Kenneth Boyd's Blog

How to Maximize Productivity As A Business Owner

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Running a business is one of the most rewarding things you will ever do in your life, but it is extremely overwhelming too. It can feel like there is always something to do and you have a to-do list that never ends. Between managing the operations of your team, leading your staff members on their journey, and keeping an eye on your growth it can feel like you don’t have enough time (or energy!) to get everything done in just one day. This is why it’s so important to maximize the time you do have and adopt the right strategies to focus on what drives results and helps you achieve your full potential. Keep reading to find out more and get inspired.

 

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Prioritize ruthlessly

 

Not all tasks are equal and therefore they shouldn’t be treated as such. Running a business comes with an endless list of things to do, so start by sorting them in order of importance. Identify your priorities that have the biggest impact on your business, focusing on the 20% of tasks that drive 80% of results. This way you will have the most out of what you do and achieve, even if these tasks can feel more time-consuming.

 

Delegate and outsource wherever you can

 

Delegation and outsourcing are your best friends when it comes to being a business owner. You should focus on your own personal strengths and find others to do the tasks that aren’t so integral for you to do them yourself. Look into things like Document Delivery Services, or find freelancers for projects such as writing your blog posts, or growing your social media. Trusting others not only frees up your own time, but also empowers your staff and partners and builds an additional level of trust within the business.

 

Embrace technology for efficiency

From project management software like Trello or Asana to automation tools for marketing and invoicing, technology can drastically reduce manual effort. Even small systems such as using a scheduling tool instead of going back and forth on emails can save hours each week. The key is to choose tools that truly integrate into your workflow, rather than overwhelm you with features you don’t need. You could get a free trial of a few different systems, seeing what works best for you, this way you can sample it before committing to pay for anything.

 

These are just a few things you can do as a business owner to maximize productivity and really ensure you achieve your full potential. Being more productive isn’t about squeezing everything you can into one day and draining your time and energy, it’s about being more savvy with what you have. By being strategic, leveraging the technology and tools at your disposal and setting healthy boundaries, you can fuel your business and your wellbeing and improve at both at the same time.

 

What are some top tips you have for maximizing productivity in the workplace? Incorporate these tips into your business process.

 

Ken Boyd

Author: Cost Accounting for Dummies, Accounting All-In-One for Dummies, The CPA Exam for Dummies, 1,001 Accounting Questions for Dummies and 34 Stories That Explain Personal Finance

(amazon author page) amazon.com/author/kenboyd

 

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Why Every Small Business Needs an Accountant

 

 

Many small business owners try to handle accounting alone, however, this isn’t always the right thing to do.

 

It seems like a way to save money. But managing your own books can cause problems and take up valuable time.

 

Mistakes can lead to fines or missed tax savings, and lead to money being lost.

 

An accountant offers more than just help with taxes. Working with a professional gives your business a strong financial foundation and helps you make smarter decisions.

 

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Let’s take a closer look below:

 

Clarity and Accuracy in Your Finances

Keeping clear records is not just about following the law. It helps you see how your business is doing at any moment. An accountant sets up systems for tracking income and expenses. You can spot where your money goes each month and look for ways to reduce costs.

 

Timely reports let you see trends and respond early to issues. With good records, you can show lenders or investors that your business is healthy.

 

A qualified accountant checks your numbers and makes sure everything adds up. This reduces the risk of mistakes that can cause tax problems later. If you ever need advice from a solicitor about contracts or legal issues, you will have organized records ready to show.

 

Saving Time and Reducing Stress

Running a small business means juggling many roles. Accounting is complex, and tax rules change often. A professional accountant keeps up with changes, so you do not have to.

 

You spend less time worrying about forms, deadlines, or calculations. That gives you more hours each week to focus on growing your business or working with customers.

 

An accountant helps you plan for the future. They point out important deadlines and suggest ways to lower your tax bill. You avoid surprises and last-minute stress during tax season. When you hand off your accounts to an expert, you gain peace of mind.

 

Planning for Growth and Success

A business grows when it knows where it stands. Accountants offer advice about loans, cash flow, and investments. They help you weigh the pros and cons of new projects. If you want to expand or hire staff, your accountant can show how it affects your budget.

 

When problems come up, an accountant can help find solutions quickly, they have the expertise to be able ot identify issues much quicker and efficiently than someone who doesn’t know what they are doing. They spot signs of trouble early, so you can act before issues become serious. Good advice can mean the difference between steady growth and unexpected setbacks.

 

Choose Support for a Stronger Business

Hiring an accountant is not just an extra cost. It is an investment in your business’s health. You gain a partner who understands your goals and works with you to achieve them. Accurate records, expert advice, and less stress give you space to run your business well.

 

Small steps now can make a big difference later. Take a look at your books. Could you use help with organization or planning? Working with a professional sets your business up for lasting success.

 

Ken Boyd

Author: Cost Accounting for Dummies, Accounting All-In-One for Dummies, The CPA Exam for Dummies, 1,001 Accounting Questions for Dummies and 34 Stories That Explain Personal Finance

(amazon author page) amazon.com/author/kenboyd

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Why Some Businesses Are Afraid of Storytelling (and Why It’s Hurting Their Growth)

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There’s a weird idea floating around that storytelling is only for lifestyle brands, the skincare startups, fashion houses, and cozy little candle shops. But here’s the truth: storytelling isn’t about glitter or glamour. It’s about connection. And every business, no matter how practical or data-driven, relies on connection to grow and stay relevant.

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The “Fluffy” Myth That’s Holding People Back

One reason businesses shy away from storytelling? They’re scared it’ll sound too soft or off-topic. Many entrepreneurs and marketing teams believe that if they step away from numbers and hard facts, they’ll lose credibility or come off as unprofessional. They imagine storytelling as something best left to influencer culture or multimillion-dollar TV ads. But that’s the wrong way to look at it.

A story doesn’t water down your message; it makes it stick. When done right, it gives people a reason to care about what you’re saying, not instead of the numbers, but right alongside them. It makes your message memorable, even if you’re talking about insurance, logistics, or spreadsheets.

Playing It Safe Isn’t Always Smart

Here’s the other issue: vulnerability. Telling a story means putting your personality out there. Your values. Maybe even the messy stuff. And yeah, that can feel risky. It’s easier to play it safe, use familiar language, follow a basic format, and stay behind the curtain.

But that’s also how you end up sounding exactly like everyone else.

“We’re Not That Interesting” Is a Lie

Lots of companies assume they don’t have a story worth telling. “We’re just a consultancy.” “We handle B2B services.” “There’s nothing fun about accounting.” Sound familiar?

But those day-to-day moments, the late-night fix, the team joke that turned into a product name, the weird hiccup that taught you a lesson, that’s your brand voice.

It might not seem flashy, but people connect with what’s real. Not everything has to be dramatic or emotional. Just honest. The difference between being forgettable and being remembered often comes down to sharing those little, specific things that make your business real, and just a little bit different.

Storytelling Builds Brands People Trust

Think about it: there’s information everywhere. But which pieces actually stay with you? Usually, they are delivered in story form. That’s no accident.

 

That’s why smart businesses are starting to invest in ways to make their stories more engaging, through origin reels, customer journey clips, or day-in-the-life snapshots. And many bring in a trusted video production company to help shape that content without making it feel overly produced or robotic.

Video, in particular, can say a lot in a short amount of time. And when done well, it doesn’t feel like marketing. It just feels like truth, shared in motion.

Want More Impact? Say Something Real

The goal isn’t perfection. It’s honesty. It’s about having something to say and saying it in a way that feels human.

Start small. Pick one real story from your work week and write it down the way you’d tell a friend. No marketing lingo. No filler. Just something real. Maybe it’s about a customer win. Maybe it’s about a hiccup you learned from. Whatever it is, tell it.

Businesses that win aren’t always the ones shouting the loudest; they’re the ones willing to connect, and connection starts with a story that actually means something.

Ken Boyd

Author: Cost Accounting for Dummies, Accounting All-In-One for Dummies, The CPA Exam for Dummies, 1,001 Accounting Questions for Dummies and 34 Stories That Explain Personal Finance

(amazon author page) amazon.com/author/kenboyd

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What It Takes To Run A Successful E-Commerce Store

These days, just about everyone is shopping online and wanting to make purchases using their smart devices or computers. If you’re not in this space already, then now is the time to take advantage of this opportunity to grow your business and expand your offerings.

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You’re missing out on a large customer base if you aren’t selling products or services online. However, keep in mind that launching your online store isn’t something you’re going to be able to do overnight. Instead, it will take careful planning and consideration so you can have a positive experience. Here you can learn more about what it takes to run a successful e-commerce store.

A User-Friendly & Visually Pleasing Website

A good place to start is to create a user-friendly and visually appealing e-commerce website and store. It’s important that your site is mobile-friendly and has fast loading times. Publish content that’s relevant and timely and highlights your most sought-after products or services. Be sure to include detailed descriptions and high-quality images. You’ll also want to make sure that the checkout process is seamless and painless so the customer follows through on their order.

On-Time Deliveries

Another aspect to be mindful of is ensuring on-time deliveries to your customers. If you’re going to run a successful e-commerce store, then you must make sure that you’re delivering on your promise. You may be short on resources or unsure how to handle all of the orders that come in. In this case, look into using professional Shopify fulfillment services and have a third-party handle the storing, packing, and shipping of all the orders that come in. You’ll not only gain the benefit of real-time inventory tracking, but you can also explore custom packing options.

Implementing Effective Marketing Strategies

There are many businesses out there that are in the e-commerce space. Therefore, there will be a lot of noise and competition to cut through online. You want to make sure that your company and products or services are getting noticed and that you can attract high-quality leads. Therefore, you will want to implement effective marketing strategies and take the time to identify your target audience. Ideally, you should use a mix of online and offline tactics to let consumers know about your store and what you are selling. SEO becomes even more essential in this regard since it will help your website show up first in the search engine results.

Excellent Customer Service

You aren’t going to get too far with your e-commerce store if your customers aren’t satisfied. It’s vital that you provide excellent customer service and are attentive to your customers’ needs. Be responsive to inquiries and questions that come in and solve problems quickly and effectively. Train your customer support team so they know how to handle a variety of situations, and so no question goes unanswered. Consider adding a chat function to your website and experimenting with AI to be able to offer customer service around the clock. The better job you do in this area, the more likely it is that you’ll be able to generate repeat business.

Conclusion

You now know what it will take to run a successful e-commerce store. While it can be challenging to get set up initially, it’s not something you can afford to ignore or put off any longer. Take the right approach and you’re likely to experience an increase in sales and future business growth.

Ken Boyd

Author: Cost Accounting for Dummies, Accounting All-In-One for Dummies, The CPA Exam for Dummies, 1,001 Accounting Questions for Dummies and 34 Stories That Explain Personal Finance

The post What It Takes To Run A Successful E-Commerce Store appeared first on Accounting Accidentally.

What to Do When a Business Property Deal Starts Falling Apart

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Just go ahead and picture this scenario for just a second: you found the perfect spot. You’re totally convinced you’re going to get the best deal on business real estate. The location is great, the price looks doable, and you’re already picturing your sign out front and your customers walking through the door. Then, out of nowhere, everything gets weird. It’s just not expected either, for example, the lease has clauses you somehow missed, your contractor disappears mid-demo, or you find out that your dream café apparently violates zoning rules by… existing.

Yeah, it gets messy fast. It’s absolutely terrible, but it’s sadly the reality, too.

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The Lease Looked Fine at First

Okay, it’s best to just start with this, so you skimmed it, right? It didn’t seem too wild. Then, a few weeks later, surprise, your rent is creeping up faster than expected, and apparently, you’re on the hook for every single repair down to the light bulbs. Sometimes landlords tuck in the weirdest stuff. Like, who knew “minor repairs” meant covering the entire HVAC replacement? It’s awful, but yeah, leases can go from mildly confusing to “why didn’t I hire a lawyer” real quick.

Your Contractor Ghosted You

Well, it starts off great. They show up early, make promises, and demo half the walls. And then? Well, for whatever reason, it’s crickets. They stop returning calls, the crew vanishes, and your half-renovated dream looks like something out of a renovation horror show. So now just picture this horrible scenario: you’re stuck with missing drywall, angry neighbors, and zero progress.

Plus, you’re probably still paying rent for a space that can’t even open.

There’s the Zoning Nightmares

Zoning laws have a way of making you feel like you’re being punk’d (remember that show?). One day, everything’s fine, the next you’re told your signage is too big, your parking’s not enough, or you’re zoned for retail but not food service. But you can’t forget about permits either, because meanwhile, permits are sitting in someone’s inbox for what feels like forever, and nothing can move forward.

You’re spending more time Googling city regulations than running your business, which is not what anyone signs up for.

You Need a Professional Before it Gets Worse

You don’t need to know everything about commercial leases, construction contracts, or zoning law. Honestly, it’s not really like you’re expected to either (no matter how people might make you feel). Well, it can’t be stressed enough that you absolutely need to have a lawyer.

Actually, someone like the team at kolmogorovlaw.com knows how to untangle this kind of mess without it turning into a full-on courtroom drama. While it’s ideal to hire a lawyer prior to signing anything, a lawyer can still help cut through red tape before things are “too late”. Basically, they’ll handle the mess while you get back to building the thing you actually care about.

You Can Bounce Back from This

Want to hear some good news? Well, you’re not the first business owner to get caught up in a real estate deal that went sideways. It happens. But of course, the difference is how quickly you catch it and how willing you are to get help.

Find legal, accounting, and insurance professionals to help you make informed decisions.

Ken Boyd

Author: Cost Accounting for Dummies, Accounting All-In-One for Dummies, The CPA Exam for Dummies, 1,001 Accounting Questions for Dummies and 34 Stories That Explain Personal Finance

 

 

 

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Five Tips to Save Money in Your Household for 2025

 

 

 

As a household, there’s never been a more appropriate and needed time to save money. With the pandemic still impacting a lot of the world financially, as well as the rise in pretty much everything at the moment, saving money is key in 2025.

 

If you’re a household that doesn’t typically save money or struggles to save it, then it’s worth knowing some key tips to help make saving a lot easier. Here are five tips to save money in your household for 2025.

 

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Get better with budgeting

Where possible try to get better with budgeting. If you consider budgeting to be an unfamiliar word, then chances are this is where you need to focus your attention in order to save money.

 

Budgeting is something we’re not necessarily taught in the classroom so it’s worthwhile to brush up your skills in this department. With a budget, it’s easy enough to create one on Excel or to use any type of template that exists online.

 

Look at how much you’re bringing in and how much you’re spending each month. This will hopefully leave you with what’s leftover and budgeting them becomes easier.

Cut down on luxuries

While luxuries are great to have, you could benefit from cutting these out, especially if they’re something that’s cutting into your available savings.

 

Luxuries are just that – a luxury. So with that being said, try to cut down on them if they’ve gotten a little out of hand recently. Luxuries are anything beyond your mortgage/rental payments, your utility bills and food shops.

 

That means you’ve likely got a lot of luxuries on top of this that could be scrapped in order to save more money.

Create an emergency fund

Saving for a rainy day is always advised when it comes to the average household. Whether you’re doing well with your savings or not, a separate emergency pot is worth having. Emergencies might be the boiler breaking down or a car crash which means you need a deposit for a new car.

 

Putting away a little bit of money each month is a great way to build up this fund and it’ll certainly be appreciated when the time comes to use it. Remember though to only use it in an emergency or in situations where your monthly pay packet won’t cover it.

Review your insurances

Your insurance is something worth reviewing, especially with the cost of insurance often going up each year. Compare boiler cover as this is an appliance that can become expensive to cover, especially as time goes on.

Wipe off debt before it gets too much

Finally, if you’re a household that’s accrued a little debt recently, then it’s definitely worth trying to wipe out this debt before it becomes too much. Once it gets too out of control, it can make getting out of it like wading through quicksand. Don’t let debt get too high, to the point that you can’t afford to pay it off in one go.

 

Hopefully, with these tips, you’ll be able to save money in your household this year.

 

Ken Boyd

Author: Cost Accounting for Dummies, Accounting All-In-One for Dummies, The CPA Exam for Dummies, 1,001 Accounting Questions for Dummies and 34 Stories That Explain Personal Finance

 

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Ten Ways to Expand Your Manufacturing Business

If you are expanding your manufacturing business and you know it is an exciting but challenging process to get started with, there is rising demand out there right now with advancing technologies and an increased global competition, which means that staying ahead of the game is essential for your business growth.

 

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While budgeting and planning play a crucial role in setting a strong foundation, true business expansion demands a combination of strategic innovation, market reach and resilience. Whether you are running a small scale local operation or you’re managing a well established plant, the following methods can help you to expand your manufacturing business sustainably and easily.

Look to strengthen your core processes. You have to look inward before you look outward when it comes to expansion. Assessing your current operations to identify any bottlenecks, inefficiencies, or outdated systems that could be holding you back is where you should get started. By streamlining production workflows and eliminating waste, you’ll save time and money, and you’ll also prepare yourself for your facility to scale up. You can start by mapping out your entire production process, from sourcing raw materials to delivering them. Identify the areas where automation can be introduced, downtime can be reduced, or quality control could be improved.It’s the smaller refinements and call processes that lead to a bigger gain in output and profitability, which is exactly how you can strengthen those core processes to work for the future.

 

Look into the right technology. Advanced technology is exactly what you need for your business to expand, and as technology continues to revolutionise in the manufacturing industry, you have to keep up with it to stay relevant. From robotics to the Internet of Things, new tools can dramatically enhance productivity while reducing errors and speeding up production cycles. Some of the smart technologies you could consider include anything from CNC machines for precision engineering to predictive maintenance software to reduce downtime. Some manufacturing plants lean into 3D printing for prototyping and AI based analytics for demand forecasting. When you upgrade your technology, you’ll feel a significant profit change. Yes, you may have to spend out some money for this to work, but it often pays off in the form of higher efficiency and better products, which in turn gives you that bigger margin of profit.

 

Develop a scalable workforce. Expansion often requires additional human resources, but hiring blindly is a risk. You have to focus on building a workforce that is not only capable but adaptable to change. When you upscale your current employees through training programs and you invest in their futures and leadership development, you’ll be able to keep your team ready for the next phase of growth while working on their professional development. You might also consider implementing flexible staffing models, such as temporary hiring during peak seasons or outsourcing specific tasks. All of this allows you to manage growth without permanently inflating your labour costs.

 

Look to expand your product lines. An effective way to grow your business is by diversifying what you’re offering. Could you create a premium version of your existing service? Could you add complimentary items? Could you offer repair, installation or after sales services? With product diversification, you’ll be able to reach new customer segments and increase your share of existing markets before you wade into new ones. You’ll also be able to reduce your reliance on one specific product or client. You can make sure to conduct market research before launching new offerings. Expansion always works best when it meets a clearly defined customer need.

 

Look at new markets. If your local market is saturated currently or showing limited growth in your local area, it may be time to look beyond your current geographic boundaries. Plenty of manufacturing businesses tend to go global and grow abroad. Entering new regional, national or even international markets can open up fresh revenue streams for your business, and you can begin this by researching potential markets to understand regulations, demand and competition. You might also look to attend industry trade shows to network more, partner with local distributors and adapt your products to meet the local preferences. Expansion into new markets does take some time, but it can significantly increase your customer base and your brand recognition.

 

Improved supply chain management. Reliable and efficient supply chains are crucial to sustainable growth for a manufacturing business. Delays and shortages, or even rising costs from suppliers can cripple your ability to grow. By strengthening your supply chain, you can make your business more resilient and ready to grow further. By diversifying your supplier base, you can avoid overdependence, and you’ll also be able to build stronger relationships with key suppliers to improve your supply chain efficiency. With the help of inventory management software, you’ll be able to track stock levels in real time, and you can implement just in time production methods to reduce inventory costs. With a responsive supply chain, you’ll be able to handle and increase production demand without compromising quality or delivery times.

 

Automate where you can. Automation is no longer optional.Whether you’re a small manufacturer or a large one. You’ll be able to benefit from automating repetitive or time consuming tasks. Whether you invest in robotics and assembly or automate data entry in your ERP system, automation frees up your human workers for more complex and value added tasks. From packaging and labelling to quality inspection and inventory tracking, automation is going to make all the difference to your business.

 

Work to strengthen your customer relationships. Loyal customers are a powerful growth engine for a manufacturing business. Satisfied clients will place larger orders, offer better feedback, and refer others to your business. To foster true customer loyalty, you can work on improving your communication and responsiveness while offering custom solutions and flexible terms. You could even set up loyalty programs or referral programs to ensure repeat customers. When you work to understand your customers’ evolving needs, you’ll be able to identify opportunities to offer additional products or services, which creates a natural path for growth and word of mouth.

 

Collaborate where you can . In the pursuit of strategic partnerships, you can collaborate with others to expand without taking on any additional risk or responsibility for yourself. Joint ventures with complementary manufacturers or partnerships with logistics or distribution companies are a good place to begin. When you build alliances with research institutions for innovation, you’ll also be able to create a pathway for growth. Such partnerships can help you to access new technologies, skills or markets, and it’s this level of collaboration and skill sharing that you may not be able to reach on your own. You should be sure to establish clear goals and contracts to keep expectations aligned across the board so that you can keep your goals in mind.

 

Use data as your new currency. From production metrics to customer behaviours, you are already collecting tons of valuable information in your everyday manufacturing processes. The point here is to make sure that you’re using it wisely. By integrating data analytics into your systems, you’ll identify inefficiencies in your processes while forecasting demand more accurately. All of this helps you to monitor and reduce waste, track machine utilization, and even look at your employee performances to see where you can tighten the corners. Better data can lead you towards better decisions, and that leads to more confident and more strategic growth. If you haven’t already, consider hiring or consulting with data analysts who will help to turn those raw numbers into actionable insights.

 

Ken Boyd

Author: Cost Accounting for Dummies, Accounting All-In-One for Dummies, The CPA Exam for Dummies and 1,001 Accounting Questions for Dummies

(amazon author page) amazon.com/author/kenboyd

The post Ten Ways to Expand Your Manufacturing Business appeared first on Accounting Accidentally.

The Core Tenets of Staying Safe While Shopping Online: 8 Key Factors for Protecting Yourself

The benefits of online shopping are hard to ignore, and over the last twenty years, the way the internet has changed how we buy things represents one of the biggest shifts in human behaviour.

 

It’s become even more popular since the pandemic. As the high street continues to dwindle and struggles to keep up with companies like Amazon, people are now staying at home and doing nearly all of their shopping from the comfort of their sofas.

 

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While this offers an unprecedented level of convenience, it’s not all it’s cracked up to be. Buying your stuff online greatly increases the risk of getting scammed, and most people don’t take any measures to protect themselves.

 

In this article, you’ll learn about 8 key factors for keeping safe while enjoying the benefits shopping online has to offer.

Using Strong Passwords

 

One of the easiest ways your online accounts can be compromised is by having an insecure password. This is especially the case if you use the same password for all or most of your accounts, because that means that once a hacker has gained access to one, they also have access to others.

 

The best thing to do is to use a password manager. There are several desktop and mobile apps available, and most browsers and operating systems have them built in. They help you generate strong combinations that have the lowest chance of being guessed or cracked.

 

Don’t Shop Using Public Wi-Fi

 

Engaging in online shopping using a public Wi-Fi connection is a big no-no; these connections are far less secure than your home Wi-Fi and represent an ideal opportunity for hackers to sit on the network and wait for someone to make a mistake.

 

You can use a virtual private network (VPN) to make the process more secure, but it’s still best to limit your online shopping to when you’re at home.

 

Avoid Dodgy-Looking Sites

 

In most cases, if it seems too good to be true, then it probably is. Be on the lookout for suspiciously good deals, and always verify that the website you’re visiting is the official one for that brand. One of the most common ways scammers lure people in is by pretending to be a legitimate site, but thankfully, there are things you can do to prevent being fooled.

 

The most important thing is to inspect the URL: if the website begins with ‘https’, you should be safe in the assumption that it’s safe (the ‘s’ stands for secure).

 

Use Two-Factor Authentication

 

Two-Factor Authentication (otherwise known as 2FA) is, thankfully, becoming more and more popular. It essentially adds an extra layer of protection when you log in to a site, sending you a text message to your phone or email to verify that it’s really you.

 

Naturally, this prevents hackers from gaining access, as they don’t have access to your phone or email to verify themselves. It’s not entirely foolproof (such as in large-scale hacks where your email is also compromised), but it’s a simple, highly effective way to greatly increase your safety profile.

 

 

Keep Your Devices Up-to-Date

 

One of the most important aspects of protecting yourself is to keep your devices up-to-date. Beyond offering new features, the main purpose of a software update is to enhance security features by strengthening code and removing bugs: if you remain on an older version, it’s much easier for hackers to exploit unpatched holes in the software and gain access.

 

When it comes to smartphones, it’s key to ensure both the operating system and any apps you use are updated as soon as possible (it’s a good idea to turn on automatic updates so that you don’t forget). On desktop devices, you should be automatically prompted with notifications to update, as is the case with browsers like Safari, Chrome, and Firefox, as well as the Windows, Mac, and Linux operating systems themselves (though it’s important to be aware that after a certain point, pieces of software become unsupported and no longer receive security updates).

 

 

 

 Keep an Eye on Your Bank Statements

 

Many times, scams and hacks go unnoticed because not everyone checks their bank statements. There are many ways for a fraudster to make themselves invisible, and often, the only way you’d know you’d had money stolen from your account is if you actually checked.

 

Thankfully, checking your statement is as simple as periodically taking a quick scroll through your online banking app.

 

Check Seller Reputation

 

If you’re buying second-hand from sites like eBay, it’s essential to check out the seller’s reputation before committing to a purchase.

 

If the seller has a track record of not delivering goods, taking too long to process orders, or outright scamming their customers, this will be displayed, usually as a star rating, on their profile.

 

Know Where to Go for Help

 

Of course, even if you employ all of the strategies discussed above, it’s still possible to get scammed. In the rare event that this does happen, you need to know which professionals to turn to.

 

For example, instances of online scamming can result in cases of identity theft in extreme cases, as hackers are able to gain access to your bank accounts, name, address, and other forms of identification. In these instances, you should contact the police. If you have payments showing up on your account that you haven’t made, you may also want to approach a lawyer to dispute the credit report.

 

In all cases, you’ll need to contact your bank to put a hold on your account and possibly have your details changed.

 

 

Wrapping Up

 

Hopefully, you now have a much better idea of what it means to stay safe while online shopping. While there are many different ways a scammer can gain access to your details (and increasingly complex methods being discovered all the time), so long as you stay consistent in your efforts to protect your accounts, a data breach or fraudulent attack will remain unlikely.

 

Ken Boyd

Author: Cost Accounting for Dummies, Accounting All-In-One for Dummies, The CPA Exam for Dummies and 1,001 Accounting Questions for Dummies

(amazon author page) amazon.com/author/kenboyd

The post The Core Tenets of Staying Safe While Shopping Online: 8 Key Factors for Protecting Yourself appeared first on Accounting Accidentally.

How to Get a Great Deal on Business Real Estate

Securing a prime location for your business is really important, but it can be very difficult to find the perfect place that works for you and your customers and clients, and what’s more, negotiate a great deal on your property, right? Well, it can be tricky, but we have a few tips up our sleeve which will help you to achieve the seemingly impossible…

 

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Scope Out the Terrain Like a Scout

 

Before you drop a dime on a fancy office or storefront, channel your inner explorer. Walk the neighborhood at different times of day to gauge foot traffic, parking availability, and the overall vibe. Is the area buzzing on weekdays but deserted on weekends? Do delivery trucks block the loading dock every afternoon? Are there enough nearby coffee shops to fuel your team’s caffeine cravings, or will they end up brewing despair in the break room?

 

Next, dive into online resources. Local government sites often list upcoming developments, zoning changes, and permit applications. A planned light rail extension or a new residential complex could dramatically boost your property’s value, or your rent. By doing this reconnaissance, you’ll avoid the classic “Deal of a Lifetime” that turns into a “Lease You Regret.”

 

Of course, a good estate agent like the team at Harper Macleod real estate agents can also help you with this aspect of the process, so be sure that you don’t go it alone.

 

Crunch Numbers Like You Mean It

 

Commercial real estate costs extend far beyond the rent itself. Factor in common-area maintenance fees, property taxes, utilities, insurance, and any hidden charges embroidered into the fine print. Devote time to building a simple spreadsheet with columns for Base Rent, CAM Fees, Utilities, Insurance, Taxes, and a Miscellaneous buffer.If the sum makes your eyes water, don’t panic. Use that figure as a bargaining chip.

 

Landlords expect negotiations. They price leases with a cushion for haggling. Show them your spreadsheet and ask for concessions on fees, a longer rent-free period, or tenant improvement allowances. You will be surprised how often a polite, data-driven request leads to serious savings.

 

Time Your Move with Market Cycles

 

Just as every fashion trend has a season, so does the commercial real estate market. In an oversupplied market, when vacancies rise and landlords struggle to fill space, tenants hold the power. Conversely, in a booming economy with low vacancy rates, you may have to bend a little more. Research local vacancy statistics, vacancy by submarket, and absorption rates.

 

Typically, Q4 can be slow for commercial moves, as many businesses wait until the new year. If you can endure a holiday season of packing boxes and sweater weather, you might score steeper discounts. Conversely, landlords often ramp up concessions in off-peak months, aiming to lock in a tenant before the next leasing cycle kicks in. Timing, in this case, is more than a cliché.

 

Don’t Be Shy About Asking for Help

 

Commercial real estate can be labyrinthine, with legalese lurking around every corner. Bring in the experts where it counts. Enlist a tenant-representation broker who works for you, not the landlord, and negotiates on your behalf. They often have access to pocket listings and the latest market comps that justify more aggressive negotiation tactics.

 

Similarly, consult an attorney to review lease terms and spot potential landmines. A clause that seems innocuous can balloon into a multi-thousand-dollar liability down the road. By investing a modest retainer fee upfront, you avoid costly disputes later. Think of these experts as your real estate ninja squad, guiding you through vendor battles and lease labyrinths.

 

Play Hardball with Concessions

 

If the list of tenant improvement upgrades feels skimpy—or nonexistent—don’t accept it as gospel. Draft a list of must-have improvements: fresh paint, upgraded HVAC, improved lighting, or even cosmetic tweaks like trimmed landscaping. Present it as part of your negotiation package and ask the landlord to cover some or all of the costs.

 

Worse case, they say no and you walk away. Best case, they agree to cover a chunk of the build-out. Even if they offer a tenant improvement allowance rather than direct improvements, you can take that cash and hire your preferred contractor. Approach concessions creatively. Perhaps you can ask for partial rent relief while construction is underway. The worst answer you’ll get is no, but you won’t know until you ask.

 

Structure Your Lease for Flexibility

 

Locking into a ten-year lease without exit options can feel like voluntarily signing up for a lifelong cell phone contract. Instead, negotiate break clauses that allow you to exit early if your business outgrows the space or market conditions turn sour. Aim for renewal options, right-of-first-refusal on adjacent spaces, or an “earn-out” structure where rent increases are tied to your revenue growth.

 

This flexibility turns the lease into a dynamic agreement rather than a rigid entrapment. It also signals to the landlord that you are confident in your business’s trajectory, which can make them more open to creative terms. Remember, the more adaptable your lease, the less risk you shoulder.

 

Inspect Like a Detective

 

Before you sign anything, schedule a thorough property inspection. Bring a contractor or engineer to identify structural issues, plumbing quirks, or electrical anomalies that may not be visible to the untrained eye. A leaky roof, uneven floors, or aging wiring can translate into hefty surprise bills later.

 

Use any deficiencies you uncover as negotiation leverage. Ask the landlord to remedy major issues before you move in or to provide a rent credit for necessary repairs. This diligence ensures you start your tenancy with eyes wide open rather than blindsided by sudden maintenance nightmares.

 

Build Relationships with Neighbors

 

A good neighbor network can unlock perks you won’t find on the MLS. Attend area business association meetings, join local commerce groups, and connect with existing tenants in nearby buildings. They might tip you off about an upcoming vacancy or introduce you to a landlord seeking a high-quality tenant.

 

Moreover, demonstrating that you are a supportive member of the local business community enhances your reputation.  Landlords value tenants who contribute positively to the building’s ecosystem because happy, collaborative tenants tend to stay longer. Longer lease terms translate into predictable income for the landlord, which you can parlay into better rental rates.

 

Now, all that remains is to seal the deal with confidence!

 

Ken Boyd

Author: Cost Accounting for Dummies, Accounting All-In-One for Dummies, The CPA Exam for Dummies and 1,001 Accounting Questions for Dummies

(amazon author page) amazon.com/author/kenboyd

(personal finance book/ self-published) 34 Stories That Explain Personal Finance

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4 Strategies For Getting Ahead of Your Competitors

Competition is a blessing and a curse. On the one hand, it forces you to deliver your best; there’s simply no way to be successful without being the best you can be. The level of competition that’s out there simply won’t allow it. On the other hand, competition is just frustrating; you’re doing your best, but your competitors are grabbing some of your target audience, and, as a result, eating into your profits.

 

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Getting — and staying — ahead of your competitors is, therefore, essential for establishing long-term success. Let’s take a look at how to do it.

 

 

Know Who They Are and What They’re Doing

 

You can’t get ahead of competitors if you don’t know who they are, so perform research to get a list of names who you can consider your competitors. Remember that just because a business operates in your sector, that won’t automatically make them a competitor. They’re only a competitor if they’re targeting the same potential customers as you are. Once you’ve got a list of your competitors, take a close look at what they’re doing — understanding their baselines is essential for getting one (or more!) steps ahead.

 

Expand Your Reach

 

Of all the ways to grow a business, expanding reach is usually the most effective — yet also the option that many businesses are reluctant to pursue. Done correctly, it can make a significant difference to your overall success, and put you miles ahead of your competitors. In some cases, it can remove a competitor altogether. Acquiring another business can be a challenging process, but a business acquisition loan can help; and once the deal is done, you’ll have snagged more market share while also removing a competitor for good. Don’t want to buy another business, but do want to expand your reach? Entering a new market, such as an overseas market, can also be a good idea.

 

Invest in Top Talent

 

Outstanding employees can make all the difference to an organization’s prospects. If the best talent in your sector isn’t working for you, then they’re working for your competitor. Working to put together competitive salary packages, a great work environment, and fostering a culture that people genuinely want to be a part of can ensure that not only do you attract the best candidates, but that they stay with your business once they’re on board.

 

Stay Agile

 

Even if things are going well right now, that doesn’t mean things will automatically be just as rosy in the future. Things change. New ways of working will emerge, customer needs and expectations will evolve, and the current landscape will become a memory. While there are some exceptions, the best companies tend to take an agile approach that allows them to move with the times. In doing so, they give themselves a significant competitive advantage. After all, it’s much easier to be successful when you’re in a position to take advantage of the moving goalposts. Your core values and mission can remain the same, but the rest should be open to change.

 

Ken Boyd

Author: Cost Accounting for Dummies, Accounting All-In-One for Dummies, The CPA Exam for Dummies and 1,001 Accounting Questions for Dummies

(amazon author page) amazon.com/author/kenboyd

(personal finance book/ self-published) 34 Stories That Explain Personal Finance

 

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