for our startup to enter.

With significant venture capital investments, this year’s top industries include financial services, health care, e-commerce, artificial intelligence, and transportation. The core reason for such industries to outstand in their progress is startups’ continuous efforts and funding. By merging with other startups, they can offer modernized services in the global business market. This way, other startups, markets, and big businesses level up their operations.

We have listed some domains that offer startups the opportunity for massive growth this year.

Artificial intelligence – AI

Artificial intelligence is a modernized technology that converts manual tasks into automation. Its market’s impressive growth has been increasing by the projected percentage of 55.6% between 2017 and 2027. This industry provides an associated price for AI technology, which is highly expensive but worth the share. People.ai has increased its earnings by around $60 million using sales team performance guidance and other such improvements.

This way, many startups become an integral part of this industry. For example, a local startup in Amsterdam uses artificial intelligence through an affiliated partner’s financial support. Another example is an artificial intelligence startup used to recognize lung cancer has earned $10 million for the industry. The artificial intelligence industry is ever-increasing and always finding other ways to improve its operations.

Virtual reality – VR

Virtual reality is typically relevant in the gaming industry or games department. This market has quite a strong connection with modern technology, and it is growing at an extremely fast pace. Its’ influence has expanded to other domains such as real estate, education, mental illness treatment, sports, recruitments, medical training, military training, and more.

The popularity of the virtual reality industry also increases with technological advancement at an international level. The company Varjo makes resolution products for the human eye, similar to the professional industries’ quality, and their revolutionary implications live up to their claims. With additional incentives, the VR market will make $120.6 billion by 2027.

Personalized nutrition

More consumers demand a more personal design, from investing, watching, listening, buying, traveling, and whatnot. The personalized nutrition domain is gaining remarkable progress and will make almost $50 billion in the upcoming years. Due to this, the industry is attracting the attention of big investors.

Suppose you take an overview of the customized world, with all its’ variations and demands. In such cases, this may spark the interest of other companies whose services would benefit from personalization. These trends open doors for startups and improve the global market’s business proceedings.

Blockchain

This market faces multiple structural, political, behavioral, and more challenges. However, its usefulness is being recognized by more and more companies in many different markets. For example, the company BITCLIQ is the first business in the fish industry to use Blockchain. The supply chain industry is leveraging from Provenance startups since it offers sustainability, accountability, transparency, and more. This industry even strives to eradicate the use of paper money.

All in all

More startups are leveraging many different markets to benefit both the startup and the market itself. The core reason for such industries to outstand in their progress is startups’ continuous efforts and funding. By merging with other startups, they can offer modernized services in the global business market. This way, other startups, markets, and big businesses level up their operations.

About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.

Buying a home is not something to take lightly. It is a decision that can be both exhilarating and stressful at the same time, as it is a significant financial commitment in somebody’s life. Many people undertake this commitment, which raises the question: how is this purchase achievable? The process has certain hindrances, just like any other major operation. You must stay sharp and keep a lot of things in mind. Many people struggle to become homeowners after spending much of their lives renting homes. Still, they are ready to take the big leap.

Consider the pros and cons to see which is better for your financial status and what works best with your current lifestyle.

Advantages of purchasing a house

Some advantages to purchasing a house include:

Mortgages establish equity

We have all most likely been told that we are wasting our time on rent payments. Renting creates zero productivity for your financial wellness. In America, you are expected to pay monthly rent right after signing the property sharing contract with the homeowner. If you ignore your rent payments, you must then shift your residency to a new rental, which creates debt.

A mortgage is compiled of a principal amount and a down payment. All of these expenses are equal to the rate of homeownership.

Renovations are completely your responsibility

Renovating damage caused by renting your home is not productive to the homeowners or the renter. Most renters cannot even pin something on the wall without seeking permission, as such incidents increase the property owner’s expenses.

You will enjoy owning a home much more when it comes to renovating your space. In most cases, renovations needed due to damage increase your rent. Additionally, there is the option for homeowners to increase the property’s value by making renovations. As a renter, you cannot enjoy such benefits.

Disadvantages of purchasing a house

Here are some disadvantages to purchasing a house:

To many hindrances

The home purchase process has many hindrances, such as moving your residency from one place to another. This process is typically more expensive than shifting residences as a renter.

Another hindrance one faces as a homeowner is a mortgage. This long-term commitment may be burdensome during times of financial difficulty.

Not to forget, loan default restriction is another issue homeowners face. You may minimize or get a fixed loan on a new house as a loan default.

Possible financial loss

There will always be a fluctuation in American property prices when it comes to the real estate field. Purchasing a home may be a little risky for some in terms of investment. Let us say you find a house priced at $200,000. The selling price will depend on the market’s real estate changes. The situation gets worst in times of desperation. The situation can be the opposite in the case of renting a house. Keep in mind that the house equity does not apply to the renter. So, in the case of house renting, you avoid the risk of purchasing a depreciating property.

All in all

Purchasing a new house is a major responsibility for anyone who can offer the investment in the name of ROI. If you decide to take this risk, be sure to weigh the pros and cons before making any decision. You must consider your financial status and monthly budget, as well as your lifestyle.

You must also consider your capacity regarding mortgage, interests, renovation, and maintenance payments. Additionally, waiting for your current lease to end before purchasing a home is always a smart decision.

About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.

Data is becoming easily accessible and even more easily distributed, making it harder to protect your intellectual property (IP) or product notions from theft and replication. Whether you are a multinational company, or a beginning-stage startup, safeguarding your intellectual property should be one of your top priorities.

How to Protect My Intellectual Property?

You can guard your production’s valuable content, ideas, and products by following some vital steps. With the help of these, you will lower your chances of dealing with intellectual property theft and give yourself protection even if someone steals your IP.

It is vital to secure your company’s intellectual property (IP). Those who have not invested in protecting their intellectual property due to the process seeming complicated or expensive end up losing their rights by failing to safeguard their designs and inventions.

What is Intellectual Property?

We hear everyone talking about intellectual property, but what precisely does the term mean? Fundamentally, IP is any product or work that results from innovative thought. Examples are designs, artwork, manuscripts, website content, articles, blog posts, inventions, product names, business names, courses or online programs, or any other original and personal info that aids your business.

If you come up with a fantastic idea, product, or design, you must ensure that no one else has access to it or the right to use it without your consent. The good news is that several federal and state laws are in place to secure IP.

What can you do to secure your IP?

Apply for a Trademark

Register those trademarks immediately as soon as you finalize your business’ name and logo.

Companies occasionally believe that patent protection is the only way to guard and protect themselves. Technology startups commonly ignore the worth of non-patent intellectual property. Though patents can be extremely valuable, they do not necessarily ensure that a firm’s product is the right product and that it will sell. Trade secrets, copyrights, cybersecurity policies, and trademarks can all be forms of IP protection.

Keep Your Business Ideas a Secret

Until you have sufficiently protected your intellectual property, please refrain from talking about it with others unless they have signed a non-disclosure agreement. You must be careful with who you trust. Never promote your idea while in public, especially when working with partners. Sign a personalized non-disclosure contract and speak with a lawyer.

It is essential to know who to trust. Not everyone you are surrounded with can be trusted. Business ideas are a sensitive topic that cannot be shared with everyone. People can either misuse that information or use it for themselves and their own business.

Invest

Remember, until you have officially protected your IP, anyone can take your ideas and manufacture them for themselves. However, your chances of beating content and idea raids are much higher if your intellectual property is secured.

There is much more to intellectual property rights than the three well-known categories recognized by the federal intellectual property law. For instance, trade secret laws help owners keep and protect the inner workings of their ideas. Trade secrets must be commercially valuable, and the owner should rigorously protect the secrets. The government will help the owner and protect trade secrets through criminal laws.

In the same way, expert knowledge can also be intellectual property. For instance, a world expert on statistics can help consult the financial company to improve their risk analysis software. The financial company can then ask the expert for exclusive rights to statistical knowledge for financial applications. Through the signed contracts, the financial company and the statisticians have defined some exclusive rights around statistics knowledge.  

Intellectual property has become some of the most valuable property very quickly. Recognize all the ways available to protect your intellectual property ensure the security of your business or product.

Conclusion

In conclusion, you probably have much more IP than you know. Protecting your intellectual property privilege always includes finding a competent advocate to help you discover and register it but making that investment now will pay off exponentially when building your Intellectual Property portfolio. Protect what is lawfully yours against any matters that should arise in the future.

About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.

Did you know that it only takes between 6 and 8 seconds for a chemist to pierce the outer membrane of the eye? In short, it takes seconds for a chemical to cause eye damage. Every industry is subject to eye injuries because every business has chemicals on site. These chemicals could be in cleaning products or materials used in production. Sadly, exposure to chemicals can end a career, and each year, between 7 and 18% of occupational injuries are injuries to the eye from exposure to chemicals. In these cases, there are two types of substances:

Acid substances

An acid is a substance with a pH of less than 7. While many people understand that exposing any part of their bodies to acids can be dangerous, the reality is that acids do not cause as much damage to the alkaline substances of the eye.

When an acid comes in contact with the eye, it “denatures” it by forming a barrier in the cornea that prevents the acid from penetrating the eye’s deeper tissue. However, that does not mean that acid exposure should not be taken seriously and treated immediately to avoid permanent damage.

These are some acids commonly used in the workplace:

• Sulfamic acid
• Sulfuric acid
• Hydrochloric acid
• Hydrofluoric acid
• Nitric acid
• Boric acid
• Phosphoric acid

In addition to causing permanent damage to the eye, if the acid burns more than 2% of the body, the patient runs the risk of suffering from hypocalcemia for the rest of his life.

Alkaline substances

When a substance has a pH higher than 7, it is an alkaline substance. These chemicals are usually lipophilic, which means they can be combined with fats. In this way, alkaline substances penetrate the eye easily and reach deeper tissues.

Here are some examples of common alkaline substances in the workplace:

• Ammonia
• Sodium hydroxide
• Calcium hydroxide
• Potassium hydroxide

Eye injuries classified by severity

As with many injuries, there are many “levels” depending on the damage to the eye:

Grade 1

This type of lesion is the least severe, and the damage is usually in the corneal epithelium. The chemical does not penetrate deeply into the eye. In general, patients with this type of injury can recover their vision entirely without problems.

Grade 2

There could be a visually horny haze and some damage to the cornea. Patients who suffer this type of injury can have positive diagnoses, although there may be permanent damage to the cornea.

Grade 3

These cases usually occur when the chemical penetrates deep into the eye, damaging the eye’s corneal limbus and other parts. In many cases, the vision is not fully recovered and, to obtain the best result, the patient must undergo a surgical procedure.

Grade 4

When the eye suffers a grade 4 injury, the cornea melts and may damage the entire eye. This type of injury usually ends in complete loss of vision.

If immediate actions are taken seconds after an accident, the employee can reduce additional damages. Still, employers must do everything possible to provide the employee with the necessary resources and training.

The training should include information on all chemicals that could potentially damage the eye and the location of emergency items, such as washing stations and showers. It is essential to keep in mind that all employees should know where the showers and memory stations are since, in an emergency, they may be temporarily blinded.

What can I do if I lose my sight and cannot return to work?

If you lost your sight in a work accident and cannot continue working, there are several options available:

Workers’ compensation

By law, all employers must have workers’ compensation insurance and, if a work injury occurs, the employee can claim the insurance. In this way, compensation can be obtained for medical expenses and lost wages.

Social Security Disability

Social security disability benefits can offer payments to people who cannot work because of a disability or illness.

Personal injury lawsuits

When an accident occurs due to a third party’s error, the injured worker has the option of claiming the responsible party. The compensation obtained in that lawsuit can help cover past and future medical expenses and lost income and compensate for physical suffering and emotional trauma.

About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.

COVID-19, also known as the Corona Virus, has surprised the world. Existing business owners and entrepreneurs face a massive crisis as everyone around the globe is in quarantine. Brick and mortar shops are no longer generating any profits, and consumers are only availing services that are available online.

Given these uncertain times, business owners will alter their marketing efforts. We’ve put together a list of all the marketing strategies that can help you set your organization apart from others. The first half of the pandemic was not friendly, but it’s time to bounce back in the second half.

Blogging

Let’s start with the basics. Blogging is not a new marketing tactic but offers excellent returns. Suppose you want to keep your current customers engaged while attracting new ones. The reason blogging has stood the test of time is that it is valid and yet inexpensive. Blogs help your business stay apart from others. With enough helpful information, it is a reliable source within the industry.

Local citations

These are listings explicitly designed to aid local searchers in looking for relevant information related to their businesses. Not many business owners know that, but some business citations increase the brand’s ranking on Google. However, you need to ensure that everything provided online is authentic and reliable. Any misinformation can lead to a bad reputation and deter consumers. If you are not using local citations for your business, you miss out on a huge business opportunity.

Social media posts

One primary silver lining in the COVID-19 pandemic is that people are more active on social media. They constantly share new information to stay connected to their favorite brands and loved ones. Social media is a great place to connect with younger audiences, as they are quick to respond and always in search of something different.

If you feel like your business has something to offer them, social media is a great platform to post updates and keep them engaged. The best part about social media is that you can start posting stuff and make groups for free. You can also ask for consumer feedback without spending any money.

Backlinking

Ranking on Google search is not natural as so many brands are fighting for their success. Some many different factors and variables require your consideration. One of the top-ranking factors on Google is backlinking. According to a recent study, nearly 66% of the websites don’t even have a single backlink. To make backlinks work, make sure your website is linked with quality and relevant sites and not random, spammy ones.

Google my business

According to 75% of desktop searches, Google is leading other search engines. You can win more leads from your instant places by freely and easily updating Google My Business Listing.

Before getting search results, you can locate a map with three local results under the paid ads. If you want to see your business website among top listings, you must optimize it and fill it out completely. The statics of GMB indicates the audience’s way of engaging with profiles and postings. Also, Google Analytics lets you track web traffic. Email your clients a link to your listings, ask them a request to review, and appreciate them for giving a favorable ranking. Client feedback adds credibility to your company as a word-of-mouth suggestion. More than 50% of customers attract to your business when Google Local Pack shows positive ratings.

Bottom line!

COVID-19 pandemic might be survival for many. It’s only a matter of time before things get back to normal. Until then, it’s your responsibility as a business owner to ensure your business uses the right marketing strategies to ensure its growth today and tomorrow.

About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.

Undoubtedly the economies of almost every nation have been badly hit by the pandemic of COVID-19. All the businesses operating in the global market have been adversely affected by this significant problem, and signs of healing are not even near. Stats show that this adverse impact on businesses worldwide will continue to the following year. Many companies might also face permanent closure amid this pandemic. Larger corporations like the famous MNCs might be able to cope with this loss, but the real trouble is for all the small businesses in the global industry. Things are uncertain for small businesses, and they do not seem to get better any time soon.
Small businesses live on the earnings of a few prior months, and they cannot last long without profits. In such situations, the entrepreneurs of small businesses might panic and close their ventures in fear of a significant loss. So, surviving during these challenging times will be exceedingly difficult, especially for these small ventures, and the answer to their problems is also not that straightforward. However, there are always some pointers, which these merchants must practice to control the possible damage.

Stay composed

Not losing your composure is the first and foremost thing to do when going through tough times. Business owners must not panic, and they should stay calm. They should also take care of themselves and their businesses and do not even think of closure unless things become extremely tough for survival. Doing this can be incredibly challenging, especially when you are gradually running low on cash. Also, you have the fear that you will run out of money very soon. When the panic begins, remember, you need to maintain your calm and composure. Take good care of yourself in any possible way you deem fit. For example, do your daily exercise, try to get enough sleep, eat well, etc.

Lookout for aids

In such situations of uncertainty, there is always an aid program announced by the state. Look out for it and grab as many resources through it as you are allowed to. In this way, you might get enough help as needed and assigned to you in your quota. It might be just sufficient for you. These aid programs from governments worldwide are especially for middle and lower-class people. These programs are for those too who are running small businesses. Since they know that owners of large corporations will be easily able to cope with the pandemic, and they would deal with no critical damage since they have enough resources, large corporations can survive on their revenues for years.

The pandemic is temporary, and people have already come up with solutions since we do not know how long it will last. The good news is that the pandemic taught everyone alternate ways to work on a business and to think outside the box, which is a crucial entrepreneur skill that every business person must have.
Look out for alternatives and how you can benefit your business during the hard times.

Look for opportunities

Find ways to continue your business; for example, if you can shift your business online, why not? You need to work on a few tweaks and start an online business. So, let us say you run an institution, take classes online. And if your business is product-based, you can still thrive online. If you have a brand, shift your business to social media. Before the pandemic, most people already loved shopping online since they had no time or energy to go out and shop, which means you already have half of the social media population on your side. And now, because of the pandemic, people have moved to online shopping since they do not have another choice. Either way, it is a win for you.

Once the pandemic is over, regular business competitions will probably be more competitive than ever. So as a heads-up, you must be prepared and work hard on your strategies. These hard days shall soon pass; look at everything as an opportunity. About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.

Main aspects of a budget

The first thing to note is that your budget should focus on the costs of the goods or services that your business provides and the proposal in general. That is, clearly account for all your client’s needs. The following are a few steps to improve your budget.

• Technical details are incredibly relevant, such as what you are going to deliver, functions that your work will cover, the elements that your service will consist of, etc.
• The form of delivery is another essential aspect, as it is necessary to specify how the service will be delivered to the client. This ensures that they know what they will receive and how much they can demand.
• You must clearly explain what you will receive before starting your work since compensation is relevant to the type of service you provide.
• It is imperative that you outline the duration of the service provided and, if possible, create a schedule specifying specific deadlines.
• The price of each stage of the service must be clearly stated so that the client knows what you charge for each service individually, as well as for overall management.
• Do not forget to put an effective date on the budget.
• It is essential that the budget be clear and detailed and that you address the client as a professional.
• It is advisable to read it aloud and even have a trusted friend or colleague look it over and give their opinion.

A budget must be clear, concise, and detailed. There are several techniques available to create the perfect resume; however, whichever option you choose, it is most advisable to state all charges that constitute your service clearly. This way, your client knows exactly what they are paying for. 

The following are a series of the essential elements that every budget should include:

Data of the company/ service provider:

In this section, you should state the relevant details of the company or professional providing the service, such as the name or business name, the NIF or CIF, the tax address, and other contact information.

Client data:

The budget should reflect the name of the client (either private or company), as well as your CIF or ID and address.

Concept:

The concept expands on the elements that make up the products and or services listed in the budget.

It should include the different offerings, working hours, materials used, and other associated costs. These ancillary costs may include contracting other third-party services, licenses, and supplies.

In this section, you must also include the number of units of each element that makes up the concept, along with their costs and the total cost of each group of units of the same nature.

Amount:

The amount must be broken down, indicating the tax base or the sum of the concepts without VAT, the percentage of VAT that is applied, and the total amount of the budget. This total amount results from the sum of the tax base plus VAT.

Payment method:

It is vital to consider the payment method of each budget. Typically, advances are not usually established when the total cost of services is low or does not require the prior acquisition of material. But in the case of more expensive services or ones that involve a significant acquisition of materials or contracting services from third parties, it is advisable to agree on advancement in the form of a percentage of the total amount.

In this section, you can also specify the means of payment, either by bank transfer or deposit or in cash.

Other elements of the budget:

In addition to the mandatory elements described above, several techniques can help make your budget more comprehensive and ensure greater confidence from your clients.

Delivery term:

Including the deadline for delivering a finished project, or the intermediate periods of the different stages, is an essential resource to add value to your service. Keep in mind, when a budget becomes legally valid, it is important to comply with these deadlines and plan for them in advance.

Guarantees and technical support:

There are certain services or projects that may need to be endowed with certain guarantees (especially when it comes to long-term services) or technical support, which does not have to be included in the amount of the service itself and must be budgeted appropriately.

A good technique to make your budget more attractive is offering this technical support free of charge for a specific time.

Legal conditions:

Include the legal conditions you deem necessary to avoid misunderstandings or abuses by any of the parties. In this way, you can prevent any misinterpretations of what is stipulated in the document, saving time and money.

Format:

Sometimes it will be necessary to present the budget in a different format, such as a preform invoice or a proposal for a commercial contract. This last modality is usually relevant for commercial agents, trainers, or programmers who develop their work continuously over time.

About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.

Bookkeeping is a time-consuming task which means that a bookkeeper needs to be highly focused on their work. Generally, a bookkeeper must make plans, follow a budget, collect receipts, and maintain financial records. These duties can be performed by maintaining payroll methods, compiling tax payments and financial services, receiving and applying payments as needed, keeping accurate accounts receivable and payable records, and resolving financial conflicts that can include tax withholding issues. 

Below are four benefits from hiring a bookkeeper for your business:

They manage financial dealings

A bookkeeper’s job is often a full-time job. It is nearly impossible for a person to run a business and not hire a bookkeeper to manage the financial responsibilities. Hiring a bookkeeper is a good business decision because you will not have to worry about the daily financial services or financial transactions you may have with a client or company. As an owner, you, and your financial advisor or business manager, will only have to set a budget and then allow the bookkeeper to handle all other financial tasks for you. From paying taxes and salaries on time to resolving financial conflicts, a bookkeeper takes on the responsibility of managing a business’s finances, so you don’t have to. Free yourself from the stress of managing this facet of your business and hire a bookkeeper. After all, a bookkeeper very well knows the financial stability of a company, so they will be able to deal with everything accordingly.

They save you time and energy

Hiring a bookkeeper can help ease your mind because they can get a lot of financial tasks done efficiently. A bookkeeper frees up valuable time in your day by taking on responsibilities that would otherwise fall to you. This allows you to have time to consider your business and reevaluate any plans you might have. You will have time for yourself as well as your family and friends. If you are a busy person, there is no excuse for not hiring a bookkeeper. Be realistic and know that your specialty might not be handling all financial services your business requires. Hire a bookkeeper, and you will be at peace at the end of the day, the end of the month, and the end of the year. 

They allow you to keep your focus

The best reason to hire a bookkeeper is that you can focus more on your business and strategies for growth and success. With maintained focus, you can implement new ideas in your growing business, make more robust business plans, or even think of starting another business. You can also focus and manage other business duties, including meetings, marketing, interviews, etc., without focusing on financial responsibilities. If you don’t hire a bookkeeper, it could be challenging for you to stay focused and motivated at the same time. Loss of focus and motivation could result in costly mistakes, so why not make a good decision today and hire a bookkeeper?

They can help your business grow

A bookkeeper surely needs education and experience to be effective for your business. A bookkeeper’s job requires a lot of effort, organization, and attention to detail. A professional bookkeeper can help your business grow because they have their financial finger on the pulse of the business, knowing when and how fast the company is growing. As a result of managing the finances, a bookkeeper keeps track of all the growth and can be a good advisor. Their advice is generally valid and reasonable, based on facts and numbers. Hiring a bookkeeper is a good decision, so you have additional help to track and manage the growth of your business. 

In short, hiring a bookkeeper will release you from the sole responsibility of managing finances, including paying income taxes, sales tax, payroll taxes, etc. Also, you will not have to worry about making reports yourself and maintaining the budget, saving you time and energy. 

A bookkeeper will take on financial duties, which allows you to focus on your business and can be an asset as you watch your business grow. In every way, hiring a bookkeeper is a favorable business decision, so consider employing one and become a little more stress-free. 

About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.

Global expansion is often the vision of every company or startup, and 2021 brings numerous ways to expand a business internationally. International business expansion is possible through efficient research, critical thinking, and choosing an effective systematic strategy accordingly. However, ignoring these aspects can put your investment at risk. Therefore, it is essential to ask: Have you already set a new target for your company? Have you decided to become an internationally renowned brand from a domestic startup? If so, below are some essential factors that require your focus to expand globally:

• Executing proper market research and setting an effective strategy accordingly
• Generating and managing local workforce
• Understanding and following international laws, rules, and regulations
• Understanding culture and setting marketing strategy accordingly
• Determining how to handle multiple languages and localization

Market Research

Once you have decided and set an efficient strategy to launch your business globally, it is vital to analyze your product’s target audience’s requirements, taste, and willingness. Ask yourself:

• Is your product serving a necessity of the target audience?
• Is the target audience attracted? Understand what exactly consumers want.
• Does your product require any adjustment to become acceptable locally? Understand the details of the new market. 
• Does the new marketplace have the necessary setup and supply system that supports your product?
• Are there any competitors? If yes, analyze them properly. 
• Are your competitors stable? Find the possible gaps that your competitors are not fulfilling and use your product to fill them wisely.

Decide Your Scale of Entry 

As mentioned above, you will need critical thinking and research at every step. Is investing in this marketplace too risky? According to the research you have completed for this specific market, look for possibilities and risk factors and set an appropriate investing strategy. There are two investing strategies that you can follow:

• Invest a large sum of capital when entering new markets 
• Invest less and enter steadily

Suitable Scale of Entry 

Invest significant capital:

Choosing this investment option in a new market is effective but can also be risky. If you can afford this kind of risk and decide to pursue it, you will be considered a committed and trustworthy company for both the market and consumers. Most importantly, it will set your dominance in the market above all other competitors. 

Invest less and enter steadily:

If you are unwilling to take a considerable financial risk at once, follow the gradual entry format. This option will allow you to understand market parameters, profit and loss factors, possibilities and impossibilities, etc. It will also help you invest wisely, but it can reflect a negative image of the market, leaving your commitment and trustworthiness at stake. It is better to maintain stability between risks and benefits.

Understand Local Laws and Regulations 

A single law can affect a business strategy against your business procedures. The profit margins, ease of doing business, supply chain, manufacturing, distribution, and retailing can be at stake and cause damage to your business structure. Therefore, it is better to understand the new market’s laws and regulations and make decisions accordingly. This assessment of risk aspects includes customs laws, tax laws, liability laws, commercial laws, limitations on imports and exports, etc.

Local Workforce 

Legalities in daily operations can become complicated when translated, but local experts can be beneficial in such situations. They understand the law and in relation to day-to-day operations and handle situations accordingly.

There are responsibilities attached to benefits, and it is better to properly analyze the local labor laws and regulations before you proceed with hiring a local workforce. Once you employ the local workforce, a sense of place and ownership starts to develop within the market. The local people often connect with you and become loyal to the organization, positively impacting your overall presence.

Conclusion

Internationally expanding a business has become easier than ever before with the help of technology. Similarly, numerous national governments amend their policies to make business easy as foreign investors tend to boost their country’s economies. Many factors of international expansion continue to complicate the process, so a proper analysis must be completed before making any decision. The factors mentioned above significantly impact a global investment and help you prepare for a strategic expansion.

About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.