I am currently involved in a small group at our church right now that is going through Dave Ramsey’s Financial Peace University. Last night was the discussion on negotiating and getting the best deal. If you haven’t checked it out, you should!
While Dave was talking about searching for and negotiating over the best possible deal on a personal level, it got me thinking about searching for deals and negotiating for our churches. After all, what church doesn’t need more money. Too often we turn right to raising more money, but an important part of being a good steward is also cutting down the bottom line expenses wherever possible.
For example, not long ago I asked a staff member to source some prices on recurring supplies. He came back and told me their “best prices”, and I told him “that’s not good enough” (thanks, Ramsey!). I instructed him to go back and tell them we were also checking into their top competitor (which we mentioned by name) and that they should sharpen their pencil and get back to us with their best prices before we make a final decision. Amazingly, their best prices became way better!
A lot of time people think churches (and even Christians for that matter) are easy targets. We shouldn’t be if we want to be good stewards. I’m not saying you should be a bully, I’m just saying don’t be a pushover! Ask for the best deal and get the best price for whatever you buy. Sometimes all you have to do is ask.
Speaking of best prices, between now and August 8th, Sharp Churches is offering 20% off our “Turnkey Accounting Kit.” This will help your church save money and manage your money better at the same time! Just click here and then use coupon code Turnkey20 to save 20% until August 8th! Not good enough? Why not try practicing your negotiation skills on me?
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