The views of this article are the perspective of the author and may not be reflective of Confessions of the Professions.
Home-Based Business Ideas
There are many statistics swirling about in the U.S. economy, but entrepreneurs with limited means need only concern themselves with a couple. First, according to Business Insider, there are about 28 million small businesses throughout the U.S., and these operations employ about 50% of the country’s work force. Second, according to Forbes, 52% of these small businesses are based out of a person’s home. That’s right, in the age of globalization, mass communication and remote jobs, it is easier than ever to start a home-based business.
Of course the big question centers around exactly which type of business is best to start in 2014. There are certainly trends, as well as newer sectors and technologies that can make for a flourishing small business. Here are a few:
E-Commerce
In 2012, e-commerce sales topped $1 trillion. And since most consumers frequently forgo shopping in stores to see if they can find better prices online, expect this figure to go nowhere but up. Those with a bit of extra space at home can capitalize on this new way of life by starting an e-commerce product shipping business out of their home. All it takes is a bit of extra space in the form of a garage or extra room. It’s a good business option for those who can’t afford to rent retail space.
Most businesses are focusing the brunt of their advertising dollars on online marketing. It’s effective search engine optimization (SEO) that these organizations are after, as it helps them to stay atop Google’s search rankings. Those who have developed skills in the realm of SEO, and can get businesses high page rankings, should be able to earn a minimum of $1000 per month working part time from home.
Web Design
Those with an eye for the artistic as well as the technical may want to consider working as a freelance web designer. Like quality SEO, businesses are always looking to keep their websites effective and looking good. Those who have the chops for this type of computer work can expect to earn a median $40 per hour for their time.
Billing
After the great recession hit, many contractors had to ease off on the payroll. That meant letting go a number of office workers, including assistants. Many still can’t afford full-time employees to handle the day-to-day work that goes into running an office, so they outsource. Folks with a knack for numbers can likely earn good money providing remote bookkeeping, invoicing and human resource services.
Dry Cleaning Delivery
According to the last U.S. census, the fastest growing sector in the small business world included auto repair shops, beauty salons and dry-cleaning services. Those who would like to get in on the dry cleaning side of things, but who may lack the capital to start a brick-and-mortar business, can start a dry cleaning delivery service. This involves networking with local dry cleaners and delivering clothes from the clients to the cleaners and back again. It’s the perfect job for someone who likes to be on the go. It can even be operated par time. Plus, with an average initial startup cost of under $2000, it doesn’t’ take much to get started – just a van and a dream.
Ultimately, starting a successful home-based business will require many things, including surveying the landscape of supply & demand in order to see where the biggest returns may lie. But it will also take a mind for practicality and an interest in modern technology to ensure the best chances for success.
About the Author
Justin Norris is a professional blogger that provides tips and information on franchise opportunities and investments. He writes for FranchiseExpo.com, the place to find the best franchise opportunities available.
