Definitive Guide To Starting A Home-Based Design Business - Part 2 - RD205

Part 2: Business Plan and Workspace

In the previous episode, I talked about whether or not running a home-based business is for you as well as things to consider before deciding to start one. This episode I’m making the assumption that you’ve decided to go ahead with your plans and discuss the next steps in the process.

Some startup advice.

There is a cost involved with starting any business, even one run from your home. You may not be paying to lease office space, but you will still need to fork out money to get your design business started.

Some of the costs may include a separate phone number to keep your business and personal communications separate, preferably a plan with voicemail and call display. You’ll need a computer and design software required to do your work. And then there are things such as a desk and chair, bookshelves, maybe a file cabinet.

Don’t forget your internet. If web design is part of your services, or you'll need to upload and download large print files you may want to increase your internet plan for more bandwidth.

Other costs include business cards, We may be living in a digital world, but you really should have business cards. And maybe you’ll want a printed flyer or brochure to help spread the word of your new endeavour. An Intro Packet might be a good idea as well.

Plus, there’s the fee involved with business licenses and permits, the cost of accounting and legal fees, and memberships, clubs and communities to help you get started. It all adds up.

Sure, starting a home-based design business is the least costly option to begin your entrepreneurial life, but there’s still a start-up cost involved. And that's not taking into account the cash buffer you should have to tide you over as you build up your clientele, start designing and wait to get paid.

Suggestions to help with costs.

You should set long-term goals to acquire some of the above-mentioned things which allow you to spread out the costs. Buy only what you absolutely need right now. Buy used or refurbished to save money, or purchase lesser models until you can afford top-of-the-line equipment. Make do with what you have and grow along with your business.

For the first two years of my business I sat at a desk I picked out of the trash bin at the printer I used to work for. I had to replace one leg with a 2x4, but It got me by until I was able to barter a better desk by exchanging services.

Even though you’re starting a home-based business, there will be costs involved in the beginning so do what you can to save money.

Let’s talk about business plans.

A business plan is a written document describing the aspects of your proposed business. Although not absolutely necessary to start a business, a business plan can help you when it comes to business decisions and keep you focused on the right path.

A business plan is a worthwhile exercise because it helps you think through your ideas, focus on what needs to be done, and identify what information or assistance you still need.

A business plan will improve your chances of success by setting out realistic goals and financial projections that you can measure your progress against. Plus, if you plan on securing a start-up loan or applying for any grants, you will need a business plan.

There are various ways to write a business plan, and if you’re doing this just for yourself then whatever way you choose is fine. However, If you are applying for a loan or grant, I suggest you reach out to the organization and ask them what their preferred format is. It will save you time and trouble in the long run.

There are plenty of online resources, some free and some paid, that can help you write a business plan. But here are the general elements that should be included.

Background Information:

• Your business concept: Describe the services you plan on offering in your design business.
• Perform a SWOT analysis of your business.

Operations:

• Describe your working environment. List the equipment and supplies you already have, as well as those you need to acquire. Be sure to mention the costs involved.
• List any suppliers and contractors you’ll be working with.

Marketing:

• Describe the industry and target market you’re going after.
• Talk about how you plan on selling your services.
• Mention your marketing strategy to gain clients.

Finances:

• A Business plan should include a financial statement showing the startup costs, projected sales forecasts, financial projections, how much you’re investing in the business and how you plan on paying yourself.

There’s a lot more that goes into a business plan, but I wanted to give you a quick idea of how to lay one out.

Your WorkSpace.

Let's talk about your actual workspace.

If at all possible, your workspace should be a separate part of your home dedicated solely to your business. Having a designated area will help you feel like you are “going to work” and at the end of the day like you are “leaving work”.

Keeping the two separate makes it much easier to designate between your work and family life.

• You can do things such as ignore your business phone when it’s not “office hours”.
• Your important papers and materials won’t get mixed up with family or personal things and possibly get misplaced or lost.
• Your family will know that when you’re in your “office” you’re at work and shouldn’t be disturbed.
• It makes it very easy comes tax time if you have a dedicated office space, as you get to claim the square footage as a business expense.

More things to consider:

• Does your office space have a phone jack if you plan on using a landline for your business?
• Are there enough electrical outlets to accommodate your equipment?
• Will your furniture fit the locations?
• Is there proper lighting for you to work?
• How noisy will the area be?
• Is there enough room to spread out your work?
• Is there enough storage space or will you need to get more?
• Is your workspace ergonomically designed to prevent a sore neck or back, or eye strain?
• Is the place suitable for client visits if you plan on inviting them to your office?

These are just a few things you might want to consider as you’re setting things up.

In Part 3 of this series,  I’m going to talk about the legalities of running a business from home as well as touch briefly on marketing your new endeavour.

Questions of the Week

Submit your question to be featured in a future episode of the podcast by visiting the feedback page.

This week’s question comes from Cynthia

I have one semester left of design school and am starting to get commissions here and there. I plan to work for someone after I graduate and then I'd like to start my own freelance. I was wondering if you have or could point me in the direction of a generic graphic design contract? I'm not really sure where to start with that.

To find out what I told Cynthia you’ll have to listen to the podcast.

Tip of the week Business Grants

Whether you're starting out or you are planning on expanding your business, it's a good idea to inquire if there are any special grants you may qualify for. Contact your local municipality, business centers and Chamber of Commerce and find out what's available. Grants are "free money" to aid you in your business. Every little bit helps.