7 Basic Things You Need To Have While Working From Home

The list of t 7 essentials you will need when working from home.

Many of us dream of becoming an entrepreneur. Often, most start-ups commence operations from home, to save paying high rentals in commercial spaces. Even if you work from home, there is no reason that   home office cannot be professionally managed. Consider these 7 essential items you will need when you work from home:

1 A working phone connection: Most businesses require a phone connection, whether a mobile-based or a landline one. Apart from communicating with clients, you also need to speak with suppliers, vendors, bank, and other business associates. Lately, even business communications are informally handled over mobile-based chat platforms, but having a permanent phone connection adds more credibility to your work.

2 High performance laptop/personal computer: Every business today requires a computer or a network of computers to keep abreast of their work. Gone are the days when mounds of files and ledgers held all the company records. Today, a single computer can hold all your records, from the time you started the company. Your daily accounts, work flow, profit and loss sheets, audit reports, employee records, everything is stored on your personal laptop or computer. Just make sure you get one with high storage RAM, good graphics card, good sound and related accessories like microphone, speakers, headphones, cleaning kit, etc.

3 Broadband Internet: If you are working from home, it means that you are able to function remotely using just a home broadband Internet connection. A working home broadband Internet connection with high speed Internet and a good data plan is a must for fledgling businesses. It helps you stay connected at all times. Stream work-related videos and tutorials, Connect with clients on a conference call, etc. Do find a service provider that offers special Internet broadband plans for businesses, with a good package comprising data, voice calling, etc.

4 Storage space for inventory: Though you run a business from home and may even have a small storage utility hired out elsewhere, you still need to have a separate storage space for your office. This storage space can contain stationery supplies, account ledgers, stamps, pens and ink, food provisions, and even your suits and formal clothing in case you need to quickly leave for a meeting.

5 Office stationery, stamps, voucher books, etc.: Your business may largely function over the Internet, but you will still need company letterheads, invoice and bill books with the company logo, rubber stamps, etc.

6 Printer connected to computer/laptop: From envelopes to invoices, letters to invites sent out to clients, you will need to do a lot of printing on a daily basis.

7 Access to snacks and beverages: Though you work from home, it is important to create as formal a work setting as required. This puts you in the mental zone for work – or else you will be tempted to sit around in your pyjamas all day! Having access to a coffeemaker and a tray of munchies is a good idea. It is also a good way to cordon off your work area from the rest of the home, especially when you have business meetings at home.