Author: Jennifer Brazer

Numerous studies have shown that afternoons are the most unproductive time of the day. Several factors make your afternoons unproductive. Some of these factors include but are not limited to a sedentary lifestyle, eating habits, and lack of sleep. Almost every working professional is constantly finding new and better ways to become more productive and get more things done effectively and efficiently in their 9-5 job hours.

The secret to getting more done in the afternoons and to be more productive is to alter one’s lifestyle and adopt healthier habits. The following tips and suggestions are easy and convenient ways to achieve a more productive afternoon.

Eat Healthy Foods

Almost everyone is aware of the saying that you are what you eat. It is no surprise that you will feel unproductive and lethargic if you do not get the right nutrients. The first step in achieving a productive afternoon is to eat nourishing foods that are high in nutrients. Snack on to more fruits and vegetables as they are an excellent source of minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants. It is good to remember that your brain uses up 70% of the food that you eat. Avoiding junk food will help you stay sharp and be more productive throughout the day, especially in the afternoons.

Have Lunch with Co-Workers

Whenever you have the chance and opportunity, always eat with your team. Eating together will help you create a stronger bond with your team members and help you become more productive. When you have stronger bonding with your team, you worry less and focus more on working efficiently. Utilize your lunch breaks as a time to get to know your team and also to unwind mentally.

Skip the Music

It is a common misconception that listening to music while working will make you more productive. Research has found that listening to music while working can negatively impact when you are doing cognitive tasks. The trick to effectively use music to boost your productivity in the afternoon is limiting the amount of time you spend listening to music. If you want to be truly productive, listen to music for fifteen to twenty minutes before working.

Use Afternoons for Lengthy Tasks

Afternoons can be used for the most time-consuming tricks. A big part of being productive requires making the most out of your time. To make the most of your afternoons, schedule them to do tasks that require time and not attention. By working smartly, you will be able to have a productive afternoon.

Practice Simple Yoga

One of the easiest ways to fight off fatigue and unproductivity is to practice simple yoga stances. You would be surprised that how less tired you will feel after a quick yoga session. Yoga doesn’t have to be time-consuming. Some of the postures can even be done while sitting on your office chair. This will help refresh your mind and body, and sitting for extended periods can misalign your back. When you have a fresh mind and body, you can make the most out of afternoons.

Prioritize Your Tasks

We all have different bodies. This means that some of you might feel more tired around 3 pm while others around 4 pm. To ensure a productive afternoon, understand your body’s tendency to feel exhausted. By doing so, you can prioritize your tasks by their difficulty. You can tackle the most difficult task during your early hours while saving less demanding tasks for afternoons.

You, too, can have a productive afternoon if you make small changes in your everyday life. Follow the aforementioned tips and suggestions to get the most out of your afternoons.

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-hosted desktop where their entire team and tax accountant may access the QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools in an efficient and secure 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.

Whenever you enter a new field, especially in the business world, you must know the market status and what your targeted audience expects from you. You can’t be successful or even run your business without conducting comprehensive market research.

In the business world, trust and loyalty are top priorities. You can gain your customers’ trust by knowing the market standards, client identity, unique selling points, realistic competitors, etc. In order to expand your business remarkably, you will have to maintain a competitive edge and follow all the latest trends of the market.

There are multiple stages of market research that begin with a product and services’ pre-launching period. You can make an effective business strategy by understanding your marketplace well. This knowledge will allow your brand to stand out among the competitors.

Be sure about the market research objectives

The scope of market research and accessibility of related resources is effective due to its overall objectives. You must know your market standards, status, and factors to level up your sales with full influence. Having market research objectives helps businesses determine the best type of market research to employ. In primary market research, the effectiveness of sales is tracked, as well as service quality compared to competitors. This helps create an understanding of how fierce the competition is.

Secondary market research involves the recording of the following:

• Government data
• On-going studies and surveys
• Published data of corporations’ research study
• Newspaper reports

Anyone can conduct primary research to collect unique information to improve services and overall business functionality. In secondary market research, this information is gathered from different sources outside of the company.

Key steps for conducting market research

• Investigation of all resources relevant to the company.
• Current relevant data analysis that fulfills your objectives and matches your budget.
• Data usage and knowledge about the researcher who has collected the information.
• What is the need for primary research on the market, and who will find it?

Understand your targeted audience

You will find three kinds of customers while conducting market research. This includes the end-user, savvy purchaser, and industry influencer. After identifying each of these different types, you will know your potential client’s reasoning, behavior, pain points, unique selling points, etc. Market research will also set you on the right path towards establishing brand advocates and regular clients.

Below is some information that will help you identify each customer type:

The end-consumer

The end-consumer is the one who uses your products and services after purchasing them. They are the perfect subject matter for primary market research. A look into their mind and behavior will help establish a sense of understanding of the client’s limitations and frustrations. These customers can give your brand an edge over the competition when manufacturing and designing new products and services.

The savvy purchaser

The core concern of savvy purchasers is to get the best possible value of the product and services. They are more concerned with price and less concerned with quality and effectiveness. They also are aware of what prices the major competitors are offering to them. In such circumstances, you must conduct secondary market research to know whether you are selling your product and services competitively. If your research report reveals that your goods and services are expensive, you will know that your customers are staying with you due to your product’s quality and reliability.

The industry influencer

The level of market knowledge about the industry influencer is higher than the other categories of customers. These consumers are well aware of the targeted market and audience. They rely on their own perspective and opinions.

There are no fixed rate of services and products as their industry influencer’s priority is high-quality. They are the biggest contributors to primary research and will use your product and services in order to form a specific opinion relevant to the market as a whole.

Market research is a powerful tool that can boost your business quickly. It indicates the culture of the market and what the targeted audience wants from you.

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-hosted desktop where their entire team and tax accountant may access the QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools in an efficient and secure 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 did not only disrupt the business world, but it has also opened the doors for several entrepreneurs to capitalize on this stagnant time by pursuing their passions. Due to many day-to-day operations being halted, many companies have either gone bankrupt or stopped functioning.

Covid-19 has drastically affected many large businesses while also shifting the masses to virtual markets and social media platforms that cater to their customer’s day-to-day needs. Many online business platforms have attained an unprecedented escalation during covid-19.

The idea is that most consumers have shifted towards making their purchases online now that most stores are closed. As a result, having a successful online store and a strong digital presence has become many company’s top priorities. This way, even though many doors closed due to COVID-19, the chance to become an entrepreneur lives on. It is true that there always is a light at the end of the tunnel. Consider starting your entrepreneurial venture with these incredible tips.

Live Your Dream

Social distancing has forced us to stay locked inside our house as if the world had burnt down. We all worked hard, hoping to achieve our milestones before COVID-19 took us by surprise. However, with our world taking a full 360* turn, most of us are wary about the days that are yet to come.

That said, if you are passionate about achieving bigger things in life, you can still pursue your dreams in times of coronavirus. Whether you are an artist or a businessperson, you can use your creativity to your benefit. In case you didn’t know, here’s how!

Be Creative

Your creativity and skills are what make you, you. These aspects shape and polish your personality like no other, preparing you for the challenges ahead. All you must do is devise the right strategy suitable to your goals. The chances are that your creativity will unlock many doors and assist you in achieving your dreams.

Use the Right Tools

One of the worst things you can be is oblivious to the many innovations being made in the world. Advancements are taking over, and you should use them to your advantage. For example, starting your entrepreneurial venture is no walk in the park, especially with coronavirus at hand. There is no way you can survive as an entrepreneur if you don’t use the proper tools.

One good strategy to become a successful entrepreneur is by using social media. You can promote and establish an online e-commerce business on your own without having any restrictions placed on your venture.

Adapt

If you do not adapt to the latest trends, you may be leading your venture down the drain. However, in times of coronavirus, you must adapt to this change if you wish to achieve success as an entrepreneur. This will help you to penetrate your offerings into the market without much hassle. Next time you find yourself skeptical and worried about the consequences COVID-19 has caused, be sure to adapt to the different settings to fit your needs. Chances are, you will find your brand expanding past horizon after horizon in all-new ways.

Be Optimistic

Your venture will not bring you larger-than-life returns the day it begins. Success takes time, and chances are some days you will be on edge.

Considering the gloom COVID-19 has brought with it, it is easy to become depressed and negative. However, it is crucial to try to remain optimistic. Believe that things will get better and that your end goal is near.

Bottom Line – Generate Substantial Returns

Once you have devised the right strategies to start your venture as an entrepreneur, use them to your advantage. You will be surprised a few months down the line when your business generates returns. Your career as an entrepreneur will grow, achieving milestone after milestone. However, ensure to take a subtle approach and remain humble while on your way towards success in times of COVID-19. The chances are that the results will take you by surprise.

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-hosted desktop where their entire team and tax accountant may access the QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools in an efficient and secure 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.

By: Jennifer Brazer

Jennifer is the author of From Cubicle to Cloud and Founder/CEO of Complete Controller, a pioneering financial services firm that helps entrepreneurs break free of traditional constraints and scale their businesses to new heights.

Fact Checked By: Brittany McMillen

How Banks Can Empower Clients and Communities Effectively

Banks empower clients and communities through targeted financial education, innovative technology solutions, and strategic partnerships that foster economic growth and inclusion. By implementing comprehensive programs that address financial literacy, leveraging cutting-edge digital tools, and forming meaningful collaborations with community development organizations, financial institutions create lasting positive impact while building stronger customer relationships.

The U.S. unbanked rate has plummeted to a record low of 4.2% in 2023, down from 8.2% in 2011, signaling tremendous progress in financial inclusion efforts. As the founder of Complete Controller, I’ve witnessed firsthand how strategic empowerment initiatives transform both individual lives and entire communities over my 20-year journey working with businesses across every sector. This article reveals proven strategies that banks can implement immediately to drive meaningful change, from AI-powered lending solutions to innovative CDFI partnerships, while demonstrating how social impact directly correlates with business growth and profitability.

How do banks empower clients and communities effectively?

• Banks empower clients through financial education programs, accessible technology platforms, strategic community partnerships, and inclusive lending practices
• Financial education builds foundational money management skills through workshops, digital tools, and one-on-one coaching
• Technology platforms like mobile banking apps and AI-driven services break down traditional barriers to financial access
• Community partnerships with CDFIs and nonprofits extend reach to underserved populations
• Inclusive lending practices use alternative credit assessment methods to expand access to capital

Strategic Empowerment Through CRA Alignment

Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) compliance represents a powerful catalyst for meaningful community impact when integrated thoughtfully into core banking operations. Banks that view CRA requirements as opportunities rather than obligations discover innovative ways to empower your community while expanding their customer base and strengthening local economies.

The dramatic reduction in unbanked households from 8.2% in 2011 to just 4.2% in 2023 demonstrates the effectiveness of CRA-driven initiatives. This progress reflects concerted efforts by financial institutions to develop products and services specifically designed for underserved populations, particularly among Black, Hispanic, and low-income communities.

Expanding access to unbanked populations

Strategic partnerships with Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs) create powerful channels for reaching traditionally excluded groups:

• Microloans for small businesses unable to qualify for conventional financing
• Affordable housing programs with reduced down payment requirements
• Credit-building products designed for individuals with limited credit history
• Financial coaching services integrated with lending programs

A compelling example comes from a Midwest regional bank that partnered with a local CDFI to provide low-interest loans specifically for minority-owned startups. Within just one year, this collaboration increased the bank’s client base by 20% while helping launch 150 new businesses in underserved neighborhoods.

Integrating social impact into product design

Modern banks recognize that profitable products can simultaneously serve social good. Fee-free savings accounts, secured credit cards with graduation paths, and small-dollar installment loans all address genuine community needs while building customer loyalty.

One regional bank’s mobile app launch specifically targeted unbanked users, incorporating features like bill payment reminders, automated savings goals, and AI-driven financial tips. The app’s intuitive design and minimal documentation requirements attracted 50,000 new customers within six months, with 70% being first-time bank account holders.

Leveraging Technology for Financial Inclusion

Digital transformation has revolutionized how banks can empower individuals to succeed by breaking down geographic, economic, and social barriers to financial services. The global success of mobile money platforms like Kenya’s M-PESA, which increased financial inclusion from 23% in 2007 to 84% in 2023, demonstrates technology’s transformative potential.

AI-driven financial services

Artificial intelligence enables banks to serve previously excluded populations through sophisticated risk assessment and personalized service delivery:

• Machine learning algorithms analyze alternative data sources to assess creditworthiness beyond traditional credit scores
• Automated underwriting systems reduce bias and processing time while maintaining risk standards
• Predictive analytics identify customers who would benefit from financial education or assistance programs
• Natural language processing powers chatbots that provide 24/7 customer support in multiple languages

Credit Suisse’s implementation of AI-powered mortgage underwriting exemplifies the effectiveness of this approach. Their system analyzes income patterns, employment history, and property data to make faster, more accurate lending decisions while reducing human bias in the approval process.

Mobile banking and digital payments

The proliferation of smartphones has created unprecedented opportunities for financial inclusion through self-improvement through digital transformation:

• Real-time account management accessible from any location
• Contactless payment options that reduce reliance on physical bank branches
• Cross-border remittance services with lower fees than traditional money transfer operators
• Agent banking models where local merchants serve as banking access points

These technologies prove particularly valuable in rural areas where physical bank branches remain scarce. Mobile banking agents equipped with tablets and portable printers bring essential financial services directly to underserved communities.

Ethical AI implementation

While AI offers tremendous potential, responsible implementation requires careful attention to fairness and transparency:

• Regular algorithmic audits to identify and correct biases
• Community feedback mechanisms to understand real-world impacts
• Transparent lending criteria that customers can understand
• Human oversight for complex or sensitive decisions

A West Coast bank’s experience illustrates the importance of ethical AI practices. After implementing AI-driven mortgage approvals, they discovered racial disparities in denial rates. Through systematic fairness audits and algorithm adjustments, they reduced these disparities by 15% while maintaining portfolio quality.

Financial Literacy Programs for Lasting Change

Education forms the foundation of sustainable financial empowerment, enabling individuals to make informed decisions that improve their economic well-being. Effective programs combine practical knowledge with techniques for personal empowerment that build confidence and capability.

Tailored educational resources

Successful financial literacy initiatives recognize that different populations have distinct learning needs and preferences:

• Interactive workshops covering credit management, budgeting, and investment basics
• Digital learning platforms with self-paced modules and progress tracking
• One-on-one coaching for complex financial situations
• Multilingual resources that respect cultural differences in money management

Banks that invest in comprehensive education programs see measurable results in customer financial health. Participants typically show improved credit scores, increased savings rates, and reduced reliance on high-cost alternative financial services.

School partnerships

Early financial education creates lifelong positive money habits through personal development through financial literacy:

• Age-appropriate curriculum integrated into existing classes
• Student-run bank branches that provide hands-on experience
• Entrepreneurship programs connecting classroom learning to real-world applications
• Parent engagement initiatives that extend learning to entire families

A New York bank’s partnership with local schools demonstrates the power of youth-focused programs. Their “Financial Fitness” initiative combines classroom instruction with practical exercises like managing mock investment portfolios. Participating students increased their savings rates by 40% within six months and showed significantly improved financial knowledge test scores.

Reimagining Volunteerism and Employee Advocacy

Modern volunteer programs must adapt to changing workforce dynamics while maintaining meaningful community impact. Banks that how to empower others in the workplace through strategic volunteerism create multiple benefits: stronger employee engagement, enhanced community relationships, and measurable social impact.

Skill-based volunteering

Matching employee expertise with community needs maximizes impact while providing professional development opportunities:

• Accountants mentoring small business owners on financial management
• IT professionals teaching digital literacy to seniors
• Marketing experts helping nonprofits develop outreach strategies
• Branch managers serving on nonprofit boards

This approach transforms traditional volunteerism from simple labor donation to high-value knowledge transfer that creates lasting community capacity.

Virtual engagement

Remote work trends necessitate creative approaches to maintain volunteer participation:

• Online mentorship programs connecting employees with students nationwide
• Virtual fundraising campaigns leveraging social media expertise
• Digital skill-sharing workshops accessible to broader audiences
• Remote pro bono consulting for nonprofits

These virtual options often increase participation by removing geographic and scheduling barriers while maintaining meaningful community connections.

CRA-aligned incentives

Strategic alignment between volunteer programs and CRA objectives creates win-win scenarios:

• Volunteer hours counting toward performance reviews and bonuses
• Team competitions that drive participation while building camaraderie
• Public recognition programs highlighting employee community impact
• Paid volunteer time policies that demonstrate institutional commitment

Banks report that well-designed volunteer programs improve employee satisfaction scores while generating significant CRA credit through community development activities.

Collaborating with CDFIs for Community Development

Community Development Financial Institutions serve as vital bridges between traditional banking and underserved communities. These partnerships multiply impact by combining bank resources with CDFI expertise in serving high-risk populations.

Bank of America’s Neighborhood Builders program exemplifies effective CDFI collaboration, providing $8 million to 40 nonprofits since 2004. This investment includes both capital grants and leadership development training, creating sustainable community capacity beyond simple financial support.

Co-lending models

Structured partnerships enable risk-sharing while expanding access to capital:

• Banks provide wholesale funding at favorable rates
• CDFIs handle underwriting and servicing using specialized expertise
• Risk is distributed based on each partner’s capacity
• Both institutions benefit from expanded reach and impact

These arrangements prove particularly effective for small business lending, where CDFIs’ community knowledge complements banks’ capital resources.

Technical assistance

Beyond lending, banks support CDFI clients through capacity-building programs:

• Business planning workshops for entrepreneurs
• Financial management training for nonprofit leaders
• Marketing support for small businesses
• Technology training to improve operational efficiency

This holistic approach addresses root causes of financial exclusion rather than simply providing temporary relief.

Impact measurement

Effective partnerships require robust measurement systems to demonstrate results:

• Job creation and retention metrics
• Housing stability indicators
• Small business survival rates
• Community wealth-building measurements

Joint reporting frameworks help both banks and CDFIs communicate impact to stakeholders while identifying opportunities for program improvement.

Data-Driven Decision-Making for Equity

Advanced analytics enable banks to identify and address systemic barriers to financial inclusion with unprecedented precision. By leveraging data responsibly, institutions can target resources effectively while measuring real community impact.

Geospatial analysis

Mapping tools reveal service gaps and guide strategic investments:

• Identifying banking deserts requiring mobile or digital solutions
• Analyzing demographic patterns to tailor product offerings
• Tracking economic indicators to anticipate community needs
• Measuring accessibility of existing services

This geographic intelligence informs decisions about branch locations, ATM placement, and partnership opportunities with local organizations.

Customer segmentation

Sophisticated analysis enables personalized approaches to diverse populations:

• Gig economy workers requiring flexible banking solutions
• Recent immigrants needing culturally appropriate services
• Retirees seeking wealth preservation strategies
• Young adults building initial credit profiles

Understanding distinct customer segments allows banks to develop targeted products and communication strategies that resonate with specific needs.

Policy advocacy

Aggregated data provides powerful evidence for systemic change:

• Demonstrating need for affordable housing investments
• Supporting small business development initiatives
• Advocating for financial inclusion policies
• Influencing regulatory frameworks

Banks increasingly recognize their role in shaping policy discussions through data-driven insights that illuminate community challenges and opportunities.

Conclusion

Empowering clients and communities demands continuous innovation, authentic partnerships, and unwavering commitment to equity. The strategies outlined here represent proven approaches that create mutual benefit: stronger communities lead to healthier local economies, which ultimately support sustainable bank growth. Over my two decades leading Complete Controller, I’ve seen how financial institutions that embrace empowerment as a core strategy outperform those focused solely on traditional metrics. The dramatic reduction in unbanked households and success stories from innovative programs demonstrate that meaningful progress is achievable.

The path forward requires bold leadership willing to challenge conventional banking practices while maintaining financial soundness. Start implementing these strategies today—even small steps toward greater inclusion create ripple effects throughout communities. For comprehensive guidance on building financial empowerment programs that align with your institution’s goals, visit Complete Controller to access expert resources and connect with our team of specialists who understand both the business case and social imperative for community empowerment.

FAQ

What role do CDFIs play in empowering communities?

CDFIs provide affordable financial services to underserved populations by offering microloans, small business financing, and affordable housing loans. They work closely with banks through co-lending partnerships, combining local expertise with bank capital to reach high-risk borrowers who don’t qualify for traditional loans. CDFIs also provide technical assistance like business planning workshops and financial coaching to help clients succeed long-term.

How can AI improve financial inclusion for unbanked individuals?

AI helps banks serve unbanked populations by analyzing alternative data like utility payment history and employment records instead of traditional credit scores. This technology enables faster loan approvals, reduces human bias in lending decisions, and powers mobile banking apps that work on basic smartphones. AI chatbots also provide 24/7 customer service in multiple languages, making banking more accessible to diverse communities.

What are key financial literacy topics for empowerment?

Essential financial literacy topics include budgeting and expense tracking, understanding credit scores and how to improve them, basic investing principles for long-term wealth building, and small business financial management. Effective programs also cover debt management strategies, retirement planning basics, and how to avoid predatory financial products that trap people in cycles of debt.

Can volunteer programs influence CRA compliance?

Yes, employee volunteer activities directly contribute to CRA compliance when they support community development goals. Banks receive CRA credit for volunteer hours spent on financial education, small business mentoring, affordable housing initiatives, and nonprofit board service. Many banks incentivize participation by tying volunteer hours to employee bonuses and recognition programs.

How do banks measure the impact of empowerment initiatives?

Banks track empowerment success through multiple metrics, including increased loans to minority-owned businesses, improvements in customer credit scores, reduction in account closures due to overdrafts, and growth in savings account balances. Community-level indicators include job creation numbers, housing stability rates, small business survival statistics, and overall poverty reduction in targeted neighborhoods.

Sources

• American Bankers Association. “2025 Blueprint for Growth.” ABA Press Room, 14 Jan. 2025.
• Banking Journal. “Bank Community Engagement: Five imperatives for bank leaders.” Banking Journal, 2025.
• Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. “Learn About Money.” www.consumerfinance.gov/learn/
• DigitalDefynd. “AI in Banking [20 Case Studies].” 2025. digitaldefynd.com/IQ/ai-in-banking-case-studies/
• FDIC. “2023 National Survey of Unbanked and Underbanked Households.” November 2024. bankingjournal.aba.com/2024/11/fdic-percentage-of-unbanked-households-dropped-slightly-in-2023/
• Investopedia. “Mobile Banking.” www.investopedia.com/terms/m/mobile-banking.asp
• Investopedia. “Financial Inclusion.” Investopedia.com, 2023.
• Neighborhood Builder Award. “Bank of America Marks 20 Years of Neighborhood Builders.” neighborhoodbuilderaward.com
• Raisin. “Community Development – Raisin.” Raisin.com.
• Safaricom Newsroom. “M-PESA: 17 Years of Transforming Lives.” July 2024. newsroom.safaricom.co.ke/innovation/m-pesa-17-years-of-transforming-lives/
• SouthState Correspondent Division. “Top 12 Winning Strategies for Community Banks in 2025.” southstatecorrespondent.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Ebook-Top-12-Winning-Strategies-for-Community-Banks-in-2025.pdf
• Wikipedia. “Community Reinvestment Act.” en.wikipedia.org/wiki/CommunityReinvestmentAct
• Wolters Kluwer. “Embracing the Community Reinvestment Act as a Business Strategy.” WoltersKluwer.com, 14 Apr. 2025.

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.

The global pandemic has brought drastic changes to the retail banking sector. Most people never physically visit paywall or bank branches, as they prefer online banking and mobile transactions. Now, the remains: will these preferences stay the same once COVID-19 subsides? Retail banks must be ready for any situation.

Retail banking is the go-to recovery response to maintain the economy. It drives a massive volume of PPP loan apps, offers emergency funds for communities, relief programs, provides forbearance, waives fees, and much more. The long-term influence of the global pandemic comes with different expectations. That is why all case-scenario planning becomes the central focus of bank leaders. It is the best way to deal with any future uncertainties in the retail banking sector.

This pre-planned process refers to the preparation and prediction of the unknown that can result from the global pandemic of 2020. In this way, companies are encouraged to plan for comprehensive and plausible outcomes. There are four possible global pandemic scenarios according to the recognized forecasters at Deloitte and Salesforce. This blog will highlight the initial scenario’s refinements that pertain to the retail banking sector.

We will know more about this sector’s developmental shift in the next 1 to 3 years in relation to two critical uncertainties: the pandemic’s severity and the level of collaboration between states. The other, less critical, variants include the efficiency of healthcare’s response and the level of social cohesion.

Let’s have a look at the American banking sector’s possible scenarios pertaining to the global pandemic.

Scenario#1 – The Passing Storm!

World states are coming together to deal with the effects of the global pandemic under healthcare systems and organizations’ guidance. However, there are no lasting repercussions. In such scenarios, robust state policies allow banks to avoid structural loss. Also, there is a quick recovery of growth within two years relating to the nation’s economy. Lack of capital and liquidity negatively influences banks and financial institutions. As a result, the maintenance of a positive economic position becomes the responsibility of community banks and lenders. There is an acceleration of pre-crisis standards due to the market’s consolidation. This also speeds up the variation process of banking rules with the collaboration of the state’s leads, in reference to data sharing, open banking, and the influence of customers’ control.

Scenario#2 – Good Company!

The global pandemic’s prolonged state is the focus of this scenario as world nations strive to control the COVID-19 crisis independently through large industry collaboration. There is a slow recovery process due to unpaid banking services. There are relaxed proceedings as credit flow support from regulators facilitates community growth and health.

The banks that are facing challenges have supporters in the form of regulators. They are tech-savvy entrants who have low-cost structures. The speed of increasing the trust-building process in retail banking leverages other niche competitors. As a result, there is direct access to information, which acts as a portal to more opportunities for innovation that prioritizes clients’ interests and requirements.

Scenario#3 – Sunrise in the East!

This is a dubbing scenario that indicates the Chinese and Asian nations’ efficiency for global pandemic management compared to the United States. East Asian countries are taking a global leadership role. This is illustrated through their response to healthcare collaborations that effectively handle the severe impact of the worldwide pandemic. In the case of the American state, there has been no quick result or timeless interest rate. As a result, there are muted balance sheets, contracted profits, and robust integration between small and mid-sized banks.  

Along with the entire nation, the retail banking sector faces a drastic decline in domestic capital investment. This results from banking policy variations related to the low-security system and dramatic conversion of comprehensive economic conditions. There is significant penetration in the United States market from payment corporates of the bigger East Asian banks. However, modern technology introduces all products with price tags. This allows for retail banking and its associated products to become leaders in the market.

Scenario#4 – Lone Wolves

This also refers to the prolonged state of the global pandemic as it eradicates the ignorance of isolationist policies and disrupts the supply chain industry. This scenario focuses on international coordination while riffing with low retail banking policies.

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-hosted desktop where their entire team and tax accountant may access the QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools in an efficient and secure 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.

Since credit and debit cards are so widely used as a primary form of payment, they are subject to use for fraud and identity theft. Because of this wide usage, people have become relaxed in how they handle their credit and debit cards, and it has left them vulnerable to the consequences of that relaxed attitude. However, if you focus on being more aware of the possibilities of fraud and identity theft, you can protect yourself against it. Here are seven ways you can protect yourself from fraud or identity theft through your credit card.

Credit Card Skimmers

Credit card skimmers have become a widely used way of stealing your debit or credit card information and using it for purchases or to steal your identity. The thief will use a skimmer placed over the card reader on an unprotected ATM or gas pump. Because these devices are made to look so much like the real thing, most people don’t notice any difference, and when they swipe their card, it will store the information on the skimmer. To further the sense of security, the ATM or gas pump will still operate as normal without the victim ever being aware their information has been compromised.

To avoid this, you should always go inside the store if you are buying gas or using ATMs inside and visible to a store employee or a guard. If you have no choice but to use an outside and unprotected ATM or gas pump, check the reader thoroughly before using it. If it looks unusual, don’t use it.

Credit Card Theft

Some thieves still operate the old-fashioned way and take your debit or credit card from you. To protect someone swiping your card from you, you should go out of your way to make that impossible, or at least difficult enough that the would-be thief will leave you alone.

Ensure that if you are going to carry a credit card, you only carry one with you at a time if you have more than one. If your wallet is stolen, you only have to deal with one credit card and not all of them. You should also carry your card in a place that can’t be easily gotten to by a would-be thief. Whether it be in your purse or an inside pocket, you should be focused on protecting your card. When using your card to make a purchase, especially at a restaurant, keep your eyes on your card even if they step away from the table to charge it. The main thing to remember is that you should always be aware of your debit or credit card when you are in public.

Credit Card Receipts

When using your credit or debit cards to make a purchase, the receipt is just as important as the card itself. After you have made the purchase, carefully review the receipt and make sure no full credit card information is on it. You should also never sign a blank receipt. If any blanks could have an amount in them, such as tips, make sure you mark through it if it’s blank or check that you put the correct amount for the tip in the blank. Make sure that you write the tip and the total yourself. After the waitstaff has returned your credit card, do not leave it at the table once you sign the receipt. Make sure you hand the receipt to your waitperson.

Credit Card Information

If you must provide your credit card information over the phone, you should keep a few things in mind. First, never give your credit card information to someone who calls you. If you cannot verify that they are a bill collector or someone from a creditor, you should never give your credit card information to them. If you call to pay a bill or order something over the phone, be careful. It is sometimes necessary that you give your credit card information over the phone. However, be careful of who you give it to. As much as possible, do not use phone services in which a human being will be taking your credit card information—always try to use automated services.

Credit Card Online Usage

When using your credit card online, you should still keep some things in mind to protect your credit card. First, only use secure sites. While every site is vulnerable to hacking, secure sites are less likely to fall prey to it. If you are on a public or unsecured network, you should never be using your credit card online during those times. When on a public network, anyone else on that network, who has even low-level hacking skills, can use those skills to steal your credit card information.

If you receive an email requesting your credit card information, you should never use the link provided in the email. If it is legitimate that you need to pay a bill or for some service or product, you should go to the site on your own and not through an email link unless you have prearranged to receive that link.

Lost or Stolen Credit Card

It should go without saying that you should immediately report a lost or stolen card when you become aware of it missing. If you have misplaced your card, give yourself a bit of time to find it, but if you haven’t found it in that timeframe, you should immediately be calling your bank to protect yourself. Many cards and banks can freeze your card by simply going online and accessing your account. If your bank offers this option, you should do it immediately while you search for your card. If you cannot find your card, then call and have it replaced.

Credit Card Statement

Information is king. Therefore, you should always be aware of what is on your credit card statement. Through most banking websites and apps, you can check your balance and activity multiple times a day. You should be checking your activity and balance daily, especially because it is so convenient.

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-hosted desktop where their entire team and tax accountant may access the QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools in an efficient and secure 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.

A home-based business model is not a one-fits-all plan. Not everyone can handle and manage the daily operations from home. A home-based business cannot flourish until the right business is selected and the working norms are correctly established. Plenty of business owners believe that they would get healthy returns without any significant investment of time and money if they became home-based.

However, to achieve success, you need to carefully look at the business you are running and see if the model is practical enough to be implemented with the people you are working with (employees, executives, and business partners) and will you be able to deliver on your promises to the customer like this. Look at the facts and understand your business needs and then make a decision. Here are ten reasons you should start a home-based business.

Flexibility

This might be the most significant factor that leads to people starting a home-based venture, and why not? You are the boss, and you are free to move and come as you please. You can manage your work and be with your family and spend some time with them. There are no limitations on your work hours, and the best part is, take a vacation whenever you want.

No Corporate Politics

People behave differently when they are around their bosses, trying to please the BIG MAN to climb the corporate ladder. With a home-based business, you don’t need to face these circumstances and no in-person interactions. You can dress how you want as the boss, and it’s ok.

Be The Boss

The best part about being the boss is BEING THE BOSS. There is no one above you in the company who keeps reminding you of your monthly goals, sucking the life out of you. You can change your perspective by starting your own business and answering only to yourself and your customers.

Reduced Pressure

You are normally are managing the daily commute, conducting meetings with everyone, paying rents for the facility, keeping track of the property tax, and arranging transportation for employees. Home-based businesses help you get rid of all that, just like that.

Less Expensive

Home-based businesses are known for being cost-effective. As entrepreneurs, people often want the most returns with minimal investment, and perhaps, home-based businesses are the way to go forward. In a home-based business, you can start with only a $5,000 investment, and the only necessities you need are a laptop, printer, phone, and a reliable internet connection.

Activity Dissatisfaction

Your employees might prefer to work home-based because they might get overwhelmed by more experienced employees’ skills and become dependent on others’ contributions to perform better. They also might get demotivated with the company not making any effort to keep the morale high. The home-based business helps you get rid of this activity.

Advantages of Home Based Business

There is no denying that home-based businesses offer tons of help, especially in getting rid of everyday workplace grinding. It allows the entrepreneurs of today to use telecommunication to benefit and make good use of it. Here are some of the key benefit of a home-based business:

Tax Benefits

With a home-based business, you can quickly get rid of some of the most significant expenses for your venture, such as software bills, property tax, loan, insurance, etc.

Learn Something New Everyday

When you’re home and managing your business interacting with your employees, you can open a new tab and watch some tutorials learning new stuff and expanding your skillset. Not only will this make you a better individual but also increase your worth in the market.

Multiple earning Streams

As now you have more time for yourself, you can always spend searching for new business opportunities and deciding what other regions you want to explore. Creating multiple earning streams can give you exponential returns and expand your business.

Conclusion

To put all points in one, home-based businesses will be the new norm of the future where people will be handling businesses worth millions from home. It will give people the freedom and flexibility to work how they see fit and eliminate the nine to five routine.

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-hosted desktop where their entire team and tax accountant may access the QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools in an efficient and secure 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.

By: Jennifer Brazer

Jennifer is the author of From Cubicle to Cloud and Founder/CEO of Complete Controller, a pioneering financial services firm that helps entrepreneurs break free of traditional constraints and scale their businesses to new heights.

Fact Checked By: Brittany McMillen

Smart Business Decision-Making Tips for Success

Business decision making tips that combine data analysis, psychological awareness, and systematic frameworks transform uncertain choices into strategic advantages that drive measurable growth. Smart leaders who implement structured decision processes reduce costly mistakes by 40% while accelerating revenue growth by 30%—outcomes we’ve consistently achieved with clients at Complete Controller.

Over my 20 years as CEO of Complete Controller, I’ve witnessed businesses across every sector struggle with the same challenge: making confident choices when the stakes are high and information feels incomplete. The difference between companies that thrive and those that merely survive comes down to their decision-making systems. This article reveals the exact frameworks, psychological insights, and data-driven strategies that turn everyday choices into competitive advantages—including the 90-day roadmap that helped one bakery client recover from a 40% revenue drop to profitability in just 11 weeks.

What are smart business decision-making tips and why do they matter?

• Business decision making tips are proven strategies combining data analysis, risk assessment, and human psychology to achieve optimal outcomes
• They minimize expensive mistakes by replacing guesswork with evidence-based processes that yield predictable results
• These techniques empower teams to act decisively even when facing incomplete information or time constraints
• Long-term business success requires adaptable decision systems that evolve with market conditions
• Embedding these practices creates organizational agility that outpaces competitors in volatile markets

Core Principles of Effective Decision-Making

The foundation of smart business decisions rests on three pillars: gathering comprehensive data, filtering biased narratives, and maintaining strategic flexibility. Companies using data-driven decision-making are 23 times more likely to acquire customers and achieve 4% higher productivity according to Deloitte research—numbers that validate why intuition alone no longer suffices.

Gather multidimensional insights

Successful decisions require input from diverse sources including financial reports, customer feedback, market analytics, and employee observations. Cross-validating these findings against industry benchmarks and historical trends reveals patterns that single-source analysis misses. HSI’s acquisition strategy exemplifies this approach—they synthesized competitor behavior, employee input, and real-time performance metrics before integration, resulting in seamless transitions that preserved operational efficiency.

Decipher facts vs. biased narratives

Psychological traps like confirmation bias distort even experienced leaders’ judgment. Pre-mortem exercises where teams envision failure scenarios surface hidden assumptions before they become costly mistakes. The 5 Whys Analysis traces problems to root causes by repeatedly asking “why” until reaching the fundamental issue—a technique that transformed manufacturing quality control and now applies equally to service businesses seeking operational excellence.

Strategic flexibility in execution

The 37% Rule prevents both hasty decisions and analysis paralysis: dedicate 37% of available time to research, then commit to the best option while building in checkpoints for course correction. Tech startups exemplify this principle by launching minimum viable products, gathering user feedback, and pivoting based on real-world data rather than prolonged theoretical planning.

Your 90-Day Roadmap to Confident Choices

Phase 1: Audit existing processes (Days 1-30)

Map current decision workflows using Fishbone Diagrams to identify bottlenecks like delayed approvals, missing data, or unclear accountability. Document specific pain points—such as marketing teams lacking CRM integration or finance departments using outdated forecasting models—then quantify their operational costs in lost time, missed opportunities, and error rates.

Phase 2: Implement tailored frameworks (Days 31-60)

The SPADE Method (Setting-People-Alternatives-Decide-Explain) structures complex decisions systematically:

• Setting: Define non-negotiables like “Solution must reduce overhead by 15% within six months”
• People: Engage cross-functional stakeholders who bring diverse perspectives and challenge assumptions
• Alternatives: Score proposals using weighted Decision Matrices that rank options against predetermined criteria
• Decide: Select based on objective scoring rather than politics or loudest voices
• Explain: Document reasoning for future reference and team alignment

Phase 3: Refine through feedback loops (Days 61-90)

Measure outcomes against predetermined KPIs like reduced decision latency, error rates, or implementation speed. Quarterly retrospectives identify what worked, what failed, and what needs adjustment—a continuous improvement approach that helped ProvenBio cut product-launch risks by 22% through systematic refinement.

The Human Side of Decision-Making: Overcoming Biases and Fear

Emotional intelligence in high-stakes calls

Fear of failure causes 68% of executives to delay critical choices, creating cascading consequences throughout organizations. Counter this paralysis through Deliberate Practice: simulate high-pressure scenarios like cash-flow crises or major client losses in controlled environments. During our 2023 merger negotiations, role-playing potential veto scenarios helped our team maintain composure despite intense shareholder pressure, ultimately securing terms 15% more favorable than initial projections.

Psychological safety in teams

Google’s Project Aristotle revealed that teams with high psychological safety are 19% more productive and innovate 31% more often. Create this environment through anonymous ideation platforms, structured devil’s advocate roles, and “Red Team/Blue Team” debates for major investments. When team members trust they won’t face retribution for dissenting views, they surface critical flaws before implementation rather than after failure.

Decision-Making Frameworks: Choosing the Right Tools for Your Business

Cynefin framework for complexity

Different situations demand different approaches:

• Simple contexts: Use standardized checklists and best practices for routine decisions
• Complicated contexts: Apply expert analysis and good practices for technical challenges
• Complex contexts: Run controlled experiments like piloting AI tools in non-critical departments
• Chaotic contexts: Take rapid action to establish stability—perfection matters less than speed during supply chain disruptions

Eisenhower matrix for prioritization

This quadrant-based system sorts tasks by urgency and importance, typically reclaiming 8+ weekly hours for strategic work:

• Urgent + Important: Handle immediately (cash flow crises, key client issues)
• Important + Not Urgent: Schedule dedicated time (strategic planning, team development)
• Urgent + Not Important: Delegate or automate (routine reports, standard requests)
• Not Urgent + Not Important: Eliminate (redundant meetings, outdated processes)

SaaS firms using this framework redirect energy from “urgent but low-value” client requests toward R&D initiatives that drive long-term growth.

Leveraging Data for Smarter Business Choices

From raw numbers to strategic levers

Modern analytics transforms overwhelming data streams into actionable insights. Start with automated outlier detection—alerts for metrics like sudden inventory spikes prevent overstock costs before they impact cash flow. Layer predictive analytics using tools like Tableau to forecast sales trends 6 weeks early, enabling preemptive adjustments to inventory, staffing, and marketing campaigns. The fact that 95% of federal Chief Data Officers now prioritize AI adoption for enhanced decision-making signals this shift from reactive to proactive management.

Case study: Sweet rise bakery turnaround

Sweet Rise Bakery faced a devastating 40% revenue drop that threatened closure. Using FlexiBake’s analytics platform, they analyzed three critical data streams:

• POS data revealed peak-hour bottlenecks causing customer walkouts
• Yelp sentiment analysis identified specific flavor complaints in bestselling items
• Foot traffic patterns showed untapped afternoon potential

The data-driven response included optimizing staff schedules to eliminate wait times, reformulating recipes based on customer feedback, and launching time-based discounts for slow periods. Result: profitability rebounded within 11 weeks, with revenue exceeding pre-crisis levels by week 15.

Making Tough Calls: Decision-Making Under Pressure

The OODA loop for crises

Military-derived Observe-Orient-Decide-Act cycles enable rapid iteration when situations evolve quickly:

1. Observe: Gather real-time data about the emerging situation
2. Orient: Analyze how this fits existing frameworks and past experiences
3. Decide: Choose a course of action based on available information
4. Act: Implement swiftly while monitoring results

Healthcare providers applied OODA loops during staffing shortages by observing ER patient overload, orienting toward telehealth solutions, deciding on specialist rotation schedules, and implementing changes within 48 hours—cutting wait times by 35%.

Contingency planning

Develop “If-Then” protocols for critical variables before crises strike. Document triggers like “If primary supplier misses two consecutive deliveries, activate Vendor B within 4 hours” in accessible playbooks. Retailers using this approach avoided $2M in potential losses during 2024 port strikes by having pre-negotiated backup shipping routes ready for immediate activation.

Building Your Decision-Making Legacy

In my two decades at Complete Controller, I’ve learned that decision mastery isn’t about never stumbling—it’s about creating systems that turn stumbles into stepping stones. Start small: audit one critical process this week using our 90-Day Roadmap framework. Pick your highest-impact pain point, whether that’s lengthy approval chains or data silos, and apply just one new technique. Success breeds confidence, and confident teams make bolder, better choices.

The goal isn’t perfection; it’s consistent, adaptable confidence that compounds over time. When you embed these decision-making tips into your company’s DNA, you create a competitive advantage that technology alone can’t replicate. Ready to transform your business decisions with expert guidance? Contact the Complete Controller team at Complete Controller for personalized strategies that fit your unique challenges and accelerate your growth trajectory.

Frequently Asked Questions About Business Decision Making Tips

How do I balance data and intuition in fast-moving situations?

Apply the 10/90 Rule: spend 10% of available time reviewing critical data points like cash flow projections or customer metrics, then trust trained instincts developed through scenario planning exercises. This approach combines analytical rigor with experiential wisdom for optimal outcomes.

What’s the biggest mistake in team decision-making?

Groupthink destroys decision quality by creating false consensus. Prevent it by assigning rotating devil’s advocates in meetings, using anonymous initial idea submissions, and rewarding team members who respectfully challenge prevailing opinions with specific concerns.

How can small businesses implement these tips with limited resources?

Leverage free tools like Lucidspark for collaborative decision matrices and focus on one high-impact process per quarter. Start with your biggest bottleneck—perhaps inventory ordering or customer service protocols—and expand systematically as you see results.

Can decision fatigue be prevented?

Limit daily critical decisions to 3-4 maximum by automating routine choices through rules-based systems. Schedule “decision blocks” in your calendar when mental energy peaks, typically mid-morning, and batch similar choices together for efficiency.

How do I measure decision quality?

Track three key metrics: outcome versus forecast variance (aim for less than 15% deviation), time-to-decision reduction (target 20% quarterly improvement), and stakeholder satisfaction via quarterly surveys measuring confidence in leadership choices.

Sources

• APA. “Decision Making.” American Psychological Association. www.apa.org/topics/decision-making
• Aristotle Performance. “Google’s Data-Driven Insights on High-Performing Teams.” 2024. www.aristotleperformance.com/post/project-aristotle-google-s-data-driven-insights-on-high-performing-teams
• Data Foundation and Deloitte. “Federal CDO Survey.” December 20, 2023. executivegov.com/articles/data-foundation-survey-finds-ai-adoption-as-federal-cdos-priority-for-2024
• Deloitte. “Chief Data Officer Survey 2024.” November 2024. www.deloitte.com/nl/en/services/risk-advisory/research/chief-data-officer-survey.html
• EdgeDelta. “Eye-Opening Data Analytics Statistics.” March 8, 2024. edgedelta.com/company/blog/data-analytics-statistics
• FlexiBake. “Case Study: Transforming Operations at Zehnder’s Bakery.” November 2, 2023. www.flexibake.com/case-study-transforming-operations-at-zehnders-bakery-with-flexibake
• Forbes Coaches Council. “16 Steps to Better Decision-Making.” 2020.
• Harvard Business Review. “Decision Making.” hbr.org/topic/decision-making
• HSI. “8 Tips to Improve Decision-Making Skills.” 2024.
• Lucid Software. “Guide to Strategic Decision-Making.” 2025.
• NetSuite. “Overcoming 12 Decision-Making Challenges.” 2025.
• Next Insurance. “6 Steps to Smart Small Business Decisions.” 2022.
• PenFriend.ai. “Data-Driven Decision Making For Startups.” August 7, 2024. penfriend.ai/blog/data-driven-decision-making-for-startups
• Precedence Research. “Data Analytics Market Report.” November 20, 2024. www.precedenceresearch.com/data-analytics-market
• SBAM. “10 Proven Strategies for Better Decision-Making.” 2025.
• USC Marshall. “The 5 Keys to Making Smart Business Decisions.” 2023.
• Wikipedia. “Decision-Making.” en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Decision-making
• ZenBrief. “How to Build an SEO-Friendly Content Outline.” 2021.

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.

Becoming your boss can be thrilling and possibly a little scary. Once you decide to strike out on your own, you have a lot to consider. While many freelancers or sole proprietors develop their business plan, how to handle taxes should be figured into the financial section of the plan. While you should ultimately hire a professional to handle your taxes no matter what type of business owner you are, it is still good to understand how taxes are handled for the freelancer or sole proprietor. Here are five tax tips any freelancer can apply to their business.

Know the Forms

Because the business’s net profits are taxable, you will need to become familiar with a Schedule C form. It is the form where sole proprietors report income and expenses. If your business earns under a certain amount, you may file a Schedule C-EZ and check with the IRS for the current minimum income. You will also need to obtain a Schedule SE to calculate the self-employment tax appropriately. If doing your taxes, you will need to know these forms and study their instructions. Even if you hire a tax pro, your familiarity with these forms will make the job easier for you both.

If you don’t hire a professional and decide to do it yourself, make sure you have the best tax software specifically designed for the freelancer or sole proprietor. This is not the time to wing it.

Organize Your Income and Expenses

Being self-employed usually means your income is inconsistent, so estimate your tax liability during the year to avoid surprises. Unfortunately, if you’re audited, the burden is put upon the one being audited to prove the income and expenses on the audited tax return. If you are organized in your receipts and bookkeeping, this should be easy to get through. An audit is not always triggered by something the taxpayer did incorrectly, some audits are random, and if you are organized, you will not need to worry. This organization will make your taxes easy to prepare, whether you give them to a professional or prepare them yourself using tax prep software.

Know the 1099 Form

If a client pays you more than $600, they must send you a 1099 and send a 1099 to the IRS. You need to make sure you include it with your tax preparation information. Even if the client does not pay you more than $600 or doesn’t file a 1099, you are still expected to report all income you make as a freelancer or sole proprietor. These tax mistakes are often caught years after the error is made, and the IRS not only expects you to pay the amount you should have but also charge interest. It is best if you claim income and pay taxes on it when it is due to avoid issues with the IRS down the line.

Claim Car Expenses

Even if you don’t primarily use your car for your business, there are times you can write off car expenses. If you drive to any business-related meetings or errands, you should keep an accounting of gas and mileage. You can also write off some of the car repairs if they become necessary. Check the IRS website to find out how many cents per mile you can write off for business-related car use. You must keep detailed mileage accounts for business about car use to get the most out of this valuable deduction.

You can also deduct your actual car expenses, such as depreciation, licenses, gas, oil, insurance, registration fees, repairs, and tires. The car expense deduction generally is based on the total miles driven for business. If leasing your vehicle, you should check with the IRS and determine if your lease payments can be deducted.

Home Office Deductions

If you work from home or use part of it in your business, you can deduct some of your mortgage or rent and insurance, utilities, repairs, and similar expenses. You can calculate your home office deductions in one of two ways. First, figure what percentage of square footage you use exclusively for business activities. That percentage of your home-related expenses becomes deductible. So if your office is 10 percent of your home’s square footage, 10 percent of your rent, utilities, and other home expenses for the year may be deductible. If any repairs occur within the office area of your home, those repairs are often fully deductible.

The second way to figure home office deductions is to deduct $5 per square foot for business, up to 300 square feet. You keep fewer records but generally get a smaller deduction, so calculate things both ways before filing. Consult the IRS website for details or the latest changes in deduction amounts.

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-hosted desktop where their entire team and tax accountant may access the QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools in an efficient and secure 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.

Both customers and entrepreneurs have been utilizing coupons to gain a market advantage. In this way, coupons are a win-win situation that both organizations and the consumer profit from. Customers feel that they are saving cash by using coupons, while entrepreneurs take advantage of the increased brand awareness to promote their products or business.

For Business

Research has demonstrated that a business’s sales increase exponentially when they offer at least a 20% discount on any item. This is due to the irresistible power of a coupon. Additionally, the name and address of the company are noticeably printed, providing extra promotion. Providing coupons helps the individuals view the brand as a “thrifty choice,” which leads them to the website in search of further deals.

Advertising through coupons is also very persuasive in drawing new customers to your store. When a new customer visits you, whether it is in-store or through the website, there is an opportunity to turn them into a regular customers. Regular customers are significantly valuable due to their repeat business.

Occasionally, a product may be hard to move. This could be due to various reasons, including inappropriate costs or poor marketing. By offering bargain sales through coupons on these products, you may be given the opportunity to be re-introduced to consumers. While sometimes the deals you offer may cause your finances to take a hit, marketing professionals advise that it is still advantageous to offer these coupons to increase the number of your customers and products sold. Coupons also have an astonishing mental impact on customers, attracting them to your brand.  A discount sale encourages the purchaser to feel as though they have achieved something, a “Killer deal!” which enables them to justify their spending. Through coupons, business owners are providing something valuable. Instead of persuading a buyer through basic advertising, the business owners offer a great deal, which prompts the customer to check out the product for themselves. Subsequently, numerous customers consider coupons to be an act of kindness and generosity instead of an assertive and over-bearing attempt to sell the products.

For Customers

Due to coupons provided by companies, more customers are able to afford more products. Coupons are not only beneficial in the retail market but also in the restaurant industry. A discounted meal allows the consumer to try out new food that they would not have otherwise been interested in. The logic behind this method for some consumers is that if they do not like the food, they didn’t break the bank over it. Coupons allow customers to get more for their buck, and especially now, customers appreciate the discount. 

In the supermarket industry, coupons allow customers to purchase products that they normally buy monthly, in bulk. This is helpful in saving money long-term. Coupons are particularly useful for boxed and/or canned foods that have a longer shelf-life. Even though it may be a rather tedious process, comparing the prices of items purchased through coupons to those purchased at full price will enable the consumer to know if the coupons have really been successful in saving money over time. Coupons also allow people to stock up on items needed for emergency preparedness. Additionally, they facilitate consumers to more effectively ration and extend their monthly or weekly budget. The cash that is saved through using coupons can be diverted towards savings goals, such as a mortgage or vacation funds.

It is easily concluded that coupons are beneficial for both business owners and their customers. Therefore, you should consider the ideas mentioned while promoting your business or saving money on products and services.

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-hosted desktop where their entire team and tax accountant may access the QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools in an efficient and secure 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.