For richer, for poorer, for better, for worse. If you own a small business, these familiar wedding vows might signify more than promises to a spouse. They might describe your relationship with your business as well. And with good reason if your personal financial well-being is closely tied to how well your business is doing. A strong cash flow is good for business and good for you. If your company’s cash flow isn’t as healthy as you’d like it to be, here are some things to consider.

A growing firm often finds it necessary to expand the level of its operations. To accomplish this, the firm might acquire additional fixed assets, such as property, a plant, and equipment. Often, an expanding business will require additional personnel. In some cases, a business will expand so much that buying another existing business might be desirable option.

Whether you’re a current business owner or a budding entrepreneur burning with the next great idea, one of the most important steps you can take on your road to success is creating a business plan. Why? A well-thought-out and well-written business plan captures your vision, illustrates it for others (including potential lenders and investors), and creates the roadmap you and your management team need to guide you through the growth of your business. Consider the following points:

The manager of a family business who is considering retirement often has four goals: paying as little in taxes as possible, keeping the business in the family, treating heirs fairly, and ensuring competent successor management. But achieving these goals is often a challenge. A business exit must be custom fitted to your financial situation and your desires for management succession. The following are some possible strategies that you may want to consider — with the help of your professional advisors.

Originally published in the Daily Record March 2, 2010 Recently, while watching the Olympics, I recognized the similarity between pair skating and financial business partnerships. Just like pair skaters, a financial institution should work with its business partners, following a