25 Cash Flow Tips to Keep Your Business From Flatlining
Lee Gray
May 6, 2025
25 Cash Flow Tips to Keep Your Business From Flatlining
Hey there, money wrangler!
If you’re a business owner in Wichita, KS (or anywhere on this wild entrepreneurial ride), then you know cash flow isn’t just king — it’s the entire royal court. I’m your trusty business coach, Lee Gray, waving at you from our sunflower-lovin’ city, and today, we’re diving headfirst into the glorious, gritty world of cash flow management.
Whether you're a startup hustling out of a downtown co-working space or a seasoned shopkeeper in Old Town, these 25 cash flow tips will keep your wallet full, your stress low, and your accountant (and Business Coach) happy.
THE CASH FLOW COMMANDMENTS (a.k.a. 25 Tips to Rule Your Finances)
Know Thy Numbers
You can't manage what you don't measure. Weekly cash flow reviews, folks. Put it on your calendar. Name it something fun like “Money Monday” or “Finance Fiesta.”Invoice Like You Mean It
Send invoices immediately after the work is done. Don’t let ‘em sit. Speed equals cash, my friend.Shorten Payment Terms
Net-30? Nah. Try net-15. You’re not a bank.Charge Late Fees
Be nice, but firm. Like a Midwestern grandma with a wooden spoon.Offer Early Pay Discounts
Give ‘em a reason to pay you faster. "Pay in 7 days, save 2%" works like a charm!Automate All the Things
Use tools like QuickBooks, Wave, or FreshBooks. Automation = liberation.Create a Cash Buffer
At least 3 months of operating expenses stashed away = stress-free sleep.Cut the Sneaky Costs
Subscriptions, software, mystery expenses cancel the money vampires.Don’t Overbuy Inventory
You are not Costco. Be lean and strategic with your stock.Upsell Like a Boss
More value per transaction = more cash per customer. Simple math.Renegotiate Contracts
You’d be surprised how many vendors will lower prices if you just ask. Seriously. Just ask.Ditch Deadbeat Clients
If they always pay late, they’re costing you money. Goodbye and good luck.Implement Recurring Revenue Models
Memberships, retainers, subscriptions = smooth, predictable cash flow.Review Your Pricing
If it’s been more than a year ... it’s time. Wichita’s cost of living isn’t what it used to be, and neither should your pricing be.Delay Big Purchases (When You Can)
Need it? Or want it? If it’s not urgent, give it 30 days.Get a Line of Credit Before You Need It
It’s easier to get when things are good than when you're desperate. Like applying for a loan in a tux instead of pajamas.Set Up Separate Bank Accounts
One for operations, one for taxes, one for savings. Boom. Instant clarity.Forecast Like a Wizard
Map out the next 3–6 months of income and expenses. Pretend you're reading the future.Make Your Payments Strategic
Pay bills on their due date not early, not late. Keep cash in your pocket as long as you can.Get a Virtual CFO (Even Part-Time)
Not just for the big dogs. Small biz can benefit massively from high-level financial insight.Bundle Services or Products
Sell more in one go = MORE cash flow, less transaction friction.Avoid Debt Traps
Credit cards are tools, not lifelines. Keep balances paid and interest at bay.Review Your Payment Methods
Make it easy to pay you. Mobile payments, ACH, credit cards... whatever it takes!Run Promotions with Purpose
Flash sales and seasonal promos can inject fast cash, just don’t overdo it and train customers to only buy on sale.Celebrate Your Wins (Frugally)
Pop champagne when you hit cash flow goals, but maybe the grocery store kind. $9.99 bubbly tastes better with victory.
Final Word From Your Fave Kansas Biz Coach
Here in Wichita, we believe in working hard, dreaming big, and keeping our feet (and finances) on the ground. These tips aren’t just theory — they’re battle-tested advice from real businesses, right here in the Heartland.
So grab your spreadsheets, pour yourself a strong coffee (or a tall sweet tea if that’s your jam), and let’s tame that cash flow dragon together. You’ve got this, and I’ve got your back.
Until next time,
Lee Gray