How To Choose Proper Business Attire

Choosing proper business attire may seem simple, but as times and fashion change it can create some tough choices. When most of our grand mothers were in the business field clothing was modest. Longer skirts and suit jackets that covered up the feminine physique. A look that was bland and often uncomfortable. For most of our mother’s business attire began to take a change. Skirts could be worn on or slightly above the knee. The option to wear slacks and blouses was becoming more popular. For the modern day woman we are faced with numerous choices for a business wardrobe. So how do we choose?

Often business’ will create a business dress code to assist attire conflict. This can sometimes make your choices narrower. Some companies allow stereotypical business dress such as, slacks, blouses, skirts and suit jackets. These always allow an employee to look well groomed, and professional. Other companies will allow any clothing item such jeans, t-shirts, Capri pants to denim dresses. This allows a more casual laid back appearance. If you are given this freedom of choice ask yourself some basic questions to assist you in choosing proper business attire.

What does my attire say about me? Do I look professional? Do I show that I have put an effort into my appearance? Your appearance says a lot about you as a person. It is one of the first things that another person will notice about you. You don’t have to be a designer tag diva, or a modest maven. You simply need to take the time to choose clothing that reflects you in a positive light.

Another question would be, am I comfortable? Does your attire allow you to fulfill your daily job duties without interference? By the end of the day are your shoes causing you foot pain for a fashion statement? Can you bend down to pick up those fallen files, or would you reveal too much of your physique? Comfort can be very important in any job. If you are too focused on your discomfort from a clothing item, this can take away from your concentration on a job task. You choose fashion or focus.

Casual or Formal dress is another consideration. You can still look professional in a job environment if you choose casual business attire. Dark denim jeans, belted with a button up blouse can be very appealing. Still providing a clean and tidy appearance. If you wanted to be more formal Chino or Khaki pants with a blouse may suit your mood. The choice between these may be as simple as matching your dress to your job environment. If you are a banker, administrative assistant or have a job that a more formal appearance is suitable the choice becomes simple. Working in a call center, day care, or other similar environment may lead to a more casual dress choice.

By taking the time to ask yourself these questions you are prepared to make the proper choice for business attire. Appearance attitude, Comfort, Casual/Formal the choice is yours.

3 Tips For Keeping Proper Tax Records For Your Home Business – And Keeping The IRS Happy!

The last thing most people think about when starting a business is doing taxes. But proper planning will make doing your taxes much easier - and keep the IRS happy!

Here are 3 simple tips for keeping proper records:

1. Whenever you buy anything for your business, keep the receipt!

Not only will this make record keeping a lot simpler, but if you are ever audited (having your tax return reviewed in detail by the IRS), you can prove your expenses, and save yourself money.

2. Write down all your expenses and income as they happen.

As your business grows, you'll have more and more activities to keep you busy. The last thing you'll want to do each April 15 is to organize your records for the year. So, it's a good idea to write down all your financial activities as they happen. You'll find preparing your taxes will take much less time if you are organized.

3. Learn how to save money on your taxes.

As you learn about taxes, you'll find that there are many deductions (expenses that reduce your income, and therefore your taxes) you can take that are not obvious. When using your home office, you may be able to deduct (at least partially) repairs you make around the house, utilities, your home's value at the time you start your business, and more.

The more you know about taxes, and the more organized you are in keeping records, the more time and money you'll save at the end of every year!

What happens if you don't keep proper records?

Individuals with small businesses are the most likely to have their tax returns audited by the IRS. If you don't have a receipt, you will likely lose the deduction and owe the IRS money.

And while an audit does not have to be feared, you should be prepared - the more organized your records, the easier it will be to prove your case.

If you don't have one, get a file box and some folders at your local office supply store (these supplies are deductible, so keep your receipts!) and create a filing system for your business. Put all your receipts in the proper folders, and put them in a safe place.

Another way to save yourself time is to record all of your business transactions - expenses and income - on a spreadsheet on your computer. Keep a column for income, advertising, supplies, etc. You don't need to be a computer expert. But keeping accurate, organized records will help you save time when you fill out your taxes at the end of the year.

And it can help you plan, by giving you a snapshot or your financial progress whenever you need it.

Which may come in handy when you need to place ads, borrow money - or take a much needed and well-deserved vacation!