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Trying to juggle a full-time job and a business can be done. Consider these tips for smooth sailing.

1) BE UPWARDLY MOBILE: If you are still holding down a day job you will find that handheld wireless units provide privacy as well as constant e-mail contact with your clients. It’s best to check on your side business at lunch or during breaks. My favorite gadget is the T-Mobile Sidekick, mainly because it is so easy to use. Other options would be the Blackberry or Treo.

2) USE BETTER BUSINESS CARDS: If you must give a business card out at work or to people associated with your job, it won’t scream “I have my own business,” if you use a card with your name, personal e-mail and phone number. Don’t include the name of your business if you want to remain anonymous.

3) AVOID TIME WASTERS: Write form letters that can be reused and store them on your computer or handheld wireless device. Simply change the details for each business transaction for fast and easy communication. This cuts down on response time during business hours.

4) CELL FORMULA: Create an outgoing message that lets callers know how to get the quickest response from you. Add a tag line, “I check my voicemail regularly however, for a faster response please e-mail me at (fill in your e-mail address)

5) FAUX FAX: There are options if you don’t want to miss receiving a fax during work hours. Use one of the free electronic e-mail services; it is a convenient option you can access from a computer. Otherwise let the person faxing know that they need to call first so you can stand at the fax machine because you are at work.

6) ARE YOUR LIPS SEALED: Some employees don’t mind if you have a side-business yet others would prefer you keep what ever it is that you are doing a SECRET! Be careful not to flaunt what you are doing because it may cause friction or jealousy amongst your co-workers.

7) TIMING IS EVERYTHING: It is best to handle things for your side-business when you are NOT at your day job even if you have lots of free time. Run your business evenings and weekends and set boundaries for your clients by letting them know the hours you are available to them.

Entrepreneur