by Rachel Wood

Created on: April 03, 2009

More and more people are working from home either for their current employer or by setting up their own business. Once you make this decision, you are going to need to set up your own workspace. It's important to do this as you will want to keep your home and work life separate. The basic equipment you will need are a desk, a decent chair, storage (filing cabinets, shelving, bookcases etc), a computer, a phone, a printer and a fax.

As mentioned above you want a space dedicated just to your work. If you are able to, setting aside a whole room is ideal. It will need good lighting and preferably be in one of the quieter areas of the house so there are no distractions. Once you have decided on your area, make a list of all the equipment you are going to need and ensure you have enough space for it all. Draw up a plan and take into account things like making sure you have enough plug sockets for the electrical items and there is enough space for you to sit down. Even though you are working from home you still have to consider your own health and safety so you don't want any trailing wires or other hazards.

If you have just one phone line, you are not going to be able to tell which calls are business and which are personal so you may have to set up a separate line. It's really up to you whether you choose to go for a laptop or PC, just make sure that whatever machine you choose it is capable of carrying out all the operations that you need. Don't forget you will also need an internet connection, preferably broadband. When buying other office equipment, think about buying a multifunction machine. You can buy a printer, photocopier, fax and scanner all in one which will take up less space.

Once your office is all set up, keep it tidy and organised. This is your place of work and you want it to look professional especially if you plan to have clients visiting you. However you also want it to be a pleasant so think about adding potted plants and putting up pictures. Having a proper office rather than working curled up on the sofa will help to keep you motivated. Decide what your office hours will be and make sure your family and friends know them so they don't disturb you throughout the day. Don't forget to schedule yourself breaks. The last thing to buy is a clock so you know exactly when to finish work! Then you can pack up, lock the door behind you and go and relax.

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