5 financial mistakes new business owners should avoid

SME

Money will always be a huge challenge for any entrepreneur who owns a new business as it is never enough.

As a new business owner, there are some money mistakes you should not commit no matter the kind of enterprise you are engaged in.

If this happens, you will discover that you are just throwing unavailable resources at your business without having the desired impact.

Jumia Travel shares some of the money mistakes you should commit to memory if you own a new start up.

  1. Combining personal account and business accounts

Whether you are alone in the business or in a partnership, it is important for you to separate your personal account or money from the business. This will not only help you know the viability of your business, you will be aware of how much the business is making. If you invest money from your personal account in the business, don’t forget to return it.

  1. Not having a budget

Any serious new business with long term goals must have a pragmatic and realistic budget that is not above available capital. The budget simply tells you how to spend money and the things you need to spend on. Ensure you strike out the things that you don’t critically need for now.

  1. Making big purchases

You are in the teething stage of your business, so you don’t need big purchases even if you have bottomless finances. Buying cars, computers and going big on advertising is a no-no for any new businesses. It is advisable to be strategic in spending and leave the big purchases for later.

  1. Not saving for emergencies

You don’t know when a business emergency will happen. Hence, you always want to be prepared for it. This means that no matter how much you are making, ensure you save for unforeseen circumstances. This is important for small businesses if they want to survive the early growing stages.

  1. Not paying taxes and utility bills

As a new business owner, you are tempted to avoid payment of taxes and utility bills. But know that you may escape it now but you will unarguably pay for it later. So, pay your taxes and utility bills as and when due to prevent them from piling up and avoid paying unnecessary fines that come with late payment.