Work from home - creating a professional image

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Making the decision to work from home is a huge commitment to make and you need to make sure you are prepared for the various responsibilities that come with being your own boss. Many people who start their own home business are very good at their craft, which is obviously very important. One thing many of these people forget is that marketing is hugely important to survival of the company.

Presenting a professional image is a big part of marketing. It gives the company credibility and makes clients feel that as well as knowing what you are doing, you are also good at it. Image is everything for a new business that doesn't have a reputation to fall back on. It is also particularly important for those who work from home because it makes a clear distinction between the home and the office.

Here are a few basic tips on how to create a more professional image for your small home business:

Take your business and yourself seriously. If you see yourself as a professional you are more likely to act like one.

Dress for the occasion. Working in your pajamas may be tempting but if you feel to causal this may come across in you work or over the phone. If you dress like a professional it will make you feel more like one.

Buy the right tools for the job. Buy the right software, up-dated computer, fax machine, photocopy machine and office furniture. Not only will this make you feel more like you are a professional but it will also help you work more efficiently and effectively.

Software is available to help those who work from home to complete a number of functions easily, such as software that helps you to do your taxes or to create professional looking letterheads.

Learn to use the telephone like a professional. One of the most important tools in any business is the telephone. Greet your clients using your name or the name of your business. It is important to return calls. By not doing this you could do your business a lot of harm. Having separate home and work telephone lines with voicemail can also be very useful.

E-mail is another important communication tool. Try to get an e-mail address with either your name or the name of your business in it as this will make it more memorable and contribute towards your company identity. Also be sure to create a signature for your business e-mails. A signature will automatically put your name, address and other contact details at the bottom of each e-mail you send.

Create a company logo and print this on your letterheads, business cards, brochures and website where applicable. A logo may seem unimportant but in fact, it plays a big role in establishing an identity for you business. The quality of your printed material will speak volumes about the quality and professionalism of your services.

Be reachable. Even when you are away, be sure to leave a message to let your clients know when they can reach you.

Create a meeting place where you can invite clients for meetings. If it is not possible to do this in your home then have the meetings in restaurants or conference rooms.

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