10 ways to… Save on bills Many businesses cut costs by reducing expenditure in key elements of their operation. However, paying attention to ordinary day-to-day running costs can save the pennies and leave more money to invest in your business
Turn off equipment. Get into the habit of turning off any equipment and lights when they are not in use, and ensure your staff do the same. Most machinery and PCs can be set to go into energy-saving standby mode automatically; consider sensors for lights that switch them on and off when people enter and leave rooms.
Heat efficiently. Turning the heating down by just two degrees, keeping it on a sensible timer within working hours, and checking that all windows and doors are shut and draught-proofed will guarantee that your heating has maximum impact without breaking the bank.
Combine gas and electricity suppliers. Some utilities companies offer deals to businesses using their services for both gas and electricity. You can also get discounts for paying bills online or by direct debit.
Take advantage of natural light. Open blinds and arrange furniture or machinery so that staff benefit as much as possible from natural light when doing their work; only use lights if you really need them.
Recycle your workplace supplies. Print double-sided and re-use scrap paper for note-taking instead of taking up additional resources. Recycle envelopes and use rechargeable batteries. Reduce packaging and recycle any old packaging material.
Buy second-hand. Consider second-hand office furniture, machinery and vehicles – there’s no point splashing out on expensive new gear unless it gives you an operational advantage.
Use voice over internet protocol (VoIP). Switching telephone provider or combining broadband and telecoms into one contract can cut your phone bills – but not as much as using internet telephony. Calls to other VoIP users are usually free and you can get substantial reductions on national and international phone calls to regular numbers.
Use vehicles fuel-efficiently. Buy high mpg models and have them serviced regularly, operate a strict policy on the journeys staff can use company vehicles for and encourage fuel-efficient driving – constant speed, gentle acceleration and braking, and minimal gear changes.
Don’t overspend on necessities. The cost of cleaning products, toilet roll, milk, tea and coffee adds up over time. Source your cheapest local shop, buy in bulk where possible and encourage staff not to be wasteful with products such as washing-up liquid.
Plan staff travel. Do the admin early for staff trips to meetings and conferences. Train tickets are considerably cheaper when booked several weeks ahead, and you need to give yourself time to seek out the cheapest hotels and B&Bs in the area.
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