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This month we asked expert Alison (creator of Mums in Business) some frequently asked questions about starting up a business when you have children at home.

What are the main obstacles for those wanting to start an at home business?

Although many mums have some fantastic ideas, they never act upon these. This can generally be attributed to the following reasons:

Lack of knowledge and confidence

They feel they could never run a business- especially from home! They have no idea about how business works, or even the confidence to tell everyone they have started a business in case it fails.

Finances (or lack of)

They feel that because they have no money to spend, that they can’t start a business.

No support

They feel that they won’t get the support of hubby and family. When starting a business from home, you do need support from your partner as you will be spending lots of time in getting it up and running and servicing customers.

The good thing is- these obstacles can be overcome!! Finding a network of other like minded people is the first thing to do. Here you can find support and resources that will guide you through these obstacles.

What kinds of businesses are suitable for those with small children?

Businesses that don’t involve people coming around to your house!! The internet has opened up so many opportunities for mums with bubs to start a business. Even if you have teenage children, the internet is still the best way to go for those who have kids of any age. You can email at any time- whether the baby is crying, or the dog is barking. You can still take orders in the evenings and pack up orders etc.

You don’t need to stick to selling children’s clothes on the internet; you can do basically anything on the net! Have a think outside the square and see what you can come up with. Also take a look at the ideas on the Mums in Business website to help you.

What are some advertising methods that you would recommend new businesses with a limited budget?

Strategic alliances!! This is something that is so commonly overlooked. It means that you develop a ‘partnership’ of types with another business that targets your same market. For example, a hairdresser aligns with a beauty salon and they cross promote each other. A mechanic aligns with a window tinter to cross promote etc.

Another one is link exchanges- these again need to be with like minded business- not competitors, but those who service your same market.

Shared advertising works well. Find a group of you- again who service the same market, and create a piece of marketing material together and split the costs. This will add credibility to your business, plus you don’t need to pay as much!

What are your tips for staying organized and juggling home and office?

Get a diary!! And the most important one is to use it!! Work out your times when you can work without the kids and when you need to be with them. Block these times into your diary. Put some work hours up on your office door so that not only you, but your family can see these times as well.

Make sure you have a door to your office!! This is pretty important so that you can actually close the door and walk away from your work.

If you get friends dropping over regularly, tell them your new working hours and ask them to respect this. The same goes with the phone. If you are working in your office and your home phone rings- don’t answer it. Act as though you have an office away from your home and you will be fine!!

Mums in Business is for any mother, woman or parent looking to either start or grow a business. It provides practical information, expert advice and invaluable support to help run, promote and develop your business. For more information and to see how Alison can help you to grow your business, simply visit www.mumsinbusiness.net

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