Tuesday, December 2, 2008

Home-based Business: Working Where You Live

By Sinclair Sonny

The landscape of the modern workplace continues to change. While the last century saw the rise of large employers, the 21st century is a time of diversification, marked by the growth of small and home-based businesses.

Why do people decide to work at home? Some budding entrepreneurs take setbacks such as layoffs or medical problems as opportunities to be independent and start their own businesses. A management consultant decides to open his own office after an illness in order to set his own schedule and reduce stress. A retired government worker doesn't make enough money from her retirement, but doesn't want a full-time job.

Changes in family life can be the spark that starts a home business. A parent wants to be more available to the children. Or a change in job location by one partner means the other partner needs to find a new way to make money.

But the pros may outweigh the cons. consider these benefits: flexible schedule and location, integration of work and family life, no commuting, control of your own physical environment, unlimited income opportunities, and sky's-the-limit creative possibilities. Operating a home-based business often yields increased personal and professional fulfillment through setting and accomplishing your own goals. And no one is looking over your shoulder directing your work.

There are many legitimate online business opportunities, but there are also scams. Investigate thoroughly before you sign anything. Look at all ads and marketing materials. What are the earnings claims and how are they backed up? Find out the number and percentage of previous purchasers who achieved the earnings goals. Get names of at least ten purchasers; interview them to find out their experience with the business. Contact the government agencies that license or oversee the business, as well as business and consumer organizations. Find out if the business has any record of illegal activity or unresolved complaints.

You may have your own business idea or you make decide to buy into an existing business opportunity. Whichever way you go, you need a business plan that sets out the financial, legal, and marketing aspects of your business. You'll need this information in writing if you decide to seek funding for your business. Get help from lawyers, accountants, or marketing professionals if you need it; there's a lot to understand about starting a business.

As with any business startup, you need a business plan that addresses financial, marketing, and legal aspects of the business. Are any licenses or certifications needed to start your business? What are the market opportunities for your product or service? If you intend to ask a bank for financing, you'll need to have all this information on paper.

Eight-five percent of home-based businesses are still in business after three years. It takes a lot of work, but the opportunity is there. Do your homework and take your time and you too can work where you live. - 16069

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