When a business owner contacts their bank, it's usually not to discuss the bank’s range of products. More often, it’s because they need help solving a problem. They’re looking for answers, guidance, and support — from someone who understands the challenges of running a business and can offer an outside perspective to help them move forward.
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Often, the reason for reaching out is a lack of cash — either to cover day-to-day expenses or to fund important investments.
The immediate response is usually to talk about credit. But is that enough? What opportunities lie within the company’s working capital? What can the business owner adjust internally, and where does the bank come in? How can the bank help solve the urgent need — and then provide advice to ensure the situation doesn’t repeat itself?
To provide real help, the advisor needs to understand the entrepreneur’s situation and challenges — and that starts with understanding the very essence of why the business exists in the first place.
Running a business is about much more than making a living. For many, it's a lifestyle — even a calling. That’s why the financial health of the business is so critical. If the business suffers, it’s not just income that’s at risk — it’s an entire way of life.
And that makes the company’s financial "health" worth a closer look. When a family member falls ill, we reach for the thermometer. When a business struggles, it’s the financials that act as the indicator. The balance sheet and income statement can paint a clear picture — if you know what to look for.
But financial statements alone don’t always speak to entrepreneurs. Finance isn’t necessarily a language they relate to — or feel comfortable with.
The human brain is uniquely wired to recognize images and patterns. Visual understanding is something we’re all born with — so why not use that strength in banking conversations too? Especially as a complement to spreadsheets full of rows and columns.
Of course, this requires balance. Many advisors and analysts enjoy the numbers and the detail — but not all business owners do. That’s why it's often more effective to begin with a visual overview — something you don’t get from traditional reports — and then dive into the details afterward.
Just because someone runs a business doesn't mean they have knowledge of, or interest in, finance. Most companies weren't started to fulfill a love of numbers and reports. In fact, many entrepreneurs have actively avoided finance — both during their studies and in their careers. “Finance is for the finance people, not for me!”
So, when advisors rely on traditional financial reports as the foundation of their client meetings, it can create a disconnect.
Given that finance is a major source of stress for many entrepreneurs, the bank — along with accountants and auditors — has a real opportunity to play a more meaningful role. Not just by providing financial products, but by guiding, supporting, and educating.
But that requires something that’s often missing:
We help you develop your employees and your business. When more people gain in-depth knowledge of how business and profitability are connected, the results will move in the right direction.
Would you like to hear more about how we can help you?
Contact us and we’ll tell you more.
