The first half of the year can be a tough cash flow period for most businesses. So it’s a good time to evaluate profits and losses.
If you’re looking to cut costs, here are some ideas to review.
1. Evaluate your office space
Whether your team uses private offices, cubicles, or an open floor plan, it’s a good idea to evaluate how much space is going to waste. Your staff may fluctuate year to year, so keep in mind that the exact square footage is less important than matching an office to your needs. An excessive office space will cost you, so make sure you aren’t overspending on rent.
In addition, any business can cut costs by being more energy efficient. Simply switching to LED lightbulbs, turning off electronics after the work day, and being conservative with the thermostat can decrease your utility bill and save you money.
2. Streamline your staff directory
As your business grows, so will your need for qualified workers.
You can avoid the expense of full-time benefits and long-term training by task automation, like process management and invoicing.
If it’ll be better for your business, try shifting some tasks away from full-time employees and into the hands of qualified freelancers or software.
Another way to make the most of your current personnel is to allow employees to telecommute, either part- or full-time. Allowing employees to work from home lowers office expenses, strengthens company loyalty, and saves you money.
3. Renegotiate regular services
Your business’s current contracts and services may be costing you more money than you think.
You may have gotten a great price several years ago, but is it still the best price today? Sharpen your negotiation skills and look at contracts such as internet, insurance, telephone service, CRM software, online storage, and more. Consider cancelling your dedicated fax line or getting rid of landlines altogether.
Get on the phone with your current providers when you’re ready to switch, and you might be surprised at what discounts they can find to keep you on as a customer. If they can’t sweeten the deal enough, make the change; if they can lower your rates, you’ll save some money without the hassle of switching.
4. Be smart with supplies
The way you fill your warehouse, supply closet, and office drawers can make or break a budget. If you don’t have a purchasing plan, make one. Designate who will buy supplies and specify what quantities, discounts, and brands they might look for. Good organization and a habit of smart purchasing practices will save money and improve efficiency.
As for the very basics, you can cut costs on office supplies by identifying the necessities and searching online for bulk options and good prices. Just remember that buying in bulk can save you money, but it may also create waste if supplies go unused. A yearly reevaluation of your needs and an accurate inventory can help prevent waste and keep your spending tight. You might even find a few new places to go paperless.
A word about strategic spending
Of course, no single strategy will work for everyone. Your business has unique spending habits, and you know them better than anyone. Keep in mind that significant savings will likely require several small changes, so don’t expect one move to alter your entire spending culture. A yearly re-evaluation of your office, services, personnel, and supplies will help alert you to the spending shifts that can build your business.