Should my Small Business Accept Credit Card Payments from my Customers?
Motivational speakers say a lot of things that sound profound, but are just cleverly phrased bits of common sense. For example, ‘dress for the job you want, not the job you have’. It’s catchy, and memorable, but everyone knows different scenarios require different clothing choices. You’re unlikely to wear shorts and flip-flops to the office, or a suit to the beach.
Still, based on this adage, your life coach will tell you, ‘Thinking small is being small.’ They’ll suggest you stop describing yourself as a ‘small business’ because it ‘limits your expansion mojo.’ But we’re being practical here. In your mind, your small business doesn’t warrant credit cards payments. Your customers are too few, and ‘credit card things are too expensive’.
Breaking business barriers
As long as you find the right processing partner, accepting credit cards is no hassle at all. Many merchant processors have quick application processes, and some even have no application fees.
You can go to the website, sign up, and be ready to accept credit cards in as little as one business day. The main things you’ll need are an eCommerce enabled website (if you have a web store) or something to swipe cards on. If you choose the right payment processor, they can provide you with an online shopping cart or a credit card terminal at no extra charge or you can also download your payment processor’s app onto your phone or tablet.
Centralized payment systems
With today’s credit card processors, you don’t have to re-invent your payment system. Existing payment structures (cash, check, bank deposit) can be easily absorbed by your payment processor, putting all your income in a single accounting system, which saves you time and money. And because the cash goes directly to the bank, you don’t run the security risk of physical bank runs.
Accepting credit cards can also be useful for out-of-town customers that are passing through. This type of customer is more likely to pay by card, so they may not consider shopping at your store if you don’t have a ‘We accept Visa’ banner in the window.
Another lure of accepting credit cards is the potential for expansion. You can use loyalty programs to turn your locals into regulars and introduce them to value-added services. It’s a quick way to diversify your business by broadening your customer offerings. For more information on credit card processing for your small business, or to sign up for a merchant account, please call (888) 924-2743 or go to Charge.com.