Introduction

In a small business setting, the option to work from home is more than just a preference—it can be a more cost-effective model for many owners. As the Covid-19 pandemic has made employers and employees alike realize, setting up a productive and efficient home office is crucial (1). This article will guide you on how to set up a functional and efficient home office and manage it effectively.

Defining the Workspace

First things first, you need to define your workspace. Have a dedicated space that serves as your office, not your couch or your bed. Identify a space that is well-lit, quiet and comfortable, away from distractions (2). Even if you’re working in a confined space, like an apartment, make sure the area is distinguished and used exclusively for work purposes.

Optimal Technology Setup

Invest in reliable and current technologies. Ensure your internet speed is sufficient for your tasks, especially if they involve video conferencing, large file transfers, etc. (3) Keep your computer or laptop updated and safe against malware. Also, ensure you have a backup plan, such as an external hard drive or a cloud-based service, for important data and files (4).

Furnishing Your Office

Go for ergonomic furniture that provides ample support, especially for tasks that require you to sit for long hours. Your work desk should be spacious enough for all your required work materials, while your chair should offer proper back and arm support (5).

Keep Professional Boundaries

When you set up a home office, it can lead to blurring of work-home-life boundaries. But maintaining a professional atmosphere is essential. Provide yourself with predictable work hours and make sure your family or cohabitants respect those hours.

Continuous Learning

Continuous learning is important to adapt to new processes and tools for remote work. There are many free or affordable online tutorials and webinars like those on LinkedIn Learning (6) or Coursera (7) that can help you lean into digital working and productivity tools.

Communication Tools

Identifying and leveraging effective communication tools are key to effective home office management. Tools such as Slack, Microsoft Teams, or Google’s G-suite can help small businesses to connect and collaborate remotely (8).

Regular Breaks

Ensure you take regular breaks for rest and re-energization. Short intermittent breaks can actually boost productivity (9). A sedentary lifestyle can also lead to health complications so remember to walk around every now and then.

Conclusion

Working from home can be a game-changer for small businesses, offering flexibility and lowering operational costs. However, its success depends on the careful setup and effective management of your home office. With this guide, you’re now equipped with the knowledge to make your home office a conducive environment for your small business.