Written By: Jen McKenzie, Freelance Writer

Working from home is increasingly common, and everyone from solopreneurs to remote workers, freelancers and others now enjoy the many benefits of doing so.

For example, when you’re working from home, you can eliminate your commute time, avoid common workplace distractions and more.

However, as casual and comfortable as your home office may be, you still need to set up an effective, functional office space – both physically and digitally – if you want to be successful.

Here are some tips for home-based start-ups and entrepreneurs.

Start-up from home

1. Get the Right Digital Tools

There are some old-school note-taking methods that are tried and true, such as using notepads or a whiteboard for brainstorming or strategizing sessions.

However, you can also incorporate digital tools into your efforts, such as the many apps that can assist you with various remote work activities.

Some of the many apps that you can choose to use include those that help with tasks like remote team management, accounting activities, time management, documentation and home maintenance.

While you should try out numerous apps to find the ones that are most effective for your needs, narrow down the apps and digital tools to a handful that are most effective for your long-term usage and needs.

2. Show What You’ve Got with a Great Landing Page

Your website’s landing page is like your digital storefront. Many of your customers’ first impressions of your business will be based on the design of and information on your landing page.

This page should be search engine optimized so that it is easier for your customers to find you with an online search. This includes the careful selection of keywords, the development of effective and detailed taglines and more.

Your website design should be streamlined and easy to navigate. Remember that your potential customers will make a first impression about your company within seconds. More than that, they will click off of the website quickly if it is confusing or poorly designed.

3. Manage Your Home Office Like a Corporate One

Even though your office is inside your residence, this space should be treated and used like any other type of professional environment.

You can certainly make the space comfortable, but it also needs to be organized in a way that fosters exceptional productivity. After all, your business may suffer if you are prone to procrastination while working from home.

When you are setting up your home office, choose a quality, functional desk that meets all of your needs for space and storage. Select a comfortable chair and try to incorporate as much natural or artificial light into the space as is necessary for productivity. Remember to keep this space clean and to check wires and cables regularly for safety purposes.
Start-up from home

4. Use Social Media to Strengthen Your Brand

Social media marketing is a cost-effective way to get the word out about your business, and you can use these various platforms to create a professional image for your target audience.

Try using Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and other platforms based on your target audience and the social media platforms they are most likely to use. You do not need to stretch yourself thin by trying to use all platforms.

One way to maximize the benefit of social media platforms is to is to locate influencers, such as successful local bloggers. When these individuals become ambassadors for your brand, your business can benefit substantially and help you grow from a start-into a more established business. Reach out to potential influencers to discuss your products or services in detail.

5. Build Brand Loyalty by Giving Away Freebies

Social media marketing can be a cost-effective solution for start-ups, however, you need to work on expanding your following. After you have amassed a large group of followers, you can take steps to solidify and strengthen your brand.

For example, you can give away freebies to entice customers to make additional purchases, to introduce new features and to encourage brand recognition. Remember those loyal customers can increase overall profitability in the years to come.

As you can see, there are many steps that you can take to improve your business’s chances of success. If you are preparing to launch a home-based business or if you are struggling to get momentum and traction, pay attention to these tips for improved levels of success.

About Jen
Jen McKenzie is an up-and-coming author from New York, NY. She usually writes on business, marketing and HR subjects. When not at her desk, you can find her taking long strolls in the countryside or enjoying her free time brushing up on photo editing. You can reach Jennifer @jenmcknzie.

Get up to $60,000
in financial support,
and the support of one
of our 2,400+ mentors.

Learn More →