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The end of the year is quickly approaching and it¡¯s easy to get overwhelmed by everything that needs to be wrapped up. From reviewing (and approving) expense reports to analyzing financial statements, the to-do list feels neverending. Fortunately, by taking the proper steps now to ease your expense management woes, you can lay the foundation for implementing the proper tools in the new year. Here is some inspiration to get you started.

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Need an expense policy? Create one with this template

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Starting now is the right time

With 2018 a little under a month away, it¡¯s easy to think it is too late to start making changes and push them off to the new year. That¡¯s not necessarily the case. Taking the time now to thoroughly review your expense management process gives you insights into opportunities for improvement and ways to ease the pressure now.

Categorize changes and updates into long-term and short-term goals. Get the momentum going by focusing on a few immediate wins, changes that can be done quickly and will ease the year-end crunch. Then after you¡¯ve wrapped up the year-end, turn your focus towards those process changes that will take a little longer to implement.

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Be the boss of your to-do list

There are only so many hours in the day, so why not make the best of it? Tune out that little voice that keeps telling you there is just too much to-do. Combat stress and the feeling of being overwhelmed by taking charge of your task list. Use the tools you have to your disposal to get more done.

Set aside time where you silence notifications and alerts, giving yourself the space to focus. Use calendaring and reminders to keep deadlines from slipping away. Above all, don¡¯t forget to reward yourself for a job well done.

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Kiss manual processes goodbye

Don¡¯t let manual processes bog you down. But before you jump on the automation train, make sure to choose the tools that make the most sense with your processes. The process review you did earlier will play a big part in selecting the right automation tools. Keep in mind that automation should improve current processes.

For example, »ÆÉ«¶ÌÊÓƵ Expense elevates the expense reporting and management process, giving financial teams the insights they need into employee claims and streamlining the reimbursement process. »ÆÉ«¶ÌÊÓƵ takes it a step further by not just automating but also going mobile. Employees can submit expenses while on the road, saving time (and money) and giving finance teams the real-time data they need.

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Did you know? Employees can complete expense reports 60% faster with online tools.

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Start with a little self-care: Education

Before you jump in feet first, start with a little ¡°you¡± time. Educate yourself on industry best practices, tips and tricks to improving your expense management processes. Join us on December 14 at 10 a.m. Pacific/1 p.m. Eastern for a on how to chase the end-of-the-year finance blues away (and get a free coffee in the process). Small business analyst and co-founder of the Small Business Group, Laurie McCabe will share tips for SMBs to get through the busy season and ready for the new year.