Busy leaders need to focus on the needs of customers, prospects, employees, regulators, suppliers and so on. However, we encourage these leaders to also take an active interest in the FINANCIAL health of their business.
Conducting a periodic self-audit or financial health check helps identify areas for improvement and ensures the business remains on track towards the financial goals.
Here are some important topics to cover in a self-audit.
Cash Flow Analysis
Analyse your cash flow to understand the movement of money in and out of your business. Review the cash flow statement to identify patterns or trends, such as seasonal fluctuations or irregularities. Ensure that your cash reserves are sufficient to cover operating expenses and emergencies.
Debt Management
Evaluate your current debt obligations and ensure they are managed effectively. Consider refinancing high-interest loans, consolidating debt, or negotiating with creditors for better terms. Prioritise debt repayment to minimise interest costs and improve your financial position.
Profitability Metrics
Assess business profitability through metrics like gross profit margin, net profit margin, and return on investment (ROI). Compare your performance to industry benchmarks to gauge competitiveness and identify areas for improvement. Find opportunities to increase revenue, reduce expenses, and enhance overall profitability.
Financial Reporting and Analysis
Review your financial reports, including income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements, to track performance and identify trends. Update your accounting software to ensure accurate and timely financial reporting.
Risk Management
Identify risks to your business’s financial health, such as economic downturns, market volatility, or regulatory changes. Develop contingency plans and risk mitigation strategies to minimise the impact of unforeseen events on your business operations.
Schedule time to conduct the self-audit and address areas of concern. Involve your Accountant to gain access to expertise in these areas. This also helps keep leaders accountable and confident that they’re on track to accomplishing their goals.
