In your efforts to successfully run a small business out of your home, having a grip on technology is more important than ever.
With much of the world wrapped up in the digital age, it is a necessity (not a choice) that small business owners understand the important role technology plays in their lives.
That said some small business owners do not invest both the time and money into technology, therefore leaving them on the outside looking in when it comes to gaining new business.
So, as 2016 winds down, would you say your home business is speeding to success?
Have the Right Tools in Play
In order for a small business being run out of your home to fully capitalize on all it can, here are a few pointers to keep in mind:
- Technology – Where do you stand when it comes to technology? For some small business owners, they are right on top of the latest tech needs, knowing full well that without technology on their side, they would be in a heap of trouble. Others, meantime, are behind the curve when it comes to having the right technology in place. As a result, they struggle just to do what some might consider the ordinary day-to-day requirements necessary in running a business out of their homes. If you do not have high speed Internet for your business, what are you waiting for? Not only can high speed Internet help you better run your business, but you can also enjoy the personal perks it provides at home for your entertainment needs, something that is especially important for those home business owners with kids. While you need to get your work done, the right Internet setup can keep your younger ones busy, be it with the television or their computers;
- Customer service – For most home business owners, they deal with their customers either over the phone or via the Internet. While some will have customers come to their home that is not typically the norm. As a result, it is imperative that you make sure customer service is always a top priority. Whether it is following up with phone calls, emails, texts, letters, make sure you are answering any and all customer inquiries and/or issues. When customers see that you take the time to help them every step of the way, they are much more inclined to want to keep the relationship going. This also can open the door to them telling their family and friends about your business, possibly leading to new customers;
- Marketing – Given many smaller businesses run out of homes are on rather tight budgets, make sure you get as much for your marketing dollars as possible. One of the ways to market your brand without spending much in the way of money is via social media. Using social networking sites allows you to spread the word without breaking the bank. In the event you do all of your own social media promotions, it basically will cost you nothing more than time and effort. Along with the highest-ranked social sites, also look at marketing your home business on sites such as YouTube, along with adding short videos to your website. The videos should focus around what your home business does, how you can make the lives of customers better, and how your customer service is above anything else the competition can bring;
- Networking – Lastly, be sure to do all you can to network with other home businesses, especially those in your community. Word spreads quickly in communities, so you have a golden chance to have potential customers learn more about your business when you help promote other home business owners. Some of the ways to connect with others in your community running companies out of their homes is by attending and/or helping to sponsor chamber of commerce events, local fairs, school functions and more.
So that your home business can speed its way to an even more successful 2017, be sure to do all you can to have it in prime position for success and growth.
When you do that, the possibilities are endless.
About the Author: Dave Thomas covers small business topics on the web.