Borrowing Best Practices

You may not always understand what your banker is seeing or what they are asking for, but the good news is that both your banker and you want to see the business succeed.

That’s the most likely way for the bank to be repaid its loans and eventually see profits. Think of your relationship with the bank as a symbiosis. Like in nature, two things can often lean on each other in order to reach their goals.

As a business owner you should strive to understand how your banker thinks – and why he thinks that way. This can have a positive effect on your relationship and make it easier to get money when you need it. There are 9 simple things that will help you become a better borrower, enhance your relationship with your banker and make money more available when your business needs it most.

1. Set up your borrowing when you don’t need it
A lot of people ask, “When is the best time to borrow money?”  They’re surprised to find out it’s when you don’t need it. The bank is more likely to perceive you as being in a better financial position when you have no need to borrow. This is exactly when you should set up your next stage of borrowings.  You will have a much greater chance of getting approved and will be in a better position to negotiate terms, since you don’t really need the funds right then.  The worst time to negotiate a new loan is a week before you absolutely need to have the funds.

2. Character is of the utmost importance. 
Bankers need to know you’ll do the right thing when your company is in distress. If they can’t trust you, they can’t put money in your hands. That doesn’t mean fake good character – it means have and demonstrate good character.

3. Keep good records and maintain good reporting.
Bankers do not like late reporting packages, inaccurate information or reports that change without a good reason.  The more they can trust the information that you give them, the more they will trust you.

4. React and communicate on a timely basis
Banks are interested in how you react to tough situations. Don’t just tell them what you’re legally required to when they ask; keep them updated to avoid surprises. Bankers hate surprises.

5. Have some equity available
Bankers want an extra cushion of equity so they can be more flexible with your company in case it has a bad year. As well, if you have the ability to access some equity after a bad year or two you will be much more successful negotiating the next loan renewal.

6. Collateral gives the banker comfort. 
Collateral does not repay a loan, but it does ease the banker’s mind. If someone borrowed your cell phone to make a call, but gave you their drivers license and wallet to hold on to while they made the call, you’d feel better, wouldn’t you?

7. Servicing is your ability to repay.
Bankers like to see if you have realistic expectations. If it seems like you can repay what you’re asking for – which is to say, a reasonable sum and not your dream loan – you’re more likely to see the money.

8. Competition works to your advantage. 
Banks are concerned about their competitors’ interest rates, collateral packages and guarantees. You can use this to your advantage by doing your homework when seeking a loan and making that clear to your banker (though no one likes to feel threatened, so be courteous about this). Knowing about your bank’s competition can also let you prepare for a needed quick search for a new lender should your banker pull out.

9. Communication is essential. 
Almost every one of these tips hinges on communication. Don’t keep things from your banker. If he knows what’s happening he can work with you instead of against you. Work with your banker to develop a strong relationship so that you both can succeed.