Led by Mark Fielding, yesterday’s SME Owners’ Series session focused on three areas that can make a real difference in day-to-day business performance – controlling time, improving credit control, and keeping a closer eye on cash flow. For busy founders and managers, the message was clear: stronger habits and clearer systems can help you stay in control before problems begin to build.
Start with better use of time
Many small and family-run business owners are stretched across sales, operations, customer service and admin. One of the strongest messages from the session was that time needs to be managed as carefully as money.
Practical tools discussed included setting SMART goals, using time blocking and applying the Matrix to separate urgent from important. There was also a simple reminder that often gets overlooked: do the hardest task first. Tackling the difficult job first can make the rest of the day more manageable and help protect time for work that supports business growth.
Build systems that reduce pressure
The session also highlighted the value of standard operating procedures. Clear written steps help teams work consistently, reduce mistakes, support training and make it easier to stay on top of regulatory requirements.
For SMEs, that matters. When people are busy, it is easy for important tasks to be done differently each time or left to memory. Good systems create consistency and give business owners more breathing room to focus on decisions that move the business forward.
Cash flow needs attention before it becomes a problem
Another strong takeaway was that cash flow – not profit alone – keeps a business moving. Early warning signs can include struggling to pay VAT or PAYE on time, relying on overdrafts for routine costs, seeing debtor days creep up, or being unsure how much cash will be available in the next four weeks.
Attendees were encouraged to keep a regular cash flow forecast, issue invoices promptly, follow up on late payments consistently, and review debtor levels before they become a bigger issue. Credit control was a key part of that discussion, with advice to have a written policy, complete due diligence on new customers, set credit limits, and hold regular reviews.
A useful session for members
This event was a strong reminder that practical support, shared learning and local connection still matter. For many SMEs, small improvements in routine financial and time management can have a big impact over time.
DATE FOR YOUR DIARY – THURSDAY 22ND OCTOBER
For practical business support, keep an eye out for our next Lunch & Learn on Thursday 22 October: Small Business Strategy to Help You Succeed. Book your seat here: Booking Link.
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