In the days before the technology boom of the 2000s, we might have had to wait for a TV or radio traffic report to plan the fastest route to a meeting, or call an airline or talk to a travel agent in order to buy a plane ticket. But with tools and apps that allow us to tackle tasks in new ways, today we can do more in less time. And that holds true for small business owners, too.
However, while you may understand the importance of time management – using a calendar app to help you plan your day, and using your virtual personal assistant to help you stay organized while you’re on the go – one area that small business owners often overlook is how much time they spend on managing their finances.
If you’re not sure how much time you spend on your own small business finances, consider this: According to a SCORE.org survey, 40 percent of small business owners spend at least 80 hours a year on taxes, payroll, contracts, and working with accountants. Now imagine, if you could re-allocate some of that time to other parts of your business, or even your personal life. Fortunately, with a few modern tools, it’s not only possible, but easy. Three of the types of solutions that can help you gain some of that time back include:
In addition to choosing (and using) modern financial templates and tools that allow you to manage your finances more efficiently, small business owners should always be on the lookout for help from those who understand the economic climate and the issues that small businesses face. And this is where organizations like the Small Business Administration (SBA) and SCORE can help. With time management tips, plus information on mentor programs, tax codes, starting and building a business, and the latest business management tools and financial programs, organizations like these can help you succeed in today’s ever-changing marketplace. And because most, if not all, of their programs are free, you have nothing to lose by contacting them.
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