Home Businesses - Starting a Home Based Business
Ask Bob

Ask Bob About Starting a Home Based Business

?What should I give my first effort to?

Chances are, like most small businesses, that you are going to do most of your business over the phone. So, one of your first concerns should be how your office “sounds.” Answer your business phone with the name of your business. Have calls forwarded to an answering service if you are not going to be in your office. And try to block out any background noise that may sound like you are in a home environment.

There are some people who try to change their voice to create the impression of a larger office. This is a transparent ploy. Don’t do it.

?Are there inherent problems in having employees working in my home office?

The first obstacle may be in attracting people who want to work in a home office. Many people object to this sort of environment. But it is certainly possible to attract very talented, hardworking people who will work with you in your home.

If you intend to employ people within your home, check your insurance coverage and determine whether or not you need additional liability coverage. You must also get workers’ compensation coverage, as this is mandated by law. You need to make sure your premises are safe in every way. And you should be aware that you increase your chances of zoning problems with every employee you bring into your home office.

?Do I need to notify the post office of my business name?

If you tell your regular mail carrier verbally that you are going to be receiving mail addressed to your business name, problems will arise each time your neighborhood is served by a substitute. So, yes, inform the post office or put the name of your business on the mailbox. Place it in very small letters, though, so as not to alarm your neighbors.

?Do I need a separate business phone line?

If you live by yourself, you may want to skip the expense of another line. Remember, though, this means you need to answer the phone every time it rings as though it were a business phone.

You could install a second residential line, which is generally not as expensive as business service. The phone company may call after a couple of weeks, however, to see if you are using the second line for business purposes. I’ve been through this. I once fielded a phone call from a phone representative on a newly installed residential line by answering with my business name. An interesting discussion ensued, but I did manage to convince the phone company not to bill me at the business rate.