Gladys Edmunds







Articles by Gladys
02/24/03

A reader writes: Dear Gladys. I am an accountant, planning to open my own accounting firm this summer. It would be more convenient and less expensive if I start the business at home. I have a six-month-old son and childcare is expensive. Would you give me a few tips about having a home-based business?

A. According to the National Association of Home-Based Businesses more than 50 million people work from home, so you have a lot of company. As with any business, a home-based business requires careful planning.

As an accountant, I'm sure you are aware of the technical things you need to do to get your business going, such as zoning, marketing plans and equipment purchases. If you are uncertain about any of those things, visit the NAHBB Web site for more information at www.usahomebusiness.com

In any event, take time to write out a plan to keep you on track. Here are a few things to consider for your plan:

  • " Select a space in your home for your business. I have encountered a few home-based business owners who work from every room in the house, and when a client calls, they are running all over looking for the client file.

  • " Working from home required discipline. Make and keep a work schedule. If you are prone to procrastinate, it becomes even more important to commit to a schedule. A schedule will allow you to look back over the day or week to evaluate how effectively you are using your time. Don't forget to include personal calls in your work chart and the length of time spent on each call. You will be surprised how chatting with friends can eat up valuable time.

  • " Get out of the house daily. Working at home can be lonely, especially if you were accustomed to working with other people. Meet clients at their place of business if your business lends itself to that. Call a baby sitter and schedule appointments around lunch or coffee at a coffee house. If you don't have a scheduled appointment, go out in the afternoon for a walk just to give yourself a break.

Having a home-based business puts you in control of your economic life. It can be fulfilling, while helping to bring balance to your life. You can decide how large or small you want your business to be. I started my travel business at home and worked from there the first 10 years.

Welcome to the world of entrepreneurship, and best wishes for a rewarding and profitable future.

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