It’s over: 2009 is thankfully gone and 2010 is ripe and ready for prosperity! Or so we hope. But until economic times change — and fear not, times they are a changin’ — here’s five sure ways to save some serious cash:

1. Look at the phone bill. They all want your business so let them try and get it! With phone companies and voice over IP services like Vonage and Skype, you have options circa George Jetson. Do a little research and compare. You could save hundreds a month!
2. Negotiate. It’s a buyers market and the upside of this horrid economy is that price negotiating is effective and expected. Whether office furniture or office services, it’s your fiscal responsibility to ask “What’s your best rate?” or “How much for cash?” And don’t forget today’s hottest business commodity: barter. Acquiring what you want or need may be as simple as a trade of services.
3. Keep your people happy. Very happy. Bonuses are has-beens for everyone not receiving a bail-out, but your people need to know they are appreciated. You’d be amazed how much coffee and bagels can buy you in good will. And a simple “thank you, you’ve been great” is often priceless in employee and vendor loyalty.
4. Measure your advertising investment. Advertising people (like myself) will tell you the intangible benefit of getting your name out there (unless, of course, you’re Tiger). And it is disconcerting to clients when your ads suddenly disappear from trade journals where you usually advertise. Don’t stop advertising; just spend and choose wisely. Shift some advertising budget to more measurable and cost effective mediums such as on-line marketing.
5. Automate, automate, automate! Systems to keep track of accounting, payroll, travel, and research free up your employees to engage face-to-face in sales activities and inter with customers. (And it’s that face-to-face which is the single most important impact on your bottom line.)

Keep your fingers crossed for a prosperous 2010 and remember to shave costs where you can to get your company where you want to be!