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Whether you are the kind of person who simply can’t be tied to a desk and chair or you are a globe trotter with a laptop under one arm and a backpack on your back, there’s no reason that you can’t do business on the move.
In fact, business on the move has become the norm for many freelancers. For those who prefer to work in coffee shops and for those who like to get their hands dirty, being able to conduct business at any time or any place is essential to a happy life.
So what can you do to make this happen?
Use a Virtual Receptionist
Hiring a virtual receptionist service is a great way to ensure that you never miss a call and your business always has a friendly voice at the end of the phone. Your virtual receptionist will be able to transfer vital calls to you straight away but they can also take messages for you so that you can return calls too.
The great thing about having a virtual receptionist is that you can stay as free as you want. You don’t need to worry about answering every call – especially when you are doing something more important with another client. Plus, no matter where you are in the world, you know that your callers will have a great reception!
Keep Everything On the Cloud
Cloud computing is often a solution presented to larger companies and expanding businesses but it also works really well for individuals who don’t necessarily have a desktop. Even using a free service such as Google Docs is a good way to take advantage of the cloud as you can work anywhere, as long as you have an internet connection.
When you set up your business, think carefully about all the things you will need to make it run smoothly. A freelance writer, for example, would only need a website, Google Docs and an email address to make their business work. A more complex business might require other software so ensuring that you can use it anywhere is essential.
Be More Flexible
Making flexible working work for you can be really tough when you are self-employed and on the move. However, you are one of the lucky ones because you are in control of what you do and when. Even if you aren’t working a standard pattern of hours, build in time to relax and enjoy yourself.
Flexibility runs both ways so if you want to lead a more flexible lifestyle and conduct your business on the move, you need to offer a similar flexibility to your clients. This doesn’t mean that you have to come at every beck and call, just that you need to understand that they will still have expectations of you. Be clear about when you are prepared to work and when you can’t – don’t be so flexible that you potentially confuse the situation.
Business on the move is becoming more and more popular and it can be really rewarding. Just make sure that before you start moving, you have everything set up for a smooth transition.
