You have a lot to worry about when it comes to running your small business. On top of attracting customers and keeping employees paid, you also have to consider the company budget. Cutting back where you can is important, and office supplies should be a part of the list. The information below should get you on your way.
1. There is no law that states that you have to use only the most expensive supplies. It is unlikely that customers and investors will pull back if they find out that the pens on the office desks are not brand name. For this reason, it is perfectly fine to go with cheaper brands for your office supplies. Make sure, however, that the supplies work as they should. If they are so thin and brittle that they do not last more than a few days, then you will need to upgrade to something else.
2. Keeping the tip above in mind, you also are not bound to the idea of purchasing only brand new supplies. This does not work for everything - toiletries being one example - but it can be applied to furniture. If you are searching during the spring or summer, scour your local garage sales and see if you can find any office furniture among the dusty books and baby clothes. Ask any business associates if they have old office furniture they do not need anymore. Sooner or later you will come across something that works for you, and at a price that does not push the budget.
3. If you do not mind shopping online, this is another option for saving money on office supplies. Many online stores offer discounts that customers are quick to take advantage of. You may save a few dollars or just a few cents, but in the long run it can make a difference. You need to factor in shipping with the overall total, but if you buy a certain amount you may be able to get free shipping. Online stores are also good for finding rare or very specific office supplies that you need.
4. Try to make the office supplies you have in your arsenal last as long as possible. If you do not need to sharpen your pencil every two minutes, do not do it no matter how tempting it may be. The pencil sharpener could break, or the batteries will need to be replaced more often. Do not throw away pens and markers when they still have plenty of ink left. Use two sides of one piece of paper when you wish to print something. These are just a few things you can do to help your supplies last as long as possible.