Archive of Business Finance articles by Arla Wallace

Unlock Small Business Success with Essential Metrics: Track Leads, Customer Data (CAC, CLV, Churn), and Projection Metrics (Sales Growth Rate, NPS). Use Quantitative Data for Informed Decision-Making and Improved Bottom Line.... more

Project management tools drive efficiency, save costs, and boost productivity for small businesses. Choose the right style, benefit from customization, and gain a competitive edge.... more

Unlock the potential of video marketing for small businesses. Learn to set goals, create content efficiently, and engage your audience with effective video strategies.... more

Small business owners benefit from a growth mindset, fostering resilience, creativity, and success. Developing one involves stepping out of the comfort zone, embracing failures, and continual learning.... more

Learning how to use customer feedback to make your customers feel valued, heard and appreciated will help you gain solid returns. Here are some tips for responding to customer feedback.... more

Reach your sales goals with sales funnels. Learn the benefits and best strategies for sales funnels for your small business.... more

A SMART goal is a result you want to accomplish, and a KPI reveals if you are headed in the right direction. Here is how they work!... more

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Small businesses need to find creative and cost-effective ways to generate sales. Learn these three key areas to ensure you are headed toward increased sales!... more

An entrepreneur’s time management is never easy. Finding the strategies and tools that work best can boost small business owner productivity while preventing burnout. Here are some ideas to help you.... more

Here are four focus areas that can help you determine if your small business is using social media to its full potential.... more

Artificial Intelligence is a hot topic. Here is some basic information on what ChatGPT is and how you may be able to use it to help your small business.... more

Is Twitter right for your business? It may come down to knowing your customers, establishing SMARTgoals, having a plan in place and having the bandwidth to engage your audience. Here are things toconsider.... more

Pull the right customers into your sales funnel and boost your online presence. Here are some ideas for using Google Ads to market to your customers online.... more

Need to cut costs? Don’t just totally cut your marketing budget. Here are some tips for making your marketing budget work for you.... more

National Small Business Week for 2023 is April 30 - May 6. Here are some tips for boosting your business while celebrating your customers and community!... more

Redefine your small business success by integrating YouTube into your media mix. Take advantage of two billion monthly users that may be looking for your product or subject matter expert.... more

Social media is a powerful marketing and networking tool for small businesses. However, it can be time consuming. Social media management tools can help you beyond just saving time.... more

Harness the power of Instagram Stories to educate and build trust with your existing and future clients. Here are a few topics and ideas.... more

Here are some ideas to streamline your content creation. Find the strategies that work for you.... more

Updating and optimizing your small business website can improve its performance and bring in more business in 2023. Here are some "Must Haves" for your website!... more

Help you clients keep their New Year’s Resolutions. You’ll be instrumental in their long term success and it will grow your business. Here are some ideas!... more

Building good mental health habits for yourself and your team can bring many benefits. Here are some practical steps small business owners can take to care for their own and their employees mental health.... more

Set worthy New Year’s resolutions for your small business in 2023. Here are some suggestions to consider when choosing the right goals for your small business.... more

There are many trends that experts predict will be at the forefront in 2023. Now is the ideal time to study these trends to adjust your marketing and business plans accordingly.... more

Help make your business memorable by putting some thought into you holiday gift giving. Here are some ideas to get the most out of this gesture.... more

Review your marketing strategy on a regular basis to understand your target audience, your competition and setting your goals for the new year.... more

Business Lunches remain a valuable tool for small businesses. Redefining successful business lunches can offer an opportunity to find what best fits your business.... more

Here is an overview of 2021 tax law changes for small business owners. Consult with your CPA for all the changes that may affect your small business.... more

There are similarities between Generations X, Y and Z and there are differences. Vary your marketing techniques to fit your generational buyer needs. Here are some ideas.... more

Find a Google Ad campaign to best fit your small business. It can provide you with a solid ROI. Here are some ideas.... more

Make the most of data mining strategies for lead generation. Here is an overview of four lead generation tools for your small business.... more

Move up the Google ranks in local SEO search results by investing some time in creating quality local content. This is critical for small business success.... more

Having a local customer base is essential for a small business. Add these three focus areas to your marketing plan to bring in more local customers.... more

Keeping your customers is less expensive than acquiring new ones. Sometimes you have to increase prices. Here are some tips for communicating that to your clients.... more

If you are contemplating the value of having students join your small business for a summer internship, here are five reasons why they are worth the work and benefits to your business.... more

No business owner enjoys getting negative reviews. How you respond to a negative review can have a big impact on your business. Here are some tips for handling negative reviews.... more

Seasonal businesses can bring some unique challenges. Here are some tips to help you create the right strategy to navigate the ups and downs.... more

Do you have a marketing plan to help you identify key selling points and guide you to areas in the market where you can thrive? Here are some key elements you should include in your plan.... more

There are many ways to improve your customer’s overall experience, here are some specific and practical steps any small business can take.... more

Use the right strategy for your email marketing initiatives. Here is some practical advice to increase your customer engagement.... more

Be proactive in caring for yourself! It will help you feel focused and enable you to live and work at your best.... more

A marketing hourglass is a powerful and effective tool for any small business. Here are some suggestions for designing one for your business.... more

There are many creative and strategic ways to promote your small business on a shoestring budget. Incorporate these low-budget marketing strategies into your overall plan.... more

Incorporate podcasts into you daily routine to learn, inspire and motivate you and your business. Get started with these recommendations!... more

Gain credibility and trust with your customers and prospects by blogging. Here are some ideas for incorporating interesting topics into your blog content.... more

Reach the clients who will most likely need or want your products and services. Knowing who your ideal client is will improve the overall quality of your business!... more

There are many affordable alternatives for marketing your products and services. Should Facebook be part of your marketing strategy?... more

Here are some ideas for setting up and posting a blog to your website. But, the most important best practice is to get started and create a blogging routine!... more

Set some time aside to accomplish overlooked tasks every small business should do annually.... more

There are many funding options available for your start-up or growing small business. When other options fail, you may wish to explore the more unconventional ways.... more

Lay a solid foundation for your 2022 marketing strategy. Let these 4 insights get your started on your strategy... more

Natural disasters can physically and financially impact your company. Creating a plan of scenarios and actions to be taken before and after will make your recovery easier.... more

Providing valuable, informative content on you site can help you generate traffic, attract leads and leads into sales. Here are some tips for improving your online content.... more

Artificial Intelligence is being used by more and mor companies. The cost is becoming affordable to small businesses. Could it be right for you?... more

Here is an overview of 2021 tax law changes for small business owners. Consult with your CPA for all the changes that may affect your small business.... more

Leverage your Facebook platform to expand your small business by incorporating these 6 best practices for Facebook Ads.... more

Stories connect with people. Writing a story about your business is an effective way for you to build a relationship with your clients and prospects.... more

Cybercrime is costly to small businesses. Here are four threats that small business owners should be alert for.... more

You have no control over the economy or financial crisis but, how you manage your business can help you through hard times. Don’t let fear get in the way... more

Your business should cultivate a strong, healthy online reputation. Here are some tips to help.... more

Small businesses are not created equally. The ones that provide the best online experience will keep their clients coming back. Here are some tips for providing that positive experience.... more

Do you want your viewers to click through and read your content? Here are some tips for keeping your email content relevant and engaging.... more

Here are some ideas for building your client base and competing successfully with big chain businesses.... more

Which retirement savings plan is right for you and your business? Here is some basic information on the types of plans to consider.Which retirement savings plan is right for you and your business? Here is some basic information on the types of plans to consider.... more

Every small business should use the Customer Acquisition Costs and Lifetime Value metrics to determine how much to spend on marketing to new customers vs. focusing on customer retention.... more

There are many ways to generate leads. Here are some tips for creating your strategy.... more

Send valuable content regularly to your clients and prospects to keep them engaged. Having a strategy for creating a mailing list is key. Here are some tips.... more

Fostering creativity by your employees can help your business overcome challenging times and grow your business.... more

Shipping demands continue to rise with consumer spending and carrier issues. Spend time selecting a shipping strategy that helps you attract customers and your increase your profit margin.... more

Enticing your readers to open your email needs a great subject line. Here are some tips to make your emails stand out!... more

The quality and effectiveness of your blog is important in building a community around your brand and value add to your products and services. Here are some tips to help you.... more

Customer expectations are evolving. Brick–and–mortar alternatives can help reduce overhead and start–up costs. Here are some ideas.... more

Thinking about starting a business? You’ll need to know what financial challenges you may have before cash starts flowing in... more

Having a referral program is a must to generate high-quality leads. Here are some ideas on how to create one.... more

Many self-employed small business owners are required to file quarterly estimated taxes. Here is some basic information on what you need to know.... more

Integrating video into your small business marketing strategy can build trust, brand awareness, customer loyalty, and boost sales.... more

Consider all the issues before you decide to lease or buy equipment for your business. Here, you will find what to consider when making that decision.... more

Building a marketing strategy for your business does not need to be costly. Here are some steps for creating a system that will help you.... more

If you want to reduce your investment in inventory and working capital, Just -in-Time Inventory may be your answer. Learn the benefits of using this system in your manufacturing.... more

Some industry experts consider a core story essential to your business success. Learn what it is and what to do with it.... more

A system of checks and balances when employees are handling cash is a must for every small business. Here are some tips for helping you set up your procedures.... more

When small businesses invest in their local communities and partner with charities and nonprofits, everyone wins. Learn about some of the benefits for your small business.... more

In this age of smartphones and constant connectivity your business should foster online reviews. Here are some reasons why you should do it.... more

Budgeting and Forecasting are important to your business. They both have a specific purpose. Learn the difference and how to use them for your business.... more

Continuing to grow and improve is a benefit for you and your business. Here are some tips for self-improvement for your personal and business life.... more

Depending on your needs, there are several financing options available to a small business. Work with your banker to determine what might be right for you.... more

Will the president’s tax policies become law? Staying abreast of tax law changes, even if you have a trusted tax professional, will help to keep you informed as a small business owner.... more

Collaborating with other small businesses can be beneficial. They can be simple partnerships of creative endeavors. The obvious benefit is more customers but, they can also inspire creativity.... more

Small business owners – do you need help in improve your efficiency and productivity? We compiled a list of 4 tips and tricks to help you.... more

What method does your company use to account for your inventory? Choosing a specific method directly affects your profit margin.... more

As an employer, you will be responsible for withholding payroll taxes from employee’s paychecks and providing them to the appropriate agencies. Here are some basic on payroll taxes.... more

Facing unique challenges during the pandemic have impacted the financial health of your company. Here are some tips for improving the financial health in 2021.... more

Get beyond the marketing basics and create strategies to build relationships with you customers and expand your business. Here are some ideas to help you.... more

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You learned in a previous post why you should have a Google My Business Listing. This post will provide instructions on how to claim it and tips on best practices.... more

Avoid late filing or late payment penalties due to not filing and paying taxes when due Here are some tips for creating a Tax Calendar for your small business.... more

Hardly anyone searches the phone book for businesses. They do an internet search. Learn how Google My Business Profile should be your new local listing.... more

The CARES Act made several changes to tax law that incentivize charitable contributions for individual taxpayers and corporations alike. See what they are and how you can use them.... more

Does your business ask for referrals? You may be missing out on an easy way to get new business clients! Here are some tips for helping you get referrals.... more

Millions of professionals and business owners use social media for advertising and generating leads. Yet, they often bypass LinkedIn for the sake of Facebook and other platforms. Here are some tips for using it.... more

The pandemic caused many businesses to diversify. Some diversified their offerings and some found a new client base? Here are some ideas that may help your business determine what is right for you?... more

The growth of a small business is important. The quality provided is what causes customers to continue buying from you. Here are some thoughts on balancing growth and maintaining product and service quality.... more

Building rapport and relationships through networking is important for Entrepreneurs. Here are five skills to develop.... more

Networking is a wonderful way to help your business while you help others as well. Learn what networking can do for your business and how to get involved.... more

For many businesses, this time of year means “Budget Season”. Here are some simple ideas for creating your budget.... more

Small Business can create a competitive advantage by adopting technology. Technology can help differentiate a small business. Here are 5 Technologies to think about.... more

Collecting Customer Information is sometime challenging. However, having the right information on your current and future clients helps you tailor your offerings to them.... more

Staying up to date on best practices, ideas, trends and cautionary tales can be found in blogs. Here are some tips why you should read blogs and some resources you may like.... more

Good recordkeeping is essential for small business owners to monitor the progress of your business. That and tax compliance needs to start when the business is formed. Learn what you should do.... more

Case studies are an ideal tool for small businesses to use to demonstrate the capabilities of their company’s products. Learn why they are effective and what to include in one.... more

Small Businesses have continued to be resilient in the face of the pandemic. Moving quickly and changing as needed, they have demonstrated their contribution to the economy.... more

Cause marketing is an effective strategy for promoting your business as well as a charitable cause. Learn what it is and how it works for a long-term approach.... more

The Affordable Care Act offers health insurance options and tax incentives for small business owners. Here is a simple summary of qualifications and options.... more

Consistently posting blogs on your site remains a great marketing strategy. Here are some reasons why you should maintain a blog.... more

Having a bookkeeper is an essential function for your business. Defining what you need and determining the best solution for you does not have to be difficult. Here are some tips to help you.... more

Adopting Customer – Centric Strategies for your clients creates a win-win situation Your clients will have a positive experience with you and they will become loyal customers telling others about you.... more

Securing Business financing before you need it is a smart move. Lines of Credit and Term Loans are flexible solutions. Learn which one may be right for your business.... more

Avoid the mistakes other small business owners make. Keeping good records, knowing how to classify an employee vs Contractor, Filing on time and your legal entity can help you to avoid tax mistakes.... more

Communicating with customers is important, especially so during uncertain times. Learn how to craft thoughtful, helpful, and encouraging content for your customers.... more

Small businesses need increased communication, education, and innovation in order to respond to their customers with excellent customer service during COVID-19.... more

Give your business an edge over the competition with health and retirement benefits to attract and retain quality employees. Doing this also offers benefits to the owner as well as tax advantages.... more

Do you know the difference between a Marketing Hourglass and a Sales Funnel? Learn what a Marketing Hourglass is and how it can drive customers to purchase your services.... more

Build an empowered team with well documented procedures, that will enhance the value of your small business and help you and your team navigate the unexpected while you serve in the owner role.... more

Engage your customers and attract new ones with these cost effective ways to use your Social Media.... more

Learn why you might need an Outsourced Bookkeeper or Accountant and the advantages to you as a business owner.... more

With so many advantages such as accessibility, built-in security, and price, it’s easy to see why cloud-based accounting is a great option for small businesses.... more

In a competitive economy, excellent customer service can make or break a small business. Here are four customer service tips to help your business stand out.... more

There are many benefits to corporate donations. Here are four reasons why your business should start making charitable donations.... more

Cash flow impacts profits and can be a critical component of success for small business owners. Here are some tips on how to improve your cash flow.... more

Accounts receivables seem to be a big concern for small business owners. Here are some best practices to ensure you get paid.... more

Google Analytics is a free web analytics service that provides valuable insights to your website. Here are some reasons why you should be using this powerful tool.... more

An efficient month-end close process increases structure and reduces risk. Here are some practices to improve your month-end close.... more

Reviews are becoming more influential and a priority for consumers. Here are three reasons why you want to get reviews and how they impact your business.... more

Financial ratios show what aspects of your business are working by comparing figures. Here are five financial ratios that can improve your business operations.... more

Customer relationship management (CRM) systems are vital tools for businesses of all sizes. Here are some benefits of having a CRM.... more

When it comes to business taxes, the first thing to understand is how the taxes work and what the IRS requirements are so you can stay in compliance.... more

Every small business owner should understand the following six things that can affect the business’s income taxes and overall tax situation.... more

Here are some steps you should take before the end of the year to get your small business ready for tax season.... more

For a small business owner, there are many opportunities for growth. Here are three budgeting tips for small businesses.... more