'Organization for the Working Parent's Home Office'

Organization for the Working Parent's Home Office

If you are operating a business from your home, these might be some handy organizational ideas to help coordinate things between having a home office and a family in the same house.

• Communication: establish a protocol for interruptions, discussing your normal working hours, and basic rules to be followed. Be ready to listen, question, and explain every detail fully
• Organization: the basic proper tools include a strong internet connection (especially if you have an internet home based business), a dedicated telephone (it can be a cell phone), a place to keep files and notes, and a way of organizing your incoming work
• Limitations: set limitations with your family so they know how to approach you in non-emergency circumstances. You could designate a signal that will visually tell them you cannot be interrupted unless it is an emergency. This could be as simple as a closed door or a sign you hang outside of your office
• Prioritize: Invest in a calendar, and make sure you update it regularly with appointments, school activities, deadlines, etc
• Commitment: Your word is important within your family and your business - so unless something happens that you cannot control, live up to what you say
• Flexibility: A work at home office can truly make a difference in narrowing the gap between career and family, especially if the office is organized and the expectations with your family are firmly in place