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Designing a Freelance Writer’s Home Office
Working from home is going to be great, right? Well, that depends on a few things, namely your home office. Home office space must be comfortable but it must also not be confused with the rest of your home. You don’t have to be rich to create a nice space for you and your work. Just follow these guidelines when getting started.
Office Space
It would be a good idea to have an individual room in which to setup your office. But sectioning a part of, let’s say, your living room off would work just as well. If possible, select a room that is not cluttered since your goal is to create the look and feel of an office. Once you have picked a location, the rest is about getting the placement of your office essentials right.
Your Chair and Desk
Remember when selecting a desk and chair that comfort is imperative.
When selecting a chair, pick one that is adjustable, offers lumbar support and an arm rest. When selecting a desk you need to consider how much space you need for your things and how much space you have in your house for this office. Try placing your desk near a window to allow for some natural light.
Your Computer and Keyboard
Your choice in computer will depend on your budget. Keep in mind that this is your best office investment so if you’re going to spend a good chunk of money anywhere, it should be here. If possible, purchase a laptop. This will allow you to work both at home and on-location when needed. If you decide to buy a desktop then buy one with at least a 17-inch monitor and 500 megabytes of RAM. Consider a split-and-tilt keyboard. It’s an ergonomic keyboard that will save you some pain and discomfort down the line.
Printer
Since you will probably stick to printing black and white text, it’s a good idea to go with a laser printer. In an article by Consumer Reports, laser printers were suggested over inkjet printers because of the low per-copy cost and speed at which they print. All-in-one printers may also be a great investment since they offer additional features like copying and faxing.
Software
Keep the software simple. Microsoft Works is a good package to install. It offers Microsoft Word, the standard in word processing software. It also includes Excel, PowerPoint and MSN Messenger.
Internet Connection
There are three ways to go here. You can use traditional dialup, but if you can swing the monthly fee then I suggest you get broadband. It makes transferring and downloading much easier. Also, if you do purchase a laptop please invest in a wireless card. You can then work online from home and several other locations depending on your internet service provider.
Filing System
Keep a folder on your desktop for each of the documents below. You should also keep a small filing cabinet for all hard copies of these documents.
Queries
Ideas
Expense/Income reports
Clips
Contracts
Make sure to backup your system every few months. Copy your files onto a CD, label it and file it away in a designated cabinet.
Motivation
You don’t need to cover your walls in motivational phrases but perhaps a calendar with a daily reminder of why you do what you do would be good. Even though I love my job I still have my moments. It’s nice to be able to take a second and read something that inspires me to continue moving ahead.
http://freelancewrite.about.com/od/officeessentials/a/homeoffice1.htm
