Fact or fiction about achieving financial freedom

One of the things that people look for most when launching a venture is to get their financial freedom, completely forgetting to have limited resources to be able to dispose of their money as it suits them, in fact, many business models promise to give it, even some despite not outsourcing it, they promote a state where you may see yourself without financial burdens.

The truth is that achieving this status is not easy and there are many myths involved, so here we will talk about whether it is possible or not to obtain the much longed for financial freedom.

 

 

What is financial freedom?

It is a somewhat ambiguous concept since there is no exact definition, many of the references that exist around it are based mainly on the results that are generated. This means that if you do a little research you will realize that it promotes a high level of tranquility in reference to financial commitments.

In general, the advertisements that are responsible for promoting this type of life are endorsed by images of people on the beach, where the models can be seen sitting on the sand with a calm and peaceful expression, proving that obtaining economic freedom is the key to lead a freer and happier life.

All financial models have certain elements in common with the various ideas that exist about the concept of freedom of finance, these are:

  • Have control over expenses.
  • Count on investments.
  • Have a stable and constant income flow.
  • Create surplus
  • Stay completely free of debts.

 

 

Myths and truths of financial freedom

The myths that you get to read or hear about are mostly influenced by misleading advertising that only recruits more people in your personal businesses, here we leave some of them so you know everything you need:

 

Myth 1

To have financial freedom, you must have a lot of money and spend it on everything that you desire.

 

Reality

As hard as it may be for you to read it, this is completely false. Being financially free you only get when you can pay all your expenses and maintain a lifestyle that makes you happy only with your passive income, which are those that you get directly from your investments.

It is not a concept that gets along well with the idea of ​​wasting money on all kinds of unnecessary luxuries, it is focused more than anything on covering all the basic monthly expenses. If you already have this, but want to be able to increase your lifestyle, you should only look for ways to get more income passively.

 

 

Myth 2

Only people who come from a wealthy family or who have become experts in finance achieve financial freedom.

 

Reality

It is a false argument, and you can easily discover it if you paid enough attention to the previous myth. You do not need to have too much capital to be able to make the investments, nor do you have a Ph.D. in finance, you only need to correctly follow the steps that other people have taken if they have achieved it.

This is not about magic, although it is true that people born in a rich family have certain advantages, it is not a determining factor in this, they are not more or less intelligent than you, what really counts is the effort and the way to take advantage of opportunities.

 

 

Myth 3

Once you get financial freedom you can forget your work and dedicate yourself to just enjoy.

 

Reality

Although we cannot tell you that this is completely false, if it is unlikely to happen. It may be that being free in finances allows you the possibility of a more extensive vacation than most, but little by little you will get used to the luxuries and this will make you want to work even harder to have them.

 

 

Myth 4

The minimum payment will be more than enough for everything you need.

 

Reality

We are not going to lie to you, it is true that you only need the minimum monthly payments to pay all the bills in your home and buy food for the whole month, but we all like to give ourselves a material whim from time to time, and if you have a very limited budget you will be in trouble to do so.

 

 

Myth 5

Credit cards only serve to create unnecessary debts.

Related Topic: Know the relationship between your income and your emotional income

 

Reality

This is only thought by people who have had bad credit experiences, or in that case someone very close. They may not be the best option, you should also be able to buy anything you want only with your income as an investor. Credit cards are not bad, you should only know when and how to use it.


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About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing services 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 US based accounting professionals are certified QuickBooks™️ ProAdvisor’s providing bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay services. 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.

Creative Ways You Can Improve Your Email Marketing

  1. Study the subject of an email

For a good email marketing professional, there is nothing more frustrating than an email with a low opening rate. In addition, it’s not without reason: can a person create incredible content, plan the editorial calendar and fail to convince users to open the message? It is not fair, right?

Therefore, it is important to create extremely eye-catching emails and study their performance. In addition, look at the email issues one receives. Subscribe to the newsletter of other sites that may be interesting and keep in mind the topics they use. Make a compilation with the most attractive and use them as a bank of ideas.

 

  1. It uses the full potential of the preview text

If a person is using an automation tool, they may be able to include a small text immediately after the subject of the email. This space is known as:

  • Preview text 
  • Preheader 
  • Supporting text

That is an excellent way to keep the suspense of a message and, at the same time, a second chance to convince readers to open the email. However, attention! Do not forget that the greater the number of characters in the subject, the smaller the space in the preview text. Therefore, if the subject is very large, it is useless to use the supporting text, since it will not appear.

 

  1. Create special dates and actions

Easter, Mother’s Day, Black Friday, Christmas, New Year … The list of commemorative dates is immense, and everyone already knows them. So think outside the box and innovate. Celebrate different dates or create new dates especially for the audience. For e.g., If a person is a fan of some very popular series, create a specific action to celebrate the day when the pilot episode was aired. Better yet, celebrate a special date of one of the characters. JK Rowling and the Harry Potter fans are always commemorating the wizard’s anniversary and other occasions through social networks.

 

  1. Use a new sender

Want to innovate in the relationship? Change the name of the sender. Surely, a person has already sent a welcome email presenting who is the voice of their company, as dictated by the good practices of email marketing. That is why the audience already knows what to expect from the messages. By exchanging the sender, a person will feed an extremely powerful feeling: curiosity. With it, the chances of a person having an increase in their opening rate are very large.

However, be careful! This advice should be used sporadically, on special occasions. If the sender changes every hour, it will spoil the element of surprise and the difference becomes “normal”. In addition, their subscriber base may not understand anything or, worse, bother.

Therefore, always use common sense and do not forget to present who is the new sender, of course.

 

  1. Be well humored

Creativity and good humor always walk together. When a person is having fun, they associate everyone involved with positive feelings and, in the case of brands that is wonderful.

Use, preferably, a humor related to those areas. That reinforces the connections with the market and may even generate some routings.

 

  1. Use the custom fields

If a person already uses an automation tool, invest in the use of personalization field. Their message will be much more exclusive and increase the commission rates. However, be careful! Just send a personalized email to the contacts that have all the fields filled or a super creative idea can become a skid.

 

  1. Do campaigns for specific segments

Another creative way to innovate in email marketing and improve their metrics is to work with specific segments. The possibilities are endless … or almost, because everything depends on the amount of information a person has in the database.

It is not recommended to send a message in agreement with the subscribers’ favorite soccer teams if that type of information is not relevant to the company and, therefore, has never been requested in any registration form.

 

  1. Uses behavior triggers

A mention on Twitter, an abandonment of the shopping cart, a form that was visited but was not filled…

Behavioral triggers are a great opportunity to attract clicks.

If a person has a good marketing automation tool, it is easy to follow the actions of those leads and send messages at the ideal time.

Knowing the context in which that person is, it is possible to build a specific and well-personalized message.

 

 

  1. Do not forget the #hashtags

The ones from Twitter and Instagram have already reached Facebook and, now, in email marketing. Using hashtags is a great way to work a multichannel campaign. A person can launch a campaign, spread it on social media with a specific hashtag and include it in the email.

 

A person can even go further and insert a call to action by inviting the readers to publish and search for content with that #, helping to vitalize their campaign.

 

 

 

Everything to know about Death insurance

The burial insurance is a type of insurance that is responsible for covering all costs and paperwork related to the death of a person. In this way, death insurance tries to help and give support to the family members of the insured by simplifying all the bureaucratic procedures related to the burial.

Today, the contracting of death insurance is a very common practice. For this reason, it is of special importance to know all the aspects related to this type of insurance and that the insured acquires the insurance of deaths that he considers more opportune or adapts better to his needs and personal situation.

 

Death insurance: aspects to consider when hiring

At the time of contracting a death insurance, we must take into account the different costs associated with the policy, the coverage that can offer us, the types of death insurance that there are and other recommendations that will help us when choosing Death insurance.

The first step for the person who wants to hire him is to decide if he is going to hire him individually or family. Individually he will cover the expenses of his burial, however many families hire him jointly so that if any member of the family dies, the deceased will be insured.

 

What is the cost of death insurance?

When a person dies, family members must face a series of costs related to the funeral of the deceased person. Death insurance allows that when a person hires this type of insurance and dies, different burial related expenses may be covered by the policy and thus prevent family members from having to disburse certain amounts of money to pay for expenses related to death.

Normally, the expenses of a funeral are usually between $7,000 and $10,000 although they can vary depending on some characteristics of the insured. When a death insurance is contracted, the cost of the premium will depend on:

The place of residence of the insured person: depending on the city to which it belongs, it may have a higher or lower cost, since the insurance company takes into account the risk of death of the insured. It is also taken into account if the insured lives in a town or in a city.

The additions on the day of the funeral: the insured may want his or her funeral to be simpler or, however, more complex by having more services covered by the insurer. 

 

What coverage is in death insurance?

Regarding death insurance coverage, we can say that insurance companies can offer what we call basic or optional coverage to the insured person. These coverages will depend on the amount of money or premium the person pays to purchase the insurance. For example, death insurance that only contains basic coverage will be cheaper than one that also includes other additional coverage.

 

Basic coverage of death insurance

The insurance company will bear the costs related to the following basic coverage specified in the policy:

  • The services incineration or burial in niche or grave and headstone
  • The funeral services
  • The religious services related to Mass and other acts of this nature
  • The free choice of the burial place and cemetery where the deceased will be deposited
  • The organization, coordination and management of the death service
  • The legal assistance service
  • The processing of documents after the death of the insured

 

 

 

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About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing services 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 US based accounting professionals are certified QuickBooks™️ ProAdvisor’s providing bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay services. With flat rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost effective expert accounting solution for business, family office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.

Becoming an influential entrepreneur

Having an idea is easy, that’s why what defines an influential entrepreneur is action and we are aware that this part is the most difficult and stormy part of the process.

However, every day more people leave their jobs and autonomously start their own business, because there is no doubt that entrepreneurship is a propellant of the most important for economic and social growth.

Well anyone with a desire to develop economically can undertake, but to achieve it, in addition to having a good idea, it is vital to possess creativity and skills such as vision, perseverance and self-confidence.

There are several ways to make an enterprise work, the chances of success will depend on the idea itself, the resources available, the contacts you have and the professional motivation.

Continue reading and discover the ways to become an influential entrepreneur.

 

 

Build a business based on the sale of a product that generates value

One way to successfully undertake a business opportunity is identified and capitalize, if there is demand, you can become the bidder.

You need passion for the product, some research on the competition and generate methods that generate value, to differentiate your product, it is important that you never intend to compete with the giants, for example, if your idea is a new cola drink, do not expect much, because competition dominates the market and is very solid, and for more value that you add to your product it will be difficult for you to conquer the market.

 

Build a business around a product or service that does not exist

If you have a new idea, an innovative product, something that will be unique in the market, leave fear aside, as you obviously have a brilliant mind, consult with business experts, seek financing and move on.




Build an information and empowerment business

For these entrepreneurs we use the term infopreneur , considering it as the professional that gathers important information from multiple sources and manages it to create a unique conjuncture for its clients, that is, it sells information through templates, courses and other resources, generally oriented to educate and train.

One of the simplest ways to start as an infopreneur is with the creation of a blog or YouTube channel, hosting rates are affordable and the biggest investment in producing a quality e-book is time-consuming.



Build an audience to build a business

The artist survives thanks to the sponsorship of his work. Nowadays, writers, musicians and bloggers build their audience around their talent, thus creating businesses with excellent merchandise, the patron is their audience.



Build a business around a trade 

You think about making a product, dedicate yourself to create something of high quality, what you did as a hobby or hobby could become a successful business, for it investigates what audience shows interest in what you do, regardless of whether they are cakes, clothes, necklaces, candles, furniture, etc.

Start as a hobby to find your first customers decide to turn it into a business. The important thing is that you are passionate, do well, and can access the necessary resources for it.


Build a service business

This group embraces a wide variety of businesses, to materialize your idea, it is important that you analyze your skills and experience, and inform you of the needs that exist in your environment.

In the beginning you could start your business alone, as a complement without leaving your current job, to invest little by little, if you do it well you will gain more and more customers and money.

 

Build a business around the improvement of existing procedures

There is always the opportunity to improve either a service or a product, the market is variable and that is because the customer’s needs also mutate, there are new elements that need satisfaction.

This is the history of technology companies that have been founded with the mission of continuous improvement that is why the technology advances and changes occur every day, in some cases evident improvements and other insignificant changes.

The success in this business is to develop improvements that are useful, for it analyzes the needs of the consumer.



Build a business around environmental conservation

With the importance that the theme of the environment has developed worldwide, many entrepreneurs have created a business with the intention of devising proposals for a better quality of life and for the benefit of the sustainable life of the planet.

To conclude it is worth mentioning that these are just some motivational proposals to start a business. Creativity, to generate an idea is a vital element that you must have and to develop this idea you will need dedication and some advice.

 

 

Check out America's Best Bookkeepers
About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing services 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 US based accounting professionals are certified QuickBooks™️ ProAdvisor’s providing bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay services. 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.

Appropriate Methods to Review Current Leadership Requirements

With the introduction of technology and the advancement of internet, business is spreading at a much faster rate globally. There is a constant race for customers, global challenges, suppliers, diversity and also race for better sales. There are few steps which an organization can follow to convert their employees into leaders. 1) Communicating with employees, leaders should often communicate with their employees; this will guide them in the mission of the organization. 2) provide proper coaching and training to their employees, this will help them to utilize their expertise in the right direction 3) engaging employees in most productive manner, good leaders always know which of their employees is capable of which kind of work, and they utilize their abilities accordingly. 4) The handling attitude of employees is also the responsibility of leaders; they should know how they can be a role model for their employees, with the right kind of attitudes that everyone would like to follow.

 

It is a quality of good leaders, to know how they can use their interpersonal expertise, to ensure that their company is running or heading in the right direction, and also to respond positively to external and internal changes in the environment which can affect the basic structure of the organization. Employees are the most important asset of the organization. Therefore it is the responsibility of leaders to create a healthy working environment for them so that they can work hard, to motivate them so they can utilize their expertise in a more conducive manner. Another responsibility of leaders is to avoid a negative impact within the organization; this can be done by avoiding jealousy factor among employees and encourage them to work together as a team.

 

Plan for the development of future situations requiring leadership

Sustainable competitive advantage is achieved by the competent and dominant role of effective and efficient leadership. The vision and mission of the company are organized by proposing different managing philosophies.

 

The emergence of new technology

The emergence of new technologies is also very challenging for leaders; proper knowledge or information is also very necessary for every organization. They should know how to utilize this new technology for their benefits, a growing trend of virtual or e-business, which means doing business from the internet or online business, employees and leaders have direct access to each other through the internet, which helps them to coordinate with each other easily. 

 

Merger or takeover

Merger or takeover of organizations creates complexity and competitive environment, here the role of leaders is to deal with difficult situations, due to different policies of both companies there is a constant backlash among two organizations. Therefore, good leaders should focus on getting their teams together, to work on policies which provide the satisfaction of customers, employees, and stakeholders and also try to hold the prime objective of the company.

 

Regulatory compliance

Maintain regulatory compliance is another responsibility of leaders, which requires efficient selection, recruitment and training procedures. Selecting right employee, for the right job is also a skill, brakes are working on this principles, and they are recruiting people with skills that can help their company to grow so that they can maintain the compliance of the organization.

 

Diversity in culture

Cultural diversification is another important concern for every organization; employees working within the company belongs to different regions or different cultures. Therefore the leader has a responsibility to create an environment which is healthy, positive, and which treats everyone equally. They should focus on increasing the working skills of employees which will not only benefit them but also benefit their company.

 

Plan the development of leadership skills for a specific requirement

To progress, an organization needs effective leadership and also effective planning for the development of leadership skills; in this regard, there are few features which can be followed by every organization:

 

Formal learning procedures

This segment includes arranging different formal training sessions, workshops or seminars for employees, which will help them to understand the importance of learning, or introducing new skills in their working methods, also help them to improvise their skills and bring innovative changes.

 

On job training

Another effective method is on the job training; employees learn more in this session; in this learning, procedure management trains their employees and leaders; this will increase their knowledge and skills to work better.

 

Building leadership qualities

Management is also responsible for building leadership qualities in their employees, they should urge every employee to learn leadership qualities, and this will benefit each employee and also benefit their company. By focusing more on learning, outcomes will help the company to excel more in the business world.

 

Effective and efficient training programs will help the employees to efficiently represent their organization and also help leaders to lead their company in the right direction which will eventually help the company to grow in the industry.

 

Globalization, challenges, and demands of the future business world have emphasized the need for proper development of leadership skills for every company. Better leadership requires self-confidence, mission, vision, enthusiasm, and empowerment; all of these factors will help leaders to convert their ideas into actions and also help to implement positive changes in the company.

 

Methods that help to plan the development of leadership

 

There are a few methods which will help the company for development of better leadership.

 

Training programs

Brakes Company has adopted this method, training programs always help the organization to bring innovative changes within the organization, and due to this job training, the employees learn new skills and new methods which can help them to increase their knowledge and to bring new changes in their work.

 

Practical learning

This method of training employees has proved to be very beneficial in terms of teaching them the practical application of new strategies or new skills in their working methods. This learning procedure helps to get feedback, to know if the application of the selected method is going in the right direction.

 

Rotation In job

Choosing the right person for the right kind of job is also a quality of a leader, job rotation and recruitment of employees according to demands of the job is very important for fulfilling the requirements of the company.

 

Retention of current and future leaders

For retention of skilled leaders the company should set some incentives, rewards, and appraisals for their leaders, this will help the organization for retention of their skilled employees, which are playing a strong role for the betterment of their company.

 

Executive coaching

Development of employees into leaders is another important quality of efficient management; the company should focus on providing executive coaching which will help employees to enhance their information and also their skills.

 

Conclusion

Brakes is a rapidly growing company in the United Kingdom, the Company has achieved a recognizable position in the business industry, by recruiting effective and efficient people in their organization, which provide advantages to their company by utilizing their skills in the right direction. Brakes Company is managing its workforce efficiently by arranging training programs, workshops, executive coaching programs and formal learning seminars for their employees. This will help their employees to increase their knowledge and skills which will not only benefit their employees but also benefit their company. This paper has explained the importance of developing effective leadership strategies for the organization, as this will help the company to grow or progress more in the industry.

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About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing services 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 US based accounting professionals are certified QuickBooks™️ ProAdvisor’s providing bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay services. 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.

6 common myths about investing in the stock market

Unfortunately, films, media and unscrupulous people in the industry have vitiated and damaged the image of investments and especially of the stock market. In this article I will cover the 6 main myths around the bag, hoping to clarify them.

 

  1. Investing is difficult and complicated

Many think that to invest you have to be an expert, or that it is so complicated that we cannot do it. Some even believe that this perception has been deliberately created by those who work in the stock market in order to justify its existence and the collection of brokerage commissions.

Actually, the stock market is as simple or as complex as we want. Certainly there are quite complex products, but at the same time there are many instruments quite simple to understand, to buy and sell.

 

 

  1. Investing in the stock market is very risky

Many times I have heard friends say: “The stock exchange is like going to a casino”, no less true. Although it is important to know that any investments involve assuming a certain level of risk, it can be controlled and determined by you.

Many investments that we make, outside the stock market, are more risky than many of the strategies that are regularly used to invest in the stock market. In fact, I know of no other tool that allows greater flexibility to manage, diversify and reduce the risk of our investments. 

An example of investments that I consider more risky than investing in the stock market is to put all our money in a single financial institution, in savings accounts and long-term certificates in local currency, something quite common.

Country risk (risk of a crisis in the country’s economy), the risk of inflation, the risk of devaluation of the local currency, the risk of non-diversification (having all the eggs in one basket) far exceeds having a adequate portfolio (combination of different products and investments) in the stock exchange divided in local and foreign currency.

 

 

 

  1. You have to have a lot of money to be able to invest

This is another myth where one hears that investing is only for people with money, and that a large amount is required to be able to do so.

Some of this was true years ago, since many products were not available to individual and small investors like you and me.

 

 

 

  1. You have to be stuck to a computer all day

This is another myth fueled by movies, television series and the media, where they always present the stock market as a means to speculation, where it is only possible to earn money by buying and selling shares, determining when a company’s stock will rise or they will go down

It is important to understand that one thing is speculation and another is investment. If you are looking to invest, it will not be necessary to be stuck in a computer. With good planning and clear objectives you will hardly need to spend a few minutes monthly to color the money you want to invest.

 

 

  1. If you know how to do it, you will become rich in a short time

Another great myth, related to the previous one, is that the stock market is a means to get rich in a short time, no less true. As many authors say “easy and fast money does not exist” . Any person selling you the idea that it will make you rich in a short time with the stock market, or any other type of investment or business, is lying to you.

Many believe that they can be smarter and manage to make a lot of money in a short time, regularly these are the ones that feed the myth that the stock market is like a casino, because in the end they end up losing their money. The reality is that this happens through the greed and the high risk assumed, betting (literally) to achieve big profits and get rich easily and quickly. Do not fall into that trap.

 

 

  1. My broker watches over my interests

This myth is one of the most dangerous. Many people fearful for their inexperience in the investments request the help of a broker to be able to carry out their transactions, and in the end they think that this person is advising them and will watch over their interests and their money, or else they will prevent them from making mistakes.

Unfortunately this is not the case, I do not say that many do not have good intentions, but even these can be vitiated by only knowing the products they represent, and by those who commission, or simply in other cases they are not able to advise correctly their “customers”.

 

 

In this sense, it is important that you investigate on your own and educate yourself on how to invest, and if you have an advisor you should ask specific questions about whether you receive a direct commission for the products offered, as well as what strategy and products uses in their own investments.

 

 

 

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About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing services 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 US based accounting professionals are certified QuickBooks™️ ProAdvisor’s providing bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay services. 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.

Before Lending Money to Friends

By: Jennifer Brazer

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

Fact Checked By: Brittany McMillen


Before You Lend Money to Friends: Smart Tips for Success

Lending money to friends demands careful planning to protect both your finances and your relationships through formal agreements, clear expectations, and honest risk assessment. The most successful friend-to-friend loans happen when both parties treat the transaction professionally, setting written terms for repayment schedules, discussing potential complications upfront, and considering whether the lender can afford to lose the money entirely without financial strain.

Over my 20 years leading Complete Controller, I’ve witnessed countless business owners and individuals navigate the tricky waters of mixing money with friendship. One client lost a decade-long friendship over an unpaid $5,000 loan, while another strengthened their bond by structuring a proper agreement that respected both parties. The difference always comes down to structure and communication—two elements that transform potentially awkward transactions into opportunities for mutual support. LastPass – Family or Org Password Vault

What does it take to lend money to friends successfully?

  • Successful lending requires assessing your financial capacity, evaluating the borrower’s trustworthiness, creating written agreements, and maintaining open communication throughout the repayment period
  • Only lend money you can afford to lose completely without impacting your financial stability or emergency fund
  • Evaluate your friend’s financial situation honestly, including why they need the loan and their realistic ability to repay
  • Create a formal written agreement detailing the loan amount, purpose, repayment schedule, and consequences of default
  • Maintain regular communication about repayment progress to prevent resentment and misunderstandings from developing

The Hidden Risks of Informal Lending

Financial pitfalls beyond lost capital

According to a 2022 CreditCards.com survey, 59% of people who lend money to friends and family experience negative consequences—42% lose money entirely, 26% damage their relationships, and 10% suffer credit score impacts. Younger generations face even steeper risks, with 68% of Gen Z and 66% of millennial lenders reporting problems compared to just 46% of baby boomers. These statistics reveal a harsh reality: informal loans often become permanent gifts.

Beyond the immediate financial loss, lending without proper emergency reserves can devastate your own stability. Co-signing loans presents particular dangers, as missed payments directly impact your credit score and debt-to-income ratio. Financial institutions like Jefferson Bank recommend treating any friend loan as money you’ll never see again—a mental framework that protects against disappointment while preserving relationships.

Why loans strain friendships

Money fundamentally alters relationship dynamics, creating an uncomfortable power imbalance between friends. The biblical principle from Proverbs 22:7—”the borrower is slave to the lender”—captures this tension perfectly. Social gatherings become awkward when the borrower orders expensive meals or plans vacations while owing money, breeding resentment that slowly poisons the friendship.

A LendingTree study found that 27% of lenders regretted their decision, with one in six relationships completely destroyed by money disputes. The emotional toll extends beyond simple frustration; lenders report feeling used, manipulated, and foolish for trusting someone who prioritized other expenses over repayment.

Assessing Your Readiness and the Borrower’s Trustworthiness

Gauging your financial capacity

Before considering any loan, conduct a thorough self-assessment of your financial health:

  • Emergency fund status: Maintain at least six months of expenses before lending
  • Debt obligations: High-interest debt should take priority over friend loans
  • Income stability: Avoid lending during job transitions or economic uncertainty
  • Mental preparation: Accept the possibility of never seeing repayment

Ask yourself honestly: “Would losing this money permanently affect my ability to pay bills, save for retirement, or handle emergencies?” A “yes” answer means you cannot afford to lend, regardless of friendship bonds.

Evaluating the borrower’s situation

Understanding why your friend needs money provides crucial context for lending decisions. LendingTree research shows the top reasons people borrow from friends include debt payments (36%), basic necessities like food and gas (27% each), and rent (22%). These statistics suggest many borrowers already face severe financial distress, making repayment challenging.

Red flags that suggest high lending risk:

  • Previous bank loan denials indicate poor credit or repayment history
  • Vague explanations about the money’s purpose
  • History of financial irresponsibility or multiple outstanding debts
  • Requests for loans to fund non-essential purchases

Case study: When trust meets reality

Consider Mona Martinelli’s experience, reported by KOMO News in 2019. She lent $3,000 to a friend claiming to need rent money, only to watch that friend disappear from her life. Later, Mona discovered through social media that her “struggling” friend had purchased new clothes and taken multiple vacations—all while ignoring repayment requests. This betrayal cost Mona both money and a valued friendship, teaching her to verify actual need before lending. ADP. Payroll – HR – Benefits

Crafting Bulletproof Loan Agreements

Essential terms to document

A comprehensive loan agreement protects both parties by eliminating ambiguity. Include these critical elements:

  • Loan amount and specific purpose: Define exactly how funds will be used
  • Repayment schedule: Set clear dates for installment payments
  • Interest rate: Even 1-2% prevents IRS gift tax complications
  • Default consequences: Outline what happens if payments stop
  • Modification clause: Allow for renegotiation if circumstances change

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau emphasizes answering “what if” scenarios in writing—what if the borrower loses their job? What if they can only make partial payments? Addressing these possibilities upfront prevents future conflicts.

Tax and legal safeguards

The IRS closely monitors large personal loans to prevent tax avoidance. The gift tax exclusion has risen from $13,000 in 2011 to $19,000 in 2025, meaning loans above this threshold require proper documentation and minimum interest charges at the Applicable Federal Rate. Charging interest, even nominal amounts, legitimizes the loan for tax purposes while potentially providing small compensation for your risk.

For loans exceeding $10,000, consider consulting a tax professional to navigate reporting requirements. Proper documentation also strengthens your position if legal action becomes necessary, though most friend loans never reach courtrooms due to relationship considerations.

Communication Strategies for Smooth Repayment

Proactive communication techniques

Successful loan management requires regular, non-confrontational check-ins that maintain friendship while addressing business matters. Schedule quarterly conversations using collaborative language:

  • “Let’s review our agreement to keep us both on track”
  • “I wanted to touch base about the loan timeline we discussed”
  • “How can we adjust the schedule to work better for your situation?”

These approaches frame discussions as mutual problem-solving rather than confrontational collections, preserving relationship warmth while maintaining accountability.

Handling late payments gracefully

When payments fall behind, address issues promptly but compassionately. Start with written reminders referencing your agreement: “Per our June 1st agreement, the July payment appears overdue. Please let me know if you need to discuss adjustments.” This professional approach documents attempts at resolution while leaving room for explanation.

If non-payment continues, suggest mediation through a neutral third party before considering legal action. Many friendships survive financial disputes when both parties commit to finding solutions rather than assigning blame.

Alternative Ways to Help Without Lending Cash

Non-monetary support options

Sometimes the best help doesn’t involve money at all. Consider these alternatives:

  • Skill sharing: Offer resume writing, budgeting assistance, or professional networking connections
  • Time investment: Provide childcare, meal preparation, or transportation during difficult periods
  • Resource connections: Research nonprofit assistance programs, food banks, or financial counseling services
  • Accountability partnership: Help create and monitor a debt reduction plan

These options often address underlying problems more effectively than cash infusions while eliminating repayment stress.

The strategic gift approach

For amounts under $500, consider making an outright gift instead of a loan. Frame it clearly: “This isn’t a loan—I’m happy to help you through this tough time, no strings attached.” This approach eliminates future tension while providing needed assistance. Set boundaries by stating this is a one-time gift to prevent enabling dependency.

Final Thoughts

Smart lending to friends requires treating personal loans with the same seriousness as business transactions. The strategies outlined here—from rigorous financial assessment to formal agreements and clear communication—protect both your money and your relationships. At Complete Controller, we’ve helped countless clients navigate these delicate situations successfully by emphasizing structure over sentiment.

Your friendships deserve protection from financial strain. Before lending, honestly assess your capacity, document everything, and maintain professional boundaries within personal relationships. Most importantly, never lend money you cannot afford to lose entirely. For personalized guidance on managing personal finances and protecting your relationships while building wealth, connect with our expert team at Complete Controller. Complete Controller. America’s Bookkeeping Experts

Frequently Asked Questions About Lending Money to Friends

What should I consider before lending money to a friend?

Evaluate your financial stability first—only lend money you can afford to lose without impacting your emergency fund or financial goals. Assess your friend’s genuine need, repayment ability, and financial history. Consider whether this loan could damage your friendship if unpaid.

How can I ensure I get my money back when lending to friends?

Create a written agreement detailing loan terms, repayment schedule, and consequences of default. Include specific payment dates and amounts. Schedule regular check-ins to discuss progress. Consider charging nominal interest to formalize the arrangement for tax purposes.

Should I charge interest when lending to a friend?

Charging even minimal interest (1-2%) helps avoid IRS gift tax complications for loans over $19,000 and legitimizes the transaction. Interest also compensates for inflation and opportunity cost while maintaining the loan’s business nature.

What are alternatives to lending money to friends in need?

Offer non-monetary help like skill-sharing, job search assistance, or budget planning. Connect them with nonprofit resources, credit counseling, or assistance programs. Consider making a small one-time gift instead of a loan for amounts under $500.

How do I handle a friend who avoids loan repayment?

Address the issue promptly with a written reminder referencing your agreement. Suggest meeting to discuss challenges and potential payment modifications. If necessary, involve a neutral mediator. Accept that legal action, while possible, often ends friendships permanently.

Sources

  • AARP. “5 Dos and Don’ts When Lending Money to Loved Ones.” 2025.
  • Bankrate. “Survey: Lending Money to Friends and Family Leads to Lost Money, Damaged Relationships.” 2019.
  • Bread Financial. “Financial Relationships Study.” 2024.
  • Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. “Personal Lending Guidelines.” 2024. www.consumerfinance.gov
  • CoreFirst Bank & Trust. “4 Major Pitfalls of Lending Money to Friends.” 2023.
  • CreditCards.com. “Lending Money Survey.” Rossman, Ted. October 17, 2022. www.creditcards.com/statistics/lending-money-poll/
  • Hawaii Department of Health. “Repeat: Never Lend Money to a Friend.” PDF. 2023.
  • IntelligentFin.Tech. “Peer Lending Statistics.” 2024.
  • Internal Revenue Service. “What’s New — Estate and Gift Tax.” 2024. www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/whats-new-estate-and-gift-tax
  • Jefferson Bank. “Personal Lending Guidelines.” 2024.
  • Kiplinger. “What is the Gift Tax Exclusion for 2025?” April 28, 2025.
  • KOMO News. “Lending Money to Friends and Relatives Has a 50-50 Chance of Ending Badly.” September 27, 2019.
  • LendingTree. “31% Say Friends Or Family Owe Them Money.” November 11, 2021. www.lendingtree.com/personal/friend-or-family-owes-money-survey/
  • LiveNOWFox. “Household Financial Stress Study.” 2024.
  • Morgan Lewis. “Gift Tax Updates for 2025.” 2024.
  • Peshke Financial. “9 Reasons Why You Should Never Loan Money To Friends Or Family.” 2024.
  • Think Bank. “Do’s and Don’ts of Lending to Family and Friends.” 2024.
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. Cubicle to Cloud virtual business

Stock Market vs Real Estate: Pros & Cons

Stock Market vs Real Estate: Top 5 Investment Advantages

The stock market offers higher average returns (10.39% annually) than real estate (5.5%), with significantly better liquidity and diversification options. However, real estate provides tangible assets with steady appreciation and powerful tax benefits. Your ideal wealth-building approach likely combines both and is aligned with your financial goals and risk tolerance.

Stock market vs real estate – Key investment differences

  • Stock markets deliver nearly double the historical returns of real estate (10.39% vs 5.5% annually), with the S&P 500 generating a 25.02% return in 2024 alone.
  • Stocks provide unmatched liquidity, allowing you to buy or sell investments within seconds compared to real estate’s 60-90 day transaction timeline.
  • Real estate generates consistent passive income through rental properties while offering superior tax advantages, including depreciation, mortgage interest deductions, and 1031 exchanges.
  • Stock investments require minimal capital to start (as little as $1 for fractional shares) versus real estate’s substantial down payments (typically $84,000 for median U.S. homes).
  • Your optimal strategy likely combines both asset classes based on your time horizon, income needs, and risk tolerance. LastPass – Family or Org Password Vault

Liquidity and Accessibility: Stock Market’s Edge

One of the most powerful advantages of stock market investing is the ability to convert your assets to cash almost instantly. This liquidity advantage cannot be overstated in your wealth-building journey.

Why immediate access matters

When you invest in stocks, you can buy or sell shares within seconds through online brokers or trading apps. This instant access lets you seize opportunities or protect your capital during market shifts.

In contrast, real estate transactions often take 60-90 days from listing to closing. This extended timeframe locks your capital in place, limiting your flexibility to respond to changing market conditions or personal financial needs.

The stock market’s accessibility also shines through lower entry barriers. You can start investing with as little as $1 through fractional shares of major companies or index funds. Compare this to real estate, where median U.S. home down payments require approximately $84,000 (20% of a $420,000 property).

During market fluctuations, understanding stock market trends for optimal liquidity becomes crucial. The ability to quickly adjust your positions provides both protection and opportunity that real estate simply cannot match.

Historical Returns: Stock Market’s Dominance

When tracking long-term performance, stock market investments consistently outperform real estate by a significant margin.

Performance over time

The S&P 500 has delivered average annual returns of approximately 10.39% (including dividends) since 1970. More recently, the index delivered an impressive 25.02% total return in 2024, highlighting its growth potential. This stock trading analysis of the S&P 500 shows how a diversified market approach builds wealth over decades.

Real estate, while solid, typically generates around 5.5% annual appreciation. The math speaks for itself: $10,000 invested in 1970 would grow to roughly $1.9 million in stocks versus $420,000 in real estate by 2025.

I’ve seen this play out in my own financial journey. In my early 30s, I prioritized stock market investments over rushing to buy property. That decision allowed my capital to compound at higher rates during critical growth years, creating a stronger foundation for later real estate acquisitions.

For those interested in maximizing returns, staying current with stock trading insights and market trends can significantly impact your investment outcomes.

Diversification Power: Building Resilient Portfolios

The stock market offers unmatched diversification capabilities, allowing you to spread risk across hundreds or thousands of companies with minimal effort.

Reducing risk through strategy

With stocks, you can easily build a globally diversified portfolio spanning different:

  • Industry sectors (technology, healthcare, energy)
  • Geographic regions (U.S., emerging markets, Europe)
  • Company sizes (large, mid, and small-cap)
  • Asset classes (stocks, bonds, commodities)

This diversification happens with a few clicks, often at minimal cost through ETFs and index funds. Real estate diversification, by contrast, requires purchasing multiple properties—each with its own substantial down payment, mortgage, and management needs.

The MSCI US REIT Index’s strong 25.02% performance in 2024 highlights how you can gain real estate exposure through stock-like securities, blending the benefits of both worlds.

Exploring investment strategies to streamline your portfolio can help you build a well-balanced approach that maximizes returns while managing risk through proper investment strategies for diversification. Cubicle to Cloud virtual business

Passive Income: Real Estate’s Core Strength

While stocks win on total returns and liquidity, real estate offers powerful income generation potential that many investors find compelling.

Locking in recurring revenue

Rental properties create monthly cash flow that can cover mortgage payments while potentially providing extra income. This predictable revenue stream becomes especially valuable during retirement or when building multiple income sources.

Stock dividends typically yield 2-4% annually, requiring a much larger investment to match the income from a well-positioned rental property. A $300,000 investment in dividend stocks might generate $6,000-12,000 yearly, whereas the same investment in rental real estate could produce $24,000-36,000 in annual rent.

Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) offer a middle-ground approach. These specialized investments combine real estate income with stock-like liquidity. The strong performance of REITs in 2024 (25.02% return) demonstrates how you can access real estate returns without direct property ownership.

For many of my clients, combining dividend-paying stocks with selective real estate holdings creates an ideal balance between growth and income.

Tax Efficiency: Strategic Advantages

Both investment types offer unique tax benefits, but with important differences in how and when these advantages apply.

Minimizing liability

With stocks, you’ll benefit from preferential tax treatment on long-term capital gains (assets held over one year). These rates range from 0% to 20%, depending on your income bracket, significantly lower than ordinary income tax rates.

Stock investors can also use tax-loss harvesting—selling underperforming investments to offset gains elsewhere in your portfolio. Understanding tax efficiency in equity markets can save you thousands annually.

Real estate offers even more powerful tax advantages, including:

  • Mortgage interest deductions
  • Property tax deductions
  • Depreciation (writing off the property’s value over time)
  • 1031 exchanges (deferring capital gains by reinvesting in similar properties)
  • Primary residence exclusions (up to $500,000 for married couples)

These benefits can reduce effective tax rates by 15-25% compared to stock investments. For high-income earners, real estate’s tax advantages often outweigh its lower appreciation rate.

What most comparison articles miss: state tax implications vary dramatically. California investors face over 13% state income tax on stock gains, while Texas investors pay zero state tax—shifting the equation between these investment types depending on your location.

Risk Tolerance: Balancing Perspectives

Your personal comfort with investment volatility should heavily influence your allocation between stocks and real estate.

Volatility vs. stability

Stock markets experience sharp swings that can test your emotional discipline. During the 2008 financial crisis, the S&P 500 plunged 38.49%, while San Diego home prices dropped about 25%. Both recovered, but stocks bounced back faster.

In my experience working with hundreds of business owners, I’ve noticed that many people overestimate their risk tolerance. When markets drop 20-30%, even experienced investors feel the emotional pressure to sell at exactly the wrong time.

Real estate’s physical nature and steady income provide psychological comfort during market turbulence. You can see and touch your investment, and tenants continue paying rent even when stock markets decline.

Complete Controller encourages clients to align investments with their personal stress tolerance. If market swings cause anxiety that affects your sleep or decision-making, real estate’s stability may outweigh potential higher stock returns.

Conclusion

The ideal investment strategy combines both stock market and real estate advantages based on your specific goals:

  • Growth Focus (20+ year horizon): Weight heavier toward stocks (70-80%) for maximum long-term appreciation
  • Income Focus (near/in retirement): Emphasize real estate (50-60%) for reliable cash flow
  • Tax Optimization (high-income earners): Leverage real estate’s superior tax benefits
  • Liquidity Needs (business owners): Maintain sufficient stock positions for quick access to capital

Remember that these aren’t competing investments but complementary tools. The stock market excels at generating long-term growth with unmatched liquidity, while real estate provides stability, income, and unique tax advantages.

Your optimal strategy likely includes both—allocated thoughtfully based on your timeline, risk tolerance, and financial goals.

Ready to build a more strategic investment approach? Visit CompleteController.com for personalized financial management services that integrate your investments with your overall business and personal financial plan. Download A Free Financial Toolkit

FAQ

Which investment historically provides higher returns: stocks or real estate?

The stock market historically delivers higher returns, averaging 10.39% annually since 1970, compared to real estate’s average of 5.5% per year. Over 50 years, this performance gap creates a dramatic difference in wealth accumulation.

How can I invest in the stock market with limited capital?

Start with low-cost index funds or ETFs that track the S&P 500, requiring as little as $1 through fractional shares. Many brokerages offer zero-commission trading and no minimum balance requirements, making the stock market accessible to beginning investors.

What tax advantages do real estate investments offer over stocks?

Real estate provides multiple tax benefits unavailable to stock investors, including: property depreciation deductions, mortgage interest write-offs, 1031 exchanges to defer capital gains, and up to $500,000 in tax-free profits ($250,000 for singles) when selling a primary residence.

How do REITs compare to direct real estate ownership?

REITs offer real estate exposure with stock-like liquidity and lower entry costs. They provide dividend income (often higher than standard stocks) without property management responsibilities. However, they lack the tax advantages and leverage potential of direct property ownership.

Should I invest in stocks or real estate if I need access to my money within 5 years?

The stock market’s volatility creates significant risk for short time horizons (under 5 years). Either choose conservative stock allocations (more bonds, fewer stocks) or consider real estate options with clear exit strategies. Cash reserves or short-term bonds may be more appropriate for truly near-term needs.

Sources

CorpNet. Start A New Business Now 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. ADP. Payroll – HR – Benefits
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.

3 Infallible Real Estate Marketing Techniques

Real estate marketing is one of the disciplines that has always generated the greatest interest in professionals who are dedicated to buying and selling real estate. Being the first to apply the new real estate marketing techniques can make us become a reference agency, due to our operations and customer service. And it is an opportunity that we cannot miss.

There are as many marketing tactics as we can imagine but it is always worth reviewing the bases of customer attraction to implement them with our team.

Real estate marketing is often confused with real estate sales, so agents tend to mix sales and marketing activities with the purpose of attracting clients and properties, resulting in a lack of success in a specific strategy. Now the expert agents are very clear about what real estate marketing is and what they apply first to be able to sell the property easily and quickly later.

 

 

Tips on real estate marketing techniques

Always plan long, medium and short term. Do not get carried away just by the urgent and study with your team what tactics will be decisive to achieve the objectives.

Content real estate marketing. Generate texts, images, videos, that help your client to find you and get from you the confidence you need to rent or buy a home. This is to provide customers with all the valuable information that helps them make a decision about the purchase, sale or rental of any property or property.

The content helps you position yourself in search engines. This translates into the possibility of appearing in the first search results on Google. In the same way, include in your budget to invest in the best spaces of the real estate portals, a key tool to output your portfolio of properties.

The video real estate marketing. The video format is already a must in online environments. The average user is increasingly inclined to access the contents via mobile and videos are a fast and adapted to these screens to assimilate the message. Take advantage of it to get more reach and reach your target audience also through other channels such as social networks. Publish informative, corporate and real estate videos.

In this sense, you can go up one more level and stand out both above your competitors, and in terms of improving management processes and customer service if you incorporate the new sales techniques offered by virtual tour software: instead of videos that show the property, the user can decide for himself how to go through the house and in what corners and aspects to recreate.

Email real estate marketing. There are different tools specifically created to make our lives easier when communicating via email with our database. If you have it well segmented, it will be very easy for your clients to receive automatic notifications and keep up to date with the promotions of your agency. But all that glitters is not gold. Do not use this marketing channel in a distracted way at the risk of it becoming spam. Only by pampering your client through all the ways with which you communicate with them, will you succeed in bringing the operation to fruition.

Include email marketing tools within a global real estate marketing strategy, in which you can have your users located based on their greater or lesser interest on portfolio properties. There are managers who automate this task and discriminate when deciding the interests of each recipient. In this way you will not “bore” your customer base with content that does not interest them or is not useful, making sure that what they receive will get their attention.

If you do not have a team with communication skills, it is always worthwhile to outsource these tasks and make use of specific tools for real estate : 360 videos, image editor, virtual reality, distance tours and much more, suitable for all members of your team generate content that helps sell, totally autonomously.


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About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing services 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 US based accounting professionals are certified QuickBooks™️ ProAdvisor’s providing bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay services. 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.

5 most common mistakes when creating your personal brand

Like a commercial brand, the personal brand must be elaborated with dedication, be protected and transmitted to all people. It is a concept that makes reference to the footprint that you leave in others, in order to differentiate and communicate what makes you visible and allows you to excel in a competitive environment.

It is very common for you to make certain mistakes when creating your personal brand, however, it is nothing that you cannot correct. You must first identify what you are doing wrong, it is important that you remain firm and do not lose the perception, since otherwise you may end up confusing your audience.

 

 

Error # 1 – Identity not well defined

To start defining your personal brand, you must first be clear about your identity, who you are, what you are looking for, what you want, what you know how to do, etc. All these special aspects will help you to differentiate yourself from the rest, and will make the public interested in you. Without a defined identity, you will not get the number of followers you want.

Think carefully about the subject you want to identify with, since when you start to position yourself in that sector, the public will know what your specialty is and the value you bring to the subject.

 

 

Error # 2 – Use different names in networks

Think right from the beginning the name that will represent you, one of the mistakes that are often committed more often is to have several profiles with different names on social networks, this way the general public will not be able to recognize you easily.

What should you do? Precisely have the same name and photo in all your profiles, so it will be easier to gain followers.

 

 

Mistake # 3 – Lack of objectives or goals

Doing things just to do them has never been good, you should always have a defined goal with an action plan that helps you achieve what you have proposed. This applies to any situation, before carrying out an action, for example, making a new publication, ask yourself how that post contributes to your content, what it is you want to achieve, how your followers know you, and if the content represents you, etc.

At this point it is also key to measure the impact of your actions, so that you can determine if the strategy you are using is appropriate and if it is giving good results. It is not simply to have goals, but to analyze the results and make the adjustments that are necessary to keep improving.

 

 

Mistake # 4 – Remove negative opinions or opinions that you do not like

Transparency is fundamental in gaining a reputation and creating your personal brand, there will always be people who give negative or critical comments with intentions to offend. Remember that you should not fall into their game and show yourself how you are, even if there are different opinions. It is not honest or correct to eliminate the messages you do not like, on the contrary, learn to face these situations and manage them in the right way.

 

 

Mistake # 5 – Do not be yourself, lack of originality and inconsistency

Do not copy the other people, the one that can be harmed is you. It’s okay to do some research to analyze the competition, but you should never stop being yourself. It is a common mistake to want to copy others, to the point that you start to change your personality without realizing it. When your personal brand is not consistent, the probability of failing in the attempt is much higher.

To expand your brand it is always good to dedicate the time necessary to develop a good plan and publish content on a regular basis, it may take a little more time, but doing it irregularly will make it difficult for your followers to follow your rhythm.

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About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing services 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 US based accounting professionals are certified QuickBooks™️ ProAdvisor’s providing bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay services. 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.