SimplyWebtastic

So, you’re considering starting your own home based business, but are a little uneasy and nervous about taking your first steps.  Don’t panic.  We’re here to help answer your questions!  To try and help ease you into making a more informed decision, I’m going to write about some questions I think you might have about getting started.

1.  Do I have the time to run a business if I have children?

This is a tough question, and believe it or not, it’s the most important question you have to ask yourself.  As a stay at home mom or dad, your first priorities are the children.   If you decide to run a business, will you still have the time to devote to them?  If you know what type of business you want to participate in, you’ll have a better understanding of the time and resources needed.  This should help you make a more informed decision as to whether or not you will have time available to do your daily tasks with your children.

No matter what business opportunity you choose to do (and we’ll review many here on SimplyWebtastic.com), you will have to make some adjustments and sacrifices to your lifestyle.  Hopefully, you will be able to find a balance between life and work.  Remember, you’re going to be the boss!  You will need to learn to set your own schedules and stick to them.

Depending on the age of your children, you may be able to dedicate your time to the business while they’re in school.  If they’re still young (like mine), you’ll need to try and get them involved in your business.  Make some of the tasks you do for your business a game for them and maybe they’ll develop some good skills from it and hopefully, they’ll learn to respect what you are doing and give you the space and time to do what you need.

2.  Is it ok to run a business from my home (licenses & permits)?

I’m not a lawyer.  So this question is best left to a little research on the Internet.  You can easily visit your State’s online Business Regulations website and do a little research for home based businesses.  If you’re going to have people coming in-and-out of your home, you should definitely check for any zoning issues.  If you’re going to run an online business, you’re probably all set.  However, a little due diligence on your part is always best.

3.  Will I need additional education to run my home based business?

Again, that all depends on what you want to do.  You know what you’re capable of doing, but try asking friends and relatives if they think you have what it takes to do that line of work.  If you’re choosing an online business, there are plenty of resources available to bring you up to speed on the latest trends and technologies.  I will be setting up resource pages with links to various guides on HTML, web page designing, search engine optimization, and other topics that should help you build your business.

Remember, no one knows everything!  Trial and error is part of that learning experience.  Don’t be afraid to take a chance, especially if you’ve taken the time to educate yourself on what you want to do.  You’ll be amazed at the number of free online training seminars and tutorials that are available on the web.  Use any of your favorite search engines to search out the training you want.  Chances are you’ll find it.

4.  How much money do I need to get started with my business?

It will vary depending on what type of business you choose to enter.  I work primarily in starting online businesses, so I have more understanding of those costs and will try to give more detailed information in future articles.  Just remember to be realistic!  You’re looking to make extra money as a stay at home mom or dad.  You’re probably not in the position to drain your life savings to take a chance on an opportunity, so choose wisely and within your means.

Starting an online business is not very expensive.  Honestly, the biggest expense you’ll probably have, and it’s one I highly recommend, is to incorporate your business for legal and financial reasons.  Unfortunately, there is usually a yearly business renewal fee.  Mine is $500 per year.  Whether you choose to have a lawyer setup your business, or use an online service, ask others their opinion about whether or not you should separate your business from your personal assets.  I think you’ll see that most will say yes.

5.  Should I involve my family in this decision?

Absolutely!!!  As a stay at home mom or dad, you will definitely need the cooperation of all family members to make your dream a reality.  They all have to be willing to back you up in your decisions and willing to give you the time you need to meet your goals.  Talk to them and discuss the future benefits to the family.  Together you’re a team and as a team, the sky’s the limit.

I hope you found these questions and answers helpful.  Find more ways to Make Money Online at SimplyWebtastic.com.