May Insights for Business Owners: Stay Cash-Strong & Summer-Ready
Hi there,
May is here, and it’s a great time to take a quick pulse check on your business. Between rising costs and changing economic conditions, a little focus now can help you stay on track, and even get ahead, before summer hits full swing.
Here’s what to keep on your radar this month:
Important Dates to Keep in Mind
📅 May 4–10 – National Small Business Week. A great time to connect with other business owners, explore new resources, and celebrate the impact of small business in our communities.
📅 May 15 – Mid-month cash flow review. Are your April numbers in? Now’s a smart time to review income vs. expenses and plan for any gaps.
📅 June 1 – Official start of hurricane season. If you’re in a storm-prone region, take time now to review your emergency plans and insurance coverage.
📅 June 15 – Estimated tax payments due (Q2). Preparing early can help you avoid surprises and keep cash flow steady.
Smart Moves for Your Business This Month
Review & Strengthen Cash Flow
With costs rising across the board, from suppliers to staffing, now’s the time to get proactive. Common cash flow challenges like late payments, low reserves, or inaccurate forecasting can sneak up fast. A regular review of your income, expenses, and outstanding receivables can help you spot potential gaps before they grow.
If you do find yourself in a pinch, options like invoice factoring or temporary financing can provide short-term flexibility without locking you into long-term debt.
💡Tip: Many small business owners find that the biggest issues stem from things like slow-paying clients or seasonal sales dips. Solutions can be as simple as adjusting your billing terms, improving your forecasting, or reevaluating your inventory strategy. Small tweaks can add up to major relief.
Prepare for Seasonal Changes
Will summer mean a slowdown or a surge? Look at last year’s sales trends to anticipate what’s ahead. Planning now, whether for staffing, inventory, or promotions, helps you stay ready, not reactive.
Review sales patterns, align staffing and inventory with demand, tie marketing to seasonal themes or local events, and consider setting aside cash from busy months to buffer slower ones.
Reconnect with Your Customers
Spring is a great time to refresh relationships. A quick check-in, via email, phone, or even a personalized offer, can spark reorders, referrals, or valuable feedback.
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Send a thank-you note or offer to loyal customers
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Share a spring update or behind-the-scenes content on social media
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Run a limited-time promotion to encourage repeat business
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Ask for feedback through a quick survey to uncover new needs
📚 Helpful Resources for Business Owners
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SBA Local Assistance – Find free advisors, workshops, and training events in your area through the Small Business Administration.
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SCORE Mentoring – Connect with experienced business mentors for free, one-on-one guidance, plus access webinars and templates.
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U.S. Chamber Small Business Resources – Articles and toolkits on hiring, operations, digital marketing, and policy updates.
Stay focused, stay adaptable, and keep your business moving forward. Smart planning in May can set the stage for a stronger summer and long-term success.
Here’s to a productive and profitable May!
With Sincere Appreciation,
Daniel Eke
Factor Funding Co.
