These days, all it takes is a computer and internet connection to run a virtual business. You can work in your pjs from home and you don't have a morning commute! What could be better?

Your Business IS Real

Some business owners who run virtual companies (as well as some people they interact with) tend to feel like their businesses aren't "real." Maybe that's because traditionally, a company was based out of an office, had full time staff and saw clients face to face. But the rules for business have changed, and that's now the exception rather than the norm. According to a study in 2007, approximately half of all businesses are run from home. That means that your business is just as real as the rest! But you've got to treat it that way.

Invest in business cards to hand out at networking events and conferences. Get a website and your domain branded URL. Have office hours, just like you would if your office wasn't in your basement. Essentially, do all the things you would do if you had a physical office.

Meet People

It's easy enough to never see people when you work virtually, so it's even more important to meet people, both to find potential business but also to connect with other people who work virtually. This can be a great support system for you when you're feeling lonely or having a bad day. You have many options:

  • Attend local business mixers
  • Hop on Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn
  • Attend webinars 
  • Participate in online forums
  • Work from the local coffee shop

Some days, you may have to force yourself to break your habit of working at home and getting out and meeting people, but you'll be glad you did.

Work/Life Balance

While many mistakenly assume that people who work virtually work less, the opposite is often true. Because the office is just down the hall, many work at homers find themselves checking email on the weekends or after hours. It's important to create good work/life balance, so shut the door to the office at the end of the workday and respect it. Likewise, make sure your family supports you and doesn't disturb you during work hours.

Photo: Flickr user feverblue. Creative Commons 2.0.