We live in a world which makes remote working easier than ever before.

Small businesses no longer have to spend money on commercial rent, thus allowing them to maximise their profits and minimise the overheads.

Whatever industry your small business falls under, whether it’s marketing or e-commerce, running it from the comfort of your own home could be the ideal choice to help you embark on the path to success. 

And, with more and more potential employees looking for the balance that remote work brings, you’ll be able to find staff also eager to work from their homes. 

So, if you’re thinking about running a small business from your home, here are just five practical tips to help you get started. 

1. Design a Productive Environment 

Having a productive environment to work in is essential for your success. While it can be tempting to work from your living room with the TV on, you should ideally have a home office.

This office space should be full of natural light as this can help keep you alert and engaged. If you have the budget for a renovation, consider using experts such as Lonsdale Metal to install roof lights. This way you can maximise the natural light that enters your space.   

2. Invest in Technology

Technology is essential in our digital age. And whether you need to contact clients, collaborate with colleagues, or complete commissions, you’ll need a reliable way to do so.

This means investing in a computer that can run your programs and potentially signing up to client management platforms.  

And, if you do have employees working under you, you’ll also need to provide them with the technology that they need to undertake their roles remotely. 

3. Choose Ergonomic Furniture 

If you’re going to be sitting at your desk all day, then it’s essential that you purchase ergonomic furniture.

Not only can an ergonomic chair help to keep you focused and prevent fatigue, it can also help to protect against long term health issues too.

Furniture stockists such as Posturite stock a wide range of ergonomic desks and chairs that can make your office space a more comfortable place to spend your working hours. 

4. Prioritise Your Work/Life Balance

One of the biggest dangers of running your business from your home is the blurring of the work/life line.

At the end of your work day, make sure to close your office door behind you and switch off. 

It’s also a good idea to take regular breaks throughout the day, particularly as you’ll lack the constant interaction that comes with commercial spaces.

Taking the time to practice mindfulness can help you to reduce your stress and improve your ability to concentrate. 

If you find it hard to switch off at the end of the day, consider taking a daily walk that will help to divide your work and home life.

5. Embrace Online Marketing

In our increasingly digital age, online marketing is essential for attracting customers to your small business, particularly if you don’t have a physical office or store. 

Utilise strategies such as SEO and social media to reach new customers and clients and start to grow a trusted and recognisable brand.

Share your small business tips in the comments below and help others see success!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most important first step when setting up a home office?
The most critical first step is to design a productive, dedicated environment separate from your personal living areas. This physical separation helps you focus during work hours and makes it easier to mentally “leave work” at the end of the day, which is vital for balance.

How can I avoid burnout when my work is always just a few steps away?
To avoid burnout, you must prioritize your work-life balance by setting strict start and end times for your workday. When your workday is over, close your office door and fully disconnect. Taking regular breaks and a short walk can also create a healthy mental division.

Is it a myth that I need to spend a lot of money on a fancy home office?
Yes, this is a common misconception. The key is to have a functional and productive space, not necessarily an expensive one. Your primary focus should be on essentials like an ergonomic chair to protect your health and good lighting to keep you alert.

Why is an ergonomic chair considered a business investment and not just a personal comfort item?
An ergonomic chair is a direct investment in your business’s most valuable asset: you. By preventing fatigue and long-term health problems, it protects your ability to work effectively and maintain productivity for years to come, making it a strategic purchase for sustainability.

How can a home-based business effectively compete with businesses that have physical storefronts?
A home-based business can effectively compete by embracing online marketing. Using strategies like Search Engine Optimization (SEO) helps you appear in local search results, while active social media builds a recognizable brand and a direct connection with customers.

What technology is most essential for a new home business?
The most essential pieces of technology are a reliable computer that can run all necessary programs without lag and a high-speed internet connection. These tools are the foundation for nearly all business operations, from completing work to communicating with clients.

If I hire remote employees, am I responsible for their home office equipment?
Yes, if you hire employees to work from home, you are generally expected to provide them with the necessary technology to do their jobs effectively. This typically includes a company computer and access to any required software platforms.

How does the physical work environment affect my business’s success?
Your physical environment directly impacts your efficiency and focus, which are key to your business’s success. A well-organized space with plenty of natural light helps minimize distractions and keeps you engaged, allowing you to produce higher-quality work.

What is the main financial advantage of running a business from home?
The primary financial advantage is the elimination of commercial rent, which is one of the largest overhead costs for most small businesses. This frees up significant capital that can be reinvested into other growth areas like marketing or product development.

How can I manage the feeling of isolation that can come with working from home alone?
To manage the mental strain of working alone, it is important to take intentional breaks throughout the day to step away from your desk. Practices like mindfulness can reduce stress, and scheduling a daily walk creates a routine that gets you out of the house.