Dangerous Misconceptions about Starting a Home Based Business

If you are looking to start a home based business there are many things you need to know in order to make it a success. The following are three commonly misunderstood concepts surrounding Home Based Businesses. I can work in my pajamas all day! The idea of going to work in your pajamas may seem silly to some while simultaneously sounding wonderful to others. If you find this idea to be amusing then you are on the right track. Although your business is based out of your home, it is still a business. It is important to draw a clear line between your home and your business. This is the key to your success while working from home. If you do not dress the part of a business owner then you will not be accepted as such. We all know that the way we dress affects the way we feel and that our feelings affect the way we act. Even if your business does not require face to face interaction with customers you will surely interact with them somehow (whether it is by phone or over the internet) and your dress will affect those interactions. Don’t fall into the trap of thinking you can dress however you want since you are still at home. I have to keep my business open from 9-5. It is true that when we think of a business we immediately associate it with “normal business hours.” If you are unable to commit to those hours don’t let it deter you from starting a home based business What is most important when it comes to business hours is regularity and dependability. If you are working from home, chances are that you have other responsibilities that encouraged that decision. Set up your business hours around those responsibilities. Customers and clients will easily forgive you for having different business hours as long as you are dependable with the hours you have chosen. “Normal business hours” allows customer expectations to be met. If you can make your hours something your customers and clients can depend on, then you will be successful. I have to know how to do it all. Many are afraid of starting a home based business because they feel the need to be knowledgeable in all aspects of running a business. While it is true that a general knowledge of many business aspects will aid you, it is not necessary for you to know everything. This misconception may have been true in the past, but is becoming increasingly more false every day. The business world is much more open to small and home based businesses than ever, you just need to know your options. Many prospective entrepreneurs are discouraged by the financial aspects of starting a new business. With payroll management and tax filing requirements your business’ finances can be an intimidating reality. There are businesses that have been created with the sole purpose of aiding small business owners. They allow you to outsource many difficult or time consuming tasks (such as payroll and taxes) so you can concentrate on the real reason you started your own business.