Working at home is a big career decision. Sure, you might think it'll be easier, more fun, or more fulfilling. No matter what your thoughts are about working from home, you should also keep in mind that becoming a west work at home agent is going to be a lot of hard work.
First you need to know which angle you're approaching this career change from. Are you currently employed with a company, and just taking your job home, or are you unemployed and searching for a whole new job and company to work with? If you are the former, you will need to know how to properly make the transition from office to home. For the latter, knowing where to find available positions or how to market yourself as an independent agent will be essential. Either way, being a west work at home agent can be an exciting switch from the daily grind of the office.
No matter what position you're in, you'll need to have a home office that is functional and complete. You will need a private space, and one that is easy to acess from the outside if you intend on having clients in your office. You'll need the typical office stuff: a desk, chairs, a computer (dedicated to your work), a phone (also dedicated), and a copier and fax machine. At minimum, your home office should include these things. Any additions would be great. Also, keep in mind that you can often get a machine that serves as a printer, copier, and fax machine for a relatively low cost these days, so that's something to consider.
Your home office can be anywhere in your home, but as stated before you need to have easy access to the outside if clients will be coming in. As a west work at home agent, it's up to you to maintain your professionalism no matter where you're working. Sure, some days you could work in your PJ's, but that's a once in a while type of thing.
I know that for me, even if it's just jeans and a t-shirt, I feel much more productive and ready for work after taking a quick shower and getting dressed. Sitting around in sweats or pajamas all day makes me feel a little on the lazy side. And for me, I'm just a writer, so I don't have clients walking in during the day, so getting dressed for work is my own prerogative.
Once you've gotten your office started and are beginning your work as a west work at home agent, there is much more to know about jobs, clients, and so on. We'll save that for another blog, though.