When you are running your business on a tight budget – and who isn’t – it can really pay you to scrimp and save. In the off chance that you have forgotten the actual value of a hard earned dollar, here is a look at some ideas to save money so that you will be able to boost the bottom line of your business.
Utilities
Depending on the location of your business, you might be able to save a bit on your energy bills. This is because some of the states have deregulated the energy providers, which means that they can offer you lower prices in order to compete with other energy providers in the area to get your business. For example, if your business is in Pennsylvania, York electricity companies might offer a variety of rates and plans, which will allow you to choose the one that will meet your needs the best.
Accountants
If you want to be sure that you can keep your business afloat, you might consider obtaining the services of an accountant. An accountant will be better able to manage the money for your business than you will. He can take care of things like taxes, payroll, expenditures, and income. Your accountant will also be able to give you key financial projections regarding your business.
Advertising
Traditional types of advertising, such as TV and print ads, can be a massive expense. However, you can save some money for your business by doing a bit of creative advertising. This is easily done by doing your advertising online. Another alternative to more expensive advertising can be public relations. Being able to be featured in credible online or print publications can do a lot when it comes to cementing the position of your business in the industry. Things like intelligent techniques for social media marketing and SEO will also be incredibly useful when you want to make sure that your company is promoted at a lower cost. You might also want to test the waters with a bit of guerilla marketing.
Be Neighborly
If your business happens to be one of the brick and mortar variety, you might consider splitting some of your promotion and advertising costs with one or more of the businesses near yours. Think about things like jointly promoting a sidewalk sale if you have a retail business. You might take this sharing a bit further by sharing suppliers, distribution channels and even mailing lists with businesses that deal with goods and or services that complement those of your business.
Ask for Help
Don’t be afraid to ask anyone you know for referrals. This should be the names and contact information for people who might be in need of your services and or products. As the amount of your referrals increases, so does the potential you have for making money from these referrals. Don’t give up either. Remember that every “no” you get is one step closer to a “yes”.
Online Store
Going online does not have to cost you an arm and a leg. It is easy to get started by selling a few items for a low cost on the various online auction sites. There are also quite a few different sites that offer webs sites and templates for low fees. Once you have your site up and running, be sure to include your URL in everything from your emails to your business cards and letterhead. Also, if you have any promotional items, make sure to include your URL on those as well.
Software
Software for a business can be quite an expenditure. It doesn’t have to be though. You can get countless software products in limited versions, freeware, and trial downloads for free at a few different web sites. If you are looking for a specific software and can’t find a free version, write the manufacturer or check their web site to see if you can get a free trial.
There is even more good news though. What you have read here is just the beginning. There are loads of free offers, deals, and try it before you buy it opportunities that can save you and your business tons of money.