Thriving in the professional world involves dressing up to the standard. However, this can become a hassle when your new business isn’t making enough money to afford your business attire. When this happens, it’s important to keep calm and understand that this will happen. Starting a new business will include not being able to afford the same things you could before; that is, if you’re completely relying on this startup as your only source of income.
Needless to say, not having the newest business clothes will not take away from your great ideas, but it could attract some potential customers and business partners who may want to join your team as you grow your organization. The way you present yourself to your target audience can have a great impact on the outcome of your business, so it’s best to always strive to look your best. That being said, there’s no need to despair when you’re having fashion issues due to your startup business’s progress.
Here are some ways in which you can dress professionally when your business is not making you enough money.
Shop at discounted prices.
One of the best things you can do is shop for your favorite items at discounted prices. Every store you visit will have a discount rack or aisle that can contain hidden treasures like affordable clothes ready for business. You can also apply for loyalty programs at your favorite stores so you can take advantage of their exclusive discounts that may only be advertised online, through email marketing, and text messaging services. Before saying no to the cash register when they ask you if you want to join their mailing list, think about all the benefits and possible points you can gain by simply joining.
Another thing you can do is search for the best accessories to go with your business apparel like the best watches for men under 200 dollars. The Quintessential Man magazine recommends looking at the price tag for the affordable watches in different timepiece lines like Casio, Timex, Swatch, and Seiko. They also showcase watch brands like Nokia Steel, Orient, and Braun, which have several watches anyone running a small business can afford.
Get a loan.
Another thing you can do is get a loan from a financial institution or bank. Lending Loco can help you look into different loan options to see which one fits you best, and if approved, establish a budget for how you’ll use the money. With a loan, you may be able to write off the clothes as business expenses if they’re considered your uniform. In order to consider your clothes as a business expense, they’ll generally need to be worn only for work and not for other activities. So for example, if you can alter dress shirts or polos by adding your business logo, you may be able to write it off as a business expense during tax season—be sure to consult this with a financial advisor.
Borrow clothes for special business occasions.
Additionally, you could borrow clothes from a friend or family member if you need a suit and tie urgently for a networking event or conference. They may be more than happy to lend you some professional clothes if it means expanding your business. You can give them something in return after you use it, like merch or swag from your business or something better when your business is up and running. Don’t ever forget those people who helped you build your business, even if that’s someone who let you borrow their tux or blouse—you may have gained potential clients just for using that tuxedo or blouse.
Consider these things prior to panicking about not having enough money to buy yourself more professional clothes for your business.