Many people choose to work from home these days, and most new businesses start off in the home of their owners- managers. If you're thinking about basing your business in your house, to begin with , you may need to get used to a new way of working, especially if you've previously been working in a more formal, structured setting. To start, ask yourself the following questions;
Is working at home as wonderful as it sounds? Yes and no.
For convenience, the cost, and comfort, there's nothing quite like a home office. Low overhead, no commuting hassles, no office politics, and setting your own hours are a few pluses. On the minus side, there's only you- and if you're not disciplined, you'll be spending more time with the kids, the pets, or snacking than working where you belong. It can be a simple formula for failure.
How can I make a home-based business seem professional to customers? It depends on the type of business, but start with a professional attitude and then buy some good-looking cards and stationery. Think about adding an attractive logo and using a two-color design on business cards, letterheads, and envelopes. Having a well-produced flyer or brochure that describes your business is also a plus; good customer service will do the rest.
E-commerce is relatively easy to conduct from a home office, especially with a website that attract customers. Clients don't really need to know whether you work at home or in a sophisticated office building, so long as you get the job done for them. As with your other materials, the website should reflect the personality and professionalism of your business.
What sort of investment is necessary to outfit a home office? This, too, depends on the type of activity you'll be doing- whether it be business or telecommuting, or a personal or family office. But generally, spending between $2,000 and $4,000 should make you well equipped and comfortable. Make a list and plan a sensible budget beforehand. You don't want to blow your entire savings on setting up the office, then have nothing to spend on attracting business.
- Can I handle the social isolation of a home office on a full-time basis?
- Am I a self-starter?
- How do I rate as a decision-maker, organizer, bookkeeper, and secretary?
- Could I separate business and personal life if both were under the same roof?
- Am I a workaholic and would an office at home worsen that problem?
Is working at home as wonderful as it sounds? Yes and no.
For convenience, the cost, and comfort, there's nothing quite like a home office. Low overhead, no commuting hassles, no office politics, and setting your own hours are a few pluses. On the minus side, there's only you- and if you're not disciplined, you'll be spending more time with the kids, the pets, or snacking than working where you belong. It can be a simple formula for failure.
How can I make a home-based business seem professional to customers? It depends on the type of business, but start with a professional attitude and then buy some good-looking cards and stationery. Think about adding an attractive logo and using a two-color design on business cards, letterheads, and envelopes. Having a well-produced flyer or brochure that describes your business is also a plus; good customer service will do the rest.
E-commerce is relatively easy to conduct from a home office, especially with a website that attract customers. Clients don't really need to know whether you work at home or in a sophisticated office building, so long as you get the job done for them. As with your other materials, the website should reflect the personality and professionalism of your business.
What sort of investment is necessary to outfit a home office? This, too, depends on the type of activity you'll be doing- whether it be business or telecommuting, or a personal or family office. But generally, spending between $2,000 and $4,000 should make you well equipped and comfortable. Make a list and plan a sensible budget beforehand. You don't want to blow your entire savings on setting up the office, then have nothing to spend on attracting business.
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