5 tips for managing your money like a real businessperson

You have to control cash flow as you (hopefully) edge towards making a profit, stick to a budget, and build an emergency fund for lean times.

But it’s also important to ensure your personal finances don’t crumble while you’re making sure your business finances are sound.

Here are tips to help you stay on top of your personal finances while your start-up takes off.

Keep them separate

The most important tip is this: be very strict about keeping your personal finances separate from your business finances.

It’s important to treat yourself as an employee who earns a set monthly salary, and not to use the business finances for your personal expenses.

If you allow your business and personal finance boundaries to blur, and your business goes bust, you could be held personally liable for debts.

Give personal finances as much attention as professional finances

You should forecast your finances, document your expenses, have a budget, know what you’re spending on.

Look at how you are bringing in money and how you can make the most of that money.

Focus on eliminating debt

Find ways to pay off your debts. Make sure you have a solid credit history and don’t get into any personal financial trouble. You might need a business loan to expand your business in the future.

Start by tackling those credit accounts with the highest interest rates.

If you have multiple, smaller loans, look into debt consolidation (but make sure you understand all the risks and red tape).

Make sure you have an emergency fund

This fund should have three to six times the amount you live off each month. This is useful for living and for your business, should you have months that don’t go according to plan.

It will also ensure salaries are paid and outstanding payments are met.

When looking at a savings account, look for those that offer higher interest rates.

Keep diversifying the portfolio

It’s important to diversify your portfolio. With every new venture comes the risk of failure so it’s important to spread your wealth over many different investment options.

Shirley Smith is chief operating officer at Old Mutual Finance

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