How to Make Your Home-based Business Workable

Running a home-based business is a smart way to start and makes sense if you want to save on overhead costs and cut commute time. Before you transition your home-based side project to a home-based company, or move your office back to your home, here are some tips to ensure success:

• Maintain balance between your life and work even if they operate out of the same space. Whether you iron your shirt in the morning or create an automatic shut down of your computer at the end of the day, coming up with a routine just like you would if you went in to an office is important-especially if it means brushing your teeth before your 8 a.m. conference call. On the flip side, always meandering in to the “office” after dinner or on the weekends is also a no-no.
• Separate your office “stuff” from your house “stuff.” Keep your phone lines separate by either adding a line to your existing residential VoIP service arrangement, or investing in a brand new VoIP service plan that allows you to forward calls when out of the office and make long distance calls on the cheap.
• Appear professional to clients, partners, potential buyers, etc. by leveraging office amenities to your benefit. i.e. Set up an answering service with extensions (press 1 for human resources, press 2 for customer service, etc.) to appear larger in size and do not just use your cell phone.
• Set up a PO Box if you haven’t already. You don’t want your home address connected to your business for various reasons- plus, it helps you separate your home mail from your work mail.
• Shut your windows and doors. No one wants to hear your dog barking, cars honking, or construction noise while making a deal.
• If you must conduct face-to-face meetings, partner with a business close-by and use their conference room.
• Use order fulfillment services and store your products / supplies outside of your house. The company will also track, manage and report your inventory for you so you don’t have to.
• Schedule mandatory back-ups with an online storing service. Or, if you must use an external hard drive, store it off-location in case of fire or a break-in.
• Try an online invoicing service like Freshbooks, or Ariba.com so you don’t have to spend the money on postage and office supplies.
• And lastly, take breaks just like you would at the office when you chit chat with officemates. Just remember to come back to work and if you must, buy a timer for these breaks so you don’t keep on doing the laundry.