Practically everyone has entertained the thought of what it would be like to run a business from home. Not only are you your own boss, but you can work whenever you want to. It can be difficult, however, to make that dream into a reality, which is where the following tips can help.
Don’t forget to take tax deductions for your business Internet use. You can write off the Internet costs, but if you use it as a home connection as well, you cannot claim more than 50% the cost on you taxes. Read the rules on the IRS website.
Always deduct client meetings from your taxes when they involve expenditures such as lunch or other forms of entertaining. These are legitimate business expenses and should be treated as such. Make sure that the people you meet with are either already clients or potential clients, as the IRS doesn’t look too favorably on claiming pleasure as business.
Keep a special business phone line to keep it separate from your personal phone line. Looking professional is the best way to build a customer base, so having a separate number you answer professionally is key.
When starting your home business, it is important to have a website that is capable of selling your product. This can get the word out about your business to a larger crowd of people, and consequently deliver many new customers. You may find it easier to plan and execute a website design with the assistance of a professional.
Make your home business fit into your family schedule. Make sure you have the time available to dedicate, or else not only will your business not succeed, but your family life may suffer.
It is essential to let your family and friends know what your work schedule is, so that they know to give you time alone during those hours. Do you have a buddy that always drops in on you at work or a family member who comes for a visit an hour early? The best thing to do is politely explain to them that you are currently busy and you must not be bothered. If they still visit, have something for them to do while you finish up your work.
Keeping accurate records regarding your production costs is key to being successful. One model is to sell your products for two times your production cost. Some may even multiple that amount by three when selling it.
As you can see, it will require a little bit of work and dedication to make the jump. If you can manage to pull through and stick to the plan, you will be able to accurately represent your dream in the company’s image and create something that is long-lasting and profitable over the years.