Starting Out

Work From Home? Key Personal Issues

It might make sense initially to take over the spare bedroom, garage, verandah etc and set it up as an office. Initial cost savings are about the only long term bonus to this strategy.

Eventually, your 24 hour a day presence in the house can become a major issue - especially if you've got kids!

Unless you stick to "office hours", you'll find yourself tinkering away with the business well into the night... something your family and spouse will not take kindly to, no matter how you attempt to justify it.

Kids don't understand the person on the phone is a client. In their rush to answer the phone before you, or when they ask you at full volume to do something, or pick a fight with siblings while your on the phone, ask yourself "What message does that send to your client?"

Choose a room that can be isolated from the main house. One that is free of distractions which offers peace and privacy. One that has a door which can be shut at the end of your business day!

To met clients face to face, the only way is to go to their place. No matter how spick and span your house/office is... it is still a residence. It is not a place of business!

If things get difficult, go for a cheap serviced office. You may not have a "home based" business, but you may stay in business for yourself a bit longer!

Next... YOUR NEW FOUND FREEDOM NEEDS ORGANISATION...