Cut Costs, Not Corners (Part II)

Sorry for taking so long to post this stuff – you know how life can get crazy.  This blog fell to the wayside these past few weeks while I worked on things in the real world that need my attention.  But now I’m back, and hopefully I will begin to post regularly.  As my peace offering, please accept a few more ideas for small business owners to cut their costs without cutting corners.

Cut down on your travel expenses by not traveling to places that will not generate revenue for your business.  Now, don’t take this to mean that you should never travel; there are times that you will need to travel in order to make that big sale or cement your relationship with a client.  These are times when you will want to shell out the money for a plane ticket because you will eventually reap the rewards through more sales or possible referrals from a loyal customer.

With the real estate market slowly circulating the drain, the time has never been better to try and get your rent lowered.  You can do this in a number or ways.  You can go out and try to find new office space with lower rent or you might want to try and negotiate with your current landlord.  Landlords would much rather have their office space rented than have it sit empty, even if it means renting at a lower price.  If you have found a new office at a better price, mentioning it to your landlord during negotiations may be the key to getting the rent you want and not having to deal with moving across town.

One way to save a bundle on business costs is to purchase secondhand office furniture.  I know, it seems so simple but I am willing to bet that this idea doesn’t ever cross the mind of the average business owner.  Websites like myofficefurniture.net can help you find essential office furniture.  You might also try craigslist.org or check out local garage sales for gently used pieces that would look right in an office setting (the pink desk with the Hannah Montana stickers on it is probably not the right choice, even if it is only $2.50).  Remember, the services that you offer your customers and your commitment to quality as a small business owner are what will set you apart from your competition.  Expensive office furniture may make you feel extra-professional, but it is not essential to running a thriving business.