10 Home Office Productivity Tips for Running a Successful Home-Based Business
Millions of home-based companies exist in all neighborhoods across the United States. Thanks to the internet, consumers and small businesses can easily connect from across the globe. This can all be achieved from the comfort of your house. However, this type of convenience can lead to confusion when drawing the line between your home and your office space.
And you’re not alone either. Close to 1 in 3 home-based workers feel that they have a hard time separating business and their personal lives. This list of tips and strategies will help you get the most out of your living space and while growing your home-based business.
1) Standardize Processes for Your Home Business
Keep receipts, documents and files stored in a dedicated cabinet. Set up a routine when shipping orders. Keep the office tidy. Be a stickler for procedure. This allows you to maintain a constant level of professionalism across your operations and establish protocols within your home-based company.
2) Ensure that You Have Proper Lighting
Studies have shown that proper lighting is not only good for your eyes, but your mental health as well. A dark basement is not the ideal place to work. Invest in some lamps and bright LED lightbulbs that give off a white light. Try to work in an area where sunlight is abundant.
3) Separate Business and Pleasure
Draw a line between your business and your personal life. It’s tempting to work from your sofa only to end up distracted by the television. Create a dedicated workspace away from the areas where you relax. Set a clear working schedule to avoid procrastinating during work hours.
4) Ergonomic Rules Still Apply
Invest in a setup you’ll enjoy working at, even if it’s just a side-hustle. Consider purchasing an ergonomic chair, a standing desk or whatever office furniture that will make you more productive and comfortable.
5) Automate as Many Tasks as You Can
With only 24 hours in a day, your time is better spent on important tasks that will help grow your business. Automate as much as you can. A smart assistant can help you stay organized. If you run an eCommerce business, software like PitneyShip® shipping software can organize and validate customer addresses before you ship out packages.
6) Create a Green Workspace
Surround yourself with plants and greenery to boost your mood. Studies have shown that employees are 15% more productive when their workplaces include some houseplants. Plants help get you psychologically engaged while promoting happiness, which results in better work.
7) Dress for Success
Rolling out of bed and wearing your pajamas all day may be simpler, but it can also affect your overall productivity. Getting dressed allows you to present the version of yourself you want to be to the world and puts you in the right frame of mind. You’re your own boss, so set your own dress code.
8) Get Some Fresh Air
Get out of the house and take meaningful breaks. When working alone, it can be easy to lose track of time. Sometimes you just need a change of scenery or time to recharge. 77% of small business owners have stated that they feel the effects of burnout. Even magnates like Bill Gates know the importance of taking time to relax.
9) Stay Connected for a Better Working Situation
One study shows that 21% of home-based workers feel lonely from time to time. Isolation is great for concentrating, but stifles creativity and reduces motivation in longer intervals. Dedicate time for face-to-face contact, be it through weekly meetings, discussions, or just working remotely from a coffee shop or coworking space.
10) Invest in the Right Tools
Working from home allows you to save on office space rent. However, you should always invest in the equipment needed to get tasks done properly. Accounting software is a must if you track expenses. If you ship packages regularly, invest in shipping software like PitneyShip® shipping software to weigh parcels, print shipping labels and schedule pickups.
When it comes to home office productivity, there needs to be a balance between concentration and stimulation. The perfect home office should allow you to focus on your work while getting you in the perfect state of mind.
For more information about PitneyShip® shipping software and other shipping tools to help your online business grow, click here.