(Guest Post)
When it comes to running a business, there are lots of details to consider. Naturally, you’ll need a business plan to help you launch and scale your company.
However, you’ll also need to take into account some additional considerations, such as where you’ll conduct your business. Depending upon the nature of the work you do, you might find that a home office provides fewer distractions than coworking spaces while also being more cost-effective than renting office space.
If you’re looking to join the growing number of entrepreneurs who work from home, here’s how to design a home office that’s amazing.
Home Office Research
As with anything else related to your business, it’s crucial to be strategic and weigh your options.
Start by determining how much space you’ll need for your home-based business, then conduct some research. If you realize that your business requires more space to thrive than what your current home can provide, it might be worthwhile to shop for a larger home with plenty of space to live, work, and store your belongings.
Additionally, try to research local home prices in your area where you will have the room you’ll need.
For example, according to Redfin, homes in the Cleveland area typically sell for an average of $81,000. Of course, you’ll also need to research zoning laws in the area you’re considering. Some cities have stringent rules on mixed-use properties.
Let the Sun Shine With Natural Light For Your Home Office
Once you’ve picked the perfect location for your home office, it’s time to consider the interior decor. To boost productivity, Forbes recommends creating a working space that balances comfort, visual appeal, and function. For instance, if you have musculoskeletal problems or back pain, choose functional decor to help address those issues.
In addition, consider the importance of lighting in your working environment. In a recent study, Future Workplace determined that “access to natural light and views of the outdoors” are the most desirable workplace attributes, says Harvard Business Review.
(This image is courtesy of Desky)
Consider placing your workstation near a window. If a natural view isn’t possible, consider hanging photographs or images of your favorite landscapes. To mimic sunlight, invest in quality light bulbs and make sure the level of light is uniform throughout your space.
Data Security For Your Home Office
Whether you’re working from home, from a coworking space, or from a coffee shop, you’ll still need a way to secure your company’s data. For instance, you should strongly consider using multi-factor authentication. As Sykes Enterprises explains, multi-factor authentication requires you to prove “something [you] know” (such as a password) and “something [you] have” (such as your phone). It keeps data safe because, unless a hacker has your password and your smart device, they won’t be able to log in.
If you run an online store or accept payments via the web, you’ll also need to be payment card industry (PCI) compliant. Not only does PCI compliance help protect your customers’ sensitive data from hackers and identity theft; it also keeps your business legal. According to Investopedia, any company that processes credit cards must “identify potential threats,” then address those threats. Additionally, companies must “avoid storing sensitive cardholder information” like Social Security numbers.
Multi-Factor Authentication
Note: if you’re uncertain how to make your business PCI compliant, set up multi-factor authentication, or protect customer data, it’s best to leave these steps to the professionals. Consider hiring a data security expert or a professional web developer to help secure your online store.
Tu sum things up, Working from home provides convenience, affordability, and the world’s greatest commute. However, you’ll need to be strategic and carefully consider the logistics. To ensure that you’ll have all the room, data security, and productivity you need, follow the tips listed in this article on how to design a home office.
Because when your office is set up for maximum success, your business will be more likely to thrive in the long run.
(Tina Martin, the author of this guest post, started her career in business administration but eventually decided to pursue something that actually inspired her: becoming a personal fitness instructor. She is working on her first book, Ideaspired: Put Your Ideas, Your Inspiration, and Yourself First to Make Your Dreams Come True. She also started ideaspired.com as a side project to reach as many people as possible, and encourage them to put their dreams first.)
