Why Budgeting is the Key to Business Success
Planning for Success
Did you know that 95% of New Zealand small businesses experience at least one month of negative cash flow each year? This means that even profitable businesses can find themselves struggling to pay bills if they’re not actively managing their cash flow.
Every successful business starts with a clear plan. A business plan combined with a cash flow forecast gives you clarity on where your business is now, where you want it to be, and how you’re going to get there.
Yes, stepping away from day-to-day operations to focus on strategy might seem difficult, but it’s essential. This is your chance to review past performance, set ambitious yet achievable goals, and ensure your business is moving in the right direction. Better results are achieved by taking action. In today’s competitive environment, standing still often means falling behind.
An annual cash flow forecast is one of the most powerful tools for planning and decision-making. It ensures you always know how much money will be coming in and going out of your business—and when—so you can plan confidently and avoid financial surprises.
By proactively managing your cash flow for the year ahead, you’re not just avoiding problems—you’re creating opportunities to reinvest in your business, scale faster, and improve profitability.
If you’re not actively tracking your financial results and key business drivers, you’re operating in the dark. You can’t improve what you don’t measure.
A management report—or even better, a live dashboard— provides real-time insights into your financial performance so you can track actual performance against your budget. It forces you to step back, assess your financial position, and take proactive steps to get back on track.
Wouldn’t it be great to compare your business performance to others in your industry? When setting your budget for the year ahead, we can help you compare your targets to industry standards.
We provide benchmarking data that helps you:
Armed with this data, we can help you bridge the gap between where you are and where you want to be.
If you’re serious about taking control of your business finances, improving cash flow, and achieving better results in the 2026 financial year, now is the time to act.
We’re currently working with businesses to develop cash flow budgets for the year ahead. Book a meeting with your Outside go-to, and we’ll help you:
Let’s make 2026 your best financial year yet—get in touch today!
Your Outside Team
If you run a business in Wellington, it’s time to double-check that your payroll systems are up to date. As of 1 April 2025, the minimum wage in New Zealand has increased, and failing to adjust your systems could lead to non-compliance and financial penalties.
On 1 April 2025, the New Zealand minimum wage increased, and it’s crucial for Wellington business owners to ensure their payroll systems and employee records are up to date. Failing to comply can result in costly penalties and damage to your reputation — not to mention disgruntled staff.
Creating and maintaining a solid business budget is one of the most effective ways to manage your finances and drive business growth. For businesses in Wellington, budgeting isn’t just about predicting income and expenses — it’s a vital strategic tool that gives you control, clarity, and confidence.
From 1 April 2025, New Zealand’s minimum wage will increase, impacting businesses across the country. As an employer, it’s essential to understand how these changes affect your payroll, budgeting, and overall business operations. Here’s what you need to know to stay compliant and prepared.
The good news? There are practical steps you can take to regain control of your time and create a healthier work-life balance.
You started your business to enjoy the freedom of being your own boss — yet somehow, you’re working longer hours and feeling overwhelmed with admin, meetings, and constant demands.
The good news? There are practical steps you can take to regain control of your time and create a healthier work-life balance.
With 31 March fast approaching, now’s the perfect time to prepare for the end of the financial year. Acting early can save you time, reduce stress, and ensure your business is ready to thrive in 2025. If you’d like a checklist to guide you through the process, reach out — we’re here to help.
ALL POSTS
Client
Reviews
NEWSLETTER SUBSCRIPTION