Choose a Great Space
It Starts with an Idea
Being ready to jump into a new home business can mean different things to different people. You might have recently experienced a life change and the time is ripe. Maybe you’re weary of corporate culture and want to run your own show. Perhaps you came up with an idea too brilliant to let slide, or maybe current trends inspired you to grab one of the best startup ideas out there, such as selling selfie drones, HIIT equipment, or smartwatches. Whatever your reasoning, your idea is the place to start. For instance, Entrepreneur recommends thinking about what your new business will look like. Is it casual and earthy? Is it polished and elegant? Will you have clientele visiting your home, or will you make deliveries or shipments? Do you plan to work via the internet? Will you need production space? You need to find the right fit for you all the way around, something you believe in and understand, so you can be successful.
Consider Location
Many factors go into selecting the right location for your new business. If you plan to open a retail space, whether it’s to sell handmade crafts, matcha tea products, or parts for upcycling, choosing a location that fits your market can be a key to success. You can take advantage of shoppers with an interest in your kind of product. For example, if you raise bees and plan to sell honey and honey-based baked goods, a location near gourmet food shops, cafes, or specialty boutiques might bring you foot traffic. Think about the fact that fast-food chains normally lump together in a general location; they are taking advantage of that concept.
Personal Space
Another key aspect in making a good selection is where you work best. AllBusiness points out your atmosphere can affect your outlook and productivity. Some people need a quiet place away from family members to focus, while some love interaction. If you plan to meet clients, do you need an area in your home with a separate entrance? Would an outbuilding be best for meetings, completely apart from family comings and goings? You might need space for packing, shipping, and deliveries as well. With that in mind, check zoning restrictions in prospective areas, as there may be limitations on what can and can’t occur from certain locations.
Get Up and Running
Success Begins with You
Once you find that perfect place, you need to think about how you will structure your work. Running a successful home business means being dedicated and professional. Be conscientious about time management, allotting your work time and setting and meeting goals. You need to plan for your short-term goals, such as what you need to do during the day to meet your objective for the week, as well as your long-term plans, such as what you want to accomplish this quarter, by the end of the year, and where you see yourself in five years. Prioritize your time so you meet clients’ needs and deadlines and stay on task.
Don’t Be Shy
Marketing your new business is another key to success. Chron.com suggests taking advantage of email and websites. Produce a newsletter, get on social media, and create a website of your own. Participate in local events, do some speaking, and get involved in your community so others know who you are and what you’re doing. Also, be candid about your business structure. You’ll find people respect and appreciate your authenticity.
Your Work, Your Way
Little can be more satisfying than pursuing a dream. When it’s time to up-size for a home-based business, do some thinking and planning. Your vision can become a reality with good choices and hard work!
By Julie Morris
Julie Morris is a life and career coach. She thrives on helping others live their best lives. It’s easy for her to relate to clients who feel run over by life because she’s been there. After years in a successful (but unfulfilling) career in finance, Julie busted out of the corner office that had become her prison. Today, she is fulfilled by helping busy professionals like her past self get the clarity they need in order to live inspired lives that fill more than just their bank accounts. When Julie isn’t working with clients, she enjoys writing and is currently working on her first book. She also loves spending time outdoors and getting lost in a good book.