How to Get Your Spouse’s Support When Starting a Home Business

There’s no doubt that starting a home business is the most economical way to be your own boss. It provides lots of flexibility and puts you in control of your own income. But it is not without risks. The support of your spouse can be a huge asset when you’re trying to get a home business off the ground. But sometimes spouses are less than understanding, or they get concerned about the financial implications of starting a business. By being prepared for objections and being realistic, you can usually get your spouse to come around.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Figure out how much it will cost to get your business started, and determine how you are going to pay for it. It may be a good idea to do this before you even approach your spouse about your idea. Knowing that you’ve done your homework will make it more likely that she will trust your judgment.
2. Calculate the expenses that you could save by working from home if you currently have an outside job. You will probably be able to save a substantial amount on commuting expenses, restaurant meals and child care. Depending on the nature of your business, you might also save a small fortune just by not having to buy clothes that conform to a company dress code.
3. Write a business plan. It doesn’t have to be formal if you’re just going to use it to convince your spouse that your business is viable. Include your startup costs and savings from steps 1 and 2, how you will get clients, a projected budget, and other pertinent facts and figures and show it to your spouse.
4. Ask your spouse how he feels about your proposed home business, and why he feels that way. Listen to everything he has to say, and address his concerns one by one. Once he has seen how thoroughly you’ve thought things through, he will likely see your business in a more positive light.
5. Acknowledge that things will probably be hard in the beginning. Be willing to compromise by working part-time to help cover expenses until things get off the ground, if that’s what it takes.