I am thinking of starting a business from my own home. I am sure I will be more productive and like the tax advantages and low overheads this option offers - but am worried that I might become a bit of a recluse! Do you have any advice?
Heather Douglas is the editor of Home Business New Zealand's HomebizBuzz website, which is crammed full of free information and resources aimed at making running a home business fun, easy and successful. She replies:
Although working solo is very productive if you are disciplined enough, it can be a drawback both socially and professionally. Successful home businesses recognise the problem and take steps to maximise the advantages and overcome the challenges it poses.
Depending on your own personality, life situation, significant others, the nature of your business and your long-term goals, solutions could include:
* Attending business gatherings and networking functions.
* Making and keeping contact with a few other local home business operators.
* Joining - and attending gatherings of - your local professional or industry organisation.
* Tapping into business and networking resources both online and offline, such as BizInfo, local Enterprise organisations, Business in the Community, HomebizBuzz.co.nz, the local Chamber of Commerce, business women's groups and so on.
* Reading newspapers and magazines, especially business ones or those focused on your industry or area of expertise.
* Scouring your local library or bookshop for relevant and popular books on business or your specific niche, and reading or at least skimming these.
* Attending training courses, seminars and conferences on your area of expertise and on business skills.
* Advertising, if you need to, via pamphlets, mail drops, on the internet, in publications, and in a variety of other ways as appropriate for your business.
Send questions to Mentor: Ellen_Read@nzherald.co.nz. Answers will be provided by Business in the Community's Business Mentor Programme.
Links
HomebizBuzz
<i>Business mentor:</i> Don't go ga-ga if you go it alone
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