5 Strategies to Help Boost Your Credit Score

Every financially responsible adult is aware of the importance of your credit score. Most credit scores linger around the good to poor range due to unpaid or slow paid debts. Even if you have a decent score when making large purchases such as a car or home, a higher credit score can be the difference between higher interest rates or lower payments. These differences could cost or save you hundreds of dollars. Here are five strategies to boost your credit score. Check out America's Best Bookkeepers

Find Out When Your Issuer Reports Payment History

For a major boost to your credit, you must know your credit cards’ reporting date. The reason is that your credit can receive a boost if you carry less than 10% of your credit card limit each month. Regardless of your credit limits or minimum payment requirements, you will always want to ensure your balance is under 10% of your credit limit.

The reason you must know the reporting date of the credit holder is that if you get your balance below 10% or even pay the entire balance, but it is after the reporting date, it will do nothing positive for your credit score or may even lower it slightly depending on what percentage of your limit you are holding.

For the best results, pay your bill down just before the reporting date, which can be a monthly boost to your credit score. Check out America's Best Bookkeepers

Pay Down Debt Strategically

To boost your score, you now know you need to keep your balance below 10% of your credit limit. So if you have more than one credit card, you will want to pay down the balances to get them all below 10% of their limit. For those cards already below this percentage, you can make a minimum required payment.

The other strategy you want to utilize is to pay more towards loans or credit cards with the highest interest. The more quickly you pay these down, the bigger the savings and the better the boost to your credit score.

Pay Twice a Month

While sometimes finances are such that even making one payment on a loan or credit card can be a challenge, if possible, it is suggested you attempt to make two payments. This will boost your credit score and help save you money by paying off interest, gaining debt far more quickly.

Raise Your Credit Limits

If you are a shopaholic, you may be getting excited about this option; however, raising your credit limit is not so you can spend more and get into more debt. In this case, raising your limit and keeping your ratio below 10% will boost your credit score. Check out America's Best Bookkeepers

Only ask for an increase in credit if you have been on time on all your payments with the creditor as if you ask for an increase and have not paid on time or at all, this raise of your limit request may alarm the creditor and in some cases, they may even lower your credit.

Mix It Up

While having diverse credit is only accounts for 10% of your overall score, having a mix will boost your credit. Having a mix means that you need different types of current credit that you are paying off. Suppose your only credit is revolving credit, such as a credit card or an installment payment on a long-term loan such as a mortgage. You will need to diversify your credit. If you can purchase something on credit, pay it off quickly to give your credit score a quick boost.

Conclusion

Your credit score should always be a financial priority. While you may never need it to make large purchases, your credit score is used to determine interest rates and, in some cases, can be used by phone and utility companies to decide on down payments or additional fees. It can also be a factor a potential employer considers before hiring you. Whatever the reason your credit score may be used, it is important to keep it as high as possible so use these quick boosts to raise your score.

Check out America's Best Bookkeepers 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. Check out America's Best Bookkeepers

Best Accounting Software for Small Biz

Best Accounting Software for Small Business:
The Expert’s Guide to Financial Growth

The best accounting software for small business combines automated invoicing, real-time financial reporting, and seamless payroll integration—with QuickBooks Online, Xero, and Wave consistently ranking as top choices for their intuitive interfaces, scalability features, and proven track records of helping businesses reduce costs while accelerating growth.

Over my 20 years as CEO of Complete Controller, I’ve guided thousands of small businesses through their accounting software transitions, watching them transform from spreadsheet chaos to streamlined operations that save 10+ hours weekly. In this guide, you’ll discover exactly which platforms deliver real results, learn from businesses that increased revenue by 30% after implementation, and get my proven 5-step roadmap for selecting and deploying the perfect accounting solution—plus insider tips on avoiding the costly mistakes that derail 40% of software implementations. Cubicle to Cloud virtual business

What is the best accounting software for small business—and how do you choose?

  • QuickBooks Online, Xero, and Wave are the best accounting software for small business, with selection depending on your growth trajectory, feature requirements, and user experience preferences
  • QuickBooks dominates with 62.23% market share and unmatched integrations, Xero excels with unlimited users and superior interface design, Wave provides free core functionality perfect for solopreneurs
  • Match your business model to software strengths: inventory-heavy businesses need QuickBooks, collaborative teams thrive on Xero, service providers love FreshBooks
  • Banking integrations and automation capabilities determine long-term efficiency gains
  • Platform scalability prevents costly software switches as revenue grows

Small Business Accounting Software Market Reality

The cloud accounting software market has exploded to $5.7 billion in 2024 and will reach $9.9 billion by 2033—driven by 64.4% of small businesses abandoning manual bookkeeping for digital solutions. This massive shift reflects a fundamental truth: businesses using modern accounting software consistently outperform their spreadsheet-bound competitors in revenue growth, cash flow management, and operational efficiency.

QuickBooks’s commanding 69% usage rate among software-enabled businesses isn’t accidental—it reflects deep accountant familiarity and extensive third-party integrations. Yet savvy business owners increasingly explore alternatives like Xero (11% market share) and emerging platforms that better match specific business models.

Top Accounting Software Platforms: Performance Analysis

Each platform serves distinct business needs, and understanding these differences prevents expensive software switches later.

QuickBooks Online: The power platform

QuickBooks Online generated $8 billion in revenue last year—double Xero’s performance and 71 times FreshBooks’s earnings—because it delivers unmatched functionality. The platform’s 750+ integrations connect everything from payment processing to inventory management, while its widespread accountant adoption means finding professional support stays simple.

Core Strengths:

  • Advanced reporting with customizable dashboards
  • Multi-currency support across 160+ currencies
  • Automated sales tax calculations and filing
  • Project profitability tracking with job costing
  • Mobile app with full functionality

Pricing: Starting at $35/month for Simple Start, scaling to $235/month for Advanced

Xero: Built for modern teams

Xero revolutionizes collaboration by offering unlimited users at every price tier—a game-changer for growing teams tired of per-seat pricing. The platform’s elegant interface reduces training time by 60% compared to traditional software, while bank reconciliation suggestions achieve 95% accuracy after initial setup.

Standout Features:

  • Unlimited users on all plans
  • Real-time collaboration tools
  • Automated invoice reminders reducing late payments by 40%
  • Direct bank feeds from 21,000+ financial institutions
  • Advanced inventory tracking with automatic reorder points

Investment: $15/month for Early plan, $78/month for Established

Wave: The bootstrapper’s choice

Wave disrupts the market by offering genuinely free core accounting—no trial periods, no user limits, no hidden fees. Over 2 million businesses trust Wave’s straightforward approach, particularly service-based companies and freelancers who need professional invoicing without complexity.

Free Features Include:

  • Unlimited invoicing and estimates
  • Receipt scanning with OCR technology
  • Basic financial reporting
  • Multi-business support
  • Bank connections (manual import always free)

Revenue Model: Optional paid services like payroll ($40/month + $6/employee) and payment processing (2.9% + $0.30/transaction) LastPass – Family or Org Password Vault

Real Business Transformation Through Smart Software Selection

Manual invoice processing costs businesses $12-19 per invoice, while automated systems slash that to $3—an 84% reduction that compounds across thousands of transactions. One Texas retail store struggling with cash flow hired professional bookkeepers who implemented cloud accounting, revealing hidden expense patterns and payment delays. Within 12 months, accurate financial visibility enabled strategic decisions that expanded their product line, opened a second location, and increased revenue by 30%.

Similarly, Beehive Marketing’s transition from spreadsheets to Xero delivered immediate results: 30% faster invoicing, 50% reduction in reconciliation time, and near-elimination of data entry errors. These efficiency gains translated directly to client acquisition time and business growth.

The Complete Controller Implementation Framework

Successfully deploying accounting software requires strategic planning beyond simply choosing a platform.

Phase 1: Business requirements analysis

Document your current financial workflows, identifying pain points and growth constraints. Consider transaction volume, team size, integration needs, and industry-specific requirements like inventory tracking or project costing. Small manufacturers need different features than consulting firms.

Phase 2: Platform evaluation and testing

Leverage free trials strategically—don’t just explore, but run actual business processes. Import last month’s transactions, create typical invoices, and generate reports you actually use. Gather feedback from every team member who’ll touch the system daily.

Phase 3: Data migration excellence

Clean historical data before migration prevents perpetual problems. Reconcile all accounts, standardize customer records, and archive obsolete information. Most platforms offer migration tools and guides, but professional assistance often pays for itself through accuracy.

Phase 4: Team training and controls

Schedule dedicated training sessions, not casual introductions. Establish user permissions protecting sensitive data while enabling efficient workflows. Create standard operating procedures documenting your specific processes within the chosen platform.

Phase 5: Continuous optimization

Monthly reviews catch issues before they compound. Quarterly audits verify automation accuracy and identify new efficiency opportunities. Annual assessments determine if your platform still matches business needs.

Automation and Integration: Multiplying Your Impact

Modern accounting software transforms repetitive tasks into automated workflows. Businesses implementing full automation reduce manual errors by up to 80% while processing invoices 5x faster. Key automation targets include:

Essential Automations:

  • Bank feed imports with intelligent transaction matching
  • Recurring invoice generation and sending
  • Payment reminder sequences reducing collections time
  • Expense categorization using machine learning
  • Financial report scheduling for stakeholders

Integration Priorities:

  • Payment processors for seamless reconciliation
  • CRM systems maintaining customer data sync
  • E-commerce platforms tracking inventory and sales
  • Payroll services ensuring compliance
  • Project management tools for profitability analysis

Investment Analysis: Understanding True Costs and Returns

While Wave offers free core features and entry-level plans start around $15-35 monthly, smart businesses evaluate total cost of ownership including time savings. Manual bookkeeping consuming 10 hours weekly at $25/hour equals $1,000 monthly—making even premium software profitable.

Hidden Cost Factors:

  • Training time and productivity dips during transition
  • Data migration complexity requiring professional help
  • Integration costs for connecting existing systems
  • Ongoing support needs as features expand

Measurable Returns:

  • 50-80% reduction in bookkeeping time
  • 30-40% faster payment collection through automation
  • Near-elimination of costly data entry errors
  • Enhanced decision-making through real-time visibility
  • Scalability preventing future platform switches

Security and Compliance in Cloud Accounting

Modern platforms implement bank-level encryption and security protocols protecting financial data better than most small businesses could independently. Look for SOC 2 Type II certification, automatic backups, and role-based access controls. Cloud storage provides disaster recovery impossible with desktop software, while automatic updates maintain compliance with changing regulations.

Final Thoughts

After two decades helping businesses navigate financial technology, I’ve learned that the best accounting software combines powerful features with intuitive design—but success ultimately depends on thoughtful implementation. Whether you choose QuickBooks’s comprehensive ecosystem, Xero’s collaborative elegance, or Wave’s accessible simplicity, commit to mastering your platform’s capabilities.

Smart financial management fuels business growth, and modern accounting software puts enterprise-level capabilities within reach of every entrepreneur. Start with a free trial, involve your team in selection, and don’t hesitate to seek expert guidance during implementation.

Ready to transform your financial operations? Connect with our team at Complete Controller for personalized guidance on selecting and implementing the perfect accounting solution for your business’s unique needs. CorpNet. Start A New Business Now

Frequently Asked Questions About Best Accounting Software for Small Business

What is the easiest accounting software for small business owners with no accounting background?

Wave and FreshBooks consistently rank highest for user-friendliness, offering intuitive interfaces that guide non-accountants through financial tasks while Xero’s clean design and helpful prompts make it another strong choice for beginners.

How much should a small business budget for accounting software?

Most small businesses spend $15-100 monthly on accounting software, but factor in potential savings of $500-2,000 monthly from automation and error reduction when evaluating costs against manual bookkeeping alternatives.

Can I switch accounting software platforms without losing historical data?

Yes, major platforms support data export/import, though complexity varies—plan 2-4 weeks for migration, maintain parallel systems temporarily, and consider professional assistance for businesses with 2+ years of historical data.

Should I choose desktop or cloud-based accounting software?

Cloud-based software dominates with 78% adoption due to automatic backups, anywhere access, and real-time collaboration—desktop only makes sense for businesses with unreliable internet or extreme security requirements.

How do I know when to upgrade from free to paid accounting software?

Upgrade when you need features like automated bank feeds, multiple users, advanced reporting, or when manual workarounds consume more than 5 hours weekly—the time savings typically justify paid platform costs immediately.

Sources

Download A Free Financial Toolkit 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. Complete Controller. America’s Bookkeeping Experts
author avatar
Jennifer Brazer Founder/CEO
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.
Reviewed By: reviewer avatar Brittany McMillen
reviewer avatar Brittany McMillen
Brittany McMillen is a seasoned Marketing Manager with a sharp eye for strategy and storytelling. With a background in digital marketing, brand development, and customer engagement, she brings a results-driven mindset to every project. Brittany specializes in crafting compelling content and optimizing user experiences that convert. When she’s not reviewing content, she’s exploring the latest marketing trends or championing small business success.

Passive Income Investments Guide

Top Passive Income Investments for Earning Money Effortlessly

Passive income investments are financial assets like dividend stocks, REITs, high-yield savings accounts, and bonds that generate ongoing returns with minimal effort after initial setup. These investments pay you through interest, dividends, or distributions while you focus on running your business or enjoying life, making them the foundation of financial freedom for busy professionals.

Building passive income has transformed my entrepreneurial journey at Complete Controller. Twenty years ago, I started with a simple dividend fund that quietly compounded while I scaled our bookkeeping firm from a startup to serving thousands of businesses nationwide. That single decision created a six-figure income stream that now funds expansion without touching operating capital. This article reveals the exact investments that deliver 3-9% returns with minimal oversight, plus insider strategies from working with businesses across every sector who’ve successfully built wealth on autopilot. LastPass – Family or Org Password Vault

What are the top passive income investments for earning money effortlessly?

  • Passive income investments include high-yield savings accounts (3.5-5% APY), dividend stocks/funds (4-9% yields), REITs (5-6% returns), bonds (4.3%), peer-to-peer lending (5.3%)
  • High-yield savings accounts offer FDIC-insured returns up to 5% APY with zero risk and instant access to funds
  • Dividend stocks from established companies pay quarterly distributions that compound when reinvested automatically
  • REITs provide real estate exposure without property management, legally required to distribute 90% of profits
  • Bonds and P2P lending platforms deliver fixed income with varying risk levels suited to different investor profiles

Why Passive Income Investments Beat Active Trading for Long-Term Wealth

Passive income investments prioritize steady, compounded returns over high-risk trading, appealing to busy professionals seeking financial freedom without daily market monitoring. The math proves this approach: Marjorie Bradt received $6,626 worth of AT&T stock between 1955-1962, enrolled in automatic dividend reinvestment, then did absolutely nothing for 37 years. By 1999, her hands-off approach turned that modest investment into holdings worth over $1 million across ten companies.

Active traders chase quick gains but miss the power of compound growth. While they stress over daily fluctuations and pay hefty transaction fees, passive investors collect reliable income that builds wealth automatically. Our Complete Controller clients who allocate even 20% of portfolios to passive strategies report better sleep and higher net returns than those constantly tweaking positions.

Dividend stocks and funds as core passive income investments

Dividend stocks from stable companies yield 4-5% annually through quarterly payouts that accelerate wealth when reinvested. The S&P 500 Dividend Aristocrats—companies that have increased dividends for 25+ consecutive years—provide reliability rarely found in growth stocks. A $10,000 investment in Vanguard’s dividend fund (VAS) in 2014 grew to $21,273 by 2024 through reinvestment alone, versus just $18,813 if dividends were taken as cash.

Dividend funds spread risk across dozens of income-producing companies while maintaining 4-9% yields. ETFs like VIG or SCHD require zero stock-picking skills yet deliver professional-grade diversification. At Complete Controller, we’ve seen business owners use dividend income to cover operating expenses during slow months, creating financial cushions that sustain growth.

High-yield savings accounts and CDs for risk-free entry

High-yield savings accounts now offer 3.5-5% APY with complete FDIC protection up to $250,000 per bank. This dramatic improvement from 2013’s pitiful 0.24% average means $5,000 earns $250 annually instead of just $12. Online banks like Marcus, Ally, and CIT lead the rate race without monthly fees or minimum balances.

CDs lock in guaranteed rates up to 4.27% for those willing to commit funds for fixed terms. A $10,000 12-month CD generates $427 in guaranteed interest—perfect for emergency funds or short-term savings goals. Smart savers ladder multiple CDs with staggered maturity dates to maintain liquidity while maximizing yields.

Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs): Passive Income Investments Without Property Hassles

REITs let investors own shares in commercial properties delivering 5-6% average returns without tenant headaches or maintenance costs. These specialized companies must distribute 90% of taxable income to shareholders, creating reliable dividend streams from apartment complexes, office buildings, and shopping centers. Historical data shows REITs outperformed the S&P 500 over every major timeframe—20, 30, 40, and even 52 years—with less volatility thanks to their dividend-heavy returns.

During interest rate cuts, REITs historically return 9.48% annually versus 7.57% for regular stocks. This outperformance stems from cheaper borrowing costs that boost property development and acquisitions. Our bookkeeping clients who added REIT exposure during the 2020 downturn saw 40-60% total returns as property values recovered.

Publicly traded REITs vs. REIT funds

Public REITs trade like individual stocks on major exchanges, offering instant liquidity and transparent pricing. Companies like Realty Income (O) or Public Storage (PSA) let investors target specific property types or geographic regions. However, single REITs carry concentration risk if their sector struggles.

REIT mutual funds and ETFs diversify across multiple properties and sectors for steadier returns. Vanguard’s Real Estate ETF (VNQ) holds over 160 different REITs, spreading risk while capturing broad market growth. Index funds also reinvest dividends automatically, compounding returns without investor action.

Case study: Vanguard REIT success for everyday investors

Fractional platforms democratized REIT investing for small accounts. One Complete Controller client invested $500 monthly into Vanguard’s REIT fund starting in 2019. By 2024, their $30,000 in contributions grew to $42,000 while generating $2,100 in annual dividends. The key? Automatic investing removed emotional decisions during market swings.

Passive income works better with clear numbers. That’s where Complete Controller comes in. CorpNet. Start A New Business Now

Peer-to-Peer Lending and Bonds: Underrated Passive Income Investments for Higher Yields

P2P lending platforms like Prosper connect individual lenders with borrowers, historically yielding 5.3% after accounting for defaults. The global P2P market exploded from $7.29 billion in 2025 to projected $33.81 billion by 2034—a 19.1% annual growth rate proving mainstream adoption. North America dominates with 53.91% market share, offering mature platforms with established track records.

Government bonds provide rock-solid 4.3% yields for 10-year Treasuries, backed by the full faith of the U.S. government. Corporate bonds offer slightly higher returns with modest additional risk. Both options deliver predictable income streams ideal for retirees or conservative investors.

Minimizing risks in P2P lending

Successful P2P investors diversify across 100+ loans to offset inevitable defaults. Platforms offer automated investing tools that spread funds across risk grades—from A-rated borrowers paying 5% to riskier D-rated loans yielding 12%. Keep P2P lending below 10% of total portfolio value to maintain balanced risk exposure.

Track loan performance monthly and reinvest payments into new loans for compound growth. Our most successful P2P clients treat it like a bond alternative, not a get-rich-quick scheme. Patient investors who stick with the strategy for 3+ years typically achieve their target returns.

Bond funds for diversified fixed income

Bond index funds eliminate the complexity of buying individual bonds while providing instant diversification. Funds like BND or AGG hold thousands of government and corporate bonds, adjusting holdings as market conditions change. Professional management handles reinvestment of interest payments and maturing bonds.

Target-date bond funds automatically shift from longer to shorter durations approaching maturity. This reduces interest rate risk for investors needing funds at specific future dates. Municipal bond funds offer tax-free income for high earners, though yields run slightly lower than taxable alternatives.

Tax Strategies and Bookkeeping Tips for Maximizing Passive Income Investments

Investment income faces different tax treatment than wages—qualified dividends enjoy 0-20% rates versus ordinary income taxed up to 37%. Track every distribution through 1099 forms to claim proper treatment. REITs generate non-qualified dividends taxed as ordinary income, making tax-advantaged accounts like Roth IRAs ideal homes for these investments.

Professional bookkeeping captures deductions most investors miss. Investment advisory fees, safe deposit boxes, and even home office space for managing investments may qualify. Complete Controller clients save 15-20% on investment taxes through proper categorization and strategic account placement.

Where humans still outperform algorithms

Automated tools miss nuanced strategies like tax-loss harvesting across correlated assets or REIT depreciation benefits. Human expertise identifies when converting traditional IRAs to Roth accounts saves thousands in lifetime taxes. Complex situations involving business income, real estate, and securities require integrated planning robots can’t provide.

Regular portfolio reviews with experienced professionals spot inefficiencies before they compound. Simple moves like shifting bond funds to tax-deferred accounts or choosing ETFs over mutual funds for taxable accounts significantly impact after-tax returns.

90-day setup roadmap for passive income investments

  • Days 1-30: Open a high-yield savings account for emergency reserves earning 5% APY. Research and open a brokerage account with automatic investing features. Allocate initial funds: 40% to dividend ETFs, 30% to REIT funds, 20% to bond index funds, 10% to remain liquid. Set up automatic monthly contributions to dollar-cost average into positions.
  • Days 31-60: Add a CD ladder with 3, 6, and 12-month terms to boost emergency fund yields. Open a Roth IRA if eligible, prioritizing REIT investments for tax efficiency. Research P2P lending platforms and allocate 5-10% of investment capital if risk tolerance allows. Enable dividend reinvestment on all holdings.
  • Days 61-90: Schedule quarterly reviews with a bookkeeping professional to optimize tax strategies. Automate rebalancing to maintain target allocations as markets shift. Document investment goals and expected income to track progress. This systematic approach transformed my initial $50,000 into $4,000+ monthly passive income within 12 months.

Conclusion

Passive income investments transform financial stress into automatic wealth building through dividend stocks, REITs, high-yield savings, bonds, and P2P lending delivering 3-9% returns. Start with just $100 in an HYSA or dividend ETF, then systematically add investments as knowledge grows. The difference between dreaming about financial freedom and achieving it comes down to taking that first step today.

My two decades building Complete Controller while developing passive income streams taught me that wealth comes from systems, not windfalls. Every business owner deserves income that flows regardless of daily operations. Ready to build your own passive income portfolio with expert guidance? Visit Complete Controller for a free consultation with our financial professionals who understand both business operations and investment strategies. Download A Free Financial Toolkit

Frequently Asked Questions About Passive Income Investments

What are the best passive income investments for beginners?

High-yield savings accounts and CDs offer the safest entry with 3.5-5% APY and FDIC protection up to $250,000, requiring zero investment knowledge while beating inflation.

Are passive income investments truly safe?

Safety varies by investment type—government bonds and FDIC-insured savings carry virtually no risk, while REITs and stocks involve market fluctuations, and P2P lending includes default risk. Diversifying across multiple asset types reduces overall portfolio risk.

How much money do I need to start building passive income?

Start with as little as $1 for high-yield savings or $100 for most ETFs and REIT funds, though $10,000 unlocks better CD rates yielding $400+ annually and provides meaningful diversification across multiple investments.

Do passive income investments require ongoing management?

Most passive investments need only quarterly reviews and annual rebalancing after initial setup, with automatic dividend reinvestment and preset allocations handling daily management, though P2P lending may require monthly monitoring.

Can passive income investments realistically replace a full-time salary?

Yes, with sufficient capital—$1 million diversified across investments yielding 4-6% generates $40,000-60,000 annually, while aggressive savers can reach this through consistent investing over 15-20 years starting with just $1,000 monthly contributions.

Sources

ADP. Payroll – HR – Benefits 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. Cubicle to Cloud virtual business
author avatar
Jennifer Brazer Founder/CEO
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.
Reviewed By: reviewer avatar Brittany McMillen
reviewer avatar Brittany McMillen
Brittany McMillen is a seasoned Marketing Manager with a sharp eye for strategy and storytelling. With a background in digital marketing, brand development, and customer engagement, she brings a results-driven mindset to every project. Brittany specializes in crafting compelling content and optimizing user experiences that convert. When she’s not reviewing content, she’s exploring the latest marketing trends or championing small business success.

Strategies for Managing Anxiety at Work

Suffering from anxiety or depression in the workplace can make you feel lonely and isolated, and it often helps to talk about it. Anxiety and depression can impact how we connect with our family, friends, and colleagues. It can also make us ineffective at work and cause us to lose our productivity.

Did you know? More than 60% of professionals in the United States are suffering from workplace anxiety. So, what can people do to quell anxiety and live more comfortably? Here are five tips on how to manage stress and anxiety in your workplace: Check out America's Best Bookkeepers

Live Without Limits

One of the worst things you can do is limit yourself from the opportunities life throws your way. Several clinical psychologists and mental health experts advocate that people suffering from anxiety need to participate more. Look for new ways to express yourself to the fullest and build your identity outside of work.

Don’t Suppress it

If you think you’re the only one feeling anxious – think again! Almost everyone feels anxiety, and it is ok to talk about it. Like all other feelings and emotions, anxiety is a part of life that demands expression, verbal, and non-verbal. Most people consider anxiety as a form of vulnerability and weakness, which prevents them from expressing it. Respect yourself and how you feel. Share your thoughts with a close friend or colleague. If not, schedule an appointment with a reputable psychologist. Check out America's Best Bookkeepers

Face Your Fears

There can be many reasons you may feel anxious – it might be the fear of public speaking or speaking in general. Push yourself out of your comfort zone and try talking to people via text or chatting. Keep reminding yourself: you can succeed and persevere against anxiety, no matter what. Exposing yourself to a situation that provokes discomfort can help you change your relationship with anxiety. Who knows, you might start feeling more confident.

Self-Care Is Important

Self-care is an often-neglected part of a healthy life. Adopt lifestyle practices that make you happy and allow you to express yourself. Getting good sleep, nutrition with an active social life helps you get your mind off work. One of the reasons people suffer from anxiety in the workplace is that they can never get work out of their heads. Remember, self-care is important for managing stress and becoming more resilient.

Take a Break

Making smaller changes to your schedule or going on a vacation for a few days can significantly reduce your anxiety levels. What we are saying is, take a break from a hectic lifestyle and try experiencing life a little. Can’t do any of that? Maybe bask in the sun on a beach, visit a nearby park – anything to get your mind of the anxiety.

Muscle Relaxation

Engage yourself in exercises that help you relax and set your mind at ease. Several exercises can help you relax your muscles, such as progressive muscle relaxation, mindful meditation, and guided imagery exercises, among others. Check out America's Best Bookkeepers

Staying Connected

What are friends for? Workplace anxiety often piles up when you do not have others to talk to. There is no point in thinking that you are in this alone, especially with the current state of the world. Social support is essential for managing stress and maintaining strong ties with the people you hold dear. Talking is a great way to vocalize your fears, and it can help you dramatically reduce your stress levels.

Seek Professional Help

Sometimes expressing yourself to familiar faces can be difficult. If that is something you are feeling right now, consider getting professional help. A clinical psychologist is not just someone with knowledge; they also have professional experience in dealing with anxiety. Talking to a therapist has several benefits. For instance, you don’t have any ties with the person, the information and conversation stay confidential, and you gain insights and suggestions that work.

A professional psychiatrist is someone who knows the importance of communication and expression. Check if your organization offers healthcare insurance that offers psychiatric help as well.

No Caffeine

When managing anxiety, a morning latte should never be your friend. If you have an addiction, then keep the consumption to a minimum. Too much caffeine accelerates your heart rate while also causing elevated anxiety levels.

To Sum Up

Leaving your anxiety unaddressed can be both detrimental to your health, as well as your spirits. Acknowledge the fact that you are a human – with feelings. Remind yourself that you deserve a life filled with happiness and never-ending personal and professional success.

Check out America's Best Bookkeepers 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. Check out America's Best Bookkeepers

Major Benefits of Business Loan

When considering a business loan, it is important to rely on the opinions of experts. Taking out a loan that you cannot afford can cause the end of your business, or at least prevent it from growing.

In the case of a business loan, you will be met with the opinions of naysayers, each with their own anecdotes and suggestions. But in the end, the decision is yours. You must consider all aspects and choose the option that best meets your goals and will help you expand your business venture.

Even though your intentions may be good, taking on a loan can always lead to falling into debt. Are you ready to move forward in this field? Do you have the working capital? If your answer is yes, you must consider the following reasons to get a small business loan. Check out America's Best Bookkeepers

Approval of expanding business location

Picture this: your cubicles are on the verge of breakage, and your assistant works in the kitchen. You have little space and overwhelming traffic of customers. This means you may need to renovate your office or change its location. This does not mean that you can purchase a new location right now, as you lack the capital. If expansion is urgent, you can apply for a business loan.  This will cover your property cost and the expense of packing and moving materials and furnishings.

However, before making any decision, you must plan for the possible change in revenue you’re expecting from your expanded business location. Take care to ensure the amount of the loan will give the desired profit. Create a timeline and note down all details to provide this confirmation. Conduct a little research on market rates beforehand, as this will make your purchasing process easier from both loan and property ends. Check out America's Best Bookkeepers

Future credit establishment

Most businesses always strive to expand to a larger-scale in upcoming years. Suppose this is true for your business. In this case, you may start by taking a small business loan to establish a credit history for your business. Having an established and positive credit history can make all the difference when seeking approval for a larger loan in the future. A small business loan with on-time monthly payments will boost your business credit score and history.

You can also cultivate timeless relationships with lenders to easily obtain financial aid whenever you need it. You can also ask for a big loan, but don’t take this step without confirmation that you can return the money. Otherwise, you will fall into debt.

Excessive purchase of inventory

Inventory is a major expense for any business. You can manage this expenditure by replenishing your business’ inventory with reliable and high-quality choices. In the case of a financial downturn, you must have sound capital that provides assurance when applying for a business loan. This may be a large amount, but don’t forget to consider the cost of expected ROI. Check out America's Best Bookkeepers

In the case of a seasonal business, you must have excessive money to purchase inventory. Obtaining small loans may be the best financial decision for your business, especially when your sales are lower due to the season being over. Inventory purchases require a larger loan, so your debt history must show on-time return payments. However, requirements may be adjusted due to the dynamic variations in sales.

Businesses need talented experts

There are many responsibilities place on the business owner, especially when running a small business or startup with a tight budget and the hope of progress. To help with this, business owners must glean the opinions of talented experts when making any major business decision.

There are multiple services businesses must manage regarding marketing, customer service, fundraising, client dealing, bookkeeping, marketing, etc. As a small business owner, you must know when to compromise your small business model due to hindrances that resist its growth. Lean on the assistance of qualified professionals who can shed some light on areas that may be costing you money and effort. After consulting with others, make the decision to obtain a loan only if you have confidence, you will be able to repay it.

Check out America's Best Bookkeepers 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. Check out America's Best Bookkeepers

7 of the Top Money-Making Apps and How to Use Them

Your mobile or other smart devices can become a money maker. This income is possible because you can install it on your smart device or phone for free. Using these money-making apps can be a fun and easy way to earn extra money and even replace your income. Here are seven of the top apps to earn money and how to use them. Check out America's Best Bookkeepers

Foap

The Foap app allows users to make money by uploading and selling their original photos and videos. When a business, individual, or brand purchases one of your photos or videos, you split the profits 50/50 with Foap. You can use photos or videos you’ve previously captured or earn higher pay by taking new ones through different missions set up by the app. It is an enjoyable way to use your photography and videography skills while earning money. This app asks for the user to have a PayPal account to receive payment.

SweatCoin

This app is perfect for the individual trying to get a lot of steps in every day for the health benefits. On Sweatcoin, you make $0.95 for every 1000 steps you take, encouraging you to take a lot more steps a day as this can add up. The money you earn is not in cash, but it earns you credits you can use for shopping at 300 plus retailers. The truth is, if you’re walking anyway, why not get some free stuff while you’re at it? Check out America's Best Bookkeepers

eBay

eBay is an excellent resale app that has been around for years. Depending on the items you offer on the site, the potential for earning a great income. Some vendors that sell on eBay have developed a business around discovering things at thrift stores and yard or estate sales and restoring them or selling for a profit. On eBay, it is an auction sale that includes selling items at a “Buy It Now” flat price. For some scarcer or heavily sought after items, it is best to set up an auction sale as the competition can occasionally drive the price much higher than anticipated. All dealings are done through PayPal, making it secure. There are a few fees; however, most are negligible in comparison to the returns.

OfferUp

OfferUp is as if eBay and Craigslist were combined to make one app. OfferUp used to be an app for local sales of unwanted or second-hand items within your region. But it now has the added aspect of shipping open it up to the world like eBay. The great thing in contrast to eBay or Craigslist is that it is free to post or sell your items. You predetermine shipment costs at the time of publishing so you can contemplate it when establishing a sale price. If bought locally, you can save money on the shipment and schedule a meeting with the buyer.

Mobee

Mobee is a secret shopper app that presents tasks in your region. If you choose the objective, it gives you directions on what to do. The tasks could be taking a survey or taking a picture inside the store. When you complete tasks, Mobee pays you with points that can be exchanged for gift cards to various shopping sites and businesses, including Amazon. Check out America's Best Bookkeepers

Acorns

Acorns is an investment app that uses your spare change. Acorns rounds each purchase to the nearest dollar through a connected bank account and use that “spare change” to invest. This investment app is excellent for first-time investors that don’t have a lot of money to invest. However, it does have a maximum amount of money you can make to help you determine how to use it. It also has a small monthly fee dependent on the level selected.

TaskRabbit

TaskRabbit is an app that facilitates you to get paid to accomplish physical labor services in your vicinity. You set up a user profile with the skills and services you offer, and individuals hire you to help them out. Some of the more common tasks are moving, cleaning, rearranging furniture, mounting a television, etc. If you aren’t afraid of some physical labor, you can make a good side-hustle from TaskRabbit.

Conclusion

There are many other money-making apps, but these seven apps are the best to start making money today. And some of them are even fun!

Check out America's Best Bookkeepers 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. Check out America's Best Bookkeepers

8 Common Mistakes Small Business Owners Make and How to Avoid Them

There are mistakes that many people make when starting a small business. These mistakes can even occur when the business is up and running but can generally be avoided. Some of these mistakes can be unique to the business type or the individual owner, but many small businesses’ mistakes are quite common. When opening a small business and even in later stages of operations, there are missteps you want to avoid to have a lucrative business. Here are eight common mistakes small business owners make and how to avoid them. Check out America's Best Bookkeepers

No Business Plan

Business plans are essential to every business, whether large or small, or whether it is just beginning or has been around for many years. While writing a business plan can be a challenge, it will pay off if you have a well thought out business plan to utilize for investors, new staff, or even for you to refer to through the year to keep you on track. You must understand what your business plan needs for your specific business.

No Market Research

Researching the market you are in is of the utmost importance and should also be included in your business plan. It should also be something you constantly research as time goes on to remain competitive in your chosen market. It is also used to determine your target customer and should be done as often as you need to reassess your business to maximize profits and a competitive edge. You should also need to do research anytime there is a shift in your business.

Building the Wrong Team

A small business’s success will be dependent on not on your products or services, but it will also revolve around your staff. When employing staff, you must make selections that will work well in the business dynamic and with other staff members. It is also important that the team members have talents to serve your business the greatest and fill different positions needed for your company. Check out America's Best Bookkeepers

No Website

In today’s primarily digital world, not having a website for your business can be a serious mistake. Every business must be searchable by individuals who don’t know about your business but may launch a search that will bring them to you. Most small businesses don’t have a site because it is thought that the cost will be too expensive. However, having a website created is not as costly as you think, and there are even sites that you can develop your site for not a lot to free. However, you make it happen; creating a business website from the start is crucial.

No Financing

Many small business owners don’t get the right financing in place before starting. This lack of financing can trigger problems that become impossible swiftly and destroy the business. The way to prevent this mistake is to go back to the business plan. It should contain a detailed financial outline of your business, let you know how much capital you will need, and give investors an idea of your financial plan.

Mispricing Your Products or Services

Some small business owners have trouble coming up with the value of products and services. The fear is that people will not give you what you sell is priced too high. Your first step is to do research and set a price comparable to the market to face this issue. Another rule to follow is to figure out what the bare minimum is you need to make to pay bills and staff and do what needs to be done in the business and set your prices to match this need. Check out America's Best Bookkeepers

Failing to Invest in Marketing

In today’s digital world, marketing is not as expensive as it used to be. In many cases, marketing is free when using social media platforms to market. If you have the solid foundation of a business plan, marketing, and costs are built into the plan, there would be no surprises regarding planning and costs.

Ignoring Accounting and Bookkeeping

There are a lot of reasons accounting and bookkeeping needs focus. The main reason you need to focus on accounting and bookkeeping is to be aware of your business’s financial health. Whether you use a professional (recommended) or use a bookkeeping or accounting software and do it yourself, it is essential to control your business’s accounting and bookkeeping.

Conclusion

Starting and running a successful small business is not for the faint of heart. It requires dedication and intelligence. These are common mistakes, new or small business owners make. If you know what they are and have a plan, you can avoid these mistakes for your business’s lifespan.

Check out America's Best Bookkeepers 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. Check out America's Best Bookkeepers

Everything You Need to Know About Employee Compensation

One of the most essential elements in any working relationship is compensation, which is defined as the employer’s consideration in exchange for work done by a collaborator or worker. It is applicable in all legal purposes for calculating the payment of the benefits provided for in the current law. Its calculation is made considering the time worked, the performance or result, or the class of worker (worker or employee); fulfilling the purpose of being adequate, fair, balanced, effective, safe, and above all motivating. As such, every motivated worker increases their productivity and efficiency. In current Society and our work experiences, we can say that Wages and Salaries help us survive on our means. Well-managed incentive systems have important advantages, both for workers and for the company. Check out America's Best Bookkeepers

The main benefit to employees is that these plans make it possible for them to increase their total income, not at some future time, but immediately, in the next payment. In exchange, the company will get more production and, assuming that something is earned in each unit produced, it will achieve a greater volume of profits. In general, profits grow, not in proportion to the volume of production. When a higher rate of production takes place, the overall costs per unit decrease. The incentive plans’ positive perceptions will then raise the worker’s morale and reduce job changes, absenteeism, tardiness, and delinquency.

The Importance of Compensation

In the emerging 21st century, with a capitalist West and an East that imitates it, the monetary incentive is very important but not the only one to be valued by the individuals who work. Sometimes the pride of belonging to a certain firm, the possibilities of training and growth, the quality of life, and for many, the ability to harmonize other interests are strong sources of incentive for individuals. Therefore, a company must pay special attention to these aspects without neglecting human resources’ other policies and processes. Good compensation and incentive policy based on adequate personnel development and care policies correspond to the workers’ ideals. Thinking only of financial incentives may be insufficient. Check out America's Best Bookkeepers

The companies that pay more attract more good candidates, but then they must take care of other APRA aspects to retain them. Compensation above the average does not make up for lack of recognition of a superior or an angry and unpleasant work environment.

On the other hand, a company that does not pay the basic compensation that workers need for their satisfaction will have high turnover rates or resort to many extra incentives to retain employees. The companies that pay the most are not necessarily the best company to work for, and often these companies are aware of a negative work environment that they cannot improve for some reason.

Advice on Compensation

  • Compensate Above-average: The ideal situation is when a company can compensate more than the average salary.
  • Properly Compensate a Person or Position: If the compensation for the position differs from the one that the person desires and the market indicates your compensation is below average, you will need to review your company’s compensation. Check out America's Best Bookkeepers
  • Conduct Annual Reviews: Perform a review once a year. If you do not, you may be at risk of losing key personnel or having bad employees in your structure.
  • Compensation and Retention of Employees: Increasing a valuable employee’s salary is an intelligent investment. Do not neglect key personnel’s compensation because if they are skilled, they will go somewhere that will compensate them for their skills and value in the workplace.

Conclusion

When it comes to business, a compensation plan for personnel should be proposed, which has proven to be effective in achieving, in relative terms, better productivity and work environment in the company. The concepts, principles, and main tools needed to design and implement, organization, managing the personnel’s compensation need to be reviewed. This is known as the management approach to compensation management. 

Check out America's Best Bookkeepers 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. Check out America's Best Bookkeepers

How Business Loans can be of Some Help

When considering a mortgage for your business, you may be met with all sorts of opinions. From cautionary anecdotes to general naysayers, most everyone you meet is going to have their own opinion as to what may happen if you take out a loan to start or further expand your business.

Remember that these opinions may be based on true facts, as there is always the possibility of falling into debt when you take out a loan. With that in mind, are you ready to move forward with this financing option? Do you have any existing capital? When deciding to take out a loan, you must consider the following facts. Check out America's Best Bookkeepers

Ready to Expand the Physical Location?

Your workspace may be bursting at the seams, with your assistant is working out of the kitchen!  It seems you have outgrown your original office location. Perhaps you run a retail store or a restaurant, and you have prospered enough that you have customers filling up the inside and outside. You must increase the size of your location in order to serve them properly.

This is great news! Your business is booming, and you are ready to expand. But just because your business needs expansion does not mean that you have the cash available. For that reason, you may need a term loan to support your big move, whether expanding your existing location or moving to a completely different spot.

Before committing, be sure to take precautions by forecasting any changes in revenue that may come through expanding your location. You should consider if you will be able to cover the loan cost, as well as earn a profit. If you plan to set up a second retail shop, you must research loans vs. revenue. Without proper considerations, you may end up in even more debt and loss than before. Check out America's Best Bookkeepers

Build Credit for Future

If you are thinking of applying for a bigger loan to finance your business in the next couple of years, the process can be started with a smaller loan. This loan is short-termed and will bring credit to your business. Smaller businesses tend to have a harder time applying for a long-term loan if both the owner and the business have a poor credit history. Start by taking smaller short-term loans. This way, you can build a stronger loan credit for your business to use in the future.

While utilizing this tactic, you can build good relations with a specific lender. This may eventually help you to obtain a bigger loan since goodwill is especially important while doing business. Once the lender trusts that you can and will pay him, he will lend you a larger loan without the fear of you not returning it. Additionally, take care when deciding what your first loan is going to be. If you ask for a loan that you cannot repay, it could be detrimental to your business. One late payment can affect your trust more than if you had never applied for the loan in the first place. Check out America's Best Bookkeepers

Talented Experts

Many responsibilities fall to the business owner, especially when running a small business or startup with a tight budget. In such cases, businesses may need to enlist the help of talented experts on business proceedings at a minimal cost.

There are multiple services businesses must manage, such as marketing, customer services, fundraising, client dealing, bookkeeping, marketing, etc. As a small business owner, you may have to compromise your business model due to hindrances that resist growth.

Conclusion

Keep in mind two basic things while signing up for a loan:  Can you repay all the loans you have taken, and is it worth it to take the loan when considering the debt? Try starting with small amounts to foster goodwill and help you obtain a longer-termed loan in the future.

Check out America's Best Bookkeepers 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. Check out America's Best Bookkeepers

4 Areas of Focus to Help Conquer Small Business Challenges

Small businesses face challenges that may not necessarily be unique to them as businesses overall. In comparison to larger businesses, these challenges can overwhelm, overtake, and destroy a small business. The most intelligent small business owner will know what these challenges are and how to beat them into submission and make them turn from a challenge to a success. Here are four areas of focus to help you overcome small business challenges. Check out America's Best Bookkeepers

Staffing

Medium businesses and larger corporations have issues with attrition; however, their size absorbs this attrition. Therefore they can afford to make staffing mistakes in the hiring process. However, a small business cannot withstand a lot of staff turnover, depending on how small it is. The other issue that small businesses face when staffing that larger businesses don’t is that you can’t only focus on the skills of the person you hire; you have to consider how this employee gets along with others on the staff fits into the flow of the business. In a small business, you are often working closely together, and if there is one cog in this well-oiled machine that is not functioning, the entire machine ceases to function properly.

You can overcome this by being selective and engaging questions in the interview process that will give insight into the personality and work with others in the office. Another step you can take is to have more than one person on the staff conduct interviews when narrowing the candidates. These interviews should be independent, thus keeping the opinions separated until the staff comes together to discuss each candidate. Though these approaches don’t guarantee that the person hired will work out, it increases their chances. Check out America's Best Bookkeepers

Technology

Small businesses aren’t archaic just because they are small. Most small businesses that aren’t up on technology are so simply because they can’t afford the latest and greatest advancements or upgrade existing technology.

There are several ways a small business can face this and obtain all the technology or upgrades they need to be effective in their market. First, you need to get someone who is an expert in business technology (not a salesperson) to evaluate your needs. Once you know exactly what you need, you can seek free and reliable versions of what you need. Another way to overcome it is to approach your investors if you have them and give them a presentation of what you need and the costs. If you don’t have investors, you can do the same with a lender or use some of your equity to invest in new and upgraded technology.

Operations

Operational costs can be overwhelming if the costs are more than your profits. There can be a multitude of reasons this is occurring. These reasons include underpricing your services and products, overpaying for supplies and materials, overstaffing, or even something as insidious as embezzlement or fraud, to name a few. If your operating costs are consistently outdoing your profits, you should hire an impartial business consultant to evaluate. It is suggested that it be an impartial consultant because they will not insert emotions and get to the core of the matter. They can also give you solutions that aren’t candy-coated but blunt and, again, free of emotion. Check out America's Best Bookkeepers

Competition

Competition is always going to exist, and in most cases, it is healthy to have or maybe undermotivated to succeed or seek out growth and change. While a little competition can be healthy, there are cases where the competition is trouncing you and killing your business.

If this is the case, you can do a few things to overcome this and come out on top or at least be enough of a contender that your business will thrive. You can research what your competitor is doing that leads to success and find out their weaknesses. Whether a best practice or weakness, you will be armed with what to do and what not to do. You can also find a niche in the market that makes you stand out among your competitors. It could be one original product or service you offer that no one else does. You can also use their weaknesses as your strengths, which will bring customers to your door more often than not.

 

Check out America's Best Bookkeepers 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. Check out America's Best Bookkeepers