Understanding “Liquid Capital”

For those of us who come into our home businesses with all sorts of different skills and work experience, but maybe not a lot of actually business management experience—getting used to business terminology and understanding some of the “basics” can take some practice. Business books and articles can help, but not all of us are going to get that MBA prior to opening the doors of our small home-based businesses. One of the terms that might get bantered about a bit (especially if you are in need of it) is “capital” and it is important to understand the difference between … Continue reading

Protecting Your Home Business Investments

You may be such a small home-based business start-up that you do not even realize you HAVE investments–let alone ones that need to be protected. So, you don’t have millions of dollars invested in stocks, bonds, property and business equipment–what you do have invested in your home business deserves some looking after. What constitutes an investment? Well, I think your computer, software, fax machine, cell phone, and any product or inventory you have is an investment. So is any education or training or certification you’ve received. I would also go as far as to say that we need to look … Continue reading

The ABCs of Working at Home (A-G)

A = Acknowledgement Some people fail to acknowledge that working at home means you actually have to get work done. Make sure you state that you are in fact working when friends call and say, “Hey, what are you up to?” B = Breaks You must take breaks. You still have to eat, exercise, and make sure you are sufficiently hydrated. A quick trip to the restroom with a refill of coffee upon your return does not qualify as an effective break. C = Capital Make sure you have sufficient means to start and continue your business long term until … Continue reading

Financing Your Home Business

There are many opportunities available to help you find start up funding for your home business, or to inject more capital into your existing or expanding home business. Start by doing some research online. You can find numerous sites filled with information on financing. One site that may prove helpful is Home Business Center. Here you will find information on everything from low interest credit cards and start up loans to unsecured personal loans and government grants. Do you need to write a business plan in order to secure financing, but you just don’t know where to start? You can … Continue reading