Start & Run a Bookkeeping Business. Angie Mohr

assurance that assets can be seized as a last resort to cover the outstanding amount of the debt.

      Your Relationship with Your Banker

      If you don’t have a long-standing relationship with your banker, you should establish one before you go to the bank with hat in hand asking for financing. Set an appointment and chat with the banker. Find out about the bank’s lending policies and criteria and their philosophy in dealing with small businesses such as yours. Make it clear to the banker that you will be dealing with many other small businesses (your clients) that may require the bank’s services in the future. A good banker not only is there for you when you need a loan, but can also provide solid business advice and become one of your peripheral external advisers.

      It’s also important to meet with your banker on a regular basis, at least annually. Set up an annual meeting to go over your financials and review your lending needs. Your banker may have suggestions for rearranging your borrowing to save you money in interest and fees. Tell your banker what you’ve done over the past year and how the business has grown. Bankers like to see prophecies come true, and your banker will want to know you’ve made good use of the funds the bank has loaned to you.

      Chapter Summary

      • Before starting your business, it’s critical to project how much financing you’ll need to meet start-up costs and to provide liquidity before net profits emerge.

      • As part of your start-up planning, you need to get a handle on your personal financial situation and make sure it is as strong as possible before launching your enterprise.

      • There are many potential sources of financing available. Each has benefits and risks that must be weighed carefully.

      • Your ongoing relationship with your banker is a key factor in your business’s success.