Like a lot of other people, you run what you hope to be a successful business. Perhaps you sell a product or maybe you provide a service. It doesn't matter which. The difference is that you run this business from a home office.

Your office is set up, you have the phone, the fax, the computer connected to the Internet. Beside you, or behind you are the bookshelves, the filing cabinets, the corner window on the world outside. Your inventory is at hand, whether it be the products you sell or the services your provide. You are ready to face the world. But, are you keeping up appearances?

Do you start your day as you mean to go on? Do you dress for success? When you get up in the morning, say goodbye to your partner as he/she heads off into corporate land, kiss and hug the kids as they head off for school, do you turn around and "plonk" yourself at your desk, still half asleep, dressed in your night attire, hair all askew?

Having a home based business shouldn't mean that you give up on dressing correctly.

Imagine this. There is a knock at your door not five minutes after saying goodbye to the family and it is a current or potential client! and you are still in your dressing gown and slippers. How will they react seeing the "real" you. Will they still have respect for you and your business seeing you in this "new" light?

Each new day should start with dressing for success. Ensure that you are as ready to face your business world as you would be sitting in a city office. Dress appropriately every morning so that you can be assured of providing any unexpected visitors the same respect as they would get going to visit any other business.

Now I am definitely not saying that you should be dressing in your best outfit. But ensure that you are dressed in clothing that is suitable for the business you are in. Sweats and jeans are not the best choice if you are providing a service, but corporate wear may not be appropriate either. Your best choice is going for business casual. Nice skirt or slacks, wrinkle free shirt and comfortable shoes are best. Ensure that your hair is tidy and makeup (if used) is not "over-used". Remember, you are going to the office for the day and are not relaxing at home. If you are spending the day in your studio, designing or packaging products, wear an apron or coverall to keep your business clothes clean.

Being dressed for work also helps when dealing with telephone calls. Your voice and manner coming across on the phone are reflected in your appearance. You will project more self-confidence to your callers when you are in your business dress than you would when you are casually dressed.

Now I hear you say "I don