If you’re going to be working from home, you need to make sure that you have the right setup. This can be a challenge if you’ve never done it before and don’t know what to look for.
Here are great offers for consumers for their home set-up. They are ideal for someone who wants to start a business or just wants to work from home.
A high-Quality Laptop
The first thing on any entrepreneur’s list is usually a computer; preferably a laptop because it is easy to take with you when you travel. You’ll need to have access to this computer at all times, so make sure it has enough memory and storage space for all your programs and files.
Choose one that has an ergonomic keyboard with a built-in number pad (for quick calculations) and a screen that’s easy on the eyes.
Where Can I Get a Good Laptop
If you’re looking for the best deals on laptops, check out online first. They have an incredible selection of laptops and notebook computers at competitive prices. You can also check it out in computer stores.
Software
You’ll need some software for your computer in order to run your business efficiently and effectively. This includes productivity software (like Microsoft Office), specialized software (like accounting software), and even games or music players that can help increase productivity when used correctly.
A Good Headset
If you plan on making phone calls or speaking with clients, then a headset is essential. They are much more comfortable than holding a phone up to your ear all day and they can also free up your hands so that you can type or take notes at the same time.
The best ones also have built-in microphones so that people can hear you clearly on the other end of the line.
A Printer/Scanner/Fax Machine
If your business involves printing documents or invoices, then having a printer at home can save money over having them printed at an office supply store every time they run out of ink or paper.
A scanner is also useful if you need to scan anything into digital formats such as receipts or contracts.
USB Keys/Flash Drives
USB keys/flash drives are great for transferring files between computers, as well as backing up important documents (or just pictures) in case your computer gets stolen or damaged beyond repair.
They also make it easy to share information with coworkers who don’t have access to your network or email accounts, like co-workers from other companies or clients located in other states or countries.
Internet
The most important thing when working from home is good internet. You don’t want to be waiting for pages to load or dealing with slow download speeds.
If this is an issue in your current location, consider moving closer to a major hub of fiber optic cables. This will give you faster access and let you do more of your work online while away from home.
A Comfortable Office Chair and Desk
A good office chair is essential for keeping your back and neck in alignment while you work.
You can get by with an inexpensive chair if you will be working a few hours a day, but if you plan on spending many hours at a time at your desk, splurge on something that’s comfortable and supportive.
A Desk
Chances are, you don’t have one of these at home. If you’re going to be in your home office for the long haul, investing in a good desk can make a big difference in reducing stress and improving productivity.
Storing Cabinets
You’ll also need some furniture (or other storage) for storing all of your files, paperwork and other items related to running your business. You’ll probably want some drawers or cabinets where you can tuck away things like invoices and receipts until they need to be filed away somewhere else.
It’s also important to have enough shelving space in which you can store supplies like printer paper, pens, and other items that may come in handy throughout the day.
Natural Light
Natural light is best for your eyes, as it reduces eye strain and fatigue. If you have a window in your home office, place your desk so that you can look outside when you need a break from work.
If there isn’t an exterior window in your office, look for lamps with shades that filter out harsh artificial light and provide more natural illumination.
Whiteboard
A whiteboard is essential for brainstorming ideas and keeping track of what needs to be done. It’s also great if you have multiple people working together.
You can write down ideas and assign tasks right on the board with erasable markers or dry-erase markers (available at most office supply stores).
Noise Cancelling Headphones
These are perfect if you have a noisy neighbor or live in an apartment building with thin walls or both. They’ll help block out distractions while still allowing you to hear what’s going on around you if necessary, like someone knocking on your door or calling out to you.
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