The concept of running a business from home is nothing new and has arguably increased in recent years, thanks in part to rising costs and phenomenal e-Commerce growth.
For entrepreneurs and start-ups in Kent and the wider region, setting up a business at home has gained significant traction. Alongside the trend for remote-office work, there’s a growing community of business owners who have chosen to run operations from home. If this is you, then you might like to consider some of the following points.
Create a dedicated and compliant workspace
Whether you’ve started out from a rented van or storage unit, running a business from home requires you to comply with certain regulations. You might need to respect planning rules if you intend to alter your property to accommodate business operations and to verify that your residence allows for commercial activities. So, depending on your business type, you may need specific licence, planning permission, and permits.
As a start-up or entrepreneur, you’ll likely have some form of dedicated work space at home. With a long-term focus on business expansion, implement a clear boundary between living spaces and business areas. Whether it’s a spare room, garage, or garden shed, having a dedicated space can help to maintain professionalism and a healthy work-life balance.
Maximise security measures
Protecting your business assets and ensuring personal safety are paramount whatever type of business you’re operating from home. While you will have all the necessary tools and equipment for your trade, you’ll want to prioritise securing them safely and ensuring they are locked away when you’re not working or you’re away.
If you’re running car repair services from home or another trade that means you have lots of valuable equipment, security is of the essence. If you’re storing items at home, choose an electric garage door with a robust door opener to maximise security. For other businesses involving vehicles, such as mobile cafes, motor or gardening services, and vehicle sales, consider installing CCTV cameras and secure locks in your driveway and garage area.
For the most secure storage solutions, invest in high-quality locks, safes, or storage units for valuable tools, equipment, or inventory. Then, if the worst happens and something is stolen, your insurance claim will depend on the steps you took to protect any valuable items on your home premises. Your insurance may not cover business-related incidents, so consider obtaining separate business insurance or extending your current policy.
Welcome clients to meetings
If you are working from home and have, for instance, a counselling business or any business that requires one-to-one meetings, consider your personal safety and designate a room for business. This entails establishing clear boundaries and delineating your business hours. In doing so, you’ll avoid disruptions to your home life and maintain a healthy work/life balance.
Similarly, when you do invite clients or groups of people into a home office, maintain a professional persona. Consider creating a clear work entrance to offer privacy and to highlight the area for conducting business in. You’ll need to be mindful of any customers or clients who may have mobility issues, ensuring your business is accessible and has disabled parking if required.
Manage finances carefully
For home-based businesses, careful financial management is essential. It’s important to maintain a clear separation between business and personal finances, ideally by opening a dedicated business bank account. This simplifies accounting and aids in accurate tax reporting.
Tracking expenses meticulously, including specific portions of home utilities if they are used for business purposes, is also key. Additionally, familiarising yourself with tax benefits and deductions available to home-based businesses. If you need to, consult with a tax professional who can help you manage more complex financial matters effectively.
Create a visible marketing presence
In today’s digital world, having an online presence is indispensable. Creating a professional website with eye-catching brand images, consistent communications, and engaging content, allows you to showcase your services, list pricing, and provide booking options.
If you want to raise your game across social media channels, you’ll be able to capture the local community’s attention, target the groups you know are relevant nearby, and attract buyers. Being active on a mix of platforms like Instagram, LinkedIn, or Facebook can help you to showcase your work and engage with potential leads locally and in the wider area.
Likewise, if you can encourage customers to leave positive online reviews, these will boost your credibility, grow your online reach, and enhance your visibility, which is all equally important for home-based businesses.
Maintain networking opportunities
Working from home doesn’t have to mean working in isolation. Joining professional associations and communicating your news or business stories, personal growth strategies and successes can also foster support, advice, and spark opportunities for collaboration with others in your industry.
Attending industry events such as trade shows, workshops, or conferences keeps you informed about the latest industry trends and helps expand your network. Investing in continuous learning and skill development is also crucial to stay competitive in your field.
Managing a business from home offers unique advantages but also presents distinct challenges. It involves maintaining professionalism, prioritising security, balancing your work/life commitments, and continually adapting to the evolving needs of your business and customers. With proper planning, marketing, and realistic finances, your home can become the foundation for a successful and fulfilling entrepreneurial journey.