Regardless of the industry your skills have been applied in the past, going into business for yourself is not only rewarding, but one of the most challenging jobs you will ever face. The hours are long, and at times, the paychecks are few and far between. You understand the term, “Starving Artist,” as much as you know your own name. But don’t panic. Here are some tips to make a smooth transition from the on-site job to your own small office and purchase the business supplies you need at a price you can afford.
So what type of business supplies do you need? And where can you get the business supplies without going bankrupt during your first year of business? Here are a few of the basics.
The most important business supplies to purchase are:
Telephone with Answering Machine
Most of us have one of these business supplies anyway, so the cost: $0. However, you may want phones with multiple lines or you may need more than you currently have. The prices can vary, depending on your needs. Look for good sales and possibly buy in bulk. Cost: $40-$100, on average.
Computer
If you are reading this, you probably own one; however, instead of running out to the business supply store to upgrade your current machine, find out how much RAM (Random Access Memory) your computer has and upgrade the card. Don’t be afraid of the inside of your computer. (A six year old could most likely install the card). Not only will you save hundreds of dollars on business supplies, your computer will gain speed and you will wonder how you sat at your machine in the past waiting for that long for a page to load. Some stores that sell discount business supplies offer great rebates, so keep a look out for the ads. Cost: Less than $40, on sale.
Printer
Most printers today are extremely affordable business supplies and offer good quality resolution. Depending on the business you are in, discover what your printing needs will be. In most cases, a basic printer will more than likely suffice. If you need occasional high quality printing, you can always go to the local copy store without spending hundreds of dollars on equipment you won’t always need. Cost: $99, on average.
Scanner
Scanners, like printers, are relatively inexpensive business supplies in this day and age. Many are plug-and-play, attaching with only a USB port. Scanners are extremely useful business supplies for quick copies. Cost: $99 on average.
Other business supplies
Printer Paper
Buy in quantity to save money on business supplies. Some stores that sell business supplies have great sales.
Filing Cabinet
Filing cabinets are usually priced under $40. However, you can find these and other business supplies at garage sales, going-out-of-business sales, and your local want ads.
Business supplies, such as business cards, letterheads, brochures, and other materials can be pricey at a commercial printer shop. You may be able to save money by heading to a local college that teaches graphic design and speak to the instructor about producing these business supplies for you. Your needs for business supplies could become a class project, providing you with many different ideas to choose from. If the instructor is not interested in having his or her class create the business supplies for you, place an ad on the college bulletin board. Many graphic design students would love to gain the experience and recognition of creating business supplies. Also, most students will charge much less than a professional designer would for business supplies.
With this knowledge you are ready to begin you quest for business supplies, so get out there and make us proud.
By R. S. Wagner