I don’t need to preach to the converted about how important the cash flow forecast is to a business. The problem is that producing a quality forecast means tapping into the knowledge inside the business. The marketing team who are planning their next big campaign, or the payroll team how just finalised annual bonuses. We need all of this information out of their heads and in the cash flow forecast. This blog will give some ideas about how you can get your team bought into the cash flow forecast and encourage them to proactively contribute.
1. Educate on Impact
Book a training session, keep it as fun and as lighthearted as you can but make sure you convey the importance of cash flow forecasting. Use the session to illustrate how accurate forecasts help the business immeasurably to make informed decisions. Use real-life examples or case studies where possible and follow up the session with a one-pager explaining what your expectations are and when treasury needs to be informed.
2. Align with Business Goals
Highlight how cash flow forecasting aligns with broader business objectives, link to the company KPIs if possible. For instance, demonstrate how it supports strategic initiatives like expansion plans, R&D investments, or cost-saving measures. When teams see the direct connection between their input and the company’s success, they are more likely to engage.
3. Find your Champions
Engage with key influencers in each team and highlight their contributions publicly. For example, ‘Jill’ informed us about a significant tax refund, which allowed us to plan cash more effectively and we earned an extra £10k in interest this month. Similarly, seek feedback by holding workshops or meetings to discuss the forecasting process and ask how it can be improved. This inclusive approach not only builds ownership but could also surface new insights which could enhance the forecasting model.
4. Simplify the Process
Ensure that the process for contributing to the forecast is straightforward. Provide clear guidelines, templates, and tools that simplify data submission. Investing in user-friendly software, like a TMS or even something simple like a Google form can streamline data collection and reduce the burden on departments, making it easier for them to participate.
5. Incentivise Participation
Recognise and reward the contributions of departments that provide timely and accurate data. Public recognition, such as shout-outs in company meetings or newsletters, can motivate others to follow suit and get involved.
6. Create Performance Metrics
Report metrics! It’s always surprising how motivating it can be when individuals see the direct impact of their inputs. Reporting forecast accuracy or contributions per business unit will also create accountability. When individuals understand that their contributions are directly linked to performance and company success, they are more likely to take the process seriously and commit to providing accurate data.
7. Regular Updates and Feedback
Keep the lines of communication open by providing regular updates on the forecasting process and its outcomes. Share how their submissions have led to improved financial decisions and cash benefits. This feedback loop will reinforce the value of their participation.
8. Accountability & Ownership
Setting deadlines will help keep a regular cadence for teams to submit their data. This also gives a basis to send follow up emails to departments that submit late. A culture of accountability ensures that everyone understands the importance of their role in the forecasting process and is motivated to be involved.
Conclusion
Forecasting is a team sport! It is the collective effort of the treasury team and everyone in the business who touches cash in any way, from payroll, to planning marketing campaigns and booking team events. If you are spending or collecting cash, we want to know. Even better, if you can give us this information in a standardised format which we can easily feed into the forecast, we can make more informed decisions as a business and reduce idle cash.