How to Save During the Busiest Shopping Days of the Year

Black Friday and Cyber Monday aren’t just for kids and families. Businesses can save on the things they need too. It’s all about strategizing which day to purchase what item. For optimal savings, we suggest creating a game plan to help you navigate the shopping holidays. Ours looks something like this.

Make a shopping list – and check it twice

Write down everything you might need for your office. Ask yourself: What stores carry these items? Will these stores be participating in Black Friday? What about Cyber Monday? Take notes and compare. Look at shipping fees, store opening times, and advertisements. Is it worth it to you to wake up early to go in person or can it wait?

We suggest putting the big, harder to get items on layaway if you are able. This saves time and helps you avoid lines and stock depletion. It also helps when it comes to navigating the in-person rush. Save the smaller stuff for Cyber Monday. If you can’t find something, don’t sweat it. You will have plenty of opportunities to save throughout the season.

Split the list into two categories: “Must Haves” and “Wants”

What do you really need? If your computer is on its last legs, now is the time to buy a new one. If you need to upgrade your company software, do it now. Unless you see a one-time deal that justifies a minor want, it can wait. If you stay focused, you’ll have a better chance of landing on the better deals. Don’t forget that the small costs add up.

Track prices for the items on your list: start now

Some of the prices you see will change significantly on Black Friday and Cyber Monday. Some won’t. Target the items that are advertised for savings. If the price stays the same through both days, there’s a large chance it will remain that way through the season. If it this is the case, look for the biggest store-wide discounts and track when they take place. This will help you save on the item, even if it’s not particularly on sale.

Be prepared by knowing what stores are participating

Employee favorites like Amazon.com, Microsoft, Best Buy, Lenovo, and Office Depot will have flash sales throughout the holiday season. The biggest sales will start in person on Black Friday and ramp up online on Cyber Monday. Things like new computers, smart phones, new appliances, and office furniture can cost a fraction of their original price. You can bet everybody wants them. Be prepared to move quickly because these items go fast. Refer to your price tracking list above. You’ll need it.

Don’t get disheartened

There will be a lot of people at the store and online at the same time as you. If there is a flash sale going on or it’s the beginning of the day, the item you want will likely go quickly. If you can’t get to an item, move swiftly to the next one. Don’t sweat the small stuff. You might be surprised to find something better, elsewhere.

Be mindful of your budget: Do you have budget? If not, it’s important to make one and stay within. DO NOT max out your company credit cards in search of savings. It will backfire and it’s not worth it. Black Friday and Cyber Monday might help you save, but they aren’t the last chance to do so. Zero in only on large items of significance. Save the rest for year end sales.

Don’t forget about your vendors

Keep in mind that some vendors offer special deals around the holidays as well. We can help you identify them. If you are truly struggling with office updates come talk to us. The holiday season is supposed to be fun. We can help make it easier to celebrate. Give us a call. We’ll walk you through our process. In the meantime, happy saving!

Phone: (240) 406-9075 or shoot us an email: [email protected].