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How to Start a Home Based Business

Member
By shelby73
User-Submitted Article
(2 Ratings)

What are the pros and cons, do you need any licenses or permits for your business, what do you want to do as your business, (i.e. craft business)

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • You will need all the tools for your business, a computer with internet and office programs, and space for you to run your business from
  1. Step 1

    Figure out what kind of home based business you want to start up. Do you want to take a hobby and turn it into a income? Think of the pros and cons of going from a job outside the home to one that is run by you from your home.

  2. Step 2

    Find out if there are any licenses or permits needed. You can find that out by going to your local Small Business Association (SBA)in your town to find all that out.

  3. Step 3

    After you go to your SBA, you can start planning your home office. Do you have all the tools you need to get going? (i.e. home computer, equipment, office programs...) Do you have enough space, will you need more space? Go out and check out the local shops and customers... What is the average cost of the same or similar products to what you want to sell? Ask a customer what draws them to the item, the packaging, cost? Go ahead and ask, you never know, you just might have a future customer of yours in front of you. Let friends and family know that just because you work at home does not mean it is play time. You are running a business. Also, dress for your home based business as you would for a job outside the home. Look professional, you will feel professional.

Tips & Warnings
  • Go to your local library or book stores. Their are a lot of books on what kind of business is good to run from your home, how to set one up, and all financial information and tips.
  • Be prepared to keep your full or part time job until you start making money in your business because you might need the money from your job to get your home based business going.
Resources

Comments  

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on 3/13/2009 The biggest challenge for me has been the people who think because I'm at home means I'm available all times of the day. Frustrating. Good article. 5*

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on 3/12/2009 Very nicely done. I enjoyed reading this article, keep up the good work! :)

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