How to Manage a Small Business at Home

According to the Small Business Administration (SBA), over half of all American businesses are run out of an owner's home. Managing your small business at home gives you a lot of flexibility and control over your schedule. However, it also offers some challenges.
It can be difficult to establish boundaries that separate your personal and professional life. Manage a small business at home by creating a dedicated work space, organizing your time and other resources, paying attention to business basics and keeping yourself motivated.

Method 1: Manage Your Business Work Space

Set up a dedicated office for your small business. To successfully run a business from home, you need to designate space for it.

Organize your home office. Design whatever filing and storage systems you need to efficiently run your business.

Invest in good equipment. Make sure you have a reliable computer, printer, fax machine, mobile phone and any other business and office equipment you need.

Method 2: Manage Your Resources

Put some money aside before you start your small business from home. It takes time to become profitable, and you will need money to keep yourself afloat while you grow your business.

Organize your time. When you live and work in the same space, it can be difficult to separate your personal and professional life.

Get help. Running a business from home means you can enlist your family members if you need their help. Ask your spouse to proofread emails, or have your kids stuff envelopes if you are preparing a mailing.

Method 3: Manage Your Business Activities

Make sure you are in compliance. Different states have various regulations on tax, zoning and registration requirements for small businesses.

Put together a marketing and advertising plan. Order some business cards, design a website and advertise the products and services you provide from your home business.

Protect your business. Make sure you have enough insurance to cover both your home and business losses should a natural disaster or other catastrophe strike.