People can choose from several ideas to start a business. Think about skills you have acquired on the job, products you like or hobbies that can be converted into business. Search Google.com and Yahoo.com for businesses like the one you plan to start. Study their websites and see how they market their business. Plan to start part time until your business grows into a full-time endeavor.
Dog Walking
You can become a dog walker even if you are unemployed. The number of people who use dog walkers is increasing, according to Entrepreneur.com. People are busy and some families have dual-income earners. Someone must exercise or watch their dogs, as people are particular with their pets. Think of a catch name for your business and get a DBA--doing business as--and vendor's license, which will allow you to collect sales tax on sales in your state. Pass fliers out in your neighborhood to apprise people about your service. The average rate for dog walkers is $16 to $18 for a 20-minute walk. Build up your clientele until you are walking eight or 10 dogs per day. Give people a price break for walking multiple dogs. For example, charge $25 for two dogs instead of $32 or $16 each.
Consulting
Become a consultant if you have expertise in a certain field. For example, if you have worked as a marketing research manager, start a freelance consulting business from home. Contact former business associates, clients or agencies in which you worked. Contact advertising agencies or other marketing research firms to see if they have any projects. If invited, write up a proposal for any potential assignment, then submit your bid. Other types of consulting businesses are web design, search engine optimization, advertising broker and tax accountant.
As for advertising, get your business listed in the print and online Yellow Pages so companies can start resourcing your services. Advertise your business in trade publications that clients are likely to read. For example, marketing research companies may advertise in publications, such as "Quirks" or "Alert," or even "Advertising Age."
Network Marketing
Network marketing or multi-level marketing is a legitimate business opportunity. You just need to make sure the company you join focuses on selling products, not just pyramiding your earnings. Legitimate companies will require all new sponsors to purchase a minimal amount of products. For example, if you sell nutritional products, you may need to buy $100 worth of products each month. Most MLM companies will auto-ship these products or automatically ship the products each month. Network marketing is a "people helping people" business. Get three-way calling through your local phone company so you can help new members sign people up in the business. You will earn commissions on their product purchases, too.
The best way to promote your network marketing business is to purchase mailing lists of "Business Opportunity Buyers." Locate these lists through the Direct Marketing Association. Locate mailing list companies in business publications, including "Business Opportunities" or "Home Business." Create a postcard that briefly describes you network marketing company. Invite people to visit your website or call you. Most network marketing companies use conference call systems in which you can invite your prospects.
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