Business Discussions

As we wrap up the year, we want to wish all our QuickBooks members a joyful holiday season! We’re grateful for your support and are excited to share some helpful tips to streamline your payroll processing as we head into 2025.     Here are five key steps to improve payroll operations:   Automate Payroll Processing: Use software to reduce errors and save time by handling complex calculations, tax rules, and deductions. Establish Clear Communication Channels: Set up dedicated lines for payroll inquiries and provide self-service portals for employees. Stay Updated on Compliance and Regulations: Regularly review tax, overtime, and wage laws to ensure compliance. Adopt Transparency in Payroll: Clearly communicate how pay is calculated and any policy changes to avoid confusion. Monitor and Analyze Payroll Queries: Track common issues to make long-term improvements and keep employees satisfied.    Be sure to check out the full piece from the Grey Journal for more t

If you’re a small business owner juggling multiple roles like payroll, HR, and bookkeeping, delegation might sound like the magic trick you’ve been missing. Our article today from the QuickBooks Community shares just how to overcome it!     We do get that delegating can feel daunting, especially when you’re used to doing it all yourself. But here’s the deal: delegation isn’t just about handing off tasks. It’s about empowering your team, freeing up your time, and growing your business.   Here’s why delegation matters:   Strategic Focus: It gives you more time to think big and plan for the future. Empowerment: Delegating tasks to your team boosts morale and engagement. Increased Productivity: When everyone focuses on their strengths, your whole operation becomes more efficient.   But what holds many owners back? Some think it’s faster to do it themselves, while others fear micromanaging or worry about overloading their team. But remember, delegation is a sign

Welcome to the QuickBooks Community! As we approach the holiday season, many small business owners are looking for ways to maximize their revenue, especially with rising costs affecting consumer spending. Thankfully, there’s a silver lining. Our QuickBooks blog article mentioned that 93% of consumers plan to shop small in 2024, and many will spend more at local businesses.   So let's find out how to help your business stand out. Here are five key strategies that they focused on:   Offer Unique Products that big retailers can’t replicate. Emphasize "Shop Local" to tap into community support. Provide Exceptional Customer Service to build lasting connections. Personalize Gifts to create memorable experiences. Send Targeted Emails to keep customers engaged with your seasonal offerings.   With these strategies, you can make the most of this holiday season and thrive in the coming year! See you in the next post!

Hey there, QuickBooks community! If you're striving for success in your business, there's one thing you can learn from Steve Jobs. In a recent article by Inc.com, they share two words from Jobs that set successful people apart from the rest: “Pure Perseverance.” In other words, it’s all about executing your ideas, not just dreaming about them. Steve Jobs emphasized that having a vision is important, but without action, it’s all just a pipe dream. This mindset applies to entrepreneurs, small business owners, and anyone working hard to make their mark.   Don’t get bogged down by perfectionism or overthinking. Focus on getting things out there, iterate, and improve as you go. It’s the only way to make progress and truly succeed.   What do you think? Have you ever felt stuck in the planning phase and found it hard to take action? We’d love to hear how you apply focus to your business journey.    Thanks for being here, and remember to never lose sight of your visi

Good afternoon QuickBooks Community! As we approach Thanksgiving, it’s the perfect time to express gratitude to those who make our businesses possible—our customers. Here are a few simple, heartfelt ways to say thank you:     Send a Personalized Note: A quick email or handwritten message can go a long way in making customers feel appreciated. Let them know how much their support means. Offer a Special Discount: Show your appreciation with a limited-time discount or special offer. A small gesture like this can make your customers feel valued. Host a Customer Appreciation Event: Whether in-store or online, hosting a small event is a great way to connect with customers and show your gratitude. Feature Customer Stories: Share a customer testimonial or success story on social media to highlight the role they play in your business. Give Back to Charity: Donate a portion of your sales to a charity in your customers’ honor and let them know their purchases are making a difference.

Welcome back to the Business Discussion board! I hope you all are doing well and the work week is off to a great start. Today I'm dropping by to share an article from the QuickBooks Blog that breaks down some frequently asked questions about eChecks. Let's take a look...   "eChecks, also called electronic checks, are a digital alternative to paper checks that are designed to process payments electronically."   eChecks vs. ACH transfers"eChecks are a type of ACH transfer that mimics the process of writing a paper check. eChecks require the payer to provide their bank account number and routing number, and the payee must authorize the payment. They’re safer than paper checks, as they reduce the risk of fraud and bounced checks. eChecks are also faster and cheaper than paper checks, as they eliminate the need for printing and mailing."   eChecks vs. Wire Transfers"Wire transfers send money directly from one bank to another, usually within the same day, making them

Happy Tuesday, QuickBooks Community! Have you ever wondered how to transform your mindset into business success? The QuickBooks Blog shared an article entitled "Ask the Expert: Turn Your Mindset into Business Success" that dives deep into this topic and offers valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs like us. Here is what they have to say:     The key takeaway is the power of a positive mindset. According to the expert, approaching challenges with a growth mindset can turn obstacles into opportunities. It's all about embracing every experience as a chance to learn and improve, rather than getting discouraged by setbacks.   Clarity is also crucial. Setting clear goals and aligning our actions with our vision helps maintain focus and direction. Plus, staying adaptable in a constantly evolving industry ensures we're prepared for any curveballs that come our way.   Resilience is another game-changer. Learning to bounce back from failures and setbacks with determina

Are you still trying to figure out the best method to track your employee's time? Well, look no further! Our QuickBooks Blog shared eight strategies you can use to track employees' time effectively. Here is what they had to say:   Time Tracking Software: Ideal for remote work or computer-based work, allowing easy clocking in and out, task tracking, and seamless integration with accounting software. Manual Time Tracking: It is suitable for smaller businesses but is prone to inaccuracies and compliance issues without proper oversight. Time Clock Installation: Best for single-location businesses, though susceptible to buddy punching; offers mobility and flexibility with multiple devices. Spreadsheet Usage: Cost-effective for smaller businesses but prone to errors and requires diligent backups for compliance. GPS Tracking: Beneficial for businesses with multiple job sites, reduces timesheet discrepancies, and enhances accountability. Mobile Apps: Convenient for remote work and mobi

Hello everyone! Thanks for tuning in for another post here on the Business Discussion page. Today I'm sharing an article from the QuickBooks Blog that discusses multidimensional accounting; what it is, how to use it, and why you need it.   What it is"Multidimensional accounting meaning: Multidimensional accounting is a simplified approach to financial reporting that provides businesses with a more detailed and informative view of their operations."   How to use itDepartments: Track financial performance by specific departmentsProducts or services: Analyze profitability or costs associated with different product lines or servicesRegions: Understand revenue and expenses based on areasProjects: Track profitability on a per-project basis   "Many businesses use tags or codes to create a multidimensional account system within their current accounting software. For example, you can turn your current system into a multidimensional accounting one with an accounting numb

Spooky season is upon us and today I'm stopping by to share a few marketing ideas you can incorporate to celebrate the holiday.   Costume contestHost a costume contest for your customers to either come by in person or submit entries online and create a voting system. Winner gets 20% off their next purchase, free item, etc.!   Decorating contestTeam up with neighboring businesses for a decorating contest. Winner gets bragging rights    Themed productIt's not too late to put together some Halloween themed product bundles!   CandyKeep some Halloween treats stocked on your counter and maybe offer later hours and hand out candy to the kiddos while parents shop.   SaleRun a 24 hour sale on all Halloween and Fall inventory.   These are just a few ideas to participate in the Halloween fun. What have you done to celebrate the event?

I need an actual person to help with accounts receivable. I mean to do things like:* contact and follow up with customers who have unpaid invoices* figure out where payments might have been made but not attributed correctly* Examine "real" bank deposits to see if there is a clue about which invoice was being paid* Receive remittance notifications and handle matchingThis is basic hands-on accounts receivable stuff where Quickbooks knowledge is needed but is not sufficient. I had hoped that I might be able to find someone in ProAdvisor but this kind of service is not listed.

Good afternoon QuickBooks Community! I hope all is well! Do you need new strategies on how to manage your time more? Well, look no further I got some for you today. It's essential to adopt innovative strategies to make the most of your time.     Adopt the Pomodoro Technique Work in focused bursts of 25 minutes followed by short breaks to maintain high levels of concentration.   Set SMART Goals Establish Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound goals to maintain clarity and direction.   Implement Time Blocking Allocate specific blocks of time for different tasks. This helps reduce distractions and increases focus.   Prioritize with the Eisenhower Matrix Categorize tasks by urgency and importance to focus on what truly matters.   By adopting a proactive approach, you can ensure that your time is spent wisely, allowing you to focus on growth and innovation. Why don't you experiment with these strategies to find the best fit for your

Have you ever wondered what is the most expensive place to start a business? Well, I didn't! But I will gladly share with you what I learned. Our article for today from GO Banking Rates report reveals the top states that can seriously drain your wallet when starting a business.   Hawaii takes the crown as the priciest place, followed by California and Massachusetts. The full list of the most expensive states to start a business includes:   Hawaii California Massachusetts New York Connecticut New Jersey Maryland Washington Virginia Delaware   Each of these states is known for its high costs related to real estate, labour, and operational expenses. If you’re eyeing a location in the future, be sure to crunch the numbers first! Enjoy the weekend and be safe guys!     

Welcome welcome everyone! Thank you for visiting the Business Discussion board here in the Community. Today I'm sharing a short and sweet, but helpful topic that covers five pillars or traits of a successful business. Here we go...   Good productFirst and foremost you have to have a good product (or service). You want customers and potential customers to seek you out and choose you every time.   PassionWhat's the saying? "If you love what you do, you'll never work a day in your life." You'll also be really good at your job and the success will show.   No shameYou have to really own your business. Avoid belittling yourself and your hard work by not using phrases like "Oh I work from home." or "I freelance." Your drive deserves recognition.   Professional brandIt doesn't matter how small or how long you've been in business, a professional brand will be notable for years to come.   TestimonialsGet the word out there with reviews! People love to learn ab

Welcome back to the Business Discussion board here in the Community. Today I'm stopping by to share an article from the QuickBooks Blog that discusses multi-entity accounting. If you're like me and hadn't heard this term before, stick around and I'll explain.   "Multi-entity accounting is a financial management system designed to handle the accounting needs of organizations with multiple business entities, such as subsidiaries, branches, or divisions."   How it works"Multi-entity accounting integrates all your organization’s financial data into a single cohesive system. Each entity within the organization can maintain its own set of books and carry out account management, while the system allows for seamless consolidation and reporting across all entities." Combines financial info from all entities into one system Automates intercompany transactions and reporting Reduces errors and speeds up financial consolidation Supports intercompany eliminations and automated r

Hello -  We are a nonprofit organization that operates a summer camp.  Last summer we sold art in order to raise funds to donate to a Hawaii disaster relief fund.  I have recorded the dollars received from the sales as a bank deposit going to a miscellaneous revenue account.  Should the donation check to the relief fund be recorded as an expense going to a separate expense account or as a debit to the miscellaneous revenue account where the dollars received were recorded? thanks,Susan

Hi: I work for an electrical contractor.  We have to send out AIA Requisitions quite often.  I used to use P.E.M. Software but they have closed their business.  Can anyone in the construction industry who does AIA billings recommend what they are using for a software.  Thank you. Email:  [email address removed]

Hello QuickBooks Community! How’s everyone doing today? I’ve got some fun business facts for you—10 in total—that you might or might not know.     The First Modern Corporation: The Dutch East India Company, founded in 1602, is considered the world’s first modern corporation. It was also the first to issue stocks. The Power of Coffee: Starbucks started as a single store selling coffee beans. Now, it’s a global giant with over 30,000 locations! Billion-Dollar Startups: The term "unicorn" refers to startups valued at over $1 billion. As of 2023, there are over 1,000 unicorns worldwide, showcasing the booming startup culture. Women in Business: Companies with women in leadership roles tend to outperform their peers. Gender-diverse teams can boost profitability and productivity. The World’s Largest Employer: The U.S. Department of Defense is the largest employer in the world, with over 3 million employees, including civilians and military personnel. The 80/20 Rule: Known as the

Hello everyone! I hope your day has been going well. If you're here in the Community, chances are you're a QuickBooks user. It may be the Online version, or Desktop, or just payroll services. You may not be familiar with some of the more recent innovations QuickBooks has to offer to drive your business success. I found this article from our blog that goes over a few. Let's take a look...   Get insights, automate tasks, and save time with AI Intuit Assist for QuickBooks AI-powered Accounting Confidently manage your business with guidance from experts QuickBooks Live Expert Assisted QuickBooks Live Tax   These are just to name a few. Check out the full article I linked above for additional details, as well as other services and functions that may be new to you. Of course, if you ever need an extra hand, the Community always has your back!

It's hump day! We're halfway through another work week and I'm here to share some ideas that are sure to boost your business. 1. Learn Content Marketing (SEO)2. Pin on Pinterest3. Grow a Following on Facebook4. Share Graphics and Pictures on Instagram5. Start Building an Email List6. Learn Affiliate Marketing7. Post on Craigslist8. List Your Business in Directories9. Publish in Local Newspapers10. Post on Bulletin Boards   These are simple, budget friendly, ways to promote your business. What would you add? My bonus addition is a local radio ad! Let's hear your ideas in the comments.

Hey there, QuickBooks Community!If you're running a small business and feeling lost when tracking your success, you're in luck. We've got a gem of an article from QuickBooks Blog that breaks down the 7 most crucial Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) you should be keeping an eye on. Here's a quick rundown:     Revenue Growth - Track your income over time to see if you're on the up and up. Net Profit Margin - This tells you how much profit you're making from your revenue. Cash Flow - Keep tabs on the money coming in and going out to avoid surprises. Customer Acquisition Cost - Know how much bringing a new customer on board costs. Customer Lifetime Value - Understand how much a customer is worth over the long haul. Accounts Receivable Turnover - See how efficiently you're collecting payments. Inventory Turnover - Check how well you're managing your stock.   These KPIs are your business's best friends, helping you stay on track and make i

Welcome back to the Business Discussion side of the Community! Today I'm sharing some info from an article I read on tnj.com about how your business can become a positive influence in your community. Let's see what they had to say...   Understand your community"Research demographics, consumer behaviors, and local trends. You can do this by attending community events, joining local business associations, and engaging with residents to gain insights into their needs and preferences."   Start building local relationships"Invest time in building genuine relationships with customers, other businesses, community leaders, and local bloggers, journalists, and influencers. Actively participate in local events, sponsor community initiatives, and support local causes."   Make sure you’re offering exceptional customer service"Reviews are one of the biggest drivers of local business. To get good reviews, you need to deliver exceptional customer service at every touch point.

Ever wondered about the secret sauce behind boosting your sales? We’ve got the article from the Network Journal that spills the beans on a game-changing strategy you might not have considered. Here’s the scoop:     Build Genuine Relationships: The article reveals that forging authentic customer connections is the key to sales success. It’s not just about the pitch; it’s about creating trust and rapport. Focus on Listening: Instead of pushing your agenda, the magic happens when you actively listen to your customer’s needs and tailor your approach accordingly. Be the Expert: Position yourself as a knowledgeable resource. Share valuable insights and solutions that address your customers’ pain points. Follow Up Effectively: Don’t just make a sale and disappear. Keep in touch with your clients and continue to offer support to turn one-time buyers into loyal customers.   So why not dive in and start transforming your sales approach today! I hope you enjoy your weekend! See

Happy Tuesday, Community! Did you know YouTube might be a powerful way to promote your business? With over 2 billion logged-in monthly users, it's a platform with potential. Today's article from QuickBooks Blog shared some ways to leverage YouTube effectively. Let's dive in!   Create Engaging Content: Focus on valuable videos, such as tutorials, product demos, and industry insights. Engaging content can attract and retain viewers, turning them into loyal customers. Optimize for Search: Use relevant keywords in your video titles, descriptions, and tags to improve visibility. This helps your content appear in search results and reach a wider audience. Promote Your Brand: Include calls to action (CTAs) in your videos to guide viewers to your website, social media, or special offers. Consistent branding across your channel helps reinforce your identity. Analyze and Adapt: Utilize YouTube's analytics to track performance and understand what works. Adjust your strategy b

Happy hump day, my friends! Take a second to imagine with me. Imagine a Bingo card full of business growth tips. What are some things that would be included? Here are a few pointers I included on my own card that are sure to bring about some new business...   Start a podcast Do a fun giveaway Hand out business cards Create a freebie Blog/vlog regularly Write a guest post Improve your website Engage with your audience Work with influencers Rethink your branding   Check off boxes on your Bingo card, or number the tips and roll a dice, throw an arrow, etc. Try something fun to help you choose and then complete one of these, maybe once a week and watch your business grow. What else would you add? Let's talk about it in the comments!