Work Space - When You Work at Home

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.

Audrey Okaneko has been in direct sales since 1983. You can read more of her articles at http://mydirectsales.com or you can Become a Tupperware Consultant

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