Tips for Small Business

Whether you are an experienced small business owner or just starting out, it's sometimes easy to overlook the big picture when you are so focused on day-to-day tasks. Using Harris Helpful Steps for Small Business can help you become more efficient and ultimately more successful.

"Harris Helpful Steps for Small Business can help business owners become better planners and help them achieve whatever they are looking to accomplish," says Margie Lawless, Small Business Banking Executive with Harris.

Helpful Steps for Small Business

Below, Lawless outlines the Harris Helpful Steps for Small Business:

• Get cash into your business faster -- This step helps identify where your cash is tied up and how you can move it through your business faster. For example, if your business won't receive money it's owed for a few weeks, it's money that's tied up. Opening a line of credit, and using the money that's owed as collateral, may be a solution to help support interim cash needs, such as payroll or additional supplies.

• Get the capital you need -- Depleting your personal cash reserves to build your small business isn't a smart financial move. Instead, you need to find outside financing from investors or a lender. Also, don't forget to get the right type of financing for your needs. For example, if you need to purchase a piece of equipment, consider getting a long-term loan to support it.

• Find the best banking solutions for your business -- The right solutions are based on your business' individual strengths, challenges and goals. Depending on your needs, these products may include a Small Business Administration (SBA) Loan, term lending or a line of credit. To learn more, read Small Business Financing Options.

• Reduce the time you spend on your finances -- Today's fast-paced world demands the latest technology. Online banking can help you stay on top of your cash flow as well as make and receive electronic payments.

• Build a secure retirement -- As a small business owner, you are sometimes so focused on your business that your personal finances fall to the wayside. But it's important to prioritize building a secure retirement, whether it's through a 401(k) plan, individual retirement account or another investment vehicle.

"These steps provide a full circle when it comes to owning a small business and build upon each other covering everything from increasing cash flow to planning for retirement," says Lawless.

Get help from a Harris banker

A banker can help you review the Harris Helpful Steps for Small Business and find solutions that may be right for your business. "We're happy to take the time to sit down with you to discuss your business -- and personal -- financial objectives," says Lawless.

To learn more, please call 1-800-546-6101 or visit HelpingMakeMoneyMakeSense.com.




Harris® is a trade name used by BMO Harris Bank N.A.. Deposit and loan products and services are provided by BMO Harris Bank N.A. Member FDIC.

Category:

Education

Tags:

• Harris Bank
• Margie Lawless
• Helping Make Money Make Sense
• line of credit