The North Central Florida Business Report

Although it might not seem to directly impact your bottom line, your employees’ financial troubles may be dragging down their work. While as their employer you don’t want to pry into their personal lives, you can be of help. I would know. As a credit union branch manager, I see the results of having a [...]

Those who describe themselves as “bookkeepers” fall between two extremes—from secretaries with data-entry skills to professionals with degrees and years of experience. There is no regulatory body that oversees the bookkeeping profession, so anyone can say they are a bookkeeper. When hiring a bookkeeper, it’s important to know what skill level your company needs and [...]

Have you considered purchasing real estate for your business? Before you go out and buy something there are several points to consider so you can determine if ownership is the right choice for you and your business. Here are some pros and cons for you to consider.

I was having lunch with some bankers the other day and they were discussing customers’ responses when they applied for working capital lines of credit. When asked why profits were lower than in previous years, the most common answer the bankers received was, “It’s because of the economy causing lower sales revenue.” That is only [...]

The recession has forced many small business owners to steer clear of retirement plans for themselves or their employees. In fact, among businesses with fewer than 50 employees, only 20 percent have retirement plans.

Profit that “happens” occurs only when you’re lucky enough to have total expenses lower than total sales. In contrast, managed profit, which can be projected, is a much higher figure and certain to occur as a result of planning. To manage your profits you have to know where they can be lost and plug the leaks.

Although you know you can increase profits by increasing sales, an easier way is to adjust your “fixed” expenses.

As you close out your 2010 tax year, you could be in for some savings through possible tax breaks for small businesses, and you could be facing a potential penalty, too. Here are some things to check with your tax advisor.