As the world moves towards technological advancements, customer expectations increase, and omnichannel commerce is also rising. These are just a couple of factors that drastically revolutionize the world of retail. Due to Covid-19, the industry already has thin margins. With added pressure from these factors, uncertainty and cost-related pressures might increase for retailers, opening the door to opportunities for several retailers. There is no debate that traditional approaches will no longer be helpful in the modern retail industry during the pandemic. As the sector is on the verge of transformation, it’s time to rethink some of the retail industry’s ways to fulfill its true potential. Retailers who quickly respond to these changes will get the upper hand over those who don’t.
In this pandemic, the retail industry is under transformation. The industry’s rules are redefining, and there is a desperate need for fresh thinking. It’s time to undertake a new approach towards store operations – while the high-tech machines take center stage and engage customers, customers also need to feel convenience all around them. The technology accumulates and combines information for a consistent customer experience. Our own “things to come store” includes continuous detection, RFID, overwhelming interest in the information lake, and the expected justification for describing the customer’s business. In any case, technology is only part of the puzzle; Understanding the status of activities also includes browsing, new store forms, and improving store group skills. Such a change can add some profit targets to the regular store.
In an elegant chain, we distinguish the measures that active organizations have taken, which incorporate at a fundamental level. The flexible modification of their chain allows an authentic omnichannel experience, the adoption of increasingly coordinated strategies when planning the flexible organization of the chain, the assembly of new capacities, and the modification of its working model. We’re looking at how retailers can stay on top of customer wishes as omnichannel shopping becomes the new standard, including creating and maintaining an associated inventory system, which extends simplicity and inventory access, regardless of where it is in the chain, for free to meet customer needs.
We investigated the open door not found in misappropriated expenses during the acquisition: costs in goods or administrations not destined for resale. Organizations can and should investigate the misappropriation of expenditures and install new working procedures and methods, including the use of increasingly advanced review instruments, strengthening joint efforts by suppliers, and a broader perspective of the company on outliers rather than essentially obtaining them. Retailers that generate outliers can cut spending, earn more value, and reveal money that can be reinvested as an essential aspect of a more substantial business change.
We perceive that every change a retailer makes today is based on technology-based solutions, and they often lose the mark regarding desires. With different regulations between the IT office and the rest of the organization, many physical retailers fight for an incentive for their IT business. Retailers must become technology-oriented partnerships, which will require commercial investment as usual. Finally, the evolution of perspectives, capabilities, and working methods is fundamental in developed IT territories such as improvement and applications framework and central business divisions such as offers, promotion, elegant chain, and advertising.
This should be an incredible time in the United States retail business. Buyer certainty has finally returned to pre-crisis levels. Americans saw their additional cash flow per dollar in dollars per capita increase by 20% between early 2014 and mid-2019.
However, despite the slight monetary situation, many physical stores are struggling. The high spike in web-based activities in 2016 accounted for more than 40% of the development of retail transactions in the United States. In our latest customer survey, 82% of US customers reported having conducted online cash transactions in the last quarter, and a similar rate used their cell phones to choose their purchases. Of course, younger customers increasingly prefer e-commerce: 42% of recent college graduates say they lean toward online retail and stay away from indoor and outdoor stores outside when they can.
All in All
Overall, we accept that the store to come will likely reap EBIT benefits twice as high as today, with the added benefits of better customer experience, better worker engagement, and a more straightforward Torun store. The necessary technology to achieve this modified P&L is now accessible, and we believe it to be a positive ROI.
About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.
Today’s the age of technology which has completely changed the world of labor. Now, we are no longer required to go to a market to seek a service or a product. Whatever services and products we need can be provided to us with a single click through the applications installed on our laptops and phones; this impression means that the small business economy can drive substantial development and progress by Uberizing.
What is Uberization?
The term “uberization” comes from the world-famous transport company called ‘Uber.’ Uberization means anticipating a disruption before it becomes disruptive and your business falls one step behind the competition. Uberization is a business model where sellers and customers communicate directly through their mobile phones using technology, websites, or software. These parties make agreements for the services a supplier offers, customer requirements, and payment terms and conditions.
Now, here, we are talking about uberization. Let’s see how and where it all started. We all have heard about Uber, the rideshare company that introduced this business model and transformed how people move around a city. Uber is a transport service you benefit from by booking a ride from your smartphone whenever and wherever you need it. The company’s idea became so popular that many people have stopped using ordinary transportation like a taxi or a cab.
To summarize the concept of uberization, here are a few brief pointers to help you understand it better.
Use of digital platforms for peer-to-peer dealings and communication.
Lessening the distance between client and service provider.
Evaluation of the worth and quality of the product or service through an online rating system.
For example, eBay, TaskRabbit, Uber, and Airbnb are many examples of rising Uberizing.
Following are a few examples of how Uberizing can be helpful and advantageous for the growth and progress of small businesses.
Targeting potential customers
Online navigation tracking is to catch potential customers looking for a particular product. Online retailers monitor such clients and provide complementary products or services along with cost comparisons. The websites thoroughly describe the product, availability, customer satisfaction, expected delivery date, and order tracking details. A survey shows that 50% of customers purchase a different product from the one they initially intended to buy during Christmas. It is quite an ordinary happening, and it is due to the online research customers do for their required products. Online stores attract and divert customers to buy their products by providing them with exciting details within seconds.
Customers can take their time before buying the products
Buying products online has numerous benefits and points. Buyers have various options, many choices, and the freedom to compare several brands at a time, with no unnecessary pressure from a seller to buy their product. Customers compare different products, analyze the pros and cons of buying them, and keep ordering until they are delighted. Online purchasing or uberization is now one of the ideal services available to customers. The ease of purchasing different items without leaving your home is one of the many benefits of uberization. These are driving small businesses towards growth and progress.
Flexible, fast, and smooth service
Uberization is an emerging business because it listens to what the customer demands. The customer expects all the necessary information regarding products or services to be presented without delays—for example, expected delivery time, location, and refunding charges. Satisfied reviews are the most effective attention-driving services provided to the customers.
Control of purchases
Customers can choose the time, date, and location they want their purchased product delivered. Hence, they find it more convenient to utilize online services.
Saves time
Uberization saves a lot of time and allows small businesses to grow. Building a real, tangible office space, hiring staff, and marketing your product is quite an extensive process. On the contrary, if you develop a virtual online store or service room, all three are done in one go. It not only saves time but also ensures growth.
About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.
Becoming an entrepreneur and being your boss is realizing the American dream, which everybody should strive for in life. It takes a lot of courage, hard work, and investment of time, money, and emotion. Unfortunately, there are several where the entrepreneur in question is unsuccessful in their venture for every success story. Whether it be outside circumstances, poor planning, or simply a matter of giving up, it is a struggle to maintain your business and have it break even, let alone run a profit. But being a successful entrepreneur isn’t always about running a profitable business or living up to the stereotypical suit-and-tie corporate lifestyle. It’s about having the right mindset that helps propel you to success, as that, coupled with patience and planning, can help you achieve the American Dream. We’ll list some things that can help develop your mindset and become successful.
Being Goal-Oriented
Setting goals to achieve and marking each in ascending order is essential to tick off your list. Keep expanding your goals one step at a time, and prioritize your tasks accordingly. Plan well in advance, give yourself a timeline to complete your goals, and focus on long-term and short-term goals. As Warren Buffet has been quoted as saying, “Someone’s sitting in the shade today because someone planted a tree a long time ago.”
Learn to Take Criticism
It’s hard to acknowledge that you have faults or that you may have made a mistake. To be successful, you’ll have to leave your ego at the door, as it will probably take a beating as your best ideas or plans might not be as feasible or doable as possible. Don’t take it personally; try to see it as constructive feedback.
Take Full Responsibility
Remember that you’re in charge not only of your business but also of your employees and everything the business does. Regardless of the circumstances, a successful owner takes complete control of the comings and goings of their business. By owning any failure or event, they empower themselves to change it for the better. Regardless of whose fault it may be, in the end, it is your responsibility to your business that you have it resolved and take the appropriate measures needed.
Keep Researching and Learning
There will be bad and good days, but you must keep it grounded in reality and have a positive outlook on everything. Even the most successful entrepreneurs have bad days where they feel the stress of the situation taking over. What truly separates them from others is that they don’t allow it to affect how they do business or their personal life and always try to look for the silver lining in everything. That kind of attitude can help you keep yourself healthy and allow you to come up with solutions outside the box.
Keep it Optimistic
Developing a successful mindset requires plenty of research and a professional demeanor. It’s crucial that you distinguish between your personal and professional life and that you don’t allow one to affect the other. When you own your own business, it will be more than inevitable that your personal life will clash with your professional. Try not to allow your emotions to take over your company; instead, keep yourself detached and use your expertise and skills to resolve issues. Remember that you are your boss, and if you feel your gut instinct has more merit than the advice of an expert, go for your gut feeling.
Running a business is a way of life, a commitment that demands constant attention 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Use every free moment you have dedicated to helping your business grow, and you should spend your time researching more about the industry you’re in and checking out your competitors. Keep yourself well informed of the latest technologies and the comings and goings of your business.
About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.
As an entrepreneur, it’s easy to become obsessed with productivity and run from every pillar to post to grow your business. Unfortunately, such behavior is neither healthy nor sustainable. Entrepreneurship isn’t a three-minute sprint; instead, it’s a marathon. You need to ensure that you’re not sacrificing your physical and mental health while working hard for your startup.
This piece discusses some crucial tips to avoid overworking yourself as an entrepreneur.
Take Proper Test
Sleep plays an instrumental role in your well-being. If you’re gradually sacrificing your sleep to work for long durations, it can take a toll on your health and business. Hence, you should always ensure that you’re well-rested. To help you get more sleep, you should track your sleeping habits as aggressively as you do your retail returns. Every person needs a different amount of sleep. So, find one that works for you and stick to it. Second, curate the ideal environment for rest. Removing screens from the bedroom, using blackout shades, and using good sheets can help.
Find Time for Exercise
As an entrepreneur, you must face various challenges every day. It’s best to find a release for the pent-up frustration. Find a time to exercise to prevent negative feelings from weighing you down. A regular workout routine can do more than burn calories; it can also be a great way to release stress. You can opt for any activity that you enjoy and can perform regularly. Whether going on a walk or attending a boxing class, find something to help your body move and clear your mind of troubling thoughts.
Spend Time with Your Loved Ones
Human beings are social animals. We are programmed to connect with other people despite being shy or introverted. Take some time out of your tight schedule and connect with a close friend or family member. It doesn’t necessarily have to be a visit to their house. A simple phone call or video chat could also work. Ensure that you don’t talk about work and share personal stories to keep the conversation lighter and more meaningful.
Take Frequent Breaks During the Day
This tip seems simple but can be tricky to follow. Extracting yourself from that environment can be challenging when you’re constantly busy at work. Even taking a lunch break could feel like a waste of time. However, this is not healthy. If you want to increase your productivity at work and keep your health intact, you must take regular breaks from work. Step away from your computer now and then and relax. You can also go out for lunch once a week to get a change of scenery.
Keep Personal and Professional Life Separate
Don’t make a habit of bringing work home every night. Try to forget about work for a while when you’re at home. If you live alone, indulge in your favorite activities. In contrast, if you have family, spend quality time with them and ask about their day. Similarly, make sure that you’re not bringing any house troubles to work. If you’ve fought with your spouse early in the morning, don’t let it spill into your office life.
Divide Up Responsibilities at Work
When you start a new business, you’ll find it tempting to get involved in every aspect of your work. However, this can harm your business. Learn to delegate responsibilities. For instance, if you use various digital marketing tools to promote your startup online, hire a team of professionals to look after each channel. Furthermore, don’t try to micromanage your employees. Job satisfaction arises when employees gain decision-making power in their positions.
Create Opportunities for Work
A great way to break the monotony of your workdays is to create avenues for growth. Closely monitor your employee’s performance and offer them incentives to perform better. Show them that if they work hard, they’ll also benefit from the company’s growth. After all, no one wants to feel like they’re working a dead-end job with no future. Give your workers a roadmap to success and witness your worries evaporate.
The Bottom Line
In a nutshell, working as an entrepreneur can be extremely challenging and can make you neglect your health. Make sure you recognize this problem and take adequate steps to resolve it. Some of the things you can do to maintain your energy levels are taking breaks from work, practicing good sleep, connecting with loved ones, delegating responsibilities, and helping your employees grow.
About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.
Customer experience is a significant differentiator when it comes to creating a profitable market (CX). Differentiating goods or services is challenging because customers have access to retailers from all over the world. Aside from a few unusual exceptions, shoppers can typically find several companies that meet their needs. “Why would they choose you?” is the issue to ponder.
While customer acquisition is essential, so is customer retention. In this situation, a widespread misunderstanding in corporate circles is that delighting customers is the secret to retaining and increasing customer satisfaction. Unfortunately, research has shown that this is not the case and that while consumer delight may be beneficial, it maintains customer loyalty.
Your customer experience is the critical differentiator that can set your company apart from the competition. This measure has become a focal point for many companies seeking to expand. According to a new Gartner report, 66% of advertisers believe that customer experience is the battlefield of the future.
Fortunately, intelligent automation (IA) will help improve CX by attracting new consumers and retaining existing ones.
The pace at which problems settle is one factor that affects CX. Customers can also express their frustration via social media and other forums, and one area often discussed is the support offered to clients.
Many companies struggle with the pace with which they respond to customers when it comes to customer service. Although adding personnel to assist will aid in the near run, it is not a long-term approach to growth. However, with IA, specific solutions are introducing a significant impact.
Chat and Self-service
One place where IA can be highly beneficial is with chatbots, which I discuss frequently. Chatbots can respond to customer requests 24 hours a day, seven days a week, reducing the time it takes for consumers to receive a response. Chatbots operated by artificial intelligence (AI) can also aid in problem-solving. According to the MIT Technology Review, AI-powered chatbots have helped 90% of companies boost complaint resolution.
Chatbots are especially effective at assisting clients with problems when combined with self-service platforms such as knowledgebases. In specific ways, chatbots can help a company deflect between 30% and 50% of the load it needs to tackle, allowing agents to concentrate on more complicated and vital demands.
Omnichannel
The omnichannel dimension is another field that often goes unnoticed. Consumers now want companies to have a consistent experience regardless of how they interact with them. Making a service request via chat, email, or web form and then following up with a phone call is a stressful experience for many customers.
In these situations, users often must repeat all of their questions and problems, wasting time and effort. Customers often move between networks and companies that support omnichannel recognize this.
How AI and Data Can Improve CX
With over 2.5 quintillion bytes of data produced daily, businesses must learn how to cut through the clutter to have a meaningful interface for their consumers — and this is where IA will aid.
Using AI to Build Customized Offers
IA can combine with techniques like data analytics to help analyze data and the trends it poses. Companies can better understand what people are interested in and what they may be interested in following this data. This technology has proven highly popular at Netflix, where the algorithm generates customized viewing suggestions for millions of consumers worldwide.
IA can assist in more than just personalized content curation. Consumers are still looking for unique and creative goods and services that can help suit their needs.
Gathering client input is a great way to determine what’s working and what needs to change in every business.
Thanks to IA, this data can turn into actionable observations that businesses can use in their product roadmaps.
Using AI to Help Your Teams
The quality of service rendered is a frequent criticism leveled at service teams in many industries. Additional preparation is often suggested as a way to close this gap. This approach works, but it takes a lot of time and effort.
Fortunately, IA options can complement current capabilities by providing feedback and prompts at critical decision points. Combining technologies and people will help automate complicated experiences while improving the overall customer experience.
Bottom line
Artificial intelligence (AI) plays a significant role in the automation industry. Different innovations in the tech industry boost AI, including other chatbots and algorithms that assist customers on time.
About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.
Suppose you are an entrepreneur who has recently stepped into a new venture. In that case, you are most likely to need proper accounting software that will help you with the recording of data as well as projections regarding revenue generation and the preparation of budgets.
Given the volume of transactions and payments to be recorded for small businesses, you might not have to spend a fortune or purchase the right and most apt accounting software. A basic software with essential functionalities such as invoice creation ability, general ledger, inventory details, and purchase history is enough for an SME to run its operations smoothly.
Most basic accounting software for small and medium-sized businesses comes with guided help features that help run operations with a step-by-step guide and act as tour guides for the software, helping understand controls and highlight any possible errors.
Here are a few ways guided help boxes in accounting software can help small business owners run the accounting software themselves or make it easier for new accountants and bookkeepers.
Highlighting errors: One of the most crucial functions of the guided help box is highlighting potential mistakes in the finance sheet. Suppose any figure has potentially compromised the balance of your finance sheet or your income or expenses are more than your total. In that case, the guide feature in accounting software quickly highlights any such entries that could have crucial errors impacting your entire finance sheet. Additionally, it highlights any mistakes in inventory management and helps you maintain your product stock to better cater to your customers.
Budget allocation: Guided help boxes make budget allocation easier. Suppose your allocated budget or the percentage of funding allocated to a particular part of your business exceeds the rate you initially decided. In that case, the built-in feature of accounting software will highlight the areas of concern, helping you plan your budget efficiently. If your business is new and your revenue is comparatively lower, your expenses are expected to surpass your income. Guided help from the accounting tool helps you check your costs and thus keep track of your budget.
Inventory control: If your business involves buying and selling many inventories, manually checking your stock can be quite a hassle. Guided help in software highlights is when the supply of a particular product is low, intimating you that you must restock. Additionally, any articles with a restricted shelf life also appear highlighted in your software, securing you from potential loss by helping you identify products with nearing expiry and thus putting them ahead of the rest of the stock.
Payment intimation: Proper accounting software includes built-in controls for expense management, payroll, taxation, balance sheet, fixed assets, and cash flows, as well as inventory, sales, and customer management. With all these features, it becomes easy to track and schedule payments. Any payments due or are due to receive are highlighted, allowing you to inform your payer or schedule your payment in time. Good accounting software with guided help assists adequately in managing the payroll.
Tax calculation: Guided help in accounting matters is a great help when it comes to resolving the tax matters of SMEs. Business owners or accountants can easily create income tax statements, calculate the Value Added Tax (VAT), and prepare a comprehensive financial report, including the taxation on all transactions. It helps you understand business taxes better and allows you to file your taxes on time.
Tutorial functionality: One of the essential tasks that guided help boxes perform is the tutorial functionality. A dialogue box at every step of the accounting and bookkeeping management helps accountants/bookkeepers/SME owners better understand the software’s functionality and thus perform finance management tasks with great precision and efficiency. This tutorial functionality makes it easy for a bookkeeping novice to record the data and carry out bookkeeping tasks.
About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.
Empower Your Business: The Role of Accounting Statements for Entrepreneurs
Accounting statements for entrepreneurs are the financial documents that show your business’s complete financial picture—including what you own, what you owe, how much you’re earning, and where your cash is flowing. These core documents include the balance sheet, income statement, cash flow statement, and statement of owner’s equity, and they serve as your business’s financial health report card that guides smart decisions, attracts investors, and prevents the cash flow problems that kill 82% of small businesses.
I’ve spent over 20 years as CEO of Complete Controller working with thousands of businesses across every industry imaginable, and I’ve witnessed the transformation that happens when entrepreneurs finally understand their financial statements. The companies that thrive are the ones whose founders treat these documents as strategic tools rather than compliance paperwork—and in this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to read, interpret, and leverage your accounting statements to build a stronger, more profitable business that can weather any storm and seize every opportunity.
What are accounting statements for entrepreneurs, and why do they matter?
Accounting statements for entrepreneurs include the balance sheet, income statement, cash flow statement, and statement of owner’s equity—your complete financial toolkit.
The balance sheet shows what you own (assets) versus what you owe (liabilities), giving you a snapshot of your business’s net worth at any moment.
The income statement tracks your revenues and expenses over a specific period, revealing whether you’re making or losing money.
The cash flow statement monitors actual cash movement in and out of your business, preventing the liquidity crises that cause most failures.
The statement of owner’s equity tracks changes in your ownership stake, including retained earnings and new investments.
The Foundation: Understanding Your Business’s Financial Health
Starting a business without understanding accounting statements is like driving cross-country without a map or GPS. The statistics paint a sobering picture: 60% of small business owners admit they lack confidence in their accounting knowledge, and 42% had minimal financial literacy before launching their ventures. This knowledge gap directly contributes to the harsh reality that 20% of new businesses fail within two years, and nearly half don’t make it to year five.
Your accounting statements work together like instruments in a dashboard, each providing critical information about different aspects of your business. The balance sheet gives you a point-in-time snapshot, the income statement shows performance over time, the cash flow statement tracks your lifeblood of liquid assets, and the equity statement monitors your ownership position. Master these four documents, and you’ll spot problems before they become crises and opportunities before your competitors do.
The Balance Sheet: Your Business’s Financial Snapshot
The balance sheet follows a simple formula: Assets = Liabilities + Owner’s Equity. This document captures everything your business owns and owes at a specific moment, providing the foundation for understanding your company’s financial position. Your assets include cash, accounts receivable, inventory, equipment, and property, while liabilities encompass accounts payable, loans, and other debts.
Understanding your balance sheet helps you make critical decisions about leverage, liquidity, and growth capacity. A healthy balance sheet shows sufficient current assets to cover short-term liabilities, reasonable debt levels relative to equity, and growing asset values over time. Review your balance sheet at least quarterly to track trends in working capital, debt ratios, and overall financial strength—these metrics directly impact your ability to secure financing, negotiate with suppliers, and weather economic downturns.
Key balance sheet metrics every entrepreneur should track
The current ratio (current assets divided by current liabilities) tells you whether you can pay your bills over the next 12 months—aim for at least 1.5 to 1. Your debt-to-equity ratio reveals how much you’re relying on borrowed money versus your own investment, with lower ratios generally indicating stronger financial health. Working capital (current assets minus current liabilities) shows your operational liquidity cushion.
Debt Service Coverage Ratio: Net Operating Income / Total Debt Service—shows ability to pay debts
Return on Assets: Net Income / Total Assets—indicates how efficiently you use resources
Asset Turnover: Revenue / Average Total Assets—reveals productivity of your investments
The Income Statement: Tracking Profitability and Performance
Your income statement (also called the profit and loss statement or P&L) tells the story of your business’s financial performance over a specific period—monthly, quarterly, or annually. Starting with revenue at the top, it subtracts various categories of expenses to arrive at your net income or loss. This document answers the fundamental question every entrepreneur needs to know: am I making money?
The power of the income statement lies in its ability to reveal trends and pinpoint problems. By comparing statements across multiple periods, you can identify whether revenues are growing, which expense categories are ballooning, and how seasonal patterns affect your business. Smart entrepreneurs use their income statements to calculate gross profit margins, operating margins, and net profit margins—then benchmark these against industry standards to gauge competitive performance.
Reading between the lines of your P&L
Beyond the bottom line, your income statement reveals critical insights about business efficiency and scalability. Gross margin (revenue minus cost of goods sold, divided by revenue) indicates your core profitability before overhead expenses. Operating margin factors in your administrative costs, showing whether your business model is sustainable. Watch for expense categories growing faster than revenue—this often signals inefficiencies that need immediate attention.
Pay special attention to the relationship between fixed and variable costs on your income statement. Businesses with high fixed costs need significant revenue to break even but can scale profitably once they do. Those with mostly variable costs have more flexibility but may struggle to achieve strong margins. Understanding your cost structure helps you make better pricing decisions, negotiate with suppliers, and plan for growth.
The Cash Flow Statement: Your Business’s Lifeline
Here’s a sobering fact that should grab every entrepreneur’s attention: 82% of small business failures result from cash flow mismanagement, not lack of profitability. Your cash flow statement bridges the gap between theoretical profit and actual money in the bank, tracking every dollar that flows in and out of your business across three categories: operating activities, investing activities, and financing activities.
Operating cash flow reveals whether your core business generates enough cash to sustain itself without external funding. Investing activities show cash spent on assets like equipment or received from asset sales. Financing activities track money from loans, investments, or paid to lenders and investors. The bottom line—net change in cash—tells you whether your cash position improved or deteriorated during the period.
Why profitable businesses run out of cash
The disconnect between profit and cash flow catches many entrepreneurs off guard. Consider a B2B manufacturer showing $1.5 million annual profit on $10 million revenue—healthy 15% margins by any measure. Yet this same business nearly collapsed because customers paid on 60-day terms while suppliers demanded payment in 30 days, creating a working capital crisis despite strong profitability.
Monitor Days Sales Outstanding (DSO)—how long customers take to pay
Track Days Payable Outstanding (DPO)—how long you take to pay suppliers
Calculate Cash Conversion Cycle: DSO + Inventory Days – DPO
Build cash reserves equal to at least 3-6 months of operating expenses
Negotiate payment terms that align with your cash flow cycle
The Statement of Owner’s Equity: Tracking Your Stake
The statement of owner’s equity (or shareholders’ equity for corporations) documents changes in ownership value over time. Starting with beginning equity, it adds net income and owner contributions, then subtracts losses and distributions to arrive at ending equity. This statement connects your income statement to your balance sheet, showing how business performance affects ownership value.
For growing businesses, the equity statement becomes increasingly important as you bring in partners, investors, or employee shareholders. It tracks dilution from new equity raises, the impact of retained earnings on company value, and distributions to owners. Smart entrepreneurs use this statement to balance growth reinvestment with personal income needs, making strategic decisions about when to take profits versus when to plow them back into expansion.
From Compliance to Competitive Advantage
Investors and lenders demand clean, accurate financial statements—typically requiring 12-18 months of organized financial data before they’ll even consider funding your business. This requirement isn’t arbitrary; it demonstrates financial discipline, provides data for projections, and reveals whether you understand your own business model. Companies with strong financial reporting raise capital faster and on better terms than those scrambling to reconstruct their records.
Beyond external requirements, your accounting statements provide the intelligence needed for strategic decision-making. They help you identify which products or services generate the most profit, when to hire new employees, whether you can afford major purchases, and how much inventory to carry. The most successful entrepreneurs I’ve worked with schedule monthly statement reviews, treating them as strategic planning sessions rather than administrative tasks.
Building your financial review rhythm
Schedule monthly internal reviews for all four statements
Compare actual results to budgets and prior periods
Calculate and track 5-10 key performance indicators (KPIs)
Quarterly deep dives with your accountant or CFO
Annual strategic planning based on financial trends
Technology and Modern Financial Management
The accounting landscape has transformed dramatically, with 95% of accounting practices now using cloud-based software and 63% reporting improved client service after making the switch. Cloud accounting platforms provide real-time financial data, automatic bank reconciliation, integrated invoicing and payments, mobile access for on-the-go monitoring, and collaborative features for working with advisors.
This technology shift isn’t just about convenience—it’s about competitive advantage. Businesses using modern accounting systems spot trends faster, reduce errors through automation, and make data-driven decisions with confidence. The accounting software market is projected to exceed $1 trillion by 2026, driven by entrepreneurs who recognize that better financial data leads to better business outcomes.
Real-World Impact: The ABC Real Estate Transformation
ABC Real Estate’s transformation illustrates the power of taking financial statements seriously. The company struggled with inaccurate reporting, poor investment analysis, and runaway costs until bringing in a strategic CFO who revolutionized their financial systems. Within one year, the company achieved enhanced reporting accuracy, optimized capital structure, launched a successful new division, and became the top-rated builder in their market.
The key lesson from ABC Real Estate’s success: investing in financial excellence isn’t overhead—it’s a growth strategy. Their new financial discipline enabled better investment decisions, attracted more favorable financing terms, and provided the confidence to pursue strategic diversification. This case proves that entrepreneurs who master their financial statements don’t just survive; they build industry-leading companies.
Taking Action on Your Financial Future
After two decades of helping entrepreneurs navigate their financial journeys, I’ve learned that success comes down to discipline and systems. The companies that thrive are those whose founders commit to regular financial review, invest in proper tools and expertise, and view their accounting statements as strategic assets rather than compliance burdens.
Start by scheduling your first monthly financial review within the next week. Gather your latest statements, identify three metrics to track consistently, and commit to making this a non-negotiable part of your routine. If you need expert guidance on implementing cloud-based bookkeeping systems or understanding your financial statements, our team at Complete Controller specializes in helping entrepreneurs build the financial foundation for lasting success. Visit Complete Controller to learn how we can support your growth journey.
Frequently Asked Questions About Accounting Statements for Entrepreneurs
What are the four main accounting statements every entrepreneur needs to understand?
The four essential accounting statements are the balance sheet (showing assets, liabilities, and equity), income statement (tracking revenues and expenses), cash flow statement (monitoring cash movement), and statement of owner’s equity (documenting ownership changes). Each provides different insights into your business’s financial health.
How often should I review my business’s accounting statements?
Review your accounting statements monthly at minimum, with quarterly deep-dive analyses. During rapid growth or challenging periods, weekly cash flow reviews may be necessary. Consistency matters more than frequency—establish a rhythm and stick to it.
Why do profitable businesses sometimes fail due to cash flow problems?
Profit and cash flow are different concepts. You can show profit on your income statement while waiting 60-90 days for customer payments, but bills and payroll require immediate cash. This timing mismatch creates cash flow crises that kill otherwise profitable businesses.
What financial documents do investors require during due diligence?
Investors typically require 12-18 months of complete financial statements, including all four core documents, bank statements, tax returns, and detailed revenue breakdowns. They examine these to verify your track record and assess future potential.
Should I manage my own accounting statements or hire professionals?
While understanding your statements is non-negotiable, most successful entrepreneurs combine personal knowledge with professional support. Use cloud-based tools for daily tracking, but engage experienced bookkeepers or accountants for accurate statement preparation and strategic analysis.
About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.
Jennifer BrazerFounder/CEO
Jennifer is the author of From Cubicle to Cloud and Founder/CEO of Complete Controller, a pioneering financial services firm that helps entrepreneurs break free of traditional constraints and scale their businesses to new heights.
Brittany McMillen is a seasoned Marketing Manager with a sharp eye for strategy and storytelling. With a background in digital marketing, brand development, and customer engagement, she brings a results-driven mindset to every project. Brittany specializes in crafting compelling content and optimizing user experiences that convert. When she’s not reviewing content, she’s exploring the latest marketing trends or championing small business success.
Just a few years ago, most of the tech industry had written off augmented reality as a silly little gimmick for smartphones and apps that were the new, hot commodity at the time. Cut to the present day, augmented reality is undoubtedly starting to prove itself a valuable pillar of modern technology across most entertainment, communication, and education industries.
Here are a few ways your company could leverage the power of augmented reality to boost its socialmedia marketing endeavors.
Branded Filters
Filters are all the rage among the younger generation, especially on apps like Snapchat and Instagram. These filters use augmented reality technology to let users apply quirky visuals and features to their images, such as flower crowns, big eyes, and even puppy ears.
Even brands have tried to get in on the fun. One example is Taco Bell, which ran a popular social media campaign for Cinco De Mayo in partnership with Snapchat. Users could use the app to turn their faces into giant tacos featuring the Taco Bell logo. Millions of such images were posted all over social media, greatly benefiting Taco Bell’s social media reach.
Try Before You Buy
Online shopping has become a massive mega-industry, but one thing has always held it back. People like to try something before buying them; this goes for clothes, shoes, and even furniture. Some brands already offer innovative solutions to this problem.
Adidas worked with Snapchat in 2019 to provide customers a way to virtually ‘try on’ shoes from their homes before buying them. Although this may not be a perfect one-to-one experience, customers can at least see what the shoe looks like on their feet and how the colors pair with existing outfits.
Ikea now has an app that allows users to create an augmented reality projection of any furniture from their catalog right in their homes. The AR projections are perfectly scaled, allowing customers to see just how a piece of furniture will look and fit in their home. The app will enable users to angle their furniture and experiment with different positions and places within their homes. This app brings the Ikea experience right to your bedroom.
Instagram has recently announced it will allow any brand to offer such AR experiences using its social media platform, so it looks like this means of utilizing AR is set to become a new social media standard.
We’ve all experienced it. You’re at a store, and you see something you like, but you don’t need it, and perhaps there’s no practical reason even to buy it, but you end up purchasing it. It is called i. Impulse buying. That’s okay, and it’s only worse on social media because you no longer need to go to the mall; all it takes is a click of a button.
Augmented reality takes impulse buying to a whole new extreme. Platforms like Instagram offer brands a platform to put up a link on social media that takes you to a shopping page at the push of a button; this combines the simulated realism of shopping in person with the ease of purchase only found on social media.
Heightened Immersion
Holding the attention of potential customers on social media is a challenge. People’s newsfeeds constantly update with the latest news, ads, and posts from their friends, and fa- oh, look a kitten. All jokes aside, it’s true that attention is the most valuable currency on social media, and brands constantly fight for a larger slice of mindshare. No matter how visually appealing, image-based ads can only hold people’s attention for so long, and most people watch a video for mere seconds before scrolling away. Augmented reality can offer users a unique experience that grips their attention long enough to market a product or service.
Augmented Tech Demos
Whether or not a new technology will succeed or fail always depends on how well it works. First impressions matter; that’s why tech expos and media shows like the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) are so popular; tech companies use these shows to display their technology live to large audiences and prove how well they work.
Augmented reality allows companies to broadcast such displays across social media to enable users to engage with the demo interactively, virtually experiencing how a new technology functions as if they could reach out and touch it.
In Conclusion
With so many innovative ways to use augmented reality and new opportunities constantly coming to life as technology evolves, it’s clear that AR deserves a rightful place as the next central pillar in social media marketing. Brands should consider investing in augmented reality or risk missing the next step in digital interaction between brands and customers.
About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.
Social media has become one of the defining phenomena of the 21st century, as the number of users worldwide is in the billions. Facebook has become the undisputed king of social media, reaching 59% of all social media users. Marketing firms and corporations have recognized the importance of displaying their products and services on social media sites and apps.
Social Media’s model of complex algorithms and personalized ads helps companies reach their target audience more effectively than at any other point in history. They have used it to their advantage. Social Media will continue to rise as more people in the older demographics engage with it than a decade ago.
Social media is a two-way street for communication, as corporations can engage with their audiences and receive real-time feedback and interactions with their consumer base. With the pandemic decimating local businesses and indoor shopping, the need for companies to have an online presence has become more critical than ever. Before investing in a marketing budget dedicated to social media, here are some things you should consider.
Marketing Has Become More Social
Yes, the pun was intended. But as more companies launch social media pages and channels, they have become more creative in interacting with users. Corporations have started trending hashtags or incorporating memes in their marketing strategies and have used humorous interactions with users to help increase traffic and visibility.
Wendy’s has continued to use their official Twitter page to roast their competitors and users and has been up to date in pop culture references and sponsorships to promote their menus and products. Companies like Wendy’s are already established names in the fast-food industry, and we suggest you try to engage more with your audience.
It helps build your brand, and your engagements don’t always have to respond to critiques or complaints. Try putting up polls and keep your social media up to date with the latest promotions or updates. Ensure your page is informative and that users can quickly learn more about your brand and company.
The Rise of Influencers
Social media has given birth to several influencers and celebrations that have garnered attention through social media pages and channels. Their content has touched millions of users of different genres, from make-up tutorials to gaming to vlog diaries. Their influence over their fanbase cannot be underestimated, as people like Logan Paul, PewDiePie, and Ninja have garnered legions of fans who have followed them closely for years. Companies have invested heavily in them, as the influencer market has become a $5-10 billion industry.
Approximately 20% of all companies spend over half of their marketing budget on influencers, as they have seen massive gains in traffic and visibility. It has become such a popular advertising model that several Hollywood celebrities have taken part in it, using their official social media channels to market their brand or a company’s product that’s sponsoring them.
The Rise of Smartphones
Smartphones have simplified the world we live in today. Need to pay off a friend? Use the Venmo App. Is your Electricity Bill overdue? Nothing the banking app can’t handle. Are you too tired to make dinner? Use the delivery app to personalize your favorite meal and get real-time updates on the distance of your order. The same goes for social media and marketing, which are no longer limited to television, print media, or radio. Advertisements can happen through your tablet, smartphone, laptop, or any other device you use on the internet.
The ease of access to follow their favorite channels and pages has given corporate marketing new ways to interact with consumers. As smartphone technology grows over time, with more people relying on their cell phones for internet and social media usage, businesses will garner a larger audience.
Social media sites have been using personalized ads based on their users’ demographics and interests to determine which ads to target. This tailored market approach has helped marketing firms and businesses reach their target audience relatively easily. Social media is truly the future for marketing firms, as the internet has become an integral part of our lives. Maintaining an online presence and being a part of social media would be best, as it’s more than a fad.
About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.
You have often heard it is cheaper to have current customers make a recurring buy than to find new customers. It is valid for numerous businesses, particularly in the packed e-commerce arena, where conversions and clicks increase costs.
When did you last search for opportunities to re-engage clients to have them return? If you have yet to market to present customers after sales, now is a great time to make an organized strategy for customer retention.
You put a lot of effort into getting new clients, and now you must focus on keeping them. You know that clients’ experiences and values are significant. You are only not sure how you want to capitalize on that.
Customer retention strategies are one of the most efficient approaches to turning new clients into repeat clients.
By making new chances for your customers, you can increase the worth of every person who buys from your e-commerce store. Let’s get into it.
What is Customer Retention?
Customer retention is the capability of an organization to hold its customers throughout a specific time. If an organization has excellent customer retention, that means its customer continues to purchase the same products again, resubscribe to the same services, or continue purchasing in another approach.
Customer retention is essential for two purposes: First, even if you add new business, you cannot develop your company or brand if you lose business instantaneously. The second purpose is unbelievably white and black: it is always more costly to get a new customer than to keep your recent customers and sell more to them.
Repeat business costs less to preserve. A fact is always a fact. Even though the worth of brand loyalty is nearly impossible to measure, marquee brands such as Coca-Cola, America Airlines, and Disney understand it is easier and not too expensive to adopt repeat customers. It is because retention marketing is more than influencing a new customer to make their first buy with your company. Your current customer base already identifies your brand and has decided to believe it. New leads cost more to get their contact data and foster them by the whole sales channel because they have not yet bought into (literally and figuratively).
Building Good Customer Experience
Appreciating your customer with a better customer experience brings higher user engagement and higher customer satisfaction and development.
Provide what you have committed. Most customers are empathetic and understanding if you are open about your restrictions. For instance, you tell customers that shipping might be delayed to their country because COVID-19 sets the proper expectations.
Creating strong customer relationships is also severe, particularly in business-to-business industries, where purchases mostly need a higher degree of interaction and more attention between team members. Buying your customers lunch or offering a thank-you gift or incentives following a meeting improves customer relationships over time. For e-commerce stores, going the extra mile by involving a handwritten note or including free-of-cost shipping with the order can raise the user experience and build a fleet of loyal customers.
The Importance of Excellent Customer Services
Excellent customer service at each communication point is also crucial to starting customer loyalty. One poor customer service experience can sour even a long-term customer relationship and waste all previous good experiences. Remember, trust is difficult to attain but easy to lose, especially when shoppers have numerous online retail options. Mistakes will occur. No system is foolproof. A friendly and efficient customer service experience satisfies your customer experience and never tarnishes.
Proposing perfect customer service is always vital. But especially when correcting a mistake or solving customer issues. How your customer support team controls this customer issue will influence how that customer thinks about your brand, maybe forever. Studies show that enhancing customer service KPIs such as response time can strengthen customer satisfaction extensively. Tools like presenting live chat on your website can modernize your customer’s experience and make you more likely to buy.
Shipment Tracking
Did you have an idea customer check their shipment and delivery tracking an average of 4.6 times for every online purchase, demonstrating the outstanding opportunity to drive more revenue and sales during the post-purchase stage? With new e-commerce apps, it becomes easy to make custom tracking page experiences that bring more deals.
Bottom Line
So, getting good customer retention is not rocket science. Making beautiful, pleasant, easy customer experiences is the number one thing you can do to attract customers to return and continue to perform so repeatedly. Focusing on excellent customer service and good customer support, consistent and fast communication cadence, and choosing the right tools to assist you in automating these procedures are all keys to making a feasible customer retention strategy.
About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.
About Complete Controller® – America’s Bookkeeping Experts Complete Controller is the Nation’s Leader in virtual bookkeeping, providing service to businesses and households alike. Utilizing Complete Controller’s technology, clients gain access to a cloud platform where their QuickBooks™️ file, critical financial documents, and back-office tools are hosted in an efficient SSO environment. Complete Controller’s team of certified US-based accounting professionals provide bookkeeping, record storage, performance reporting, and controller services including training, cash-flow management, budgeting and forecasting, process and controls advisement, and bill-pay. With flat-rate service plans, Complete Controller is the most cost-effective expert accounting solution for business, family-office, trusts, and households of any size or complexity.
