Whether it’s holiday time or you’re just looking to earn a little extra spending money, starting your own business is an excellent way to make money, meet new people and hone your skills. Starting a business from home can be nerve wracking, especially if you’re worried about start up costs. Here are a few businesses you can start today with very little money up front:
Personal shopping. Love to shop and want to get paid to help others? Consider starting a personal shopping/errand business. People are often too busy, especially around the holidays, to purchase their own gifts and may need a little help getting everything done. There are websites designed to connect people like you with people who need assistance, or you can put up flyers and network with friends to find clients.
Organizational genius. Becoming a professional organizer isn’t as intense as it sounds. Do you like cleaning and putting things in place? Do you frequently browse The Container Store website, drooling over all the options? Then put up flyers offering your services as a professional organizer – it’s just that simple!
Laundry and alterations. A quick and easy business you can run from your home is a laundry service. Advertise to busy single professionals and charge a per-load fee (make sure you factor in the cost of electricity, water and laundry detergent). Pick up dirty laundry, wash it, and return it clean and neatly folded. You likely already have all the tools you need to get started, so start looking for clients today!
Build a website. Websites don’t have to be complicated – starting a blog or other informational website is easy. You can purchase personalized templates online, and buying a domain name is relatively inexpensive. Decide on a topic – for example, baking or fashion – then focus on adding useful content and articles. Sign up for affiliate programs that make sense for your subject matter and watch the money come in.
Share your expertise. Although the word “consultant” sounds scary, it’s easy to do. What topics are you extremely well-versed in? Share your knowledge with others by becoming a consultant. Network with your friends and family to see who needs help in your subject area, then charge a reasonably hourly or project-based fee. Combine this with the previous tip and consider starting a website in your subject area.
Cleaning queen. If you’re amazing at cleaning around the house, take your skills on the road as a professional cleaner. Start by reaching out to office building managers and real estate agents – two likely candidates for your services. Spend a few bucks on supplies, and you’re in business!
Marketing Your New Business for Less
Once you’ve decided what you’re going to do, it’s time to hit the pavement and start advertising your business! Get some flyers and business cards printed (or print them yourself using your printer, just make sure they look professional). Post flyers in your immediate neighborhood, and ask local businesses if you can leave flyers or cards. Create social media profiles for your services – Facebook and Twitter are great places to start.
Whenever you can, start a conversation about your business (both online and in-person). That way, people will associate you with your business, and refer others to you in the future. Don’t forget: you are your own best marketing asset!
Starting a business doesn’t always involve thousands of dollars in start up costs and fees. Sometimes, it’s as simple as coming up with a clever idea that costs very little and can be done from home. Next time you’re ready to earn some extra cash, why not try out one of these ideas?
{Featured image via the Bower Power blog}
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