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5 Small Business Loan Tips

By Darrell Zahorsky, About.com

As most business owners will come to know, obtaining a small business loan can be a trying ordeal. Learn what you need to know about getting a small business loan for your business.

An important source of funding for your business in the future can be the bank. Relationship banking has been the cornerstone of small business financing. A good relationship between the business owners and bankers allows for the free exchange of knowledge and the ability to meet the needs of business. A banker informed of your business can not only provide you with a small business loan but also offer practical advice on financial matters.

Banking Relations and Your Small Business Loan

Setting up a relationship with your banker begins with following five tips:

  • Set up a bank account at a bank that deals with your size and type of small business.

  • Manage the account effectively and avoid overdraws, bounced checks, and low balances.
  • Borrow a short-term loan and pay quickly to establish your business credit.

  • Keep your bank informed of upcoming issues, missed projections, and missed payments.

  • Get to know your banker and help them to understand your business.
    • Relationships can be beneficial when it comes time to apply for a small business loan or large credit line. Remember, banks are in business and all companies need to assess risk and make profits.

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