When I was younger, I told myself that I wanted to be a teacher. School was so thrilling to me and I wanted to give that same excitement to others. By the time I finished school, I was on a different path. I started working in medical administration and I really liked it. Working in an office all day seems boring to most people, but I liked the idea of eight hour shifts and simple to follow instructions.
In 2005 I made a huge mistake that would affect my career tremendously. I went out on New Year’s Day and ended up having too much to drink. I got into a bar fight and I hurt someone pretty badly. I regretted my mistake immediately, but that wasn’t enough to stop me from getting a criminal record. I lost my job once they found out about this and I had a very hard time looking for something else.
I started working for temporary agencies, but it was a pain to be fired every time my past transgressions came to light. I decided then that it was up to me to start my own business. I wasn’t sure what I wanted to do, but I knew I was capable of creating my own opportunities. I have always been a pretty decent cook, so I decided to try my hand at catering.
I went online and checked out all of the zoning laws in my area. I wanted to find out if I was required to have any special licenses to run a food service business from my own. Luckily for me, my state is pretty lax about things like this. I went out and purchased one of those stoves that have six burners. It was pretty expensive, but I knew if I became a success it would more than pay for itself.
The next thing I did was run a few surveys online for people in my area. I tried to get a good idea of what types of dishes I should offer. I wasn’t sure if I should go the traditional route and make canapes and finger sandwiches, or if i should go out of the box and make some foods that are not readily available where I live. I decided on the latter since there are so many caterers around here that offer a lot of the same thing.
I went online and created a great website, well I thought it was good until my friends told me it wasn’t. This prompted me to hire a web design firm to build my site. After they were done, I realized that my business picked up right away. I am swamped every weekend with orders from people all over the area. I never thought I would be this popular, and I am thankful for this opportunity to show everyone that I can do for myself. My story is proof that a bad situation doesn’t have to be the end of your life.
How to Begin a Home Business without the Necessary Funds
Many individuals want to be their own boss, and have a business they can operate out of their home. However, they simply do not have the necessary funds to even get started. Basically, setting up a traditional home office to run a business could end up costing a fair amount of money. If you simply do not have the necessary funds, there are other opportunities available for a small business owner that requires minimal capital.
No Initial Investment
There are numerous businesses that can be performed out of the house that requires basically no initial investment. Typically, certain types of home businesses that offer services require minimal funding. A service business might involve babysitting; resume writing, or content article writing. By providing a service instead of a product, you can significantly reduce the amount of funds required to get the business up and operating.
Create a Website
No matter what type of home business you want to operate, it is imperative to have a website. The website does not need to be a flashy, high-end online retail store, but simply needs a landing page with basic information. There are numerous options online were an individual or business can obtain a domain name (their online address) and a basic page for just pennies every month. Many of the sites provide their customers free to use templates and will even register the domain name free of charge.
Interesting Content
Using a website is the easiest way to promote your home business, and requires virtually no money. This is an ideal solution for new home businesses that have no advertising budget. You can simply add your own content and advertising clearly stating all the services you provide. You can choose whether or not to include the amount for each service, or simply offer a way to contact you through email or an online form. This will help generate new business from prospective clients.
Create Business Cards
You should be handing out a business card to your new home business everywhere you go. Think of every individual as a perspective client, and how you can best provide services to make their life easier. Business cards can be easily created using your home computer, where business card blanks can be purchased online, or at the local office supply store.
Obtain a Business License
Yes, even a home-based business will require a business license to ensure that it is operating legally. You will need to obtain a business license from your local municipality BEFORE you start taking on clients. Everyone has the ability to acquire a business license. The process requires nothing more than filling out an application, and paying the fees.
Your new business license will give you a tax identification number that indicates you are in business. It will allow you to purchase many items at wholesale prices, and receive special discounts.
There are numerous ways that any individual can begin an at-home business and generate enough profits to give up their day job. Taking the time to find out what services you can provide will allow you to become your own boss, and set your own hours.