Setting up your home office doesn’t need to be daunting. With a bit of research and a well devised list, your home business will be up and running in no time.
–Home office furnishings
Your office furniture is very important. Your workstation must be ergonomically correct. You will spend long hours at your desk so it must be the right height for your office chair. Choose a chair that is comfortable and has back support features.
It’s a good idea to test the chair before your purchase it. Getting the right chair for your needs is important and it is a very worthwhile investment of time and money to get the best chair possible. Do some research online to get the right fit your home office. Super Amart Australia can help you find a workstation that works for you.
–-Lighting cannot be comprimised
Having adequate lighting is another important consideration. Ideally, you should choose a room that has good natural light but you will also need a desk lamp and good overhead lighting if you will be working late hours or early mornings. Good lighting is important to help you avoid eye strain and headaches.
–Get the best computer for your work
Your computer is an important investment. Do your research and check online forums and blogs; tech savvy people are usually very vocal about their likes and dislikes. Talk to other small business owners as see what they are using.
Spend time talking to salespeople about your specific requirements and ask their advice. If you choose a laptop you may find it helpful to purchase a large monitor and also a remote keyboard and mouse.
Using the built in keyboard and mouse on a laptop can be tiring over long hours. You will also need excellent broadband connection. Again, do your research and ask other businesses in your local area what works for them.
–Install the essential apps
You will need a Microsoft Office program or similar for word processing and spreadsheet preparation. If you are a basic user of Microsoft office tools, you can find excel training courses online that can enhance or improve your data processing skills: relevant skill for business professionals.
You will also need to set up an email as well. You will probably need a good accounting software package to record all financial transactions. Accounting software will also enable you to create invoices and monthly statements, manage payroll, PAYG tax, GST and BAS requirements.
You will need anti-virus software to protect you from the threats posed by viruses, spyware and malware. Having good anti-virus software is extremely important; it will protect your computer and potentially save you thousands of dollars in repairs.
Any business that has suffered the devastation of a computer virus will understand the necessity of anti-virus software. Unfortunately these threats are not going away and are in fact on the increase. Most programs will offer frequent updates to keep you protected from the latest viruses.
–Get surge protection
A surge protector will protect your computer form surges in power supply.
–Stay connected (get a business line)
You can use your mobile for business or use your computer to access internet-based phone services like Skype. With the addition of a headset your computer will act very effectively as a phone and will save you money.
What are your most essential tools or items when you work from home?
