Small Business Ideas

In my last article I talked about the pros and cons of joining or operating a Multilevel Marketing organization. In this article I want to cover alternatives for individuals that are still looking to supplement their income or open their own business. I read an interesting post by Chris Cooper that sums up the self imposed obstacles that we face when we try to do our own thing:

Below are ten (10) inexpensive businesses ideas that almost anyone can start.

There is one theme that runs through all of these opportunities, you must be or have:

1. self-motivated
2. physically prepared – if you will be preforming the work
3. be able to build and maintain a steady clientele
4. strong scheduling and time management skills
5. strong organizational skills
6. the ability to attract highly motivated and skilled individuals – especially if you want to scale your business

Childcare or Pet Sitting – you’ll need a basic knowledge of animals and childcare and one would need to take some specialized training to get accredited. Although training may not be required, some states require you to obtain a license, and it is a good idea to get bonded and insured.

Residential or Small Business Cleaning Service – you’ll need cleaning supplies, equipment, and a reliable vehicle.?You will also need to know your individual clientele, so that you know what cleaning solutions to use – take into account children, pets, and allergies.

Grass Cutting/landscaping and Snow Removal Services – you’ll need knowledge of plants and gardening techniques, landscaping waste and snow removal equipment, and have a reliable vehicle (preferably a truck). Although formal training isn’t necessary a class in landscaping and design principles will help with building trust (reputation) and obtaining clients.

Waste Hauling Services – much like Grass Cutting and Snow Removal Services you will need knowledge of waste and chemical disposal, location of landfills and waste disposal sites, and a reliable vehicle (preferably a truck – the bigger the better).

Courier or Delivery Services – you can join organizations like Uber Eats, GrubHub, DoorDash, or AMAZON to get started in the delivery business.?Consider this, there aren't any education or experience requirements to starting your own freelance delivery service. To get your freelance courier/delivery service off the ground, you need a reliable vehicle (SUV, truck, or cargo van preferably) and a good driving record, moving pads, ratchet straps, and a dolly.

Event Planners – you don't need a degree to become an event planner, although some type of certification is preferred. You do need to have an attention to detail and the ability to understand the client’s vision for the event.

House Painter – Painting is a task the most people hate – either because they don’t like or don’t know how to do it. The good this is that if you are good at it, you can make money doing it for them. Although exterior painting is seasonal – interior painting can be done year-round. All you need is to have some painting skills and equipment (e.g. ladders, paint brushes, rollers, sprayers, drop cloths).

Yoga/Fitness Instructor – you do not need a degree to become a Yoga/Fitness Instructor, but you will need to have some knowledge of anatomy, an understanding of dietary requirements, be people oriented, and have the ability to instruct classes.?It is recommended that you obtain some type of certification, and you may need to obtain a license in some states. Lastly you will have to make the decision to open a yoga studio, partner with a gym or the YM/WCA, or set up a mobile experience (e.g. in-home, parks, recreational centers, or on client premises).

Local Tour Guide – this one is perfect if you live in a historic town or in a tourist destination. To be successful in this endeavor you will need to have knowledge of your area, be people oriented, be a public speaker, have connections with your cities chamber of commerce, and most importantly have the stamina to take groups of people around the city. You will also have to make the decision if you want to do walking tour or purchase a vehicle to take tourist around the area. Because of the effects of COVID on the touring industry you may want to consider giving virtual tours.

Tutoring – if you have a firm understanding of a specific subject, this is the one for you. Tutoring can be done in person or virtually and is one of the best ways to give back while sharpening your skills. You can tutor the basics (reading, writing and arithmetic), English as a second language, or specialize in other disciplines. This is another one that doesn’t require a degree, but you will need an in-depth knowledge of your particular subject and an ability to teach it to others.

If one of these business ideas appeals to you, the next step is developing a business plan. Then follow your plan to turn your business into a reality.

If you are already engaged in one of the business ideas above, please comment on this article and let me know what you think. What else do you think could be done to turn one of these ideas into a successful business for someone else.