While your business may be small, chances are one of your objectives is expansion.
"It's a good idea for a business owner to establish a relationship early on with trusted advisers who can help them achieve their goals," ViewPoint's Ussery says.
One of those trusted advisers should be a business banker, she says. Whether you are looking to promote your business or make valuable connections with an attorney or a CPA, Ussery says that a business banking representative can be a strong networking resource. Opening a business checking account in the early stages of your business can help you capitalize on that relationship, Ussery says.
Outside of finding ways to introduce your business to new customers and colleagues, growth typically requires financing. When a business needs additional credit, that business banking relationship can pay off for small-business owners.
"During those ongoing conversations with their business banker, they can identify best practices that will make them more attractive when it comes time to borrow money," Ussery says.