PrintingNews.com

Most small business owners and managers are working harder than ever in an effort to overcome the downturn in the economy. According to the 3rd Annual Staples National Small Business Survey, 62 percent of small business owners admitted they were transforming into a ‘mouse potato’ (i.e. constantly on the computer), with two-thirds eating and working at the same time, and one in five replacing breakfast with “deskfast” in an effort to maximize time.

The survey also revealed that 69 percent of U.S. small-business owners and managers are constantly trying new things to stimulate their business and 47 percent view themselves as ‘intrapreneurs’ (i.e. an entrepreneur who operates within the corporate structure pursuing innovative projects). Even though the current economic climate is challenging, the majority of those surveyed are confident that they will weather the storm, with 84 percent stating that they will be in business next year in their current form and three-quarters still believing in the ‘American Dream.’

“Small businesses are obviously working harder to get through these tough economic times,” said John Giusti, vice president of small business marketing. “At Staples, we recognize the challenges our small business customers face today and offer great value on a wide variety of office products and services to make running a small business easy.”

The internet poll – which surveyed 300+ small businesses – also revealed small business owners and managers are taking measures to offset the economy’s impact. Fifty percent are reducing their own compensation and 38 percent are lowering business travel. Forty-five percent are advertising less with traditional media, while 48 percent are using more viral and word-of-mouth marketing tactics. The majority of those surveyed said they would be willing to forgo vacations and date nights to ensure job stability.

More information about Staples is available at http://www.staples.com.