As we plow through these difficult economic times, the financial horizon still looks cloudy. Joblessness is up and businesses are closing their doors nationwide. Things may seem bleak in this depression, but there are ways to make the most of it. This article can help you succeed with a home business despite this economy.
If your home-based business requires you to drive during your working hours, be sure to track your mileage and collect receipts for the gas required. These travel expenses, even if they are only for a day trip, are considered to be 100% deductible. However, you need to be able to prove that that the travel is necessary for your business.
You should wear nice clothing! You might feel the need to work in pajamas in your home office. Wear work-appropriate clothing just as if you were commuting. This will make you more productive and put you in a better frame of mind.
You need to give yourself breaks while you’re working from home, but be sure that you don’t become too distracted during these breaks. Don’t call people up or get involved in a big home project. This will take you away from your business. Take regular breaks and throw in a small exercise routine to keep the body active.
You need to to let your customers know if you have an item on back-order. Nothing upsets clients more than knowing that the products they ordered will take a while before they arrive. Always be specific on the time order if there is an expected delay so your customers can make the choice to order an alternative item.
You need a separate PO Box set up for your home based business. You don’t want to use your home address when setting things up online. This helps safeguard your identity as well as the identity of your family.
Business Cards
Get business cards to add to your credibility. There are many business card deals online that you can take advantage of. Some even offer business cards for free. You want all vital information in your business cards, so double check to make sure you have included your website, phone number and email address. List your contact info- this is important! Providing several different contact methods makes it more feasible for customers to reach you.
Make sure you create a mailing list as your home based business grows. Don’t spam, though! Many businesses send out product and sales announcements to their mailing list. Some people also use mailing lists to send coupons, relevant information and articles to their customers regularly. Place a registration area on your site so that people can join your list quick.
As previously stated, the current economy isn’t in good shape. You might be concerned about your family’s survival. This article will help you avoid this and instead turn a profit.
There are tremendous opportunities for small businesses and social entrepreneurs to support their communities through community foundations, donor advised funds and other means of giving back. Find the neighborhoods in Kings County , New York where you can make the most impact on civic engagement in the community.