As the economy slips into a deeper recession. Small businesses begin to realize that going to extreme measures is just a part of survival. Cutting prices and staff have become common practice and may be the only option for many of us. I've put together a list of tips to help get your business to remain viable in hard times all the while keeping your dignity.

Where does all your money go?
Look at your entire operation to see if you are spending to much money on things such as office supplies you never use and/or AIG style bonuses. Not only can this money be spent for more important things like marketing, paying into health care.

Are your suppliers still your best friend
This is a good time to see if your suppliers are still giving you the best price if you are not locked into a contract ask to renegotiate your prices or look for a better deal.

Hire freelancer's to do your excess work.
Instead of hiring more staff freelances who live of providing the service you are looking for maybe able to get the job done. The best part about this is you wont have to lay anyone off. When the job is done it's done simple as that.

Get online
If you are not online yet now is a perfect time to see what all the buzz has been about. With millions of people online everyday the internet opens up the possibility of finding new customers and accepting many forms of payment.