Running a small business may be exhilarating, but it may also be frustrating, particularly when it comes to finances. One minute, you're flush with a big sale; the next, you’re juggling cash flow to cover expenses. Sometimes, it may feel like you’re all alone, drowning in spreadsheets and financial jargon and constantly working to put out fires.
But here’s the good news: You don’t have to go it alone.
By connecting with the right small business financial advisor, you’ll typically get more than just help with numbers and spreadsheets. You’re getting a partner who works to understand your business and your passion for it. They may be able to help you turn your financial challenges into opportunities for growth.
Ready to find your perfect financial partner? Let’s explore how to make that happen.
What is a financial services provider?
When we talk about a small business financial services provider, we mean all the organizations that offer financial services, not just banks. Yes, SMB banks are generally the most well known in this space, handling deposits, loans, and payment systems. However, they are only one part of the bigger financial picture. Financial service providers also include insurance companies that help shield you from financial setbacks, brokerage firms that assist with buying and selling investments, and savings and loan institutions that provide personalized advice along with great rates on savings.
For small business owners, partnering with the right financial services provider may make all the difference. They may provide valuable tools and insights that help you manage cash flow, find the funding you need to grow, and prepare for tax season. With their expertise, you may turn financial challenges into opportunities and concentrate on what you’re passionate about—growing your business.
What does a financial services provider do for a small business?
Think beyond the traditional idea of small business banking needs. A true small business financial services provider is like a GPS for your business journey, working as your partner in navigating the world of business finances. They’re not just holding your accounts - they’re offering custom solutions to help your business grow.
Financial management is often a foreign language for many entrepreneurs and small business owners. It's the necessary struggle that lets them pursue their passion. That’s where your provider steps in, translating the complicated stuff into actionable steps. They're not just a financial institution giving you small business banking tips; they're your partner in financial success. From simplifying processes to helping you prepare you for big financial milestones (hello, tax season!), they're generally here to support you every step of the way.
Here are a few of the services your financial provider may offer:
Loans
Growth often requires capital. Need to upgrade your equipment, expand operations, or hire new staff? A small business loan from your financial provider may help fuel that growth. The key is finding a loan option that matches your business needs and carefully reviewing the terms to make sure they complement, rather than complicate, your expansion plans.
Lines of credit
Sometimes you need cash to cover brief shortfalls, but don’t want the long-term commitment of a traditional loan. That’s generally where lines of credit shine. Think of a line of credit as a financial resource to help you navigate short-term challenges, from seasonal changes to unexpected costs, or even the lag between incoming revenue and outgoing payroll. Consulting with a small business financial advisor may help guide you in deciding if a line of credit is a smart choice for your operations.
Cash management
As a small business owner, you’ve probably heard the saying, “cash flow is king.” A financial services provider may be able to help you reign over your cash flow. With systems and experience to help with cash flow tracking and maintenance, simplifying accounts receivable and payable, improved forecasting, and even investing strategies so that you can help keep the cash flow, well… flowing. Getting help on cash management generally prevents financial hiccups and keeps your business running like a well-oiled machine.
Accounts
Having the right business accounts is typically key to being on top of your finances. From day-to-day operations with a business checking account to processing payments through merchant accounts, your financial services provider makes it easy to manage your money. With the right small business banking needs in place, you’ll generally have better visibility on spending, improved cash flow, and less headaches at tax time.
Guidance and advice
A small business financial advisor may be the key to improving your business’s success, providing guidance that goes beyond just transactions and small business banking tips. From risk management to growth strategy, they are your trusted partner in helping your business succeed. With their guidance, you may tackle tough financial situations and make informed decisions for your business.
5 tips to strengthen your relationship with your financial services provider
To be successful, your relationship with your financial services provider needs to be more than simply transactional. Your relationship needs to be a partnership. Just like any good partnership, it requires communication and mutual understanding of goals, challenges, and opportunities. By honestly engaging with your provider, you may tap into their expertise to navigate the complex financial landscape and have the support you need as your business grows. Here’s tips on how:
-
Communicate your needs and goals
As with any good partnership, communication is key. Be honest with your financial provider about your business goals, short term and long term so they can get a complete picture of where you want to go. When your financial advisor understands your aspirations, they may tailor their services to what you need, whether it’s financing, investment, or cash flow advice.
2. Set consistent check-ins
Develop the habit of meeting with your financial advisor on a regular basis, even when things seem to be going smoothly. Regular check-ins and openness to feedback allow you to review your financial status, tweak your strategies, and stay ahead of any issues that might arise.
3. Be transparent about business challenges
It’s important to be open with your financial partner. Yes, sharing business problems may feel scary. But remember, your financial services provider has been around the block and seen it all. Whether it’s a revenue slump or mounting debt, being upfront (and open to feedback) may open doors to solutions you might not have considered.
4. Tap into expertise
Keep in mind that your financial provider does much more than handle transactions. They may bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to the table. Make the most of their financial guidance to enhance risk management, drive growth, and navigate the complexities of your business’s financial health.
5. Discuss new products and solutions
The world of finance is always evolving, and staying informed about new products or services may benefit your business. Your provider may be your personal scout, always on the lookout for new tools. A new loan type that fits your business better? A new cash management system? New tools that may make running your business faster and easier? Be sure you are discussing these opportunities with your provider.
Choose the right financial services provider for business growth
You don’t build a business alone. It’s all about having the right people in your corner, and your financial services provider should be one of them. They’re not just a supplier - they’re a partner in your story. When you’re shopping for a provider, don’t just look at their service menu. Take time to research and find one that gets the rollercoaster ride of running a small business.
Think of your ideal provider as a financial co-pilot. Build a relationship that may help you through the good times and the bad. If you do, you’ll generally be better equipped to handle any financial hurdles, grab new opportunities, and drive long-term growth.
With the right provider, you don’t have to feel like you’re going it alone. Whether you need better cash management, strategic advice, or the right small business loans for growth, a good relationship with your provider may make all the difference.
