Having the ultimate summer break without sacrificing cashflow

summer break, vacation, anywhere

With the new year upon us, many Aussie small-business owners and contractors dream about taking some time off work to make the most of the warmer weather. But for fear of an interruption to cashflow, many feel like they can’t.

Recent survey data from Invoice2go shows that 55 per cent of Australian small business owners and contractors now work entirely from their mobile. The multitude of apps and tech that are easily accessible on most mobile devices means you shouldn’t discount the powers of your smartphone to keep your small business running when you’re not at your desk! So why not make the most of flexible work, take your business on the road and chase the sun this summer?

Here are a few tips to help you take some time for yourself without sacrificing your cashflow:

Plan your work schedule

When you’re working from the road, it’s likely you won’t be working to structured hours. Plan your days so that there is clear time set aside for work, be it early in the morning or late at night. Having work time clearly scheduled in and around your travel activities will make it easier to switch off and enjoy your holiday. The beauty of working from your mobile devices means that you can have access to work at any time no matter where you are, so make the most of it.

Minimum paperwork, maximum relaxation

Make the most of apps that will save you time so you can spend those extra few hours in the sun without wasting them on mundane admin tasks. For paperwork-heavy tasks like invoicing, consider apps like Invoice2go, which allow you to create and send professional quotes and invoices while also keeping track of overdue invoices, receipts and expenses. This will simplify your accounting and reporting process, saving you time and making it easy to monitor your cashflow no matter where you are.

Keep connected via communication

To keep up with the day-to-day that comes with running a small business, consider using communication apps that facilitate instant messaging and video calls. Sometimes email and written messages aren’t sufficient when liaising with stockists, contractors and customers, so easy access to face-to-face and voice communication tools can be useful. Applications like Skype and Google Hangouts can be used across many different mobile devices, so you know that if you need it, you’ll be able to have clear phone and video calls without issue.

With all that mobile apps and connectivity have to offer, not only can you keep your business running from the palm of your hand, but you can make the most of the beautiful weather while it lasts. So grab a towel and sunscreen, plant yourself on a beach, or stock up your car and take a road trip!

Chris Strode, Founder, www.invoice.2go.com