Businesses often tout that they are "customer-focused" but in fact, they may only be focusing on what they assume the customer wants. Unless they're really taking the pulse of those they serve, through surveys and communication, the business may be more internally focused than keeping clients happy. Can business leaders help change the focus?
Commercial credit analysis evaluates corporations to determine if they can pay their financial obligations. Although this is pre-engagement and on the front end of the A/R and collection process, it’s still an important part of any B2B accounting process. To help reduce delinquencies and bad debt write-offs, businesses should put focus on the front-end credit analysis process prior to contracting with a new client.
When hiring a qualified accounts receivable specialist, it's important that they have the right skill sets. They're going to be speaking with your customers directly about one of the most uncomfortable topics - money. They need confidence, persistence and enthusiasm, and also they need the proper training. We took a look at A/R job descriptions for a better idea of what's required.
There are numerous red flags that could signal a late payment from your clients. Red flags, however, could be easily ignored. Green flags, on the other hand, provide a sense of safety and trust. The more green flags, the more you know that your business is working with the right clients - those who respect your time and value your partnership - and that you're doing A/R right.
Before we dive in, do you ever run cash flow reports on your business? If your organization is earning revenue, it does not necessarily mean that you have that much cash in the bank. A simple statement of cash flow report is available through any accounting software and will present a clear picture of your inflows and outflows, including accounts receivable. Quite simply, if your clients aren't paying on time, you may have less cash than you think.
It can seem daunting to imagine reconnecting with clients after 2 years of a pandemic. Or perhaps you're thrilled and ready to get back to those in-person meetings. If you've been working remotely, it's time to try on those old business clothes and get on your client's calendar again.
A solid cash flow is essential to the success of any growing business. Good relationships with your business partners are just as important. Supply chains involve several businesses along a network to provide an end product to a customer. If any payments are delayed along the way, it can cause tension within the relationships and challenges with the manufacturing process.
If you're stalling on the idea of following up on past due invoices, don't fret. Sometimes it takes a little research to move forward on something that's uncomfortable or unfamiliar. We've pulled together some reasons why you might be hesitant and how to move past those obstacles.
Getting frustrated or writing off client invoices isn't going to get them paid. An unresolved problem remains unresolved unless you do something about it. When a client agrees to pay for goods or services that your business is offering, it is well within your rights to request that they pay you.
Have you ever deep cleaned your house and found coins in the couch cushions or bills in the laundry? The same can be done for your business! With a few extra tasks, you can increase working capital and breathe a little easier for the rest of the year.
