How to Reduce Business Expenses Without Cutting Corners

a person using a calculator to total up receipts and expenses
The goal isn’t to cut corners—it’s to spend smarter and make every dollar work for your business.

Running a business—especially in service-based or private healthcare practice—comes with expenses that add up quickly. But before you start cutting essential costs, let’s explore ways to reduce expenses without sacrificing quality.

Practical Ways to Save Money Without Sacrificing Quality

1. Review and Cut Unnecessary Subscriptions

Software, memberships, marketing tools—many businesses pay for things they don’t actually use.

Review every subscription and ask:

  • Do I use this regularly?

  • Is there a cheaper alternative?

  • Can I downgrade to a lower-tier plan?

💡 Tip: Set a quarterly reminder to review and cancel unused services.

2. Renegotiate Contracts and Rates

Many business owners accept rate increases from suppliers or service providers without questioning them. But a simple conversation could save you money.

Call your internet, phone, or software providers and ask:

  • Are there any promotions or lower-cost plans available?

  • I’ve been a customer for years—can you offer a loyalty discount?

  • Can we restructure this contract for a better rate?

💡 You’d be surprised how often they’ll offer a discount to keep your business.

3. Optimize Your Payment Processing Fees

If you accept credit card payments, processing fees can eat into your profits.

Ways to reduce fees:

  • Compare providers—some offer lower transaction fees.

  • See if e-transfer payments work as an alternative.

  • Offer discounts for direct payments to encourage clients to use lower-cost methods.

4. Automate and Streamline Admin Work

Time is money. If you or your staff are spending hours on manual admin work, look for ways to automate or simplify.

Reduce time spent on:

  • Appointment scheduling → Use online booking software

  • Invoicing and payments → Set up auto-reminders and recurring billing

  • Client follow-ups → Use automated email sequences

💡 Small efficiency tweaks reduce labor costs and free up time for revenue-generating work.

5. Evaluate Your Office Space and Overhead

If you rent an office or clinic space, look at:

  • Do you really need this much space? Downsizing can cut costs dramatically.

  • Could you move to a hybrid or remote model? Many businesses are shifting away from full-time offices.

  • Are there co-working options or shared spaces that make sense?

6. Review Insurance, Banking, and Legal Costs

Most business owners renew insurance and banking services without questioning them.

Compare rates on:

  • Business insurance (are you overpaying for coverage you don’t need?)

  • Bank fees (can you switch to a lower-fee business account?)

  • Legal services (are there subscription-based or DIY options for simple tasks?)

Final Thoughts: Smart Spending, Not Cheap Shortcuts

The goal isn’t to cut corners—it’s to spend smarter and make every dollar work for your business.

Start by reviewing one expense category this week, and you’ll start seeing savings without sacrificing the quality of your business.

Need help with financial planning or cost-cutting strategies? Let’s chat!

Julie Entwistle MBA, BSc (OT), BSc.

Julie Entwistle is an ICF Associate Certified Coach who works with business owners and professional service providers.

Julie helps her clients by building their business YOU - confidence so they can run, grow, and develop legacy practices that are focused and optimally successful. Julie knows that when professional service businesses do better, their clients also benefit. She knows this because she was one! Prior to becoming a coach, Julie was an independent owner of her own healthcare business before successfully merging, growing, and selling the practice. As an owner Julie had her own business coach, and this was a key element in her success.

Academically, Julie has degrees in Health Studies and Gerontology and Health Science (Occupational Therapy) from the University of Waterloo and McMaster, respectively, and an MBA from Wilfrid Laurier. She attended Queens University as a part-time Doctorate student prior to discontinuing her studies in 2023. Julie is also a Chartered Director and has Board and governance experience.

Julie grew up in a franchise family, so business is in her DNA. She has raised four daughters who are off writing their own stories as young adults. Julie is active and fit with a black belt in Karate, a competitive golf game, and enjoys many other sports. She believes in authenticity, showing kindness to all living things, and is happiest when helping others to build their own wealth and wellness.

Find Julie on LinkedIn at: linkedin.com/in/julieentwistle

https://www.businessyou.ca
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