How To Successfully Run Your Business From Anywhere

Last week, I asked this question: If your regular job should disappear for some reason or no reason, would you be okay financially (keep the roof over your head, feed your family, do what people do, etc) or would you be in a big mess?

Let’s get this right: I asked that question to challenge you to take a bold step. I often hear people say: “I would really like to start my own business [consulting, law practice..] but my full time job is too demanding. I don’t have that time.” I have discovered that people make that statement when things are going well for them and when there’s a sudden change, they scramble for answers, ideas or suggestions.

Well, do you want to know how to run your business from anywhere? Do you know that it is possible? What about that telecommute gig that you have been dreaming of? Hate that commuter traffic? Not a train or bus person?

Do you know that you can operate your business successfully without pounding the pavement? Many professionals are doing it successfully including lawyers, public figures, keynote speakers, accountants and techies.

Making it work requires a comprehensive set of useful tools. – Chris Brogan

Here are ten effective steps to successfully run your business from anywhere

1. Register your business. It can be done online. Google “incorporate my business online” and see what comes up. There are many companies who can set it up for you for a fee. You can also hire an attorney to do it for you.
2. Secure your domain name and host it. Go to Bluehost* and choose a name that applies to your business. If you need help with this, contact me.
3. Get a PO box to use for your business mail. You could also get a virtual office too like Regus or Davinci Virtual. They provide meeting rooms, live receptionists, you can use their street mailing address, meet clients, have board meetings, etc. They have offices in many states and across Europe.
4. Get a laptop, desktop, all-in-one, Mac or whichever your preference and a fast wireless Internet connection (Broadband, Cable Internet, etc) at home.
5. Get a dedicated phone line for your business. And it’s not expensive either. Check out PhonePower, Vonage, RingCentral. Oh, Skype! How I love you Skype! This makes talking to clients worldwide so good. What about Google Voice? It’s free! Rebtel? Check them out too.
6. Because you may have a full time job already and you want your calls to be answered when you are at your regular job, hire a virtual assistant. With good planning, you can afford it from about $200/mo. They are professionals who answer your calls, make appointments, explain what you do to your potential clients. For more details, check out: Ruby, EA Help, Davinci Virtual, AlliedOffices.
7. Find business liability insurance. Shop around for the best deal. See Hiscox.
8. Hope you have a smartphone. You’d want access to those business-related emails wherever you are.
9. Set up Google Calendar. It’s a great tool for scheduling appointments and you can give access to your virtual assistant too! Don’t you just love technology?
10. Develop and publish your website. Check out The Website Branch and contact me.

Want to know more? Here’s an article by Chris Brogan on running a virtual business.

*Please note that the business names and links mentioned here are just suggestions. Read the small print and understand their terms and conditions. Also, some are affiliate links.

Image courtesy of sxc

Belinda Enoma

Belinda Enoma is a Data Privacy and Security Consultant and Privacy Awareness Corporate Trainer with a unique combination of law and tech expertise. She is a global speaker, digital business builder, author, ordained pastor, conference host and mentor to women who desire to impact their generation. For bookings, click here