It’s obvious that today’s businesses are shedding jobs and customers at the same time. Credit lines may be frozen or have shrunk considerably. Accounts receivables have taken a dive and every penny counts. While many businesses are going to start hunting for ways to cut expenses, they may make the mistake of only looking at the big ticket items, like cost of living raises 2009. Now is actually the best time to take a look at your operating costs, not just your staff costs, to create a business that comes out of this recession, not just leaner but much meaner, more productive, and highly competitive.

Energy Costs

One place that may seem obvious with all the talk about a green future are the energy costs that your business generates. How many business owners have really taken that to heart though, and looked at ways they can use the energy incentives in the Federal Stimulus bill to reduce their operating expenses and create a more sustainable business model? This bill gives incentives for insulation, roofing, as well as, hot water heaters and geothermal pumps. Up to 30% of the cost of the installation of a new system can come back to the business owner in the form of a tax credit.

Energy costs are just about heating and cooling, though. Electricity may not be that expensive right now, but the cost of replacing bulbs in a large facility can quickly add up. Conventional incandescent and fluorescent bulbs requires someone to keep up with the bulbs and it takes more energy too than compact fluorescent bulbs. Making a small purchase to replace all the bulbs in a facility will reduce maintenance and replacement costs significantly while reducing your energy needs.

Office Supplies

If you haven’t gotten on the recycling band wagon, now’s also a good time. Recycling office paper, ink cartridges, and equipment can lead to savings and a more efficient office. If you can’t keep up with maintenance or recycling, lease equipment from someone that can help you manage your office supply needs in a more sustainable manner.

Take Advantage of New Technology

Instead of spending to send everyone to a conference in Florida, maybe the same objective can be reached via a virtual conference call. Instead of clinging to old pc screens that eat tons of energy, opt for the flat screen versions. Instead of sending out postal snail mail promotions, find ways to advertise online and send these promotions via email to cut costs. There are so many new technologies out there to help small businesses reduce expenses that pay off in the long run, if only one takes the time to research and implement them.