Alex Hartley

                                                                     

Xero Blog: Small Businesses Face Skills Gaps - Xero Can Help

Small businesses facing skills gaps have two people looking at boxes in a warehouse.
Xero helps you take stock of your small business

Introduction

Welcome to JacRox, a brand division of Jack Ross Chartered Accountants in Manchester. We are dedicated to offering expert Xero services to a wide variety of clients, from sole traders to large corporations. If you are in need of state-of-the-art cloud accounting software, use the contact form on the right and one of our JacRox team will be in touch to discuss next steps.

As the lifeblood of any economy, small businesses often face numerous challenges to stay afloat and thrive. One of these challenges is the growing skills gap, which hinders growth and productivity. Amid these issues, Xero, a cloud-based accounting software, has emerged as a knight in shining armour. This article explores Xero’s vital role in supporting the small business economy and how it provides the support small businesses need to thrive.

The Challenges Facing Small Businesses Owners

The Skills Gap

Many small businesses face a serious skills gap, particularly in accounting and bookkeeping. The lack of the right skills can be detrimental as it directly impacts cash flow and financial management.

Late Payments

According to Xero Small Business Insights Data, late payments cost small businesses a staggering £684 million, affecting their cash flow and operations.

How Xero Can Help

Tackle Late Payments

Xero offers features to help small businesses tackle late payments by providing automated invoice reminders. This helps to ensure that money belonging to small businesses is paid on time.

Digital Investments to Help Small Businesses

Xero regularly releases new technology and features to help small businesses move seamlessly online or remotely. These digital investments are designed to give small businesses even more support in these challenging times.

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Very good service from the Jack Ross Team. They gave us good advice and completed a very efficient audit. They have a friendly and competent team. I would surely recommend them.

Brilliant service from the Jack Ross team in setting up several companies in very quick time, along with providing associated accountancy advice. Can recommend wholeheartedly as a leading accountancy practice with a can-do attitude.

Dan Gazzard 25/02/2022
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First class service for many years from a first class team. Highly recommended. Prompt, commercially aware, personable.

Been using Jack Ross for a number of years. Good clear advice and nice people to do business with.

Jack Ross is based in Manchester and provides tax planning and Xero accounts. They are a long-standing and well-regarded firm with an excellent reputation. They provide their clients with exceptional service and a wealth of advice. I have no hesitation in using their professional services.

aj shelton 22/12/2021
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Jack Ross has been my accountants since I set up my business in 2016. From the outset I was helped with advice, support and encouragement. I cannot commend them highly enough. Always on hand to answer any question and responsive to any changes in the economy which might concern their clients. I don’t have to worry about the financial side of my business as all of that is taken care of and dealt with by Umar and the brilliant team. If you are looking for a top class accountancy firm which maintains the personal touch they are for you!

I would recommend this account, knowledgable and helpful

syra bano 16/11/2019
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I can confidently recommend Jack Ross Accountants. They are continually improving their service, greatly benefiting our company as well as me personally. The team at Jack Ross have helped suggest and set up innovative accounting software, adding training and support. This alone has been a massive step towards having more control and understanding of our company finances.

J 13/08/2018
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We have enjoyed a solid and constructive relationship with JackRoss and Can highly recommend them for accountancy services.

We have been working with Jack Ross for over two years and the service has been fantastic. They have a great and knowledgable team who have taken good care of us and our accounts.

Meeting to review annual accounts and discuss future plans. Very productive as they definitely talk my language - on reflection probably the best such meeting in recent years. Many thanks Umar and Jamie

Jack Ross has serviced my Personal Tax requirements for the last 5 years. During some complicated challenges their advice was excellent and the customer service second to none and left me with no doubt all was in hand.

Following a recommendation, I have used Jack Ross for all my accounting needs (including payroll) since the inception of my business over 12 years ago. The relationship has been completely hassle free and I greatly value their service, which goes well beyond preparation of accounts. Their tax planning advice has been really helpful and I have always felt that they have ‘got my back’. Can’t recommend them enough.

We have finally found the Accountancy firm that we have been looking for! We switched over to Jack Ross towards the end of last year and from the very first contact to the recent submission of our end of year accounts the service provided has been fantastic and has easily exceeded our expectations. Thank you!

oliver kirk 22/03/2018
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Excellent service; very helpful people and work done much quicker than I expected.

Paul Clark 29/09/2017
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I have used Jack Ross as my accountants for a number of years. Their service is professional and accurate. They deal with queries promptly and I can always get hold of the person I need to speak to. Their digital product has made a big difference to the efficiency of my business. I would not hesitate to recommend them.

Benjamin 22/02/2017
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Jack Ross have been my family and business accountants and financial advisors for over 50 years. The delivery of services is second to none and i would recommend them to anyone. We have also built up great friendships over the years, above and beyond that of a normal business relationship which i value greatly.

Rob Cowan 22/02/2017
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We have been looked after by jack Ross for a number of years. They have given us fantastic tax advise and helped our company grow from strength to strength. A & f

Fee Munshi 16/02/2017
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Excellent advice and an understandable explanation of a very complex area of tax and corporate law which other (so called) advisors managed to totally confuse me. Thank you.

I have had a relationship with Jack Ross for several years and continue to be impressed by the proactive support and diligent advice received across the breadth of the firm. Excellent at signposting.

Holly Jones 14/02/2017
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Jack Ross have acted for our law company for over 5 years and have been professional, prompt, and knowledgable in all aspects of our dealing with them.

Plan to Help Small Businesses

Xero’s Four-Point Recovery Plan

Xero recently unveiled a four-point recovery plan to ensure the nation’s resilient small businesses do not get left behind. The plan focuses on education and training, boosting digital skills and providing meaningful policy support.

Recommendations to the UK Government

Xero has also submitted a manifesto to the UK Government to deliver policy changes that will provide greater support for small businesses. The recommendations include measures to support faster payments for small businesses.

The Role of Accountants and Bookkeepers

Accountants play a vital role in helping small businesses overcome their challenges. Using Xero, accountants can provide small businesses with the right tools and advice to manage their finances efficiently. Xero enables accountants to act as advisors, helping small businesses to access the support they need.

The Impact on the Small Business Economy

Small Business Performance

Xero has supported small business performance, particularly during the pandemic. The software has helped businesses adapt to new working conditions, ensuring their survival and growth.

Future Accountants

Xero also invests in education and training to create a pool of current and future accountants well-equipped to support small businesses.

State of the industry: Three advisors on the challenges and opportunities ahead

Why Every Small Business Should Consider Xero

User-Friendly Interface

One of the main reasons why small business owners prefer to use Xero is its user-friendly interface. It helps them manage their finances without requiring a deep understanding of accounting.

Real-Time Data

Xero provides real-time, anonymised and aggregated data, allowing small businesses to make informed decisions based on current financial conditions.

Cash Flow Management

With features that allow businesses to manage invoices, payroll and expenses, Xero offers comprehensive solutions for managing cash flow.

Bottom Line

Small businesses face many challenges, including skills gaps and late payments. However, with the proper support, they can survive and thrive. Xero is committed to providing small businesses with this much-needed support. From tackling late payments to providing digital solutions and actionable plans, Xero is a one-stop shop for small businesses in need. With Xero’s support, small businesses can look forward to a brighter, more secure future.

Alex Hartley
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Xero is designed to make it easier for you to run and grow your business. Its features and services can help small business owners with their day-to-day tasks, from keeping track of finances to dealing with late payments. It also provides access to experts who can offer advice and support to businesses.

Late payment of invoices is a significant issue for small businesses in the UK; it is estimated that routine late payments cost them £684 million each year. In 2019, the Business Secretary will announce reforms to tackle late payments from large businesses to their small suppliers.

Technology has revolutionised the way many small businesses operate. Sophisticated software tools are now available to help business owners efficiently manage their finances, automate workflows or quickly track down customers. Technology has significantly improved the efficiency of many SMEs, allowing them to be more competitive in their industry.

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Take advantage of harnessing the full potential of Xero for your business. Whether you're a start-up, a thriving SME, or a larger enterprise, our Xero-certified accountants are ready to guide you through every step. Please fill out the form below, and let's begin your financial transformation.

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