How to Run Your Business from Anywhere

We live in an age when it’s possible to work or run a business from anywhere in the world, especially if you are an independent consultant or freelancer. This can give you the opportunity to travel, find a more cost-effective area of operation, discover new markets and gain experience that would be impossible in the U.S.

But to make the dream a reality you have to have the right tools and be prepared to handle issues that may be difficult to fix in some locations. Let’s take a look at the tools that allow you to operate a business from anywhere and potential problems that can occur when you aren’t working in a traditional U.S.-based office.

Essential Tools for Working Anywhere in the World Without Spending a Bundle

When you’re properly equipped working from anywhere becomes a real possibility, and you don’t have to spend a fortune. If you are a small one-person shop you only need a few essential tools to operate.

• Laptop – They’re cheaper and much easier to transport than a desktop computer.
• Smartphone – With the right apps your smart phone can be a business center all on its own.
• Cloud Storage – Helps to minimize data loss (see below) and makes remote work much more convenient.
• Skype – Really any reliable video chat app will do to keep you connected to anyone around the world.

Common Problems While Working Abroad

Working in another country can come with unique challenges. They will vary from one country to the next, but below are a few of the most common problems that come with running a business abroad.

Data Loss on a Laptop

The experts at Secure Data Recovery cite data loss on laptops as one of the top problems faced by any remote worker regardless of where they live and work. Unlike desktop computers, laptops are easy to break or steal, and Wi-Fi connections can make it easier for hackers to access your data. And sometimes they just crash, especially if they’re exposed to extreme environments.

When data loss occurs you’ll usually need the assistance of a professional to recover the data. Depending on where you work it may be difficult to find an expert, and remotely accessing the laptop may not be enough to fix the problem. Another thing to watch out for is service that voids your warranties.

Spotty or Non-Existent Wi-Fi Connections

In the U.S. we tend to take Wi-Fi for granted. Everywhere you turn there seems to be a Wi-Fi connection, possibly because there’s a Starbucks on every corner. But in many areas of the world this isn’t the case. Before moving, you’ll need to get a good idea of how accessible, secure and fast Wi-Fi connections are in a country or city.

Totally Different Time Zones

If you have clients, customers and colleagues in the U.S. but decided to move to Bali, coordinating schedules and even hitting deadlines can be a challenge. Online project collaboration and automation tools are a godsend for people working abroad. These types of tools allow you to send automatic messages when a person fills out a form or sends you an email. Everyone can stay on the same page regarding a project because everything is happening within a shared system.

Figuring Out Taxes

Taxes are a pain point for businesses no matter where they are located. But if you thought they were complicated in the U.S., get ready for even more red tape when you take your business abroad. Just because you are working outside of the country doesn’t mean you can forgo taxes. In fact, you may have to pay taxes to the U.S. and the country you work in. You’ll need to become familiar with the Foreign Earned Income Tax, but it’s highly recommended that you enlist the help of an account during tax season.

If you’re planning a business trip these same rules and preparations apply. A trip is also a good way to test working abroad before making the commitment. You may experience other challenges like culture shock and language barriers that extend beyond the work hours and become a deal breaker.

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