Not every business can afford a full-time CFO—but every business deserves CFO-level insight. Here are five simple tips that our clients use to get control of their numbers and strengthen their bottom line.
1. Cash Flow > Profit
Don’t confuse “profitable on paper” with “money in the bank.” Track your inflows and outflows weekly. Many good companies collapse because they ran out of cash, not because they ran out of sales.
2. Keep Your Bankers Close
Your banker isn’t just a lender—they’re a gatekeeper. Share your financials before they ask, and make them part of your growth story. A prepared borrower gets better rates and faster approvals.
3. Forecast, Don’t Just Report
A CFO looks forward. Build rolling forecasts—90 days minimum. This lets you make adjustments in advance instead of reacting to surprises.
4. Separate Emotion from Numbers
It’s easy to get attached to a product, a client, or a pet project. But if it consistently drains resources, a CFO will ask: does it really belong in the business?
5. Prepare for Tomorrow’s Sale Today
Even if you’re not thinking about selling, run your business as if a buyer is looking over your shoulder. Clean books, clear contracts, and efficient systems can add real value when that day comes.
Final Thought:
CFO-level thinking isn’t just for Fortune 500 companies. It’s about putting discipline behind your decision-making so that growth feels intentional, not accidental.
At Sharp CFO, we bring these principles into everyday business life—so owners can spend less time worrying about numbers and more time leading.