Whether you're working for an company or on your own, the thought of saying 'no' to a client can be panic-inducing. It can be especially stressful if you're starting your own business or trying to grow your new business. The good news is that there are particular situations that actually call for a resounding negative response. When you say "no," you can feel like you're doing what's right for you and your business.
Businesses and organizations are pushing through the effects of the pandemic on the economy, their industry or their customer response. At the time of writing this, there is no such thing as "after COVID-19" however experts are learning more each day. While everyone is searching for the next normal, it's important to consider how the virus has affected your client relationships and customer service.
First party collections, in which your business relies to manage delinquent and non-paying accounts, are a valuable resource to get invoices paid. Getting your invoices paid on time helps ensure working capital and sets your business up for success. In house collections specialists, therefore, are beneficial and necessary, especially in a growing business.
We're all months into this pandemic and doing our best to work outside the office. Whether you're working on your own business at home or working for someone else, time management can be a challenge amidst distractions like children and chores. The "new normal" is to accomplish everything that you did before even...
while...
you...
keep...
getting...
interrupted.
After some research, I've found a few time management techniques that actually work.
COVID-19 cases are still increasing as the United States reopens and now the National Bureau of Economic Research has declared that the U.S. economy is indeed in recession. According to the announcement, the economy was heading into recession when the coronavirus hit and, as businesses were shutdown, any gains were erased during March and April. If you're a business owner or accounts receivable professional, you may already know that cash flow has been affected by the events of the past few months.
Employers and organizations are beginning to move into a new normal after the COVID-19 pandemic response affected their businesses. With lockdown orders lifted and the phased approach to reopening, business owners and executives are seeking out ways to ramp up business quickly and keep their employees safe. Many companies furloughed or laid off staff and will be running at reduced staff levels for a period of time.
Retaining clients and customers is important for any business at any time. During times of uncertainty, it can be especially challenging. Clients may be unwilling or unable to commit due to financial concerns. You can still make efforts to keep these customers by changing how you work with them.
Cash flow is critical to any business, no matter its size. With poor cash flow management, even a profitable business can end up in bankruptcy. If the amount of cash coming in is less than what's being spent, businesses are unable to make investments or will need to borrow money to stay afloat.
This week, LinkedIn published a piece from their Workforce Confidence Index sharing that freelancers "reported lower confidence in their financial stability than the unemployed." As if we're not all inundated with enough bad news, there's no need to state the obvious. Most of us are shaken and concerned right now as nearly any business is affected by the pandemic. Even more interesting were the comments on the article from freelancers and entrepreneurs sharing their view of this crisis as an opportunity.
For freelancers, startups and small business owners, the COVID-19 pandemic likely has impacted daily life and your business. Startup funding is drying up, employees are being furloughed or in general, we're all living in a state of uncertainty. You may be wondering if there's anything that you can do that could save your business during a crisis.
Our advice - Don't Panic! You may be better off than you thought.
