Setting Up a Home Office SCC BUS 209 _ Spring 2006 copyright, Making the Home Office Environment Work for You  Make it a space you love you’ll be spending a lot of time there  Make it a well-defined space  Learn how to shield yourselfphysically & psychologically from interference  Professionalize your business Focus on Files  Focus on files first…  Start by organizing and grouping your office paper  Decide what to keep and what to toss  Don’t be a clutter keeper!  Helpful Hint: Don’t bother filing A-Z Try a color-coordinated functional approach: Prospects or Leads, Marketing, Administration, Finance… Equipment That Works A well-equipped home office has • Two-line cordless phone • Separate telephone line • Answering machine or message center • Voicemail • Pager or cell phone • Fax or fax modem • Desktop and/ or portable computer • Laser or ink-jet printer • Copier or Scanner Decide what is Needed and Want is merely Wanted! • What can you afford • Which technologies are you comfortable with now • What are you willing to build on • Investigate leasing as a option • Think Ergonomically! GOT DSL??  Technology may be critical for many HBB  Plan for technological growth  Educate yourself on how to use technology so it is a small business advantage! Have a Back-Up Technician! • Know someone who understands technology • Back-up frequently • Keep up on technology • Protect yourself from Viruses, Worms, etc Functional Furnishing  Home Office Organizing Experts suggest modular furniture with ample space and a professional appeal  Affordability may be an initial challenge  Nine out of 10 business owners meet at their client’s office, but if you have clients meeting then you may need a reception or “conference” area Home Office Resources • www.asid.org American Society of Interior Designers • www.napa.net National Association of Professional Organizers • www.smalloffice.com will allow you to “design” your home office on-line • HBBA.org the home-based business association of America ... Furnishing  Home Office Organizing Experts suggest modular furniture with ample space and a professional appeal  Affordability may be an initial challenge  Nine out of 10 business owners meet at their... www.napa.net National Association of Professional Organizers • www.smalloffice.com will allow you to “design” your home office on-line • HBBA.org the home- based business association of America ... client’s office, but if you have clients meeting then you may need a reception or “conference” area Home Office Resources • www.asid.org American Society of Interior Designers • www.napa.net National