Office Manager how-to
How to Build an Office Supply Budget
Budgets prevent surprise spending.
Quick answer
Budgets prevent surprise spending. In short: review; adjust; set, then complete the remaining steps below.
Step by step
Review last year’s spending by category.
Adjust for headcount and planned changes.
Set monthly targets.
Set up approval rules for purchases.
Track spending monthly.
Explain variances to leadership.
Safety reminders for office managers
- Maintain emergency plans and evacuation routes
- Keep first aid supplies stocked
- Address tripping and ergonomic hazards
- Protect confidential employee information
Key terms
Operating budget · Purchase order · Vendor · Service level agreement (SLA) · Onboarding · Procedure manual: see the full office manager glossary.