In the current economy, it can be tough to start a new business. While everyone is else is trying to “tighten their belts” and save money you are doing the exact opposite! However, we have found some ways that you can save money while growing your new business. Read on to find out these practical money-saving tips for new businesses.
Conserve energy by turning off lights, computers, and other business equipment when they are not in use. Just let your employees know that you appreciate their help in this effort and maybe mention how incredibly quick and easy it is to do at the end of every day. Additionally, you can add automatic controls to your heating and cooling in the office to cut down on costs. Programmable thermostats, occupancy sensors and timers can cut costs by nearly 35 percent compared to a building that does not use these energy-saving mechanisms.
In the same vein, consider using laptops instead of standard energy-sucking desktop computers. Laptops use about 90 percent less energy and most employees actually prefer smaller, compact laptops over big bulky desktops. This is especially easy for a new business to implement as you are just starting out and may not have bought your business computers yet.
Your phone bill could be driving your new business into the ground. Evaluate your phone usage and consider reducing the number of phone lines or replacing your current service. If your business involves making a lot of long-distance phone calls you may want to consider an internet-based phone service such as VoIP.
Become more involved in your local business community. Network with other small companies and new businesses in your area, both in your industry and in others. By joining trade associations as well as interacting with your neighbors, you can learn other money-saving tips as well as join each other in advertising ventures. Furthermore, you could use your network to barter services. For example, if you design websites, you could trade your development services with another business owner for marketing materials, catering services for your client meetings, or a number of other goods and services.
Forget about fancy office suites, flashy cars and all the newest gadgets and technology. When you’re starting a new business you need to count every penny and double or triple-check every expense. One way to maintain a low overhead is to purchase used business equipment such as refurbished copiers. Most refurbished copy machines have been used less than three months and come with a complete parts and labor warranty. Moreover, these current model copiers go through a complete checkup before they’re leased or sold to the public, so you can have the peace of mind knowing you got a high-quality copier at up to 75% off MSRP.
From lowering your energy bills to saving on phone expenses and purchasing refurbished copiers, these ideas for new businesses can decrease your day-to-day costs and start-up expenditures without making your business look unprofessional.