Keeping the flow in business cashflow

Getting money in sooner is one of the quickest ways to improve cashflow.

• Invoice as soon as the work is done.
• Follow up late payments consistently. If you use accounting software, you can automate invoicing, reconciliation and follow ups. For example:
  • One day after due date: friendly reminder email
  • One week after due date: second reminder email
  • Two weeks after due date: quick phone call
• Tighten your payment terms. Long payment terms can put pressure on cashflow. Some businesses move to 7– or 14–day terms, or take 20-50% deposit upfront for larger jobs to help cover costs and reduce risk.
• Make paying easy. Offer payment options that suit how your customers work. Adding online, mobile or on-the-spot payment can help reduce delays and admin.

Having a clear view of what’s going out — and when — helps avoid surprises and makes it easier to stay in control.

• Negotiate with suppliers. Suppliers are often more flexible than you expect. Talk to them about payment terms that better suit your cashflow, or possible early‑payment discounts.
• Cut what you don't use. Subscriptions, software and memberships can add up quickly. Review them regularly and cancel what’s not essential right now.
• Check your numbers weekly. A quick weekly review of your incoming and outgoing expenses, sales performance, and stock levels can help you spot early warning signs like rising costs or slower payments.
• Consider expense management software. There are many useful digital tools that can help automate the tracking, reporting and approval of business costs.

Expenses often arrive in clusters. A buffer can help cover busy periods, quieter months or unexpected costs without stress.

• Plan for seasonal dips. If your business has quieter months, build a buffer during stronger periods and consider scaling back operational costs in low periods.
• Keep surplus cash separate. When extra cash is set aside, it’s less likely to be spent unintentionally. Some businesses choose a saving account that allows them to earn interest while keeping funds accessible.
• Consider an overdraft or credit card. If saving isn't possible right now, an overdraft or credit card can help bridge the gap between expected income and short-term expenses.

Growth is exciting, but it often means more expenses before new revenue arrives.

• Be clear on your goals. Putting your goals and business plan down on paper helps you understand what growth will require financially.
• Think about funding early. Consider how you’ll fund growth — whether that’s saving over time or borrowing to spread the cost and keep your cash buffer. Keeping your financials tidy makes it easier to make informed decisions and explore options before you need them.