Born in Mexico and raised in Escondido, California, Patricia Correa eventually moved to Texas and has lived there for 27 years. She has owned her welding business, Cornerstone Welding, for 15 years. She has always had a entrepreneur spirit – after owning several businesses in the past like a food truck, bridal store, wedding planner/decor and even e-commerce, her welding business has been her number one priority. Patricia is married to her husband, Juan Correa, and currently run the business together. She is the mother of 6 (2 boys and 4 girls). As a family, they not only work for our family business, but also have a passion for serving in God’s ministry. Together they lead a church group in Bastrop TX. Patricia says that her purpose is helping anywhere she can be of service.
Patricia shares her experience as a client at EGBI.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself.
My story as an immigrant was issued in a book called “The Truth in our Stories”.
“The business knowledge EGBI provided helped me build a better structured business.” Patricia Correa
Tell us about your business.
My business offers mobile welding services. We have a shop in Bastrop where we fabricate and do custom work from fencing, railing, to structural steel.
I found out about EGBi through a friend who is also a EGBI client.
How did EGBI help your business? What service did you benefit from?
I took all the business courses. My business was lacking the fundamentals of business management. The business knowledge EGBI provided helped me build a better structured business. It helped me understand financial accounting and EGBI also helped me set up my own Quickbooks account. I learned about business entities which led me to create the best one for my business. This has helped me with lowering taxes.
Why should people consider supporting an organization like EGBI?
They are very informative and the instructors are very knowledgeable and helpful. They cared for my unique needs and concerns, and helped me develop the skills necessary to be even more successful. My biggest victory is an increase of 40% gross revenue and my profit margins went up at the same level. The business coaching workshops have been incredibly valuable in helping me grow as a business woman managing my business and also helped bridge my knowledge deficit. I highly recommend EGBI to any small business owner.
EGBI provides training, coaching, and support to aspiring and existing business owners who face barriers to growing a successful business. If you would like to support our efforts, please visit our website https://egbi.org/donate/.
El control efectivo de costes es esencial para mantener la rentabilidad y la ventaja competitiva de tu empresa. Al identificar y reducir los gastos innecesarios al mismo tiempo que se optimizan los procesos operativos, las empresas pueden liberar todo su potencial y lograr éxito financiero a largo plazo. En este blog, explicaremos las estrategias prácticas de control de costes para ayudarte a optimizar las operaciones, a negociar mejores acuerdos con los proveedores e implementar las medidas de ahorro de costes.
1.Realizar un Análisis Exhaustivo de Costes
El primer paso para un control efectivo de costes es entender a dónde se va tu dinero. Realiza un análisis riguroso de costes para identificar todos los gastos, tanto los principales como los secundarios. Después, categoriza estos gastos y evalúa su importancia en relación con las operaciones generales de tu empresa. A menudo, los gastos aparentemente insignificantes pueden acumularse con el tiempo, impactando tus resultados.
2.Optimizar los Procesos Operacionales
Los procesos operacionales ineficaces pueden llevarte a pérdidas de tiempo, de recursos y de dinero. Examina muy de cerca tu flujo de trabajo e identifica los embotellamientos o las tareas redundantes que obstruyen la productividad. Considera implementar procesos automatizados y adoptar soluciones tecnológicas para optimizar las operaciones.
3. Adoptar Prácticas Sostenibles
La sostenibilidad no solo beneficia al medio ambiente sino que también puede ser rentable a largo plazo. Considera adoptar prácticas ecológicas que reducen los residuos y el consumo de energía. Esto puede incluir iniciativas de reciclaje, iluminación de eficiencia energética o usar empaques de materiales sostenibles. Estos esfuerzos no solo bajarán los costes, pero también realzarán tu marca de imagen y atraerán clientes conscientes con el medio ambiente.
4. Analizar la Gestión del Inventario
El exceso de inventario inmoviliza el capital e incrementa los costes de almacenamiento, mientras que el inventario insuficiente te puede llevar a perder oportunidades de ventas y a realizar pedidos urgentes. Realiza un análisis exhaustivo del inventario para encontrar el balance adecuado. Utiliza un software de gestión de inventario para llevar un control y seguimiento de los niveles de existencias, prever la demanda y optimizar los procesos de pedidos.
5. Fomentar una Cultura Consciente de los Costes
Fomentar una cultura consciente de los costes entre tus empleados es vital para el control sostenible de costes. Educa a tu equipo sobre la importancia de la responsabilidad financiera e involucralo en identificar oportunidades de ahorro de costes. Implementando programas de premios para ideas de ahorros de costes que sean implementadas exitosamente. Cuando todos en la organización están comprometidos con el control de costes, éste se convierte en una parte integral del ADN de tu empresa.
El control eficaz de costes es un proceso continuo que requiere vigilancia, adaptabilidad y un ojo para la mejora. Al realizar un análisis exhaustivo de costes, optimizar los procesos operativos, negociar con los proveedores, adoptar la sostenibilidad, analizar la gestión del inventario y fomentar una cultura consciente de costes, tu empresa puede maximizar la eficiencia y minimizar los gastos. Las pequeñas medidas de ahorro de costes pueden acumularse con el tiempo y tener un impacto significativo en la salud financiera de tu empresa. Adopta un enfoque proactivo para el control de costes y posicionarás a tu empresa para un crecimiento sostenible y en el éxito frente a la dinámica del mercado en constante cambio.
Traducido al español por Daniela Ariza-Hernandez. Para leer el artículo en inglés, haga clic aquí.
Los acontecimientos imprevistos pueden golpear en cualquier momento, poniendo en riesgo incluso a las empresas más exitosas. Ya se trate de una recesión económica mundial, un desastre natural o un cambio repentino en las condiciones del mercado, las emergencias financieras pueden dejar vulnerable a una empresa si no está adecuadamente preparada. Por lo tanto, es crucial que las empresas tengan un plan de contingencia financiera bien pensado, mantengan un fondo de emergencia y adquieran un seguro empresarial adecuado para garantizar su estabilidad y resistencia a largo plazo frente a la adversidad.
1. La importancia de un plan de contingencia financiera
Un plan de contingencia financiera es una estrategia detallada que describe cómo responderá una empresa a diversas crisis y retos financieros. Este plan debe ser exhaustivo y abarcar riesgos potenciales, previsiones de tesorería, medidas de reducción de costes y fuentes de ingresos alternativas. Al contar con un plan de contingencia bien elaborado, las empresas pueden adaptarse rápidamente a las circunstancias cambiantes, asegurándose de sobrevivir y recuperarse de perturbaciones inesperadas.
2. Mantener un fondo de emergencia
Al igual que los particulares deben tener un fondo de emergencia para cubrir sus gastos personales en tiempos difíciles, las empresas deben mantener su propia red de seguridad financiera. Un fondo de emergencia proporciona un amortiguador crucial para cubrir los costes operativos, los salarios y otros gastos esenciales cuando se interrumpen los flujos de ingresos. Una regla general es reservar entre tres y seis meses de gastos operativos. Este fondo puede mantenerse en una cuenta separada y tratarse como un último recurso al que recurrir sólo en caso de auténticas emergencias financieras.
3. Adquirir un seguro de empresa
El seguro es un pilar fundamental de la preparación financiera de cualquier empresa. Aunque algunos riesgos pueden mitigarse mediante una planificación proactiva, hay ciertos acontecimientos que escapan al control de una empresa. Los seguros de empresa proporcionan protección contra las pérdidas derivadas de acontecimientos imprevistos, como daños a la propiedad, reclamaciones por responsabilidad civil e interrupciones de la actividad. Algunos ejemplos comunes de seguros son el seguro de responsabilidad civil general, el seguro de propiedad, la indemnización de los trabajadores y el seguro de interrupción de la actividad empresarial. Al transferir algunos de los riesgos financieros a los proveedores de seguros, las empresas pueden protegerse de golpes financieros devastadores que, de otro modo, podrían conducir al cierre. Asegúrese de consultar a un profesional de seguros para discutir los detalles.
Al dar prioridad a estos tres elementos, las empresas pueden asegurarse de que están bien preparadas para afrontar cualquier reto financiero que se les presente. Invertir tiempo y recursos en crear resistencia financiera no sólo protegerá el futuro de la empresa, sino que también infundirá confianza entre empleados, inversores y clientes. Recuerde, es mejor estar preparado para lo peor mientras se lucha por lo mejor.
Traducido al español por Eleanor Menchú Melgar. Para leer el artículo en inglés, haga clic aquí.
Effective cost control is essential for maintaining profitability and staying ahead of the curve for your business. By identifying and reducing unnecessary expenses while optimizing operational processes, businesses can unlock their full potential and achieve long-term financial success. In this blog, we will explore practical cost control strategies to help you streamline operations, negotiate better vendor deals, and implement cost-saving measures.
1. Conduct a Comprehensive Cost Analysis
The first step in effective cost control is understanding where your money is going. Conduct a thorough cost analysis to identify all expenses, both major and minor. Then, categorize these expenses and assess their significance in relation to your overall business operations. Often, seemingly insignificant costs can add up over time, impacting your bottom line
2. Optimize Operational Processes
Inefficient operational processes can lead to wastage of time, resources, and money. Look closely at your workflow and identify bottlenecks or redundant tasks that hinder productivity. Consider implementing process automation and adopting technology solutions to streamline operations.
3. Embrace Sustainable Practices
Sustainability not only benefits the environment but can also be cost-effective in the long run. Consider adopting eco-friendly practices that reduce waste and energy consumption. This may include recycling initiatives, energy-efficient lighting, or using sustainable packaging materials. Not only will these efforts lower costs, but they can also enhance your brand image and attract environmentally conscious customers.
4. Analyze Inventory Management
Excessive inventory ties up capital and increases storage costs, while insufficient inventory can lead to missed sales opportunities and rush orders. Conduct a comprehensive inventory analysis to strike the right balance. Utilize inventory management software to track stock levels, forecast demand, and optimize ordering processes.
5. Encourage Cost-Conscious Culture
Fostering a cost-conscious culture among your employees is vital for sustainable cost control. Educate your team about the importance of financial responsibility and involve them in identifying cost-saving opportunities. Implement reward programs for cost-saving ideas that are successfully implemented. When everyone in the organization is committed to cost control, it becomes an integral part of your business’s DNA.
Effective cost control is a continuous process that requires vigilance, adaptability, and an eye for improvement. By conducting comprehensive cost analysis, optimizing operational processes, negotiating with vendors, embracing sustainability, analyzing inventory management, and encouraging a cost-conscious culture, your business can maximize efficiency and minimize expenses. Small cost-saving measures can add up over time and have a significant impact on your business’s financial health. Embrace a proactive approach to cost control, and you’ll position your business for sustainable growth and success in the face of ever-changing market dynamics.
Meet Ava Dasari, a summer program intern at EGBI. Ava is very passionate about business, especially in the realm of small businesses. Ava was born in Austin, Texas, and has lived there ever since. In her free time, she likes to listen to music, spend time with her friends, and bake for her friends and family.
Ava shares her experience at EGBI with you.
Share a fun fact with us.
I am really passionate about debate, and I’ve been debating in school for almost 4 years now. Debate allows me to express myself, while also traveling, and bonding with my teammates.
How did you first get involved with EGBI?
I first got involved with EGBI because I wanted to get hands-on experience with the business world, and learn about consulting. After researching, I came across the city of Austin Internship program, where I was paired with EGBI as my site for this internship.
Why do you intern for EGBI?
EGBI heavily aligns with my values as an intern. I love helping small businesses kickstart, and I love giving back to my community. I intern for EGBI because it provides me with valuable insight into the business world, while also helping me gain hands-on experience. Through my experiences at EGBI, I know I have expanded my knowledge about small businesses, but also gained skills in marketing, pricing, entrepreneurship, and graphic design.
How has your involvement with EGBI helped you grow professionally and personally?
Professionally, EGBI has helped me by teaching me important skills about marketing, investment, and small business consulting. I have made connections within the business world, and I know these skills will last me a lifetime. Personally, EGBI has helped me by growing my communication skills. By communicating with different clients, I am able to learn how to understand many different types of people, and provide solutions to their unique problems.
Want to get involved ? Contact us to find out how you can volunteer or donate.
Meet Neel Kakkad, an intern at EGBI . He’s going into his senior year in Austin, Texas. Neel was born in Boston, and moved to Austin before middle school. In his free time, he likes to watch TV, meet his friends, and go to the gym.
Neel shares his experiences at EGBI.
Share a fun fact with us.
I really enjoy playing sports, and I especially love soccer. I have been playing soccer for 13 years now and currently play for my high school’s team.
How did you first get involved with EGBI?
I first got involved with EGBI through the City of Austin’s high school internship program. EGBI’s practices and values intersected with my own and I am glad that I got placed as an intern here.
Why do you intern for EGBI?
Participating in the internship program at EGBI presents a valuable chance for me to acquire practical knowledge, enhance my professional skills, and gain real-world experience that will have a significant positive impact on my future. I have thoroughly enjoyed engaging with the diverse range of services EGBI offers to business owners, and this internship provides me with an exciting opportunity to further explore and develop my interests in this field. Through my experiences at EGBI, I not only expand my knowledge but also gain valuable insights about myself and cultivate my long-term goals.
How has your involvement with EGBI helped you grow professionally and personally?
EGBI has provided me with the opportunity to pursue my passion for business, develop skills, and also make a meaningful impact on small businesses. I have not only gained knowledge, but my involvement with EGBI has allowed me to interact with many clients and new people, developing my interpersonal skills as well.
Want to get involved ? Contact us to find out how you can volunteer or donate.
Josephine is an incoming sophomore in Central Texas. While she was born in Florida, Josephine has lived in Texas for almost her entire life and considers herself to be a seasoned Austinite (despite never having attended ACL). At school, she is the sophomore class president and participates in DECA, extemporaneous speaking, and pole vaulting. She enjoys photography, hiking, painting, and watching movies in empty theaters.
Josephine shares a little bit of her experience at EGBI.
Share a fun fact with us. I am an avid crystal collector. Currently, my obsessions are with citrine and rainbow amethyst. My favorite thing about crystals is taking great pictures and sharing them with everyone.
How did you first get involved with EGBI? I first became involved with EGBI through the City of Austin’s youth internship program. The program essentially matched me with an organization that aligned with my professional goals, and I was matched with this non-profit.
Why do you intern for EGBI? My passion in business and desire to gain experience in marketing has led me to interning here for EGBI. EGBI’s mission to empower both aspiring and established small-business owners resonates with my personal philosophy and this internship allows me to make an impact on the surrounding community.
How has your involvement with EGBI helped you grow professionally and personally? My involvement as a marketing intern has helped me grow in ways I previously could not have imagined. This experience has given me first-hand experience in the professional world and has taught me life-long skills in communication, organization, and problem-solving. I am more than grateful for this opportunity and am excited to pursue my development in business. EGBI provides training, coaching, and support to aspiring and existing business owners who face barriers to growing a successful business.
Want to get involved ? Contact us to find out how you can volunteer or donate.
Meet Ami Dave, a summer program intern at EGBI. She has been working with EGBI over the past year to help clients refine and elevate their brands to the next level. Ami is very passionate about business, and working with the EGBI’s small business clients has allowed her to learn more about branding, marketing, and outreach.
Ami shares a little bit about her experience volunteering with EGBI.
Share a fun fact with us.
I really love dancing. I’ve been dancing one form of dance or another for as long as I can remember. First it was ballet, then tap, then hip-hop, and now Bharatanatyam.
How did you first get involved with EGBI?
I actually found EGBI through the internet via Google. I felt very connected to EGBI’s mission to alleviate the resource disparity that exists in our society by providing small businesses with the resources they need to succeed.
Why do you intern for EGBI?
I intern for EGBI because I feel that their values truly align with my own. I am extremely dedicated to providing others with the resources they need to reach their fullest potentials, and EGBI has given me an outlet to further this passion. In addition, I love learning about the different facets of business such as marketing, outreach, and entrepreneurship, and EGBI has provided me with the opportunities and support I need to expand my understanding of these different realms of business.
EGBI has facilitated the simultaneous growth of both of these passions by granting me the opportunity to coach small businesses, a service which I had previously not known much about.
How has your involvement with EGBI helped you grow professionally and personally?
Professionally, EGBI has allowed me to further my passion for business and acquire new skills in marketing, outreach, and business coaching, but personally, EGBI has allowed me to feel empowered and find a sense of fulfillment and purpose in providing small businesses with the resources they need to reach their fullest potentials.
Want to get involved ? Contact us to find out how you can volunteer or donate.
Scarlett Dupre is an energetic, passionate and highly motivated person. She interns for EGBI and one other company training and helping with marketing and graphic design. Dancing since the age of 2 has led her to where she is now. She is on a competitive dance team training 18-20 hours a week and competing in several styles of dance. In her free time she likes to do art projects, paint, cuddle with her cat and spend time with family and friends.
Share a fun fact with us.
I recently completed my open water scuba diving certification!!
How did you first get involved with EGBI?
Through a mutual business acquaintance.
Why do you intern for EGBI?
The experience, getting to help businesses grow and thrive, and most of all, I enjoy it!
How has your involvement with EGBI helped you grow professionally and personally?
Professionally it has helped me with: Market research, presentation, and customer relations.
Personally it has helped me with: Improving leadership qualities, research capabilities, and growth in business economics.
Want to get involved ? Contact us to find out how you can volunteer or donate.
A native Austinite, Debra Wissman first found St. Mark CDO as a parent when looking for a two-day program for her now college aged son! Debra later joined the staff as a teacher, and finally as director in January 2009. Debra earned a BA in Theology from Texas Lutheran University and began master’s level coursework in Counseling and Guidance at Texas State University. Prior to working at St. Mark CDO, Debra was the Director of Youth Ministry at Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church and then a full-time mom! Debra enjoys serving in ministry to the children and families of the preschool. Her greatest joy is serving the CDO in this capacity and looking forward to coming to “work” each day! Debra is married to Marc, and they have three sons aged 16, 18, and 20, and two dogs, Rocky and Willamena, aka Pebbles.
St. Mark Children’s Day Out has been a licensed childcare since 1993 and before that, it was a 1/2 day preschool open only 2 days a week. It is now open Monday-Thursday from 9 am to 1:30 pm September through May and then Tuesday and Thursday in June and July. It is closed in August.
Debra shares her experience as a client at EGBI.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself.
I toured St. Mark CDO with my son 19 years ago and I haven’t left! He will graduate from college in May 2024.
“We were assigned a business coach who helped us with everything from marketing to spreadsheets and was super supportive during the rebuilding after COVID.” Debra Wissman
How did you first find out about EGBI?
I was introduced to EGBI post COVID through Texas Workforce as we tried to re-build the school following COVID.
How did EGBI help your business? What service did you benefit from?
We were assigned a business coach who helped us with everything from marketing to spreadsheets and was super supportive during the rebuilding after COVID.
Why should people consider supporting an organization like EGBI?
It’s a new age of running a business post COVID and getting help in all areas of running a business is crucial! Support EGBI so that they can support businesses!
EGBI provides training, coaching, and support to aspiring and existing business owners who face barriers to growing a successful business. If you would like to support our efforts, please visit our website https://egbi.org/donate/.
