Growth can be exciting, but expanding before a business is prepared may create cash-flow pressure, overworked employees and inconsistent customer service. Before adding new products, entering another market or hiring more people, a business owner should consider whether customer demand is consistent, operations are reliable, and the business has enough financial and human resources to support the next stage.

What signs helped (or would help), you decide that your business was ready to grow? Consider the factors you would examine, the risks you would assess and any lessons you have learned from expanding too quickly, waiting too long or growing at the right time.

Join the conversation: What is the clearest sign that a business is genuinely ready to grow? What warning sign would tell you to wait?