Small businesses can reduce their costs without spending a lot of effort. Often, it is all about making small smart choices that result in big savings for the company.
Here are some ways to cut your overhead without scrimping on business essentials.
Take Advantage of Tech
Technology is a small business’s friend. They can help you and your staff work more efficiently and many of them do not require an upfront payment. From open-source software to teleconference services to online business classes to improve your team’s capabilities, many of these tech wonders are free to use. You just need to google a bit.
Cut the Landline
A traditional phone can be an expensive and unnecessary investment that most small businesses can do without. A good cell phone plan with data should be enough for any small operation.
Use Paper Less
Not everything can be done digitally; some documents need to be printed. The rest, however, like digital invoices and contracts can be accomplished on your computer. Keeping these documents in your computer saves you time from shuffling through a filing cabinet.
Do Digital Marketing
Marketing using traditional methods like commercials and billboards can be extremely cost-prohibitive for most small businesses. Thankfully, the internet is far more forgiving, with digital marketing being almost free if you know what you’re doing. Spending some time learning how to use social media and search engine optimization, among other online marketing tricks, can bring customers in without you spending needlessly.
Manage Your Business Credit Card
Juggling multiple credit cards has its pros and cons. It will require discipline, but successfully doing so will be good for your credit standing. The most important thing to remember when handling several credit cards for your business is to make sure that you pay regularly and on time. It’s also a good idea to not mix personal financial affairs with business.
Try Alternative Work Arrangements
The cost of having a physical office, which includes all the associated costs of keeping one, can be massive. If your business is not tied to a physical location, you may want to explore other work arrangements like co-working or telecommuting to drive your office expenses down–or completely eliminate them.
Don’t Always Shop for New
Needless to say, new equipment will always cost more. If you want to save on business costs you may want to check online first for vendors selling refurbished equipment and furniture. Unlike “used” products, refurbished items are free from defects, so check them out before considering buying new.
Budget Better
A business budget outlines your financial and operational goals, showing where you should allocate resources. A simple business budget would entail tallying your income sources, determining your fixed and variable expenses and one-time purchases. If you need help with this, we suggest hiring an accountant to help you with long-term budgeting.
We Can Help
If you need professional help, our experienced tax professionals can help guide you in the right direction. Contact us today at 818-452-2641 or fill out our contact form to schedule a free consultation.
