• Don't use your home address for your business cards, stationery, collaterals, etc. Better to have a PO Box where you can get all your mail. It looks better than 123 Evergreen Road, Apartment 201.
• Without a storefront, your image is all you have. Make sure to spend time and money to make your business cards, brochures, and stationery reflect a truly professional operation. Please don't make your business cards and stationery on your own. Don't use those pre-perforated business cards you can buy at office stores. It's tempting, but business cards are relatively inexpensive to have designed and professionally printed.
• Answer the phone professionally. Sounds silly, but it is surprisingly that many business owners answer their phones with just "hello." If you have little kids, don't let them answer the phone. It won't seem attractive to your clients.
• Get out of the house every day, even if it is just to get the mail or take a brisk walk. Creativity suffers the longer you spend in one place. Being at your computer screen in your den all day can suck the mental sharpness right out of you.
• Stay involved in outside meetings and activities. Plan lunch dates, go to seminars, and check in with customers and prospects. Don't be trapped by your office.
Starting a business from home is a great way to ease into your new business. If you start on a shoestring, it's wonderful not to worry about coming up with a rent check every month. If you are not well suited to home-based business, you will know very quickly; as you grow and become successful, you can always move to a larger space outside your home.
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