Optimizing cash flow is critical for maintaining the financial health and stability of your company. By implementing strategic management practices, businesses can ensure they have the necessary liquidity to cover expenses, invest in growth, and navigate economic fluctuations effectively.
In this article we asked members of YEC to share some cash flow optimization tips they've gleaned from their businesses.
Q. What advanced strategies do you use to optimize cash flow in businesses?
1. Develop a custom cashflow worksheet
My highest value tool for cash flow optimization is a worksheet I built over a decade ago. My cash flow worksheet is open every Monday for review, tracking, and updates. This cash flow worksheet has guided me with every financial decision I have ever made, including, hiring, investing, distributions, acquisitions, and even charitable giving. This exercise has freed me from the anxiety that comes with an always changing bank balance.
With cash flow tracking, I can accurately project into the future when any cash outlay needs attention, such as outside capital. More simply, this process helps me respond to each new opportunity rather than react, or worse yet, freeze up when cash gets tight. I already know this might be coming and a plan to shore things up is always on deck. —Kris Garlewicz, ProsperiFi
2. Leverage historical data
I prefer leveraging data and relevant insights to optimize cash flow. The use of historical data helps us predict future cash inflows and outflows, and plan accordingly. The data helps us identify and mitigate the risks. Plus, it enables us to put preemptive countermeasures in place to avoid potential shortfalls.
The insights fuel our preparedness and make it easier for us to tailor our operational capacity as per the forecast. As a result, we are able to minimize costs and maintain a stable cash flow despite the obstacles ahead. —Thomas Griffin, OptinMonster
3. Build a cash reserve
I found that building a cash reserve specifically for unexpected expenses was very helpful for optimizing our cash flow. By setting aside a portion of profits during high-revenue periods, I was able to create a financial buffer that helped us get through leaner times or unforeseen financial challenges. There's no question that these savings allowed the business to continue operations smoothly without the stress of cash shortages. If you're not saving for emergencies and unexpected costs, I highly suggest you start as soon as you possible. —Daman Jeet Singh, FunnelKit
4. Streamline accounts payable
In order to optimize our cash flow, I focus on streamlining accounts payable processes. With payables, I renegotiate terms with suppliers to extend payment periods without incurring penalties. Additionally, I prioritize payments based on cash flow forecasts, which means we can cover critical expenses while maintaining liquidity. I've been doing this for a few years now, and I'd say this balanced approach has improved our overall cash flow management. —Josh Kohlbach, Wholesale Suite
5. Hire finance experts
It’s all about the right team and tools. If finance isn’t your thing, get familiar with the basics, but don’t stop there. As your revenue grows, hiring a strong finance team or partnering with experts is key. They should align with your business goals and know how to manage cash flow effectively. Use the best software for budgeting, forecasting, and tracking expenses. A solid team combined with the right tools can help you make smarter decisions and keep cash flowing smoothly. Trust the experts, but also stay in the loop. —Travis Schreiber, Erase Technologies, LLC
6. Use low-interest credit cards
Since the founding of my digital agency, I have developed a system of optimizing and building our credit to get rewards. This is not new, but for bootstrappers in their first years, using low-interest or interest-free credit cards in the beginning and leveraging rewards can be a good strategy for optimizing cash flow. I started out with a small team of contractors, and as my business has grown, I've continued to use this strategy, sometimes paying contractors with cards. And as your credit grows, negotiating terms is also available. This can make a huge difference when considering a significant investment, such as new hardware or software. —Matthew Capala, Alphametic
7. Streamline accounts receivable
One of the most effective ways to optimize cash flow is by streamlining accounts receivable. Remind your customers or concerned stakeholders of the due dates by sending invoices in a timely manner. You can consider automation tools to help you with that. Plus, offer special incentives or rewards when someone makes an early payment. People can be forgetful, so consider sending follow-ups about the outstanding balance, but avoid pestering. —Blair Williams, MemberPress
8. Diversify investments
Diversify your investments to optimize cash flow in businesses. Spreading investments across different industries enables you to minimize the impact of potential losses and successfully mitigate the risks. You can effectively optimize cash flows by acknowledging higher overall returns over time, as different investments may perform differently at various points. A diversified portfolio promises a more stable cash flow. If something doesn't work for you, its impact is nullified by gains in other areas. —Andrew Munro, AffiliateWP
9. Use data-driven forecasting
One advanced strategy for optimizing cash flow is to use data-driven forecasting and cash flow modeling. By analyzing historical data, you can predict future cash inflows and outflows with greater accuracy, allowing for better financial planning. This forecasting also enables businesses to anticipate potential cash shortfalls and adjust operations accordingly, minimizing unnecessary expenses during slower periods.
Another key approach is optimizing both accounts receivable and payable. Implement automated invoicing to ensure timely billing and consider offering early payment discounts to encourage faster customer payments. On the payables side, renegotiate payment terms with suppliers to extend deadlines without penalties, preserving cash for longer periods.
Lastly, building a cash reserve during high-revenue periods provides a financial buffer for leaner times or unforeseen challenges. This reserve helps ensure smoother operations, reduces reliance on short-term financing, and mitigates the risk of cash flow disruptions. —Kyle Goguen, CRBN Pickleball
10. Generate multiple revenue streams
I recommend having multiple revenue streams. It helps you mitigate risks because if one stream experiences a downturn, the others make up for it. Seasonal changes in the demand for your product or services may also have a significant impact on your cash flow. Different revenue streams may encompass varying seasonal demand changes so you can maintain a consistent cash flow throughout the year. Multiple revenue streams also enable you to cast a wider net and target diverse audience segments, which significantly improves your cash inflows. —Stephanie Wells, Formidable Forms
11. Develop an operating model
An advanced strategy I use to optimize cash flow for my firm is developing a detailed operating model. I use it to project all operational revenues and expenses, resulting in highly accurate cash flow forecasts. I integrate key drivers, such as sales volumes, pricing strategies, cost structures, working capital dynamics, and other KPIs relevant to my industry so that the model offers a granular view of cash movements. I also build in sensitivity analysis, which allows for testing various scenarios by altering assumptions like market demand shifts or cost fluctuations. And most importantly, I regularly update and fine-tune the model with real-time data to optimize cash flow across different economic scenarios. —Jack Perkins, CFO Hub
