Bringing your operations at home gives you a comfortable place to work at while allowing you to save on your overall overhead expenses. In fact, it’s so profitable that 69% of American entrepreneurs bring their businesses at home. However, even if it provides convenience, many home-based entrepreneurs face challenges as well. That’s why it’s crucial for you to have the right tool to make your transition as smooth as possible.
Here are eight must-have tools for efficient and seamless operations.
Digital Phone Numbers
A virtual local or international phone number is a telephone number without a directly associated telecommunications network or line, and it doesn’t exist in one fixed location. It’s part of a virtual phone system delivered by software as a service. This tool gives you the chance to expand your reach through various countries, establishing your brand and your popularity.
A Professional Website
If you’re transitioning your operations at home, whether you’re a software engineer or a baker, a critical thing that everyone needs to have is a professional website. You can either create a static or dynamic website. A static site provides the necessary information about your business, like your phone number, email, and services offered, and its content doesn’t require you to change frequently. Meanwhile, a dynamic website is one where it changes information all the time, giving prospects a glimpse of what you have to offer from then to now.
However, dynamic websites tend to be more expensive and require more attention, so what type of website you’re going to launch will depend on your budget and time.
Productivity Apps
Regardless of what field you are in, having productivity applications like Microsoft Office is a must. That’s because tools like Excel and Word allows users to simplify the processes of their daily work routines, such as word processing and creating spreadsheets.
Bookkeeping Software
When you shift your operations at home, whether you’re an accountant or architect, you’ll need to store records of your financial transactions. Although you can do all this in written form, it’s often a lengthy process, and mistakes are inevitable. Meanwhile, using bookkeeping software streamlines the process, making it easier for you and saving you money — and time. It lets you keep track of all your financial transactions in one place.
Tax Software
Getting a decent do-it-yourself tax software can save you time, money, and effort. These pre-made products guide you through the entire tax return processes, make the appropriate forms, and digitally file your returns. Software options you can try include TurboTax and H&R Block.
Cloud-Based Storage
If you often share numerous documents or make a ton of work for several clients, you may need additional storage on top of what you already have. Besides that, it can also serve as an essential backup, preventing you from losing everything in case of a hardware malfunction. Popular cloud-based storage options include Dropbox and OneDrive.
External Hard Drive
External hard drives are portable storage devices used to store data like images, videos, and documents. This item is essential in protecting and keeping your files, giving more security than your cloud storage in case of a cyber attack.
Separate Business Account
When working from home, it’s best to have a separate business account as you can write off your business costs on your tax return, giving you a more significant return. You can choose from a business checking account, a line of credit, or a business credit card, depending on your finances.
Home-based businesses give considerable ample flexibility and enable you to work as an employee for another company while launching your brand on the side.