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How do I operate a successful home office for my Self-employed business?

Home » Small Business » Being Successful...In a Self-Employeed Business » How do I operate a successful home office for my Self-employed business?

Working from home can be one of the most alluring features of being self-employed. It can provide a flexible schedule, eliminate a long commute and save you the money it would cost to rent office space. But there are potential pitfalls with operating a home office to be aware of: it can blur the lines between your work and home life and it can present distractions from your work. Keep in mind these tips to help make your home office successful:


  • Set aside a space for your home office that is free from distractions. Ideally, it should be a room with a door that can be closed.
  • Make the space as comfortable and conducive to productivity as possible. Invest in an ergonomic chair and any other devices that will keep you healthy while you work. Also, select office furniture that reflects your needs (Filing space? Shelf space? Empty surfaces for work space? Room for a lot of computer equipment?)
  • Keep the space organized. If you will have clients visiting your home office space, then you have incentive for keeping things orderly. But even if you do not, an organized work space is more productive and more professional.
  • Set rules for yourself while you work. Ideally, get a separate business phone line (or one with a distinctive ring) and do not take personal calls while you are working. Designate a time for breaks and stay focused on your work until that time.
  • Limit your work hours. When you are finished for the day, leave the office, close the door and leave it behind. You can be responsive to your clients without being available to them 24 hours a day.
  • Get out at least once every day. Working at home can be very isolating. If you do not have clients coming to you, schedule some activity outside your home, even if it is a trip to the post office.



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