The systematic increase of revenue is a key profit driver, however, it is important to make sure sales growth is not too rapid to maintain, according to Al Bates in Chasing Profitability.

Companies do not need exceptional growth rates to increase profits, just enough to "offset the impact of inflation on expenses with some relative ease," says Bates.

"In today’s moderate inflation environment, growth of about 5 percent is sufficient to beat the inflation rate," he says.

Having a little cushion beyond 5 percent is definitely beneficial, but Bates warns that sales growth beyond 15 percent can create as many problems as it solves. Supporting rapid sales growth "often necessitates an expanded employee base, new operating systems and even enlarged facilities," he says.

Read more about maintaining sustainable growth in Chasing Profitability.