One of the problems of running a small business is that the small business owner gets to do everything himself – at least until he can afford to hire other people. Business management can be a particularly thorny area for people who don’t have any management experience and/or aren't familiar with management basics.

These business management basics provide an outline of four areas of business management most critical to small businesses. For each business management bascis area, I’ve linked business articles that you can use to learn more about or brush up on that particular business management topic.

1) Money Management Basics

Is there anything more important to the success of your small business than managing the money? Money management should be your top business management priority.

Accounting

The first step in money management is tracking the money coming in and the money flowing out.

Top Accounting Software Programs For Small Business

These top selling software programs simplify your small business accounting tasks, and provide all the reports and tools you need to effectively use your financial data.

Before You Buy Accounting Software

Ease of use, the learning curve, and scalability are only some of the features you should consider when choosing an accounting software package that will meet the needs of your small business.

Preparing A Balance Sheet

An explanation of the different sections of the balance sheet and a balance sheet template that you can use for your small business.

Cash Flow Management

Once you know how cash flows in and out of your small business, you’re ready to manage that flow.

Finding Small Business Financing

This guide to the different types of debt and equity financing will help you decide what kind of small business financing is right for you.

How To Get A Small Business Loan

Increase your chances of getting a small business loan by being prepared to meet the lender's expectations. This explanation of the documents you need and how to prepare yourself will give you a better chance of making a winning presentation.

2) Business Planning Management Basics

While business planning is a huge part of business management, two aspects of business planning basics to focus on are managing the vision of your small business and protecting your small business from disaster.

Managing The Vision

Managing the vision means having long-range goals and objectives for your company and then planning how to achieve those goals. What do you want your small business to look like next year, three years, and five years down the road?