This article first appeared in the August 2024 edition of the Business Examiner. Read the online edition here.

Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner, navigating the choppy waters of business can be tricky. To stay on course, there’s one resource you shouldn’t overlook: a small business advisor. 

An experienced small business advisor will be a strategic ally, giving you practical advice to help streamline your operations and put the right tools in place. That’s my role at Coastal Community Credit Union. Here are some important areas to discuss to finetune your business:

• Payroll Services: Depending on your business scale and expertise, outsourcing payroll can help save valuable time and resources while ensuring accuracy and reliability. That leaves you free to focus on core activities that drive revenue and growth.
• Point of Sale (POS): Whether your business operates in-person or online, choosing the right POS system can significantly enhance the customer experience and streamline your income management.
• Business Credit Card: The right credit card serves as a powerful tool, offering convenient access to credit and cash flow management, all while earning rewards and benefits based on your spending.
• Commercial Insurance: Securing Commercial Insurance is essential for maintaining continuity and safeguarding your business from property damage, lawsuits, or natural disasters. Also, you may want to consider key person insurance to protect your company’s operations if something happens to a critical employee.
• Group Benefits: Providing comprehensive group benefits enhances your company’s appeal to potential hires and helps retain current employees. It also demonstrates dedication to the well-being of the team.
• Investment Advisor: Consulting with an Investment Advisor is an excellent strategy to ensure your hard-earned money is actively working for you while planning for your business’s future. Remember, as an owner, it’s crucial to plan and save for your own retirement. 
• Commercial Lender: Whether you have a new or established business, a Commercial Lender can help you secure financing to purchase new equipment, property, acquire other assets or cover operating costs.

Having a deep conversation with an expert on what your business needs will help you avoid common pitfalls and find success. Please feel free to call me to discuss how Coastal Community can help with any of these services.