For months now, I’ve been driving past a small computer shop with signs on the window advertising “up to 70% off” on laser cartridges. 

I must admit that from time to time, just like anyone else, I like to get a bargain.

So when I realized the laser cartridge on the fax machine needed replaced, I took the cartridge out of the machine and drove over to the store to see how much money I could save.  An added incentive was the fact the cartridges are recycled. I’ve always believed recycling is good for the world and this would be my green contribution of the day.

The laser cartridge did turn out to be a bargain.  The cartridge I needed was approximately 50% off.  So I bought the cartridge, was all excited that I got a bargain, promptly returned to my office and put it in the fax machine to test it. 

Suddenly, the fax machine was making a noise I never heard before.  So I opened the lid of the fax machine and took it out.  Much to my surprise and shock, the contents of the cartridge spilled out and was all over the hardwood floor!  I was so stunned that I stood there for a moment in disbelief!  My initial worry was that I ruined the hardwood floors. Would they be stained forever?! 

After regaining my composure, I started thinking about how to clean this black, soot-like mess up.  First, I tried to wipe it up but the dry ink smeared anything it made contact with.  Which only made matters worse. 

Then I tried the hand held vacuum and that seemed to work well.  Fortunately, for me, after about 90 minutes I was able to clean everything up with no traces of the powdered ink on the hardwood floor.  Following the clean up in my office, I immediately got back in the car and proceeded to the office supply store to buy the brand name laser cartridge. So instead of saving 50%, it actually cost me 50% more! 

The bargain was no longer a bargain.

Moral of the story: Buy quality products and not cheaper products that will, in the end, cost you a great deal more. 

There is an additional moral to the story:  Ask yourself – Do you create the best marketing materials possible, hire the best employees, provide the best product or service, and in general, run a quality business or do you look for the easiest, cheapest way of running your business? 

One thing I absolutely know for sure is that I will never buy a bargain-priced laser cartridge again! 

Even in these economic times of budget restraint, don’t cut corners where it counts most.  Create marketing materials that best represent your company.  Hire the best even if it costs you a little more.  The new employee will pay for him/herself in productivity.   Live up to every commitment you make with your customers. 

Bottom line:  Never take short cuts that will cost you money or potential business.