How to beat with winter blues
Most businesses, at some stage or another, are likely to experience seasonal fluctuations, which are often related to various seasonal periods and holidays. Some may be more affected than others, for example businesses operating in the retail or tourism industry. However, according to Nimo Naidoo, project manager of the Sanlam Business Partners Entrepreneur of the […]
The do’s and don’ts of business expansion
At one time or another, every business goes through a growth spurt and, whether it’s a multi-national corporation or an entrepreneurial enterprise, expansion is a tough process to navigate. The real danger for any expanding business is that it does so too quickly or in an uncontrolled way. When this happens, cash flow and customer […]
EOY finalist discusses how seasonality affects her business
Seasonal entrepreneurs rely on the cyclical nature of their business and are therefore required to be considerably future orientated when making managerial decisions. This can be very challenging and requires careful planning and an in depth understanding of one’s business environment. Anthea Ambursley, General Manager of Anansi Business Enterprises T/A Anansi Heights guest house, is […]
Seasonality and your business
Why does seasonality affect your business? Seasonality in your business refers to regular and predicable changes in business activity at given times or periods. These changes or fluctuations can occur during the workday, week, month or seasons of the year. The most significant changes generally occur during the seasons of the year where there is […]
Business owners urged to prepare for upcoming ‘silly season’
With the festive season looming, entrepreneurs often get caught up in the rush and forget to step back and analyse how their business operates within this busy period of the year. According to Nimo Naidoo, project manager of the Sanlam / Business Partners Entrepreneur of the Year Competition®, the festive season can be one of […]
Some questions on financial challenges in business answered
What documents do financiers require when considering my application for business finance? The information required varies between financial institutions. If the decision hinges on security, then a brief business background, financial needs, security details and financial information will suffice. If it is based on viability, then this will be the focus. The investor wants to […]
Entrepreneurship challenges
The failure rate of start-ups is exceptionally high – why do these businesses fail? It is a known fact that the main reason for business failures is management related. It is often intelligent, honest, hard working people that fail. They either do not have the typical entrepreneurial traits required to make a success, or they […]
More cash flow questions answered
Why are many businesses’ cash flow issues aggravated as a result of tax contributions? If you are liable to make your second provisional tax payment at year end then it means that you made a taxable profit and should also have the cash available to pay the income tax on that profit, but often businesses […]
Cash flow FAQ
How can entrepreneurs effectively manage and plan their cash flow close to financial year end? Cash flow is often glibly used as a general term even when you have not done the basics right. The basics are to manage all your current assets and liabilities with a tight reign. This simply means that your stock […]
Proper cash flow management
A vital life saver to SMEs this time of year Entrepreneurial airline, Velvet Sky’s recent cash flow issues, resulting in supplier BP calling for the company to be liquidated, are a stark reminder for South African entrepreneurs of the potential damage that an ineffective cash flow system can cause to their businesses. The airline, which […]