Have you
ever
dreamed of starting your own business? It may be the
perfect career solution for students, mothers,
retired
people, and those who are unhappy in their current jobs. The
problem is, many people don’t know where to begin.
If you’d
like to start your own business but think it is too
difficult,
read on. You may find the right business for you.
Following are some ideas:
1. Word processing services.
Do you have a computer? Use your word processing
skills. You can type up CVs, manuscripts for books and
school papers for other people. If you live near a college
or university, this could be for you. What you’ll need:
Computer and printer, software and reference books.
2. Cooking
instruction.
International cuisine is very popular
right now. Do you like
to cook? Why not teach others your kitchen secrets? What
you’ll need: A fully equipped kitchen and good communication
skills.
3. Home cleaning.
For many working mothers and busy professionals,
regular house cleaning is often difficult to do. Why don’t
you do it for them? You can charge an
hourly rate for
cleaning. For an additional charge you can offer services
such as
attic/closet/garage organization. What you’ll need:
Cleaning supplies and the ability to organize and to pay
attention to details.
4. Typing instruction.
These days, computers are everywhere, but not
everybody can type. Can you? Why not teach it? What you’ll
need: a typewriter or computer, good communication skills
and patience.
5. Errand/shopping
service.
People often don’t have time
to run errands like
buying stamps or
picking up dry cleaning during business
hours. Why not
make a profit doing it for them? What you’ll
need: knowledge of the area, organization and
promptness. In
suburban areas, you may need a vehicle.
6.
Pet care.
If you love animals, this could be for you.
People who work or travel often need someone
to feed and
exercise their pets. What you’ll need: an understanding of
animal behaviour, a
backyard or access to a park and a list
of good veterinarians for emergencies.
7. Sewing/Alterations.
This is an excellent way to make money if you
have
sewing skills. You can charge a flat rate (a specific
fee) for alterations like
hemming a skirt or replacing
buttons on a jacket. You can charge an hourly rate for
custom sewing like making a suit or dress for someone. What
you’ll need: a
sewing machine, a
full-length mirror and
sewing supplies (zips, buttons,
thread, etc.).
8. Music instruction.
Do you play a musical instrument well? Teach
others to play. What you’ll need: an instrument,
sheet music
and patience.
9. Party/event
planner.
People who are planning large
events need help
and guidance. If you
have a talent for organizing your own
parties, why not do it for others? What you’ll need: good
communication skills, flexibility and a list of good,
reliable suppliers (caterers, florists, etc).
10. Massage Therapist/Reflexologist.
This one’s a little different. You need special
training to perform these services, but these markets are
booming in today’s
fast-paced world. What you’ll need: a
massage therapy
licence, massage table,
sheets, towels and
massage cream. |