Author: Jennifer Brazer

In today’s world, where achieving financial freedom is a top goal, young professionals and new investors alike are searching for reliable and actionable personal finance advice. Enter the money-saving podcast. These digital resources offer a wealth of information from savings to budgeting to investing tailored to the dynamic lifestyle of emerging investors.

If you’re looking for the best in financial podcasts, you’ve come to the right place. Our comprehensive guide explores the leading podcasts that have become pillars of quality advice, arming listeners with the tools and techniques necessary to begin the journey to financial freedom.

Top Podcasts

Financial feminist; empowering through education

Tori Dunlaps ‘Financial Feminist’ podcast goes beyond the content—it’s a movement. By combining finance knowledge with a message of empowerment, Tori discusses topics like the gender pay gap, beginner investing, and building a solid financial foundation. Her dedication to educating and inspiring her audience, women, positions this podcast as a guiding force for adults looking to navigate the financial world confidently.

How to money; enriching life with friends

Joel and Matts ‘How To Money’ podcast provides a perspective on discussions. Their friendship and shared experiences create an environment for conversations ranging from living tips to advanced investment strategies. What sets their podcast apart is their ability to simplify ideas, making them understandable and engaging for listeners.

Girls that invest, making stock market knowledge accessible

Sim and Sonya’s ‘Girls That Invest’ podcast is a source of empowerment in finance. They simplify investing by breaking down terms and offering tips on managing finances through podcasts, giving their audience the confidence to handle their investments effectively. For those on navigating the stock market with knowledge and precision, tuning in to their podcast is invaluable.

• Frugal Friends Podcast, hosted by Jen Smith and Jill Sirianni, explores the world of living through a mix of money-saving tips and deep conversations about simplicity and mindful spending. It’s a pick for anyone who embraces a lifestyle filled with happiness and satisfaction.

• The Clever Girls Know Podcast is a standout finance resource tailored for women aiming to build wealth and achieve well-being. This podcast offers insights into investing, entrepreneurship, and strategies for empowerment, serving as a comprehensive guide for women navigating their financial journey.

• More Money Podcast, presented by Jessica Moorhouse listeners are treated to engaging conversations with experts in finance and business. Jessica’s ability to break down topics into advice has made her podcast an essential resource for individuals aspiring to expand their knowledge in investing and entrepreneurship. Whitney Hansen’s podcast “The Money Nerds,” skillfully weaves together stories and financial wisdom covering topics ranging from strategies for paying off debt to cultivating a money mindset. Whitney’s inclusive storytelling and focus on development make her finance podcasts a source of inspiration and advice for individuals at all stages of their journey.

• Journey To Launch podcast she shares a tale of transformation. Each episode offers insights on achieving freedom and making wise investment choices, drawing from Jamila’s own transformative experiences. Her podcast serves as a guiding light for those seeking guidance and motivation in finance as they strive toward independence.

To make the most of the knowledge shared in finance podcasts, listeners are urged to incorporate these insights into their financial plans to drive real change in their lives.

These on-demand audio delights are filled with tips on budget management, investment tactics, and motivating tales of freedom guiding listeners through the nuances of personal finance. Whether you’re mapping out your path or an aspiring investor navigating the complexities of stock markets, there’s a podcast armed with the knowledge to steer your financial journey.

Fostering a community of financially literate listeners

Finance podcasts foster communities where listeners can share experiences, ask financial questions, and support each other on their financial paths.

Connecting with these communities through media or podcasts can provide added encouragement and valuable insights as you work towards your objectives.

Enhancing your financial knowledge

While podcasts serve as a tool for improving literacy, they are just one aspect of a comprehensive financial education. Supplement your podcast learning with reading books, taking courses, and attending seminars to establish a rounded grasp of personal finance. Diversifying your sources ensures a perspective enabling you to navigate the financial landscape confidently.

The evolution of financial podcasts

As the financial realm progresses, so does the realm of money-saving podcasts. Advancing technologies, shifting climates, and changing societal norms will influence discussions and perspectives on these audio platforms. Staying informed about these finance podcasts keeps you abreast of trends and tactics and prepares you for the financial obstacles and possibilities ahead.

Closing Thoughts: Embrace Your Financial Guide

Money-saving podcasts provide more than guidance—they foster a sense of community, inspiration, and empowerment for individuals keen on steering their financial destinies. By tuning in to podcasts that align with your aspirations and incorporating their insights into your life, you can embark on a journey towards financial growth and self-reliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What makes an exceptional finance podcast?

A remarkable finance podcast combines expert insights, relatable stories, and practical advice, turning ideas into engaging conversations that resonate with audiences from all walks of life.

Q: How can I implement recommendations to manage my finances?

Start your journey by tracking expenses, creating a budget, or exploring investment opportunities. Use the tips and strategies from finance podcasts to help you gradually build a base.

Q: Are there any podcasts that focus on beginner investment tips?

Indeed, finance podcasts such as ‘Girls That Invest’ and ‘The Money Nerds are resources for those investing who want to understand the basics and develop effective investment strategies.

Q: Where can budding entrepreneurs find guidance?

The Clever Girls Know Podcast and Journey To Launch are finance podcasts for entrepreneurs seeking advice on personal finance and investment strategies tailored to their entrepreneurial endeavors.

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.

There has been some debate that Millennials are the best generation at making investments. According to the leading names from the financial industry, Millennials are best known for having student loan debt, but they could be the smartest investing class. This means that their generation is making the best use of their finances by using their money more intelligently than other generations. 

In terms of personal attributes, Millennials are known for possessing promising qualities to become intelligent and successful investors. Though most Millennials are deep in educational loans, they have certain traits and skills, which makes them great candidates for placing their finances in some of the best possible investment options. Though recent times have been bad for investment purposes because of the recession-era economy, Millennials have been able to navigate their way through and find successful investment opportunities through extensive research, which allowed them to make smarter choices.

 

Here are a couple of reasons due to which Millennials have become the best investors of their time:  

Making Financial Plans

One step towards successfully investing your money is to make financial plans. You would know where your money is being spent and how much return you are going to generate. According to research conducted by the Koski Research in June 2017, about 74% of Millennials were found to have made a financial plan. Of those, 34% had put that plan in writing. In comparison to other generations, only 18% of baby boomers and 21% of Generation Xers had written financial plans. 

Hustling While You Can

While Millennials might not be the best at making much money from their primary job, however, a more significant percentage of them have their side hustles going on. This means that they are involved in more activities on the side besides their primary job and are earning extra income for themselves. A report by CareerBuilder showed a decline in the number of people hustling on the side who are 35 and above.

Choosing Wise Health Insurance

While Baby Boomers or Generation Xers have difficulty selecting the right health insurance for themselves, Millennials actively choose better health insurance options, according to the Employee Benefits Research Institute. They do thorough research since they have access to unlimited information and are at the advantage of selecting the right plan for themselves, their coworkers, or their family members. This allows them to save hundreds of dollars over the years, which otherwise can be used for smart investment options. 

Millennials Save Better than Boomers and Gen Xers

According to Schwab’s study, there are 31% of boomers and Gen Xers who have their monthly savings goals intact compared to 28% of Millennials. This is a very close difference between the generations, signifying that Millennials realize the importance of savings, one that would last them a couple of months or one that can be used for investment purposes. 

Millennials Practice their Plans – They Don’t Forget

More often than not, there will be a moment where your investment may underperform, contradicting with your hopes and investment plans. However, in such scenarios, when Millennials are compared with Gen Xers and Boomers, a study found that Millennials were able to adjust their investment portfolios better than their counterparts. This signifies that they keep some room for a rainy day, which might hurt their finances and investments.

Bottom Line

With the world of information at their disposal, it is only right that Millennials are rising ahead of Boomers and Gen Xers compared to their investments, finances, and stock portfolios. They are naturally savvy to the events taking place around them, which allows them to make much more informed and better decisions logically. Hence, if you are reading this and are a Millennial, you might have the right background and skills to become an all-star investor.

 

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.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average American spends between $2,000 and $3,000 a year on clothing and accessories. But with a focus on saving money to build a future and financial stability on the rise, saving money on clothing can have a tremendous positive impact. Here are nine ways you can save money on your wardrobe and still look amazing.

Sell What You Don’t Wear

Though it is nice to have choices in your closet, purging your wardrobe and selling it can be a money-maker. If you take care of your clothing, resale shops and boutiques will pay you top dollar for your gently used clothing. There are also apps and websites where you can post and sell your clothing and add money to your savings. To determine what you should purge, put clothing wrong side out on the hanger, and decide on a timeframe from one month to a year. At the end of the designated time, remove any clothing that is the wrong side out (meaning you never wore it.)

Shop at Second-Hand Stores

Those same boutiques and resale shops can have excellent designer clothing at incredibly discounted prices. The same can be said for thrift stores and online resale sites. Before you go shopping at a retail store, take some time and peruse second-hand stores’ racks. They often have great accessories as well.

Find Coupons Online

Clipping coupons is an age-old process that every savvy shopper has used to save money; some people have even managed to make couponing a business. Besides publications, the Internet is another place you can find amazing coupons and discounts. Many retailers will have coupons or deals online that you can use to shop on their site or in the store. Make sure you read all the details on expiration and usage as some restrictions may apply.

Shop at Discount Stores

Similar to the second-hand or thrift store, discount stores can mean a killer wardrobe for little money. These stores specialize in not only offering name brands at deeply discounted prices, but they often have their own labels that look good. If you can’t find what you’re looking for at a thrift or second-hand store, make a discount store your next stop to shop.

Buy out of season

Buying out of season is a great way to save money when you shop for clothes. If you can wait a few months for anyone to see your fantastic outfit, buying out of season can get you crazy discounts. Get a sweater or coat in July and buy next summer’s bathing suit in January (that will buy you some time to look great in it.) Out of season clothing is found in the clearance section, so make your way there first when shopping.

Shop Sales

Sales can sometimes be outstanding, and you can get a lot more bang for your buck. Hitting up department store sales allows you to get higher-end name-brand clothes while keeping more money in your wallet.

Fix  or Repurpose

If you can sew or watch a how-to video, fixing or repurposing old clothes can be a huge money saver. In the case of repurposing, you can create a new look and not only show off your outfit but also your talent!

No Impulse Buys

When you go shopping for specific items, resist the temptation to impulse buy clothing you don’t need. Shopping online can help with this, although it does increase the chance of you ordering one of every color.

Buy Generic

Every name brand designer has knock offs of their ready-to-wear looks. Unless someone flips your collar back and looks at the label, no one will be the wiser that you paid far less for your generic version of the designer outfit. If you shop this way, you can compete in “who wore it better” and “who wore it cheaper” and win every time!

Everyone wants to look and feel good in what they are wearing, but not everyone has high limit credit cards or substantial bank accounts with which to shop. Saving money on what you wear doesn’t mean you can’t look good! 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.

When hiring new employees, interviewing potential candidates is a vital part of the hiring process. To find the best person for the job, the interviewer has to be effective. Many don’t think about the preparation of the interviewer and focus more on the person bring interviewed. Though the interviewer may be asking the same questions to all the candidates, they must be prepared for the varying answers. Here are some tips to become a better interviewer.

Be Prepared

Most people think that only the potential candidate must be prepared for the interview; however, it is equally essential for the interviewer to be prepared. Make sure you have effective questions and know about the interviewee’s employment history and qualifications beforehand. Also, have a copy of their resume, cover letter, and application for reference during the interview. Just as the candidate should know the company they are applying to before an interview, the interviewer should know something about the person being interviewed.

Choose Questions Wisely

The interview questions should be designed specifically for the position you are hiring for and should include questions about skills, work history, and job knowledge. There should also be situational questions and other behavioral questions to determine how a potential employee will handle themselves in common workplace scenarios.

Keep the Interview Structured

An informal and unstructured interview can easily stray off-topic and become a waste of time for both the interviewer and interviewee. Keep the structure and interview flow consistent with each candidate to make there is a good use of time and be fair to all candidates. A good structure to follow should be introductions, interviewer-prepared questions and answers, and opportunities for the candidate to ask questions they may have.

Actively Listen and Take Notes

Actively listening and taking notes will be crucial to the interview process. You, as an interviewer, will likely be interviewing several candidates. These notes and recall from actively listening will be vital to calling candidates for a second interview or making a final decision. If the interviewer is not the only person making the decision, these notes will be necessary for the other decision-maker(s) to read and assess.

Know Your Biases

Every person has subconscious biases. As an interviewer, you must identify what yours are, so you will not allow them to color your opinion of a potentially qualified candidate. Like a judge in a courtroom, an interviewer must not allow personal bias to interfere in making a decision that is potentially unfair to the candidate or prevent the right person from being hired. Don’t beat yourself up if you are carrying biases, everyone does, but identifying them and minimizing or destroying them is important before interviewing anyone. Once you are aware of them you will naturally steer away from them.

Practice Interviewing

Just like any other skill, practice makes perfect. To become a better interviewer, conduct mock interviews with co-workers. Doing these practice interviews will not only help you become a better interviewer, but it will allow you to add or improve questions to make the interview as effective as possible. During the practice, proceed through the interview as though your practice candidate is the actual interviewee. This practice will help you maintain focus so even if the interview does not go exactly as planned, you will be able to control the flow and keep things on track.

Conclusion

Being an excellent interviewer is as important as being the right candidate for the job in an interview. If the person conducting the interview is unprepared or doesn’t ask the right questions, the process will not identify the best person for the job. Being prepared, choosing questions wisely, keeping it structured, listening actively, knowing your biases, and practicing the interview will ensure that everything goes smoothly.

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.

Everyone, regardless of income, can benefit from positive ways to manage money. Money management is the key to financial stability. Here are some financial experts with tips on how to successfully manage money and things to avoid.

“Wall Street is the only place where people arrive in Rolls-Royce to receive advice from people traveling on the subway” (Warren Buffet).

Money management is for all incomes and walks of life. A person can be a millionaire and be in financial ruin and live in poverty through poor money management.

“With a million dollars in your pocket and enough breaths, you can go to ruins in a year” (Warren Buffet).

Bad financial advice or a few poor decisions can lead to financial devastation.

“The difference between the rich and the poor is this: the rich invest their money and spend what is left. The poor spend their money and invest what is left” (Robert Kiyosaki).

Managing money is making good financial choices, and it is also making sound investments, making them first is the key to positive money management.

“If you think training is expensive, try ignorance” (Benjamin Franklin).

It is better to spend a few afternoons looking for information about what to do with your money than to blindly follow the first piece of advice you get. We need to be thoughtful about where we get financial information and advice.

“If we do not change the direction of our steps, it is very likely that we will end up getting where we are headed” (Unknown).

If you have trouble reaching the end of the month continuously, do something to change it. If you don’t change how you manage your money, don’t be surprised if the same happens to you at the end of the following month.

“If you want to be rich, just find out what everyone else is doing, and do exactly the opposite” (Robert Kiyosaki).

Sometimes we can look to examples of how to manage money but also how not to manage money. There are examples we can follow on both what to do and what not to do. It is up to you to discern the examples and use them to your financial advantage when it comes to money management.

“If you don’t know where you want to go, you will probably never get anywhere” (Mark Fisher).

Money management is a process and a path to financial growth and stability. Set goals, do research, and seek the advice of experts. These steps will lead you in the right direction and set you on a path of prosperity.

These financial experts have great tips and ideas on how to manage your money successfully. Using their experience and expertise and your ideas on money management will have you financially stable and lead others to look to YOU as the expert.

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.

Everyone needs a vacation from time to time. But for the small business owner, the idea of leaving the business alone for any length of time could be stressful. However, it is recommended that you get away and recharge your batteries to keep strong for the good of the business. With careful planning, you can leave the business for a few days or even weeks and actually enjoy yourself. Here is a short guide to help you make plans to take a peaceful vacation while preventing your business from falling apart in your absence.

Sorry, We’re Closed

If your business has no other employees to run it while you’re away, you can close for the duration of your vacation. Does that sound too easy? There are some additional steps you can take to ensure you still have customers to come back to when you return.

• Inform regular customers of your absence via email, text, or call. This personal touch will make your regular customers feel cared for and ensure they will be there when you return.
• Set your business email to an automatic reply that you are away and will reply upon return.
• If you have a storefront, hang a closed sign in the window or on the door.

Some things to remember for security, don’t be too specific on the times you will be gone, especially with the closed sign. Also, if you have a walk-up business, make sure you secure any valuables at home.

Ask Someone to Business-Sit

If you don’t have employees, if you have a trusted family member or friend that can take care of business while you’re gone, this will ensure you keep the business going while getting that much-needed R & R. Having a friend or family member that is not regularly involved with your business run it in your absence is only suggested if your business is uncomplicated or will suffer in your absence.

Much like when you have someone house-sit, you can leave detailed instructions on how to handle the business. Providing written instructions along with providing checklists will ensure everything will run smoothly while you’re away. Though it is recommended that you go off the grid to truly benefit from the break if leaving your business with a friend or family member you may want to have your phone on for emergencies.

Let an Employee Take Over

Ideally, if you have any employees, they would be able to run the business in your absence. If you have a trusted employee that can take care of business while you enjoy your vacation, leave them to it.  Your absence is an opportunity for your employees to show what they can do without you around. If it goes well, you may take more time off or even promote an employee to manage your business and open up time to pursue other ambitions.

Make it a Mini-Vacation

Sometimes all you need is a small amount of time away from the business to recharge your batteries. Instead of taking a week or two-week vacation or traveling far, limit the time and distance. Sometimes a long weekend, day-trip, or staycation at home are all you need to get some much needed time away. Keeping it close or short would minimize the impact on your business operations.

Conclusion

Vacations are a must, especially for small business owners, as they are typically working more hours a day than anyone. Many will not take time off for fear that the business will suffer in their absence. This short guide shows that you can take a vacation and keep your business safe while relaxing and destressing. Just be sure to take lots of pics to share!

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.

Choosing and planning a career is a significant event in the life of every adult. Some people know what they want to do at a young age, while others may take years to figure out what they want to be “when they grow up.” Whether looking to use a degree after graduation or making a significant change years later, launching a career takes planning. Every job is not for every person. There are some actions you should take to identify career options that make sense for you. Here are some steps to choosing and planning your career that will help you love what you do.

Identify  your Passion

Identifying your passion should be the first step in career planning. Anyone can get a job to pay the bills, most working adults have done that, and many have gotten stuck there. However, to plan a career, you must search yourself for what you want to contribute to the world through your chosen career. Skills can be learned, but passion is something that gets embedded in your DNA.

Prioritize Interests and Skills

The next step in choosing and planning your career is to prioritize interests and skills. Making a list of interests may seem like a waste of time, but it is one of the keys to your career choices. Choosing a career based solely on skills may lead to dissatisfaction if it is not something that interests you. It will also improve your dedication to your chosen field if you don’t get bored.

Prioritizing your skills will serve many purposes. First, it will help you identify what skills you have that matches your interests. It also helps identify what training or education you need. Even if you have attended college, you may find there is a need for other training opportunities.

Assess Your Current Job

As mentioned before, many working people are in jobs they took to make ends meet. Others may be in their chosen career but want to take it further. It is essential to take an inventory of what you are currently doing to earn a living. Make a list of pros and cons and ask yourself if you love what you do. If you are starting a new career or furthering your current one, assessing what you are doing for a living is vital to the career planning process.

Research

Research is the most critical step in choosing and planning for your career. When we daydream about our perfect job and how it will be, those lofty scenarios often don’t include a lot of reality. Learn everything you can about what the career you’re considering entails. There could be aspects that are not for you; it is better to know this before investing time and education in a career you won’t stick with or are miserable in once you obtain it.

For example, many people who love animals say they want to grow up to be a veterinarian. They just see the interaction with animals and not the other aspects it involves such as surgery, dealing with sick animals, and other tasks that will be extremely difficult to deal with for an animal lover.

Putting It All Together

Planning your career is an important process. Your job is often where you spend most of your waking hours, so if you love what you do because of careful planning, that time will be well spent. So identifying your passion, prioritizing your interests and skills, assessing your current job, and researching the career or careers you are considering are part of the planning process. Make planning for your career a priority using these steps, and you will never work another day in your life because you will love what you do.
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.

These days going to college is not just for the young. Many adults over twenty-five choose to go back to school to either attend college for the first time or return to obtain a higher level degree. There are costs involved in returning to school that need to be considered.

• Tuition
• Textbooks
• A Computer
• General Supplies

Here are seven practical tips to reduce the costs of going back to school.

1. Company Tuition Reimbursement

Many corporations promote from within the company. Often when moving to higher positions and management, a degree will be required, so many companies offer full or partial tuition reimbursement if an employee pursues a work-related degree. Some companies will provide some reimbursement of non-related degrees; the important thing is, ask!

2. Grants and Scholarships

When applying to college during the admissions process, admissions specialists can help you determine grants and scholarships to apply for and give you valuable information on the process. There are also many smaller scholarships and grants you can apply for online. Also, check with the college financial aid office; grants and scholarships should be applied for every year you are in college.

3. Community College

Many community colleges offer useful four-year degrees. Even if the degree you seek is specialized, community college is great for getting an associate’s degree and getting the basic required classes out of the way at a lower cost. If you will complete your degree at a state or private college, before beginning community college, ensure your credits will transfer.

4. Free or Used Textbooks

Besides tuition, textbooks are one of the largest expenses when attending school. To keep textbooks and required reading costs at a minimum, there are a few options.

• Check availability at the school or local library
• Search for websites and apps that offer free ebook books and textbooks
• Share costs with other students taking the same classes
• Check with the school. Some have textbook and book exchange programs
• Check used book sites and stores to get the books and textbooks at discounted prices
• Search for sites or stores that rent books and textbooks

 

5. Minimizing Computer Costs

Even if you already have a desktop computer, most college students opt for a laptop for school. Laptops have gained popularity due to portability and the ability to use in class for notes and recordings. There are ways to keep the costs of purchasing a laptop to a minimum.

• Keep it basic; most lower-cost laptops will meet the needs of a student
• Purchase a refurbished computer; they are often like new and come with limited warranties
• Look for rebates, student discounts, or back to school sales
• Shop at a pawn shop or second-hand electronics store

 

6. Minimizing the Costs of Supplies

Other school supplies are needed for college students, such as pens, highlighters, notebooks, and other items specific to certain classes, i.e., scientific calculators. Many stores offer discounts to students. You can also look for sales and coupons, and some supplies can be bought used as students may only have needed them for a limited time.

7. Taking Online Classes and CLEP Testing

Many accredited schools offer online courses. Because overhead is low to conduct these classes, they can be less costly for a student. The only drawback to going to college online is that it is more self-directed, and some students may need the structure of a classroom to excel. Many colleges not only offer online courses but also accept CLEP credits from CLEP testing. CLEP (College-Level Examination Program) tests allow students to test out of many of the courses needed to earn an associate’s degree. Each exam costs under $100, which is significantly less than a semester of school. Check with your school to see if they accept CLEP credits before taking the exams.

Conclusion

These seven cost-saving tips should help any student, young or not so young, keep the costs of returning to school to a manageable amount. If you are contemplating college, don’t let costs keep you from expanding your education.

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.

The success of any company, no matter the size, lies in its profitability. How to reach profitability will depend on what stage the business has achieved. The plan of attack will be different for a business at start-up from a business that has been around for many years. Regardless, every small business has a greater chance of growth, depending on how much effort gets put into making a profit. In this digital marketing and social media era, a small business owner can maximize their sales and marketing strategies with little to no cost, no matter what stage of maturity the business has achieved. Here are some ways to maximize profits through digital marketing. 

Audience

Before launching any successful digital marketing campaign, you must determine who your target audience is to purchase your product or services. The factors you need to consider are age, gender, and region. Some products and services don’t have specific targets that fall in all three of those areas. For example, those in need of a plumber won’t need to be of a specific age-range or gender, but they will need to be in the same area as the plumber they hire. While feminine products will have a particular gender and age range, the region won’t have any impact. Knowing your target audience will ensure that your digital marketing reaches those people with the most potential to bring business your way.

Content

Before launching any successful digital marketing campaign, you must determine who your target audience is to purchase your product or services. The factors you need to consider are age, gender, and region. Some products and services don’t have specific targets that fall in all three of those areas. For example, those in need of a plumber won’t need to be of a specific age-range or gender, but they will need to be in the same area as the plumber they hire. While feminine products will have a particular gender and age range, the region won’t have any impact. Knowing your target audience will ensure that your digital marketing reaches those people with the most potential to bring business your way.

Social Media Platforms

When it comes to marketing, people might think more is more, but that is not necessarily true. If you are a business with a large and well-funded marketing department, you can afford to post on every social media platform that exists. But small to mid-sized businesses must be more thoughtful and choose a few platforms on which to work. The fab four to focus on would be Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. Other sites to consider would be Snapchat and Pinterest. Both of those had a substantial market share among social media platforms a few years ago, but they have tapered off in popularity. The four mentioned have remained strong, with no signs of slowing down any time soon; therefore, they are where you should focus your primary digital marketing strategies.

Emailing

Emailing is still a strong contender when it comes to digital marketing. Some services will assist you in launching email campaigns, but you still have to understand your target customer. A successful email marketing strategy will drive customers in and not away. If a customer subscribes through your website or business page, they expect to have occasional updates, not daily inbox stuffing emails they will delete. Most customers are comfortable with weekly or biweekly emails featuring relevant content.

Conclusion

Every business has its success measured by profits. To create success, you must focus on digital marketing strategies. Focus on your audience, content, social media platforms, and other digital marketing options such as emailing, and you will see your business grow. Most effective digital marketing efforts cost little to no money, thus protecting profits while making them expand.

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.

Most people would agree that having a savings plan is essential to financial stability. Unfortunately, many either don’t have any money saved due to economic setbacks, or it is not significant enough to make a difference. To save money, you must manage your expenditures. Here are some money managing tips that will help you increase savings and become financially stable

Create a Budget

Creating a budget is an easy way to manage expenditures and increase savings. A budget is a bookkeeping tool that tracks income and expenditures and determines spending habits and savings. When creating a budget, you must gather all income and expenditure sources, so you get the most accurate overview of your spending and saving habits. You can also determine if you are spending more than you make so you can make adjustments in expenditures or increase income if necessary.

To help you create a basic budget you can use bookkeeping software such as Quickbooks or other templates found in Microsoft Office or online. Having a budget should be a priority for anyone trying to save money and cut down on expenditures.

Restrict Discretionary Expenses

Start by listing what you need the most. Prioritize your expenditures from most important to least important. Focus your fixed expenses, such as housing, utilities, car payment, food, and other necessities. These are fixed expenses that you have to pay at any cost. After listing fixed expenditures, then determine your discretionary expenses or non-essential expenditures. This could include luxury items, dining out, and entertainment. If you determine, through your budget, that you are spending more than you earn, restricting discretionary expenses may be necessary.

A common expenditure that many people have is interest on credit cards. If it becomes necessary, you use a credit card for purchases or pay bills, rather than making minimum payments, pay the bill in full as soon as you receive it. Doing so will minimize interest and build your credit score.

Full dept payment can also apply to loans or any line of credit that includes interest. High-interest rates cost Americans millions of dollars that could be saved with full debt payment as quickly as possible.

Reasonable Housing Payment

When looking for a house to rent or purchase, you must keep the payments less than 1/3 of your monthly income. This expenditure is one that cannot be avoided, we all need a roof over our head, but you still need to ensure that you are living within your means by using this essential rule of thumb when it comes to paying rent or a mortgage. In many cases, a landlord or mortgage company will not rent or loan to you if the household income is not at least three times the rent or mortgage payment.

Adequate Insurance

When purchasing insurance for auto, home, and healthcare, you must research the best coverage for the lowest cost. Saving on premiums may seem like a great way to cut expenses, but that is not necessarily true. While it might save you in your monthly budget, it could cost you more if you need it and don’t have the best coverage. Suppose you need to cut other expenditures to get good insurance coverage. In that case, it may be worth it if you ever have an automobile accident, your house floods, or become ill and need to be hospitalized or have surgery.

Conclusion

Expenditures are a part of every person’s life, and managing them is essential for financial stability and freedom. Creating a budget, restricting discretionary expenses, full debt payment, reasonable housing costs, and adequate insurance are just a few ideas on how to save. But these tips will help in money management and keep you in control of expenditures.

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.