*4.2.18 Expertise*

*Regional Development in Africa*

others.

*4.2.13 Advertising*

*4.2.14 Licenced*

*4.2.15 Bank account*

*4.2.16 Business records*

no proper records are in place?

*4.2.17 Business advisory*

*4.2.12 Employee motivation skills*

influence profitability of SMEs in Zimbabwe?

rules monitored by a regulator [19].

with more convenient payment methods on board.

Financial and non-financial benefits contribute to profitability of an enterprise as employees are motivated to achieve organisational goals. Improving motivation combined with good culture may increase net profits [14]. These benefits may include the 13th cheque, medical aid, lunch packs and transport allowances among

An advertised business grows more or enjoys more profits than the one that does

The licenced businesses are able to access orders or jobs from large corporations or government departments as it is a requirement. The licenced SMEs are likely to enjoy business, benefits and loans that the unlicensed entities are not able to access. They are also likely to be making more profits with clear records and systems in place. In many cases depending on the sector they are expected to adhere to certain

A firm with a bank account is more likely to be having a licence and to some extent operating with clear records. Having an account with a formal financial institution makes a firm have access to loans and other financial services. Customers are also able to pay for goods or services using debit cards, credit cards and other electronic transfers rather than paying cash. More business may be experienced

A business operated with proper records has a higher chance of survival as determination of profitability is easy. Those that operate without records are not able to assess the extent of profits or losses obtained. With clear records a business is able to attract outside funding and access loans. It is also possible for projections of cashflows, profits and business demand. Analysis of events, assessment of business activities and planning is easier with records [27]. How can one ascertain profits if

It is difficult to operate without independent view of others or experts in the business field. In more developed countries business advisory is taken seriously rather than depend on one's intellect and belief in business. The skills that a small business owner or other employees have are complemented by consulting business

advisors on some important issues to maximise profits [25].

not. Large corporations have marketing departments or personnel to drive sales and interact with the consumer. Consumers become aware of your product to gain or sustain market share through advertising [26]. To what extent does advertising

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Requisite skills or expertise in business is a necessity and there is need to have them. One may have worked for a company in the same line of business, trained or attended college for the skill(s). Because small businesses may not have the capacity to pay a qualified individual the owner, of the business has to have an appreciation or knowledge on it [25]. This is the only way outstanding profits can be obtained.
