There is a noticeable divide between Irish SMEs that consistently grow and those that remain static despite similar market conditions. It is easy to assume that this comes down to industry, location, or access to capital. While those factors play a role, the more consistent difference lies in behaviour. Specifically, financial habits. Growing businesses tend […]
Many Irish SME owners measure success by how busy they are. Full calendars, constant emails, staff under pressure, and strong sales activity all create the impression of a healthy business. From the outside, it looks like progress. The problem is that activity and profitability are not the same thing. In fact, they often move in […]
Stress testing is often associated with large organisations, but it is equally relevant for Irish SMEs. It involves assessing how a business would perform under different scenarios, particularly adverse conditions. The purpose is not to predict the future, but to prepare for it. One of the main benefits of stress testing is identifying vulnerabilities. This […]
In many Irish SMEs, decisions are delayed not because of uncertainty, but because of competing priorities. While this may seem harmless, the cost of delayed decision making can be significant. Time is a critical factor in business. Opportunities are often time-sensitive, and delays can result in missed chances. Whether it is securing a contract, investing […]
For many Irish SMEs, investment decisions are often focused on tangible assets such as equipment or premises. Systems, particularly digital systems, are sometimes viewed as optional rather than essential. This can lead to missed opportunities and ongoing inefficiencies. The decision to invest in systems is often delayed until problems become unavoidable. Processes become slower, errors […]
At John P Burke we know delayed invoicing is one of the most common and underestimated issues affecting Irish SMEs. It rarely feels urgent. Work is completed, the focus shifts to the next job and invo…
At John P Burke we know many Irish SMEs measure success by turnover. Rising sales suggest growth, momentum and market demand. However, turnover alone does not guarantee financial stability. A business…
At John P Burke we know long-term clients are often viewed as the foundation of a successful business. They provide stability, predictable revenue and a sense of continuity. For many Irish SMEs, these…
At John P Burke we know growth is often seen as a clear sign of success. More customers, more staff and more activity suggest that a business is moving in the right direction. However, for many Irish …
Many Irish SMEs experience fluctuations in cash flow throughout the year. These patterns are often predictable, yet they are not always planned for effectively. Seasonality can create both opportunities and risks, depending on how it is managed. Some businesses generate the majority of their revenue during specific periods. Tourism, retail and construction are common examples […]
