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From an original article by America Saves

Money is the master of the disappearing act. Poof! Where did it go? Well, the easiest way to keep track of your money is to create a budget – keeping track of how much you’re spending and, just as important, how much you’re saving. There are a variety of ways to create a budget. The key is to pick the method that works for you and stick with it.

Here are a few steps you can take to manage your money effectively:

• Keep track of what you spend – These days, there are free online tools that can help you track spending. If you’re old-school, no worries, a paper worksheet works well too.
• Create your budget – Once you know where your money is going, it’s time to figure out where it should be going. Where can you cut back to pay down high-interest debts?
• Stick to your budget – The easy part is done. Now you must stick to it! Whether you choose an online tool, a mobile app, or the tried-and-true pen and paper, putting an end to vanishing funds is essential to your financial health.

For more details on creating a budget, read the full article.

From an original article by Jennifer Post, Business News Daily Contributor

Customer service has never been more important than it is today. It is so easy for customers to share their opinion, positive or negative, with others. Keeping your customers satisfied and coming back is a challenge. Avoiding these common customer service mistakes can help:

• Over-automation – Just because it can be automated doesn’t mean it should be. Balance cost savings with the opportunity to provide personal service.
• Failing to listen – Don’t assume, listen.
• Being reactive instead of proactive – Seek improvement and avoid complacency.
• Undervaluing customer service staff – Be sure to reward staff for providing great service.
• Not giving customers what they want – Deliver quick, efficient and respectful solutions, even if it is not ideal.

For a more in-depth look at the importance of providing exceptional customer service, read the full article.

From an original article by Karen Peacock, America’s SBDC

As a small business owner, it’s easy to feel isolated at times. Who do you turn to with questions about business challenges? Just because you’re a leader doesn’t mean you have all of the answers. Don’t be afraid to ask others for help and broaden your network. A recent study found that 41 percent of small business owners feel lonely in their work life. That same survey found that 70 percent of small business owners say networking with other business owners is important.

It’s possible that, at the moment, you may not have a specific question. It’s still beneficial to listen to how others solved challenges. Surround yourself with people you can learn from, whether you know them well or not. Find local organizations that are made up of like-minded professionals who can answer questions or provide helpful contacts – like America’s nationwide network of Small Business Development Centers (SBDC). It’s a great way to learn something new, connect with others, and strengthen your business know-how.

For more information on finding answers and building your business, read the full article.

From an original article by Nick Candito, Small Biz Daily

You’d be surprised how many companies still use paper processes. According to The Association for Information and Image Management (AIIM), 92 percent of companies say that removing paper processes is a constant objective.

If your business has yet to make the change, here are five reasons to do so as soon as possible:

Information security – Digital documents can be protected in ways paper documents can’t, such as remotely via the cloud or an off-site hard drive.

Accessibility – Find your document in a few clicks instead of flipping through binders or digging through a desk.

Adherence – Collaboration is easier when everyone can access essential documents.

Real-time visibility – Keep tasks on track and quickly identify problems.

Optimized performance – When you improve collaboration, security, adherence, and visibility, your customers will naturally benefit from it. And when they benefit, your bottom line benefits.

For a more in-depth look at the benefits of going paperless, read the full article.

From an original article by Jenna Cyprus, Small Biz Daily

If your small business is profitable enough to have a substantial amount of money left over after everyone has been paid, what should you do with your money? Invest it. Doing so can help reduce overhead costs and increase profitability, paving the way for future success. But are what are those “wise investments” that accomplish those goals? Here are just a few:

• Business improvements – Most businesses have some areas in need of improvement, whether it be the business strategy or the physical place of business. Invest in something that will lead to future growth. For example, if you’re looking to draw more customers into your business, invest in a marquis system or large chalkboard that can showcase special promotions within your store.
• A Better Website – Whether you are an online store or a brick-and-mortar business, you can benefit from a more robust website design. Often, both current and potential customers will visit a business’s website to get a sense of what you have to offer. Website designs can become outdated and lose their appeal. If you run an exciting business, make sure you have an exciting website.
• Employees – Investing in the “face” of your business is crucial. They are the ones interacting with customers. Happy, satisfied employees lead to happy, satisfied customers, which is important for repeat business. Explore unique perks or benefits you can offer your employees to separate you from the competition. With a healthy economy, workers have more choices now than they did in the past.

To learn more about investments that can help your business grow, click here.

From an original article by Joshlyn Ross, U.S. Small Business Administration

June is National Safety Month, the perfect time to evaluate how safe your workplace is and to identify opportunities for improvement. Before you begin the process, it’s best to know what you’re looking for. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has a variety of resources to help you and your employees make well-informed safety decisions every day.

• Ensure your business meets legal requirements with OSHA – Check out OSHA’s handbook to ensure that your small business meets the legal requirements of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970.
• Find the health and safety requirements that apply to you – OSHA offers a quick, step-by-step guide for determining which requirements apply to your workplace and how to comply.
• Take advantage of training and educational programs – OSHA offers courses and training materials to help you execute your safety plan.
• Request an on-site consultation for review – Get a free on-site consultation to find out where you and your business stand. Consultants will help identify workplace hazards, provide advice on OSHA compliance, and assist in establishing injury and illness prevention programs.

To learn more about creating a safe workplace, click here.