Get Your Own Space
You've heard the term "You're violating my space" which refers
mostly to people who are standing too close for personal
comfort. Having your own space can also apply to your working
environment, especially if you work from home. This article will
help you carve out your own space in your home-based business.
Deciding what part of the house you are going to use for your
business can be as important as the business itself. You will
need an area large enough to house your desk, files and your
equipment. You will probably prefer a spare bedroom, however,
when that's not possible, you can consider an area of the
garage, your basement (if it's not too damp). Almost any area of
the house will do if you have the space to get started.
There are several things you need to consider in choosing your
"office" space:
Distractions and Interruptions
Although you may prefer to use a spare bedroom for setting up
your office, you have to look at things realistically. If you
have small children running around during the day, it may not be
possible to close yourself away in a room where you won't be
disturbed or distracted. You may find it more convenient to
choose to rearrange your living room in order to claim enough
space for your desk. This will allow you to work comfortably
while at the same time, keep an eye on the kids.
Keep in mind that even if your desk faces away from the
television, you may find yourself distracted by it. You need to
try to minimize the distractions, while at the same time allow
for your own particular circumstances. A full time mom may find
it easier to work only when the children have gone to bed for
the night, and grab a few minutes to call clients while the kids
are napping. Some people simply can not concentrate with
activity around them and must have seclusion to get any work
done. This will certainly be up to your own particular tastes
and requirements.
Adequate Space
You should have plenty of space for all of your files, supplies
and of course you should also have a telephone jack close to
your desk so you can work with clients and customers on the
phone while having quick access to your files and materials.
Try to keep your work area as clutter free as possible in order
to save you time looking for things. Some people work just fine
at a desk that is covered with papers, notes, reminders and
such. Make every possible attempt to keep your desk clean and
organized. Since it is the center point of your work activities,
you will find yourself being much more productive if things are
neat and organized.
Make sure your desk is well lighted to minimize on eye strain
and that you have a comfortable chair that is at the appropriate
height to help prevent carpal tunnel if you spend long hours at
your computer.
Customers and Visitors
You will also want to consider whether you will be dealing with
customers in your office. Do you have pets that might annoy your
customers? Is your working space presentable? Does your office
present a professional image? Will you be dealing with privacy
issues with spouse or children? How will you feel having
strangers in your home? These are some issues to keep in mind
when selecting your office space.
You may want to look into holding your meetings at your client's
office, in a rented office space or a coffee shop. The image you
present to your customers will have a big impact on how your
business is perceived. If you find that your business has cut
into your housecleaning time, meeting outside your home may be
an alternative for you.
Once you have carved out your own space and are satisfied with
your work area, you are ready to get down to doing business. You
will find that the happier you are with your work space, the
more successful you and your business will become.