There’s no place like home, especially when you get to work there too. While others deal with frustrating commutes and noisy cubicles, you’re getting ahead and getting things done.Or are you? Without proper planning and organization, your home office may do more to hinder your productivity than enhance it.
In just 60 seconds I will show you how you can get started on setting up the perfect home office that will increase your productivity.
0:60 – Select The Right Spot
The space you choose for your home office should be well lit and properly ventilated, with enough room for furniture, supplies, storage compartments and other items you use on a regular basis. Windows are great for natural light and that all-important “inspiration,” but they can just as easily be a persistent distraction. It may be best to configure your work area so that the windows are behind you or to the side.
0:45 – Get Connected
Your home office should also be equipped with sufficient electrical outlets to safely support
your office equipment and appliances, as well as connections for your telephone, fax and Internet access. Any costs incurred to add outlets and any other utilities to your office (e.g.,
heating and air conditioning ducts) are tax deductible.
0:38 – Fine-tune Your Furnishings
Consider what kind of furniture you’ll need for your business, including file cabinets, printer
stands and any other items needed to organize records, tools and supplies. Browse catalogs
or measure furniture you already have and compare those dimensions with the available
space in your office. This will make it easier to find an ideal layout without the risk of discovering too late that your new desk doesn’t fit.
0:23 – Evaluate Your Equipment
Follow the same process with the equipment you will use, whether it’s a computer and a fax
or other equipment. You will almost certainly use some things less frequently than others,
so consider ways to place these items so that they’re convenient, yet out of the way.
0:14 – Organize
Avoid moving any business equipment or files out of your home office. You cannot afford to
waste time tracking down misplaced tools or research information, especially when a deadline is near. And if customers visit your home office, an organized work environment will say a lot about you and the quality of your services.
0:02 – Watch Those Taxes
The Internal Revenue Service will let you deduct expenses related only to that part of your
home that you use exclusively and regularly for business. This includes the mortgage/rent
cost of floor space, utilities and furnishings for areas where you actually perform your business ancustomer reception or meeting areas.
Strictly4Newbies.(because we care!)
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