If you know how to type and have a few years of office experience, you may be able to start a home-based clerical business. Providing typing, editing, or proofreading support to local or long-distance companies is a valuable service and a great opportunity for you to work at your own pace as little or as much as you like.
First, assess your skills and develop a marketing plan. For example, list your typing speed, special computer training, desktop publishing, or significant experience in a brochure, pamphlet, or mailer. You may want to create a Website for this purpose, using key search words so prospective clients can find you. Try a few "cold calls" to local offices and introduce yourself as an experienced secretary with valuable skills at competitive rates.
Next, arrange your home work space so it doesn't interfere with family activities, and vice versa. You don't want to work in the room where everyone watches television at the time that you want to get things done. Nor can you stay busy in the bedroom if your spouse is trying to sleep. Designate a place as your home office, and erect boundaries like a half-size book shelf, filing cabinets, or a room divider, to separate your space from the rest of the house. Schedule your work time when others don't expect anything of you, like dinner or driving someone to soccer practice.
Then be sure your equipment and supplies are up to date and in good shape. You may want to order business cards or stationery to cultivate a professional image for your clients. Consider a separate telephone line, fax, and maybe even a copier in addition to your computer and software. Set up individual files for each client, and keep track of expenses and income.
You may want to hire an accountant to manage your business finances. This would include expenses to advertise and manage your business, income and profit, auxiliary costs (like travel or lunch meetings), and tax preparation and filing. If you prefer handling this element yourself, be sure to find out how to do it properly to avoid a tax audit later.
Double-check your work for accuracy and effectiveness. If your projects are handled in sloppy or careless fashion, you will soon lose your clients' trust. Provide even better service for your own clients as you did for your former employers. Remain courteous, prompt, and professional with everyone you talk to or meet with. Remember to thank people for their business, and consider offering an occasional discount or holiday gifts.
Take occasional classes to learn how to handle all clerical functions that are currently in demand. For example, you may already know how to do report writing, but what about copywriting? You can expand your business by learning new skills.
Don't forget to network with other professionals to share ideas, cultivate professional relationships, and build your client base. Attend conferences, seminars, and workshops. Take a college class or teach one in your area of expertise.
Avoid stagnating in your home-based job. Instead, stay fresh and vibrant so you can impress your customers and continue to build your business.
