10
TIPS
FOR
HOME-BASED
BUSINESSES
Starting a home-based business is never easy.
From advertising to zoning, there is always
something that will require your attention.
Here are ten tips that can help keep you
focused on your quest to make your
home-based business a success.
1. Set a schedule and keep it.
The allure of working from home is powerful
but so is the appeal of spending more time
with your family or taking a nap in the middle
of the day. Setting a schedule for your workday
and sticking to it is critical.
2. Set up a dedicated office area.
You can't run a business from your kitchen table.
A successful business requires a fully equipped
home office. If you have an extra bedroom, consider
converting it into office space. If you do not have
an extra room in your home, then try setting up a
partition to create an office area.
3. Be professional.
One of the perks of running a business from home is
having the option of working in your pajamas, but
your customers should not be able to tell that you
just rolled out of bed. Maintain normal office hours
and a professional demeanor when answering your
phone or dealing with customers.
4. Advertise.
Just because you build it doesn't necessarily mean
they will come. To succeed, you will need to advertise
your new business. Advertising and marketing don't
have to be expensive, but they have to be done.
5. Familiarize yourself with tax laws.
You are about to enter a whole new world of taxation.
To avoid ending up frazzled on April 15th, take the
time now to discuss your options with your accountant
or another qualified professional who can advise you
about your tax situation.
6. Check with your zoning commission.
Make sure there are no zoning laws that will prevent
you from running your business from your home.
7. Formulate a business plan.
Where do you want your business to be in six months?
How about in five years? Many small business owners
mistakenly think that a business plan is only necessary
if they are going to have investors. But businesses of
all sizes can use a business plan as a roadmap to
success.
8. Get on the Web.
The Internet is the single best way for a home-based
businesses to reach out to prospective customers. Even
if your business isn't "e-" anything, you need a Web site
that can function as an online brochure for your company.
9. Do your research.
You may think that your idea for your home-based business is
unique. But unless you do some market research, you won't know
whether or not your market is already saturated. Market research
can help you find a special angle for your product or service,
giving you an edge over your competitors.
10. Don't get discouraged.
Many businesses fail simply because their owners got discouraged
after a disappointing trial period. You will have to show grit and
determination to make your business succeed. Hang in there and
do all that you can to make your business the success you know
it can be.
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