Starting a business is a long, demanding process. Moreover, it is an expensive endeavor, as well. Not only do you have to plan your business’ future, but you also have to think of the employees – how many you need and how much they would be paid. Additionally, you have to factor in the money that will be spent on the space, furniture, equipment, and other items.
Obviously, you are in for a lot of work, and even more splurging. However, there is a way to cut down on expenses and keep your finances under control. If you are careful and strategic, you could start your business and equip it on the cheap. Here are a few tips and tricks that will help you make the most of your initial investment.
Think Before You Buy
In order to prevent unnecessary spending, think before you buy. You should create a complete plan about what you need and want in the office. For instance, how many computers do you need? Calculate the number of employees and their needs, then set the number of computers. Also, think about whether you want desktops or laptops.
Perhaps desktops are not so good, since you cannot move them around as easily. The person would be stuck to a particular workplace, without the ability to take the computer and sit in another more comfortable and productive area, for example. Also, if you want to buy printers, think about your needs. Having two or three would be more than enough for a small business.
You could also think about having company cell phones. Are they truly necessary? Well, if your startup deals with phone apps, maybe you should have a few cell phones for testing the apps. They are useful for the job, and that makes them a smart investment. That’s just one example, but the bottom line is that you need to think about your needs carefully before making a final decision.
Buy in Bulk
When it comes to office supplies, such as toner, paper, pens, and other similar items, you should buy in bulk. By obtaining these small items in such a way, you save money and save yourself from making frequent trips to the store, spending more gas in the process. For instance, you could equip your office with a toner supply that would last you for months. Moreover, if you buy online you could probably get a discount and better offers, or at least shop at a wholesaler.
Investing in Furniture Pays Off
One thing you should splurge on is furniture. This is something that would be used constantly. Make sure you buy high quality chairs, first of all. They need to be comfortable as the employees would spend hours sitting on them. Also, buy a few sofas for the lounge area, if you plan on having one. And lastly, think about your desks: How big do they need to be? What kind of design is optimal? Will you have open-space plan or separate offices for each employee? These spaces need to be big enough to make room for a laptop, notebooks, and other office supplies.
Save on Office Space
By carefully building a business plan, you would understand the size of your company, and what its needs are. One of the points you will cover in this plan is the number of employees. Depending on that number, you will find a space that can fit all of you comfortably. Additionally, your choice of the office plan will also affect the choice of the space. For example, if you have an open floor plan, then you might save money on building separate offices, and finding a bigger building. But, naturally, that type of floor plan has its disadvantages, as well. So, take some time to think about this.
As you can see, there are plenty of ways to save money when equipping your startup. If you plan everything before going to the store, then you won’t waste a dime. Take every aspect into consideration, as that would help you be a better shopper, but don’t be cheap either – don’t try to cut corners on some important things like chairs or laptops. You can save some money and buy quality items at the same time.
