5 Loan Types to Fit Your Borrowing Needs

When we talk about loans, we refer to the action of lending or giving another person a specific amount of money or a specific good. All this for a term previously stipulated by the loan contract and by which the lender and borrower figures are established. The types of loans are varied, depending on your needs. Here are five types of loans to help you determine which one fits your needs. Check out America's Best Bookkeepers

Personal Loan

A personal loan can be obtained at almost any banking institution and businesses that specialize in personal loans. A personal loan is generally taken out by someone with a need they don’t have the funds to cover. Personal loans are also sometimes used for minor repairs and to make smaller purchases. This type of loan is an unsecured loan, which means if there is a default on the loan, it will go to debt-collectors as there is nothing to seize if you default on the loan. Because there is no collateral or ability to repossess, such as with a car or home loan, personal loans are generally less than $5000 and paid over two to five years. While personal loans are not large, they generally require good to excellent credit since there is no recovery if you default. Check out America's Best Bookkeepers

Mortgage Loan

A mortgage loan is when the borrower receives money from a lender to purchase a home. These loans can be obtained through your banking institution or through lenders that specialize in mortgage loans. These loans carry interest and have varied terms. A mortgage loan is dependent on the borrower to pay the loan back within the agreed-upon terms. If the terms are broken, and no new agreement is made to allow for some time to pay when the borrower has a financial setback, the home will be under the ownership of the bank or mortgage company, who can then sell the house recover the loan and interest.

Automobile Loan

Much like the mortgage loan, an automobile loan is obtained through a banking institution or a lender specializing in automobile loans. In some cases, the dealership where the vehicle purchased will have an internal lender and finance directly. These loans carry interest, which is determined by the borrower’s credit. While some poor credit can prevent a car purchase at some dealerships, many will extend a car loan to those with poor credit and charge the highest possible interest rate within the law. This loan uses the automobile as the collateral, and if you default on the loan, the vehicle is repossessed as the lender will own it. If your car is repossessed, the lender can then resell it to recover the loan. Defaulting will have an adverse on our credit score due to credit reporting. Check out America's Best Bookkeepers

Credit Card

While most people don’t view a credit card as a loan, it is exactly that. As the name implies, it is a line of credit extended to the cardholder through a company that is the lender of the credit your card holds. Credit cards are what is considered a revolving loan or revolving credit. This means, as long as you are paying your bill and as long as you are staying under your limit, you can use the line of credit even if you are making payments. Unless you default on the payments and have it canceled, there is no term on this loan or line of credit. The only terms are to make your payments promptly.

Crowd-lending Loan

A crowd-lending loan is a loan done between individuals or person-to-person (P2P). This type of loan does not go through a bank or a traditional lending company. It is funding from private investors. These loans can vary in types of their own. In some cases, they will make their money back in interest if they extend a loan that will not pay dividends. However, they may be extending a loan in which there will be profits or dividends shared. These types of loans can be fairly easy to get despite credit history because the individuals make decisions to lend money based on varying criteria of their own making and not a strict set of requirements.

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 Traits of Highly Successful People

There are many ways that people can become successful. They can use education and other advantages to improve their place in the world and be considered a success. However, most people don’t realize that successful people have many things in common. Here are eight traits of highly successful people. Check out America's Best Bookkeepers

Hard Work

Highly successful people get up early and never complain about having to do it. They expect that others will perform their tasks in the same way that they give all of themselves. This type of success is based on recognizing that hard work always pays off, and they are never afraid of it. They will often seek out to accomplish tasks that others are unwilling to tackle and lead the way if working in a team to ensure every one is as productive as possible.

Continuous Curiosity and Learning

Highly successful people study what they are developing, ask questions, and constantly read to stay informed. They often graduate at the top of their class or close to it and don’t see graduation as the end of their education but rather another chapter. Their learning style is not about memorizing the data but rather about analyzing the information and then creating, constructing, or applying it innovatively. Successful people learn all the time about everything that is around them. Check out America's Best Bookkeepers

Developing Relationships

Highly successful people know that there are different kinds of people and that not all can be treated in the same way; they adapt to others’ different dispositions and behaviors. They know how to listen to their friends, neighbors, co-workers, and even those they meet casually in public. They do not need to be the “life of the party.” They are people who would rather develop one-on-one relationships and conversations though they can speak to crowds and connect. They have great value for friendship and generate good relationships in both business and their personal lives.

Humility

Highly successful people aren’t boastful but base their success on their personality, leadership skills, and management skills. They don’t have to be recognized or rewarded and aren’t in it to boost their ego. They remain humble despite their success and look to improve rather than rest on their success. Those who are truly successful try to let that success speak for itself and often don’t like to “toot their own horn” and only do so if they have no choice.

Creative Ability

Highly successful people are often considered creative or innovative. They always view opportunities and challenges as new possibilities for growth rather than as problems or limitations. Solutions and ideas often awaken them. Their success is born from trying new things and consulting with experts or specialists in their development. They always look for a better and faster solution. Highly successful people create things all the time. Check out America's Best Bookkeepers

Self-Sufficient

Highly successful people can work well in a team but can accomplish goals alone. They aren’t ones to be reliant on others to achieve goals but are also willing to admit when they don’t know something and consult experts with humility. They are self-directed and don’t look for others to do the work for them. They quietly pride themselves on their ability to accomplish goals without having to be micromanaged.

Present in the Moment

Highly successful people live by the idea that what is happening now counts. They are present in the moment, look people in the eye, listen to what people are saying, enjoy a meal with friends or colleagues, appreciate good music, or play with their children. They are never in a hurry; they make the most of every day of their lives. Successful people are that way because they understand that they have to balance between work and life.

Appreciation of the Future

Highly successful people look at innovation and observe trends so that the changes do not take them by surprise and listen to the different positions of others’ thoughts. While they live in the present, they look to the future with ideas and hope. Successful people are the future because they are always looking for ways to innovate, create, and change for the better.

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

Steps To Reach Your Money Goals

“The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now.” – Chinese Proverb

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on achieving your money goals and financial freedom. In today’s fast-paced world, where financial objectives and wealth aspirations seem elusive, taking proactive steps toward securing your financial future is crucial. It’s never too late to start. By implementing sound financial strategies and making informed decisions, you can pave the way toward a prosperous tomorrow.

This article will explore the importance of setting clear money goals and how smart planning can act as a guiding compass on your financial journey. From setting effective saving targets to implementing investment strategies and managing your budget, we will cover key areas that can accelerate your path to financial success. You can turn your dreams into a tangible reality by equipping yourself with the necessary knowledge and taking consistent action.

So, let’s dive in and discover the power of smart planning in achieving your money goals.

How To Reach Your Money Goals?

  1. Save Smart: Start saving now. It’s your first step to financial safety and growth.
  2. Budget Wisely: Create a simple budget. Know where your money goes and make it work for you.
  3. Reduce Debt: Tackle your debts head-on. Less debt means more freedom.
  4. Invest for the Future: Make long-term investments. Think of it as planting seeds for your financial future.

Setting Effective Saving Targets

Setting effective saving targets is crucial for achieving financial goals. You can take concrete steps toward financial success by creating realistic budget goals and monetary milestones.

Understand the importance of aligning your saving targets with your overall budget and money goals. That’s why we have compiled a list of strategies and tips to help you set achievable and meaningful saving targets. Download A Free Financial Toolkit

Create Realistic Budget Goals

One of the first steps in setting saving targets is to establish realistic budget goals. This involves understanding your income, expenses, and financial obligations. Take the time to analyze your spending habits and identify areas where you can reduce expenses or make adjustments.

 

By carefully crafting your budget goals, you can allocate a specific amount towards saving each month without compromising your day-to-day needs. Remember, it’s always better to start small and gradually increase your saving targets than to set unrealistic, difficult goals.

Set Meaningful Monetary Milestones


While saving targets provide a clear direction for your financial journey, establishing meaningful monetary milestones, “Investment benchmarks provide a valuable point of reference in evaluating the success of your investment strategy. They help you stay focused on your financial objectives and ensure that your wealth aspirations are on track.” they help you stay motivated along the way. These milestones act as progress markers and remind you of the value and purpose behind your saving efforts.

Consider setting short-term and long-term monetary milestones that are aligned with your money goals. Whether it’s saving for a down payment on a house or building an emergency fund, these milestones provide a sense of accomplishment and keep you focused on the bigger picture.

Track Your Progress and Adjust Accordingly

Tracking your progress regularly is essential to ensuring that your savings targets remain effective. Review your budget goals, monetary milestones, and actual savings periodically to see if any adjustments are necessary.

Remember, setting effective saving targets requires discipline and commitment. Be patient with yourself and celebrate each milestone achieved along the way. You are taking significant steps towards achieving your money goals by staying focused and dedicated to your saving targets.

Benefits of Setting Effective Saving Targets

1. Financial Discipline

Setting saving targets encourages disciplined spending habits and reduces impulsive purchases.

2. Clear Direction

Saving targets provide a roadmap for your financial journey, ensuring your efforts are purposeful and strategic.

3. Motivation

Establishing monetary milestones keeps you motivated by providing a sense of progress and achievement.

4. Financial Security

Saving targets help you build an emergency fund and create a safety net for unexpected expenses.

Investing Strategies to Build Your Wealth

When it comes to building wealth, investing is a crucial component of a successful financial plan. In this section, we will explore different investing strategies that can help you achieve your wealth aspirations. You can maximize returns and grow your portfolio by setting investment benchmarks aligned with your financial objectives.

One key aspect of investing is establishing clear investment benchmarks. These benchmarks serve as yardsticks to measure the performance of your investments and track progress toward your financial goals. By setting specific and measurable benchmarks, you can ensure that your investments are aligned with your wealth aspirations.

There are various types of investment benchmarks that you can consider, depending on your financial objectives and risk tolerance. Some commonly used benchmarks include:

  • The S&P 500 Index: This benchmark represents the performance of the 500 largest publicly traded companies in the United States, providing a snapshot of the overall stock market.
  • The Barclays Global Aggregate Bond Index: This benchmark tracks the performance of global investment-grade bonds, offering insight into the fixed-income market.
  • The MSCI World Index: This benchmark encompasses stocks from developed markets around the world, giving investors a broad view of international equities.

By benchmarking your investments against these widely recognized indexes, you can gauge how well your portfolio is performing relative to the broader market. This allows you to make informed investment decisions and adjust your strategy as needed.

In addition to setting investment benchmarks, it is important to align your investment strategy with your financial goals and risk tolerance. Consider diversifying your portfolio across different asset classes, industries, and regions to reduce risk and maximize potential returns.

Furthermore, staying informed about market trends, economic indicators, and industry developments is crucial for making informed investment decisions. Regularly reviewing and rebalancing your portfolio can help you stay on track toward achieving your wealth aspirations. CorpNet. Start A New Business Now

Diversification and Long-Term Perspective

When investing, it’s important to remember that wealth accumulation is a journey that requires patience and a long-term perspective. By diversifying your investments and focusing on your wealth aspirations, you can weather market fluctuations and position yourself for long-term success.

In conclusion, investing strategies play a vital role in building wealth. By setting investment benchmarks aligned with your financial objectives and staying committed to a long-term perspective, you can maximize returns and achieve your wealth aspirations. Remember, investing is a journey, and with the right strategies, you can steadily grow your portfolio and achieve financial success.

Effective Budgeting Techniques for Financial Success

Effective budgeting techniques are crucial to financial success. By aligning your budget goals with your financial objectives, you can take control of your finances and make informed financial decisions that support your overall goals.

Here are some practical tips and strategies to help you master the art of budgeting:

  1. Set clear financial objectives: Before creating a budget, it’s important to establish your financial objectives. Whether you want to pay off debt, save for a down payment on a house, or plan for retirement, clearly define your goals to guide your budgeting process.
  2. Track your expenses: Keeping a record of your expenses is a key step in effective budgeting. Track your spending over a specific period, such as a month, and categorize your expenses. This will give you a clear picture of where your money is going and help you identify areas where you can cut back.
  3. Create a realistic budget: Based on your financial objectives and tracked expenses, create a realistic budget that allocates your income towards different categories such as housing, transportation, groceries, and entertainment. Be honest with yourself about what you can afford and set realistic limits for each category.
  4. Save for emergencies: Building an emergency fund should be a priority in your budgeting plan. Aim to set aside a portion of your monthly income to create a financial cushion to provide peace of mind during unexpected situations.
  5. Reduce unnecessary expenses: Look closely at your expenses and identify items or activities you can cut back on. This could include dining out less frequently, canceling unused subscriptions, or finding ways to save on utilities. Redirecting these savings toward your financial objectives will accelerate your progress.
  6. Review and adjust: Regularly review your budget and make necessary adjustments. Life circumstances change, and your budget should reflect that. Periodically evaluate your financial objectives and make sure your budget goals remain aligned with them.

By implementing these effective budgeting techniques, you can take control of your finances and work towards achieving your financial objectives. Remember, budgeting is a continuous process that requires discipline and commitment. Stay focused and remain adaptable as you navigate your journey towards financial success.

Budgeting Techniques

Benefits

Set clear financial objectives

  • Provides a clear direction for your budget
  • It helps prioritize your spending
  • Motivates you to achieve your goals

Track your expenses

  • Identifies areas where you can cut back
  • Raises awareness of your spending habits
  • Helps you make more informed financial decisions

Create a realistic budget

  • Ensures you live within your means
  • Allows for better financial planning
  • Helps you save for future goals

Save for emergencies

  • Provides a financial safety net
  • Reduces stress during unexpected events
  • Prevents the need to rely on credit cards or loans

Reduce unnecessary expenses

  • Increases available funds for savings or investments
  • Helps you develop disciplined spending habits
  • Contributes to long-term financial stability

Review and adjust

  • Keeps your budget up-to-date
  • Allows for flexibility and adaptation
  • Maximizes the effectiveness of your budgeting efforts

Conclusion

During our discussion, we have highlighted the significance of smart planning in attaining our financial objectives. By establishing unambiguous financial goals, savings targets, investment benchmarks, and budget objectives, we can successfully reach our financial goals and achieve financial independence. With perseverance and the implementation of these effective strategies, we can create a strong foundation for financial success. It all begins with defining our financial goals and crafting a roadmap to accomplish them.

Remember, financial success is not achieved overnight. It requires patience, discipline, and consistent effort. By staying focused on our money goals and making informed financial decisions, we can turn our aspirations into reality and enjoy the rewards of our hard work. LastPass – Family or Org Password Vault

 

Frequently Asked Questions

How can smart planning help me achieve my money goals?

Smart planning is essential in helping you achieve your money goals. By setting clear financial objectives and wealth aspirations, you can make informed financial decisions and take the necessary steps to reach your desired outcome.

How do I set effective saving targets?

Setting effective saving targets requires creating realistic budget goals and monetary milestones. Start by assessing your income and expenses, and evaluate how much you can set aside for savings. Break down your saving targets into smaller, achievable goals to stay motivated and on track.

What are some investing strategies to build wealth?

There are several investment strategies you can employ to build your wealth. Setting investment benchmarks aligned with your financial objectives and wealth aspirations is essential. Consider diversifying your portfolio, conducting thorough research before making investment decisions, and consulting with financial professionals to maximize returns.

How can I effectively budget for financial success?

Effective budgeting is crucial for financial success. Align your budget goals with your financial objectives by carefully tracking your income and expenses. Cut back on unnecessary expenses, prioritize debt repayment, and allocate a portion of your income towards savings and investments. Regularly review and adjust your budget to stay on top of your financial goals.

What is the importance of setting investment benchmarks?

Setting investment benchmarks provides a framework for evaluating the performance and progress of your investment portfolio. These benchmarks help you measure your success, determine whether adjustments need to be made, and stay focused on your overall wealth aspirations.

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. Complete Controller. America’s Bookkeeping Experts

5 Habits of Highly Successful People

If one looks at someone they respect, someone who is successful, they would see that they spend every day doing the things that help them achieve their greatest goals. This does not mean that they are perfect, because nobody is, but despite the things that are not perfect in their lives, they continue to make positive impacts.

We all know that habits can help or damage an individual’s success in life. Bad habits can alter and become a lifestyle that takes individuals away from the things they want to do, and good habits can help them create a life full of action and fulfillment. While we can all study successful habits, it makes no sense if we do not implement that knowledge. So here are five habits of highly successful people. Habits that any individual can adopt to create the life one wants to live. Check out America's Best Bookkeepers

Successful people plan their day the night before

Chaos creates failure, so to be successful, you have to have a plan. Without planning how the day will be, individuals wake up not knowing what they want to do, which can cause stress, chaos, and failure. Successful people spend some time the night before, so they have clear goals for the next day. Then they wake up and start acting on the list created. Life does not always work as planned, but individuals can adjust without losing momentum with a plan. Check out America's Best Bookkeepers

Successful people read books to be inspired

Many highly successful people write books on how they achieved their success; they also read many books themselves. Reading is an essential element in life, and books on success contain a lot of useful knowledge. There is no formula for how much time you should be spending reading books on success and how to obtain it, but you should dedicate some of your time every month to gaining knowledge. This gaining of knowledge extends to publications and blogs. It is about seeking out keys to success through reading and the gain of knowledge.

Successful people make their health a priority

Often individuals do not have time to eat well or exercise, but remember, what one eats and how much they exercise affects every aspect of their life. Successful people use the time dedicated to physical exercise as a precious moment to restore their energies and maybe plan a little more creatively. These people try to make intelligent choices, even regarding their diet. Nutrition is very important as it will provide individuals with the energy they need to complete their planned activities. Check out America's Best Bookkeepers

Successful people are not distracted by what others do

There is a photograph from the Olympics in Brazil in a much-hyped race in which he was expected to get a run for his money. The photograph is of Michael with his head forward and ahead of this competitor looking over at Michael. This competitor that was expected to have a chance to win let himself become distracted by where Michael was instead of swimming his race and lost it. While we can look to other successful people for inspiration, we cannot get distracted by their success. We have to be focused on our successes and our own goals. Just like that competitor for Michael Phelps, we lose whenever we get distracted by others and what they’re doing. We need to keep our head forward, and we need to make our way to winning.

Successful people live every day as if it were the last

Most people look at successful individuals and decide that they must always be working. You will hear many highly successful people talk about not having time for personal life. And while that may hold well for a while, living that way will drive you to an early grave as well as eventually deflate you into failure. Most really successful people have a fantastic work-life balance. They take time to enjoy the fruits of their labor, build relationships and families, and share with others.

Life is short. We can’t live to work. To be truly successful, we should work to live.

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

6 of the Most Effective Marketing Strategies

Marketing is perhaps the most important business area, whether the business is new or has been around for years. Every business requires clients, and unless you bring awareness about your business to potential clients, it may fail quickly. There are key elements to successful marketing. Some may work for you and your company, and some may not. The most important thing to remember is that you need to do as much marketing as you can afford. Even if you don’t have a lot of capital to put into marketing, there are several ways to market for free or very little money. Here are six marketing strategies and their effectiveness. Check out America's Best Bookkeepers

Referrals

It turns out that the most effective with 62% is the referrals, that is, the word of mouth and strategic alliances both inside and outside the Internet. Although the basis of your Internet marketing is your website, a business is built by growing loyalty and customers, bringing you more customers. This means that referrals are something you should pointedly pursue regarding your business and marketing strategy.

You can do this a few ways. First, you want to get the loyalty of your customer and make them repeat customers. Often businesses large or small will offer loyalty programs. If you are a small business on a small budget, you can make cards that you stamp at every visit or purchase that will give them something for free or a deep discount. Also, just offering excellent customer service can go a long way to creating repeat customers. Along the same lines as the loyalty program, you can offer discounts or freebies, or referrals. Many of the largest companies in the world have referral programs. Since this is the most effective type of marketing, you should focus on referrals. Check out America's Best Bookkeepers

Email Marketing

Email marketing is 34% effective as a marketing tool. Marketing through email may seem like it won’t be effective because so many have spam blockers and don’t open emails that are ads or sales related. However, emails with ads are much more effective than most people think. Email marketing is the electronic equivalent of cold calling potential customers.

Social Marketing

Social Networks, Forums, and any virtual social environment are 23% effective. While most people might be surprised that it comes in third as an effective marketing strategy, social marketing is still a vital marketing tool. It is also one area of marketing that can be free, thus cutting marketing costs. Social media marketing isn’t the number one marketing strategy because everyone uses it this way; therefore, there is the possibility of saturation. Also, you’re only going to reach customers in your following with the occasional guest through hashtags. Check out America's Best Bookkeepers

SEO and SEM

SEO and SEM are 14% effective as a marketing strategy. If you have a website or a blog, your biggest concern should be SEO (Search Engine Optimization.) Search engine optimization is making your website or blog keyword-heavy to obtain organic positioning in search engines. You can pay search engines to bring you traffic; however, it is less expensive to use SEO strategies.

SEM (Search Engine Marketing) is paying for marketing and advertising directly to the search engine. This generally puts you on top of the first results page.

Blog and Webinars

Blogs and Webinars are 13% effective as a marketing strategy. Both blogs and webinars are done through your website. These are lower in effectiveness because of the time it takes to produce them and the competition on search engines. However, if your blog or webinars gain followers and interest, this increases the effectiveness and could surpass referrals.

Postal Mail and Flyers

Postcards and flyers are 12% effective as a marketing strategy. It is a costly strategy and has results that cannot be measured instantly, like internet strategies. These types of actions work very well at the local level, but this strategy can be expensive.  This is one of the least effective marketing strategies because most people throw away this type of marketing as junk mail. 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 Useful Tips for Becoming an Effective Leaders

Whether you are currently a leader or plan to work your way into leadership, everyone can develop leadership skills. While some people have natural leadership skills, others may not have natural skills, but all can have their skills trained or enhanced. Here are eight useful tips for becoming an effective leader. Check out America's Best Bookkeepers

Lead by Example

The only time you see leadership that is “do as I say and not as I do” is when you are looking at dictatorships or those engaging in totalitarianism. In all other cases where leadership is successful and effective, there is leading by example. A good leader doesn’t just sit from on high delegating work. They are constantly finding ways to increase productivity and employee satisfaction overall. You will find great leaders leading by example, in every successful business where the employees are productive and happy.

Even if a leader has to ask their employees to do something difficult or strenuous, it will put the employees at ease and make them more eager to accomplish the tasks if they are leading by example. Every great leader is an example of integrity, productivity, respect, and an understanding of their employees.

Be Goal-Oriented

Whether a leader or not, every successful person is goal-oriented; setting goals for themselves is the number one priority because this will lead to setting goals for their employees. Organization and planning require goalsetting. Having goals clarifies what every objective is for the business, for each employee, and productivity.

Setting goals also helps both leaders and employees plan for possible challenges. When you set your goals, it is with the idea that you will make a plan to reach those goals. During the planning process is when possible, issues can be discussed. Of course, you can’t plan for every issue that may arise, but everyone being aware of the goals will lead to success. Check out America's Best Bookkeepers

Take Responsibility

Being a good leader means taking responsibility even when it’s one of your employees who made a mistake. While you will still need to address the issue with the individual or the team that made a mistake or took incorrect actions, as the leader, you always have to take leadership responsibility for those you lead. If you intend to improve your team, if you are throwing them under the bus when something goes wrong, they will never trust you, and your team will never thrive. It is important that a leader takes responsibility upfront and deals with the issues behind the scenes.

Share the Recognition

When it comes to accomplishments as a team, some leaders find it appropriate to take all of the credit. However, a good and effective leader will always share the recognition. A good leader will give each member of the team the acknowledgment they deserve when there is an opportunity to do so. By sharing the recognition, your team will give you respect and admire you as a leader. This respect and admiration are important because a team that feels valued will be more productive, happier, and more present.

Developing Your Team

Developing an effective and productive team should be the number one goal of any leader. This is done first by building a top-notch team at the time of hiring. When in the interview process, you should not only be asking questions regarding experience, but you should also be probing them for work ethic and their personality as it would fit into your team. Some employees may have every skill necessary to do a great job, but they will still be ineffective if they do not fit into the team.

Once you have your team in place, you must have ongoing training and coaching and counseling as necessary. You always want to be moving your team towards the highest level of productivity and employee satisfaction. An effective leader will always be looking for ways to improve themselves and their team. Check out America's Best Bookkeepers

Be a Great Communicator

Communication is perhaps the most important trait we have as human beings. It is important in every relationship we have, whether it be family, friends, spouses, or coworkers. Communication is especially important for leaders. If you have poor communication with your team, they will fail time and time again. However, if you are an effective communicator, you can push your team to the highest heights. If this is an area that you are not strong in, there are multitudes of books and training sources on how to be a better communicator as a leader. This needs to be a top focus when you are developing yourself to be an effective leader.

Be Assertive

Being a good leader does not mean you have to be bossy or a tyrant. Some do not distinguish the difference between aggressive and assertive. Someone aggressive is confrontational and direct in an inappropriate way. Someone assertive is putting forth a level of power that still allows the recipient of what they’re bringing forward to be a part of it. If employees are intimidated, they will not perform well and, in some cases, may quit. Being assertive means that you are positively getting your point across with confidence and self-assuredness.

Be Confident

Confidence is very similar to assertiveness. The difference between the two is that assertiveness is whenever you try to get things done and put that forward. Confidence is your overall attitude and the way you carry yourself at every moment. People do not want to be led by someone meek or fearful. They will always want to be led by someone confident and strong. The most effective leaders are confident without being cocky, and even better, they boost the confidence in everyone they work with without question.

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

5 Money-Making Small Businesses You Can Start for Less Than $100

Now more than ever, people are looking to start their own small businesses. Entrepreneurs may have the desire but not the money to start a business. This lack of funding should not deter anyone wanting to start their own small business. Here are five great money-making small businesses that you can start for less than $100. Check out America's Best Bookkeepers

  1. Blogging:

Blogging is a business that can be easily started and usually for less than $50, depending on what measures you take at startup. There are multiple ways that you can earn money from being a blogger.

  • You can earn money advertising
  • You can earn money selling digital products such as e-books
  • You can earn money with affiliate links
  • You can earn money cross-linking to other monetized sites

The main cost to start a blog is getting your domain name and setting up web hosting. In most cases, there are sites where you can build free websites that look amazing. But if you don’t feel confident in creating your site, there may be some additional cost if you hire someone to build your website. Not only is the cost low to start a blog, but if you already have the money to pay for your domain and hosting, you can get started immediately. Check out America's Best Bookkeepers

  1. Consulting:

Consulting is another business that you can start almost immediately. Most people who have been in the workforce or have received an education or degree can say that they are an expert somehow. Those looking to start their own small business can use this education, degree, or experience to become a consultant, otherwise known as an expert.

Because consulting is usually considered a highly professional job, it will be necessary to invest in appearances. You’ll need to invest in sharp-looking business cards and clothing. You will also need a professional level website. For the business cards and the wardrobe, you should be able to keep your cost fairly low if you shop around. Again, the website can be done for free, and purchasing the domain name and hosting is fairly inexpensive. You may also need to invest a bit of money in advertising or marketing; however, there are free to very low-cost sites you can advertise your business. You can also use your social media platforms to promote your consulting business.

  1. Freelance Writer:

Becoming a freelance writer requires only one thing that you are an excellent writer. Beyond that, the money needed to start your own freelance writing business can be little to nothing. You should have samples of your work, and if you are not already published, you should create work to use as examples for potential clients.

If any, the costs will be inputting yourself on various websites that help you promote your writing business. You can also use social media and free to low cost classified ad sites. Freelance writers don’t even require to have a website to get business. However, it would only boost your business to have a website, which can be done for free on multiple platforms. If you have the skills as a writer, you can start immediately with little to no money. Check out America's Best Bookkeepers

  1. Event planner:

Event planning is another business that can be started fairly quickly. To start an event planning business, you will need to get a website that can be done for free and purchase your domain name and web hosting. You will also need to do some marketing level; however, you can use social media and free to little cost marketing avenues. An event planner may need to start small if you don’t have any experience putting together a larger event. However, if you have planned larger events in previous work environments, you may jump right into larger event planning.

The advantage of starting an event planning business is they are paying you to put everything together, but they are also paying for the expenses, so there is no overhead to get started. To get yourself some events under your belt, you can offer to plan events for friends or family for little or no fee. This will give you references and experience.

  1. Professional Organizer:

Starting a business as a professional organizer can be profitable and cost little to no money to start. People often need help purging and organizing their home or office due to a lack of time or energy to get it done. If you are great at organizing, you will need to run ads, which can be done for free or little cost, and use social media. You can also create flyers to use in your area to inform people of your services. Having a website may be helpful but would not be necessary to start the business or maintain 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 Steps for an Effective Business Website

When it comes to your business, having a website is extremely important. There are several reasons why you must get a website immediately when starting your business. The main reason is that it gives your business credibility. Whether your business is new or has been around for a while, it is common for people to look at your website before deciding whether to do business with you. Here are seven important steps to take for an effective business website. Check out America's Best Bookkeepers

Build your own or hire a developer

When building a website for your company, you first must decide if you want to hire someone to design your website and develop it or if you want to build your site. The main question you need to ask yourself is how you will be using the site. If it simply provides information about your business with no call to action or purchasing ability, it is suggested that you build your own.

Building your site can be done for little money through websites that offer free templates. These sites are readily available, and you can have your site built within minutes. However, if your site will be more interactive and include making purchases, it is highly recommended that you hire a professional web designer and developer. Generally, it is one upfront cost that can vary depending on the web designer and then regular payments if the developer hosts your site. Check out America's Best Bookkeepers

Pick a web domain

Whether you hire a web designer or build your site, you will need to obtain your domain name. The domain name is the URL that represents your site. Generally, it is your business’s name because there are so many businesses with similar names you may not be able to get that name, or you may have to pay someone else who owns it. In the cases where the name is taken, you can generally do some manipulation of the name to get it as close as you can to your business’s name.

Outline your pages

There are usually multiple pages on a website. Whether you have multiple pages depends on what type of business you have and what you want your website to do. Some websites have a landing page with a call to action, while others will have a landing page that is simply information. Depending on your website, you can add additional pages such as the company description page, contact page, blog page, and pages for products if you will be selling directly from your website. There may be other pages depending on what you need your website to do.

Make necessary information easy to find

It would be best if you made vital information easily found on your website. This would include location and contact information if you have a brick-and-mortar business. You should also include your phone number and any other pertinent information. This information should be easy to find on your website. Your landing page should include this information as well as a call to action if needed. Check out America's Best Bookkeepers

Connect your social media profiles

You must link all your social media platforms for the business to your website. Most people are on one or more of the most prominent social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, so linking your social media platforms can bring you the traffic you might not normally get.

Encourage users to subscribe

You should encourage people to subscribe to your website if you intend to have content such as a blog that will be changed or added. Is this will ensure that customers will be notified any time you add new content. Through subscriptions, you can also notify your customers of new products or services, sales, and coupons that can drive customers into your business or make purchases online if you can make purchases on your site.

Use your website to its’ fullest potential

The main point of a website is to provide credibility, but it can go beyond that if you need it. You can use it for sales, marketing, interaction, and information. A website can be an effective and vital tool if you use it to it’s fullest potential.

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 Common Business Balance Sheet Mistakes and How to Fix Them

Usually, business owners are going to run into bookkeeping and accounting mistakes from time to time. But some balance sheet blunders are the major ones, according to experts. The best way to avoid such issues is to learn the common mistakes people make on their business balance sheets.

A balance sheet is a financial statement that indicates the company’s progress. The business balance sheet consists of three categories. They are assets that you own, the equity left-over after excluding expenses, and the liabilities you owe. A balance sheet is a formula: Assets = Equity + Liabilities. Your balance sheet must be accurate due to its importance as a key to understanding your business’s progress. Here are four common business balance sheet mistakes and how to fix them. Check out America's Best Bookkeepers

Incorrect data classification

The most common balance sheet mistake happens during the recording of transactions. The accountant will write transactions on the balance sheet as a liability or an asset but can make an error while classifying it. Incorrect data classification on the business balance sheet means it is invalid due to the errors.

Physical or non-physical property are your assets as they add value to your business. They include commercial transport, computers, trademarks, etc. There can be multiple asset accounts that involve petty cash, accounts receivable, and inventory, etc.

Businesses accumulate debt by owing money to sources like government agencies, organizations, vendors, companies, employees, etc. Your current debts are categorized as your business liabilities. There will be higher liabilities depending on how much you owe. Mistakes can be made while writing your liability’s exact amount on the business balance sheet that can be long-term and short-term. Both long-term and short-term liabilities include mortgages, supplies, loans, invoices, etc. Check out America's Best Bookkeepers

Depending on how many transactions your business does daily, weekly, or monthly, entering transactions can be overwhelming. Even if you have an accountant or use accurate software, there is a dependency on entering the information on the balance sheet accurately. If a transaction gets classified incorrectly, this can cause major issues and be costly and confusing. Once the mistake is discovered, you must do an audit and get the balance sheet corrected immediately.

Omitting transactions

Again, depending on how many transactions your business does daily, weekly, and monthly, a large volume of transactions can be entered onto a balance sheet. Accountants can overlook transactions or forget to enter transactions into the business balance sheet. Even one missing transaction can throw the entire balance sheet off and can cause major issues. Considering your transactions, including expenses, supplies, cash flow, and inventory, are all put into the balance sheet as transactions happen. It can be easy to figure out what is omitted.

While mistakes happen, it can be costly and time-consuming to correct the error. The best way to handle it is to make sure you or your accountant enters every transaction as soon as it occurs and doesn’t accumulate them throughout the day and enter them all at once.

This mistake may not be discovered, and if that is the case, your balance sheet will not be an accurate depiction of your company’s progress. This error must be avoided by entering transactions immediately, or the balance sheet will be pointless. Check out America's Best Bookkeepers

Neglecting to record inventory variations

One of the more common errors on the balance sheet is when it comes to recording your inventory transactions. Having an accurate inventory entered on your balance sheet will give an overview of what does well and what doesn’t. It will also give you an idea of the success of certain products for development purposes. This is why you must have a regular accounting of your inventory.

Making transposition error

Another fairly common mistake is to transpose numbers when entering in amounts to the balance sheet. While seemingly small in reality, this mistake can be big because the balance sheet will not be accurate. This is another mistake that can go undetected and make the balance sheet an inaccurate accounting of the company’s progress.

The key to having an accurate and useful balance sheet is to enter in information as you go and to check and double-check everything you enter. If even one of these mistakes occur and go undetected, you present an inaccurate report of your company’s progress.

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

6 Ways to Make the Most of Your Money and Control Personal Finances

When it comes to personal finances, most have difficulty with money management and making the most of their income. Money issues are the number one issue that most people will say causes them stress and sleep loss. Whether it be making ends meet or paying for unexpected expenses, living paycheck to paycheck is difficult when it comes to managing your money. Here are six ways you can make the most of your money and personal finances. Check out America's Best Bookkeepers

Make the Most of Your Full-Time Job

Suppose you are gainfully employed and still having difficulty making your ends meet. That could mean that you are not making the most of your full-time job. In many cases, people are making far less than what they are worth and the job they put forward. This is not because their company is unwilling to pay them more; however, they are running a business and will likely keep you at your same salary until you ask for a raise. Some companies have built-in yearly evaluations and raise potential; however, most do not exist outside corporate America.

You need to oversee your salary and go for those promotions and raises. Often, if you are a good employee that works hard and is productive, they are just waiting for you to ask or take the initiative to ask. We can count on those that manage us to push us to do those things or offer us those raises and promotions. It is rare to have a boss that offers those things without you asking.

Start A Side Hustle

If you are not crazy about your job and do not want to put in more time or seek a promotion, you can start a side hustle. In the simplest of terms, a side hustle is a job you do on the side to supplement your income. Side hustle or gigs have become extremely popular. You can be a rideshare driver, a food delivery driver, a freelance writer, a freelance photographer, and so much more. The greatest thing about the side hustle or gig job is that you pick and choose when you work and how much you want to earn. Many in-depth turning their side hustle into their full-time business. This can be done once the side hustle replaces 70% of your income. Check out America's Best Bookkeepers

Start Budgeting

Chances are, even if you are a financially responsible adult, you do not have a budget. Not having a budget can put undue stress on you about your personal finances. Many money problems stem from not having a simple budget. Most people think it is complicated or that a budget will point out that they must cut many things out of their life. That could not be further from the truth. A budget helps you see where your money is being spent, where you can save, and what you can live without and what you need. It helps consolidate everything in one place that affects you in your personal finances.

If you have not started a budget, you should start one today. Keep it simple. Gather everything that brings you income and gather everything that costs you money that is steadily coming out each month and figure out what your monthly grocery bills are and gas. Once you have gathered all this information, you can. Put it into a spreadsheet or use a notebook. The most important things to include are the dates that you receive income, the dates that the bills are due, the bill’s names, and the budget for the bill. You will also want to add a column that is the actual cost. Once you have a working budget, you can begin to look at ways to save money and make the most of it. If you find your expenses exceed your income, you will have to make changes in your spending or bring in more income.

Get Out of Debt

Even the most financially responsible adults will have issues with debt. This is because we are a society that largely depends on credit to make purchases. If you are diligent about paying back any loans or lines of credit you have and credit card debt, this usually is not an issue. What generally occurs to get someone in debt is that they max out their credit cards and cannot pay it back, or unexpected expenses cause the inability to pay certain bills or credit lines. To make the most of your money and control your personal finances, paying down debt should be your number one priority outside of paying your bills.

To accomplish this goal, you may have to make some entertainment sacrifices and any spending that is not on necessities. Generally, this sacrifice will be temporary; therefore, there is no excuse for you to give a few things up to get out of debt. Check out America's Best Bookkeepers

Plan for Emergencies

If you have no other savings in place, you should have an emergency fund. The quickest way to lose control of your money and personal finances is to have an emergency expense you cannot cover without sacrificing other bills. If you have an emergency fund on hand, it can cover you while you earn the extra money to replace the emergency fund you took out. It is suggested that you first make a goal to save $1,000, then work your way up to an amount that is equal to six months of your income. This will cover you for job loss or catastrophic medical issues. Some will take it even further and cover themselves for up to a year.

It should be noted that this is not your savings for your future or used for investments to make yourself a nest egg. Those are a separate savings plan. This fund is strictly to cover you for emergencies and loss of income due to unforeseen life events. The emergency savings fund will prevent you from getting a loan and pay interest, especially in those cases where you do not know when you’re going to have a steady income back in your life.

Avoid Impulse Purchases

Impulse purchases are something everyone confronts in their spending. While it is understandable that it is almost impossible to avoid impulse spending completely, you need to avoid it as much as possible. Most budget issues are spending money on things we did not budget for and causing issues with our other bills and responsibilities because that money must come from somewhere. A suggestion would be to build a miscellaneous category into your budget. When you get your budget completed, if you are spending more than your income, it can be a place you can cut. However, if you are well within budget, including some miscellaneous spending, then you can give in to a few of your impulses while remaining within budget.

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