Today, it is possible to run a successful business in your pajamas thanks to advances in technology. Beyond just the convenience of running your business on the go, ditching the formality of an office setting offers a plethora of benefits. From flexibility in scheduling, significant savings in overhead costs, the reduce of stress, and the fact that no one has to worry about lengthy commutes getting in the way of a productive day, more people are picking up on this phenomenon. A recent survey of over 3,000 business owners found that many believe that by 2023, most businesses will be built entirely with teams of virtual workers.
Are you wondering how to best utilize your tablets and smartphones and run an efficient business smoothly? Here are four helpful tips to run a small business on the move:
Keep your car stocked with office supplies. While a stapler and some paper clips may seem trivial to you, they’ll help you look professional if you have to present a proposal to a client. Loose papers aren’t going to impress anyone. Fill a tote with the supplies you most frequently use so you always have access to sticky notes, pencils and pens, paper and the like.
Invest in the technology you need. When managing a company without the office, you are only as productive as the tools you can access. Budget for and buy devices and systems that promote and support business success. Beyond a laptop and smartphone, you may decide a portable printer and wireless network card are must haves. You want to make sure you have all of the tools you need to ensure your client doesn’t suffer, and allow you to work efficiently.
Explore locations for meeting spots. While you do a lot of work from your couch, you may not want to hold a meeting in front of your TV with your dog barking in the background. Create a list of numerous reliable places where you can hold meetings with clients and vendors. Consider renting a conference room for more formal meetings, or hold a casual meeting over a nice lunch or at the local coffee shop. You want to always make sure you come across as the professional that you are.
Set a schedule. Try to maintain your normal business hours if at all possible and make sure you allow yourself time during the day to not answer your phone and walk away from your computer. You can return calls and emails in a few minutes. Remember that working remotely doesn’t mean you have to be on call 24/7.
Working from home should be both productive and rewarding. It means that you can work from any location where you are able to accomplish what needs to be done, whether it is from your home office or on the beach. The freedom and flexibility that accompany small business ownership means very little if you don’t take advantage of the perks.
How do you run your remote business efficiently?
About the Author:
Megan Totka is the Chief Editor for ChamberofCommerce.com. She specializes on the topic of small business tips and resources. ChamberofCommerce.com helps small businesses grow their business on the web and facilitates connectivity between local businesses and more than 7,000 Chambers of Commerce worldwide.
