Navigating Unexpected Disruptions as a Home Business Owner: Tips for Staying Sane!
Feb 24, 2023 9:36 pm
Navigating Unexpected Disruptions as a Home Business Owner: Tips for Staying Sane!
When it comes to running a home business, the unexpected can create huge disruptions.
From power outages to computer malfunctions, there are all sorts of things that can take up your time and cost you money if you’re not prepared. Over the course of almost sixteen years in business I’ve dealt with dead computers, internet issues, power outages, deaths in the family, and my most recent unexpected item, jury duty. Each one must be handled slightly differently, but the key to minimizing the disruption lies in planning as much as you can for unexpected issues. Here are a few tips for dealing with unexpected disruptions as a home business owner: 1. Make a Plan. Whether it’s having a backup computer as I’ve always had, a hot spot for cases of internet outages or even a generator or access to a co-working space if you live somewhere that experiences frequent power disruptions, having backup for technical issues can greatly minimize the effect of the unexpected on your business. 2. Have an Emergency Fund – Having some extra cash to fall back on can make all the difference when dealing with something like a computer malfunction. Setting aside money for an emergency fund is an important step for any home business owner. 3. Backup Your Data – Losing important files and data can be an incredibly disruptive issue, particularly for home business owners that don’t have the same kind of data backup systems as larger companies. Make sure to back up your data regularly – preferably to an off-site, cloud-based location. If possible, set your computer to do automatic backups throughout the day. And if you’re working on an important document, be sure your software is backing up your work. That way if the power suddenly goes out, you can breathe easy knowing that whatever you were working on is still accessible via backup. 4. Practice Solid Communication. For an unexpected event like jury duty or the death of a family member, the most important thing you can do is communicate and give as much information as you can. Letting your clients or customers know that it won’t be business as usual, briefly explain why and give them an idea as to when you will be back. If you have the luxury of having a virtual assistant or employee, determine what they are capable of handling while you are unavailable and make your clients/customers aware that they will be communicating with them while you are gone. Running a home business isn’t always easy, especially when it comes to dealing with unexpected disruptions. Fortunately, with a little bit of preparation the disruption can be kept to a minimum allowing your business to continue running smoothly. To help you make your plan for unexpected disruptions to your home business, I’m giving you access to my Unexpected Disruptions Planner Page Canva Template. Click here to access it for free.
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