I've lived in about ten different
homes over the last twenty-five years. Each house had a
different space for my home office. Sometimes my office space
was in a spare bedroom and other times my office space was in a
spare corner.Regardless
of where we lived, one thing has remained consistent; I've
always had a designated space for my home office.
Speaking from a customer
perspective, there is nothing more frustrating than having a
business conversation end with someone who has said, "Oh I have
to get off the computer, my child needs it now."
Although sharing a computer
might be financially advantageous, when prospective customers
and business associates learn that your home business computer
is shared with children, you end up losing credibility in the
eyes of the customer.
For many reasons, home business
owners are not taken "seriously." When customers are spending
their money, they want to know they are doing business with a
true business.
Space is equally important. If
you share space with kids doing homework, spouses paying bills
and babies sleeping, it's very hard to slip into a business
mindset.
Work time is work time. A home
business relies on customers. In order to properly service your
customers, you need to have some continuity in your working
hours and work structure.
I've always managed to find at
least a corner of a room that was mine for work. At the bare
minimum I've had a small bookcase with basic office supplies
such as paper clips, paper and writing utensils. This is also
where I store my catalogs and envelopes.
I've almost always had at least
a couple of notebooks that I've kept important work related
papers in. Sheet protectors are wonderful for storing smaller
pieces of paper, receipts and more.
It really is OK to keep your
work space in the common living area, just make sure that your
work space is a designated work space. It will keep you grounded
and will let your family know that when you're in this space,
it's time for you to work.
