If you’ve just started out in business or have been running your company for a while, doing everything you can to protect your operation is essential. After all, you’ve worked so hard to build your brand. Whatever your niche, there are specific steps you can follow now to protect your small business, such as those listed below.
1. Incorporate Your Business
If you are a sole proprietor, you and your company are regarded as ‘one’. This means your personal assets, such as your property and vehicle, can likely be used to clear business debts. Depending on the nature of your business, this can be a risky way to operate. Nevertheless, you may decide to incorporate your business, especially if you have concerns about any financial trouble in the future. While there will be paperwork involved, and you will have to complete another tax return, numerous benefits are attached. For instance, when you incorporate your business, a person can sue your company but in most cases, cannot threaten your personal assets. This is because they are normally considered legally separated.
2. Get Business Insurance
One of the best ways to truly protect your company is by taking out business insurance. Business insurance policies protect your company against injury, accidents, property damage, and more. You should obtain liability insurance which will cover the costs should a customer get injured at your workplace. Additionally, you may wish to take out errors and omissions insurance from The Hartford as it can cover you should a client accuse you of negligence.
3. Find an Accountant
Even if you decide on managing the bookkeeping yourself, hiring a reputable account is worth the price. No one has the time to keep up to date with the latest tax law changes, but accountants do. So if you hire an accountant to take over the reins, they can save you money on your taxes and provide valuable advice on managing your business more effectively.
4. Cut Extra Expenses
It’s a good idea to prepare for unexpected monetary loss in your business. You can do this by cutting expenses. Firstly, make a list of every expense within the business before examining what you need and things that can be let go. There are various areas where you can reduce costs in your company, such as software, paper and supplies, and equipment. A simple change like buying used equipment rather than brand new can cut costs significantly.
5. Protect Your Files
You’ll find most businesses have some sort of online presence nowadays. Keeping your personal data confidential is crucial if you work extensively on computers. The last thing you need is a virus infecting your PC, so ensure you regularly update your antivirus software, and keep a backup of your files.
As the head of the business, you must do everything within your means to minimize risk and keep your company running smoothly. While you cannot control every eventuality, there are actions you can take like those above, which can add an extra layer of protection to your operation.
