Business & Careers Article: Tips for running an online store

By: Kelly Gough of Nuvo Maternity

When I first dreamed up business ideas after the birth of my second son, running an online store seemed the perfect choice. I had visions of easily combining work and motherhood while my two young sons played quietly as I happily typed away on the computer. What was I thinking?

The reality is that starting an online store can be challenging, chaotic and unpredictable at the best of times not to mention with a couple of toddlers in tow. However it can be done and it is extremely satisfying and rewarding to watch your new business grow.

To survive the roller coaster of starting an online store with 'child on board' a few essentials can make the ride a little smoother.

Routine is a must
To get the most out of your day a good routine is essential. It will provide structure to your day and allow you to factor in time to work and spend time with the children. Young children usually behave best when they have consistency and know what to expect in a day. For example having a regular nap or quiet time for your child during the day will allow you time to work.

Be flexible
Although a routine is important be flexible and prepared for things to change at a moments notice. Have strategies and plans in place for unexpected events such as sick and uncooperative toddlers. Sometimes you’ll need to drop everything to be with your kids. Remember you can always start again tomorrow or work at night after they’ve gone to bed.

Consider child care
Be realistic about how much work you will be able to do with children around the house. Toddlers can be extremely demanding and will want attention right when you're in the middle of something important! Plan the best times to work around your children and if it all gets too much you may want to consider part-time or informal childcare to give you some time each week to work on your business.

Reliable Technology
To run a successful online store it is essential to have a professional looking and reliable website. A well designed website will allow your customers to place an online order and find answers to most of their customer service needs. An easily maintained website will allow you to spend your precious time on other areas of your business without worrying about technical problems. Consider using a professional web designer if you have little expertise in this area.

Good systems in place
With children it is important to have good business systems in place to make the most of your time. Have set procedures in place for processing, payment and delivering your online orders. Write them down so if you do need to spend time away from the business, someone else can help out if necessary. Think of what will save you the most time with young children. Maybe you will consider a courier service for delivery or a payment system that automatically transfers funds into your account. Continually review your procedures until you find what works for you.

Outsourcing tasks
Consider outsourcing tasks that are time consuming or outside your skill level as it will free up your time to work on things in your business that you do enjoy. There are fantastic businesses available that can help you with all your marketing, public relations and general business needs. It will also help to lessen the load and allow you to spend more time with your family.

Network and find support
Running an online store while caring for young children can be hard work at times so it is important to look for support from other like-minded mums. Just knowing that someone else is going through the same thing can be a huge relief and will help to decrease your stress levels. The Business Mums forums are a great place to start or consider joining a business playgroup.

Time out
It's important to take some time out from work everyday. Running an online store and looking after young children can be extremely demanding so it is important to step away from the computer! It is easy to fall into the trap of having your computer on all the time when you work from home. Be strict with yourself and make sure you have a break every day to ensure you don't burn out.

Most of all be patient and remember that establishing an online store with children takes time. Being prepared with strategies and systems in place will help make the ride a little smoother. Combining work and looking after your family will make your success all the more rewarding when it comes. It may not happen overnight – but it will happen!

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