Mark Jones http://www.howardcommercialsltd.co.uk 2m 586
The views of this article are the perspective of the author and may not be reflective of Confessions of the Professions.
If you’re in a job you hate there’s no reason for you to think there’s nothing else out there for you. Many individuals in the UK are carving their own careers by creating their own jobs. One of the options you could consider is to become a handyman. It’s a job that allows you to define your own hours, pick and choose the work you complete and can be used as a stepping stone to become a qualified tradesman, opening up increased earning potential. If you’re fed up of working in a dead end job, have some skills and would like to be your own boss here are some tips on how to get started.
Know Your Limits
It’s important not to throw yourself in at the deep end. Spend some time working out what your skills are and what type of jobs you’re more than capable of taking on. Some of the popular jobs handymen are called out for include:
- Decorating
- Minor repairs inside and outside the home
- Constructing flat packed furniture
- Minor plumbing jobs
- Waste removal
- Laying floors
As a handyman is semi-skilled there’s no need to be qualified in any area. You may find it easier to find work if you head to night school to pick up some certificates in areas such as carpentry, health and safety, gardening, basic plumbing. This isn’t essential but it will help you secure more work as you’ll be able to take on jobs that you may not be able to complete with your current skills.
Build a Portfolio
It’s useful if you can show off your skills and past achievements. Spend some time fixing up things in your own home and taking on jobs for friends. Take before and after photos and post them on a free blogging platform such as WordPress or create a business page on Facebook to share with local fans. You could also ask friends and family to give you testimonials for your work and to help you spread the word about your business and services.
Register Your Business
When you begin earning money you’ll need to declare your earnings with the HMRC. It’s vital that you register your business and that you manage your accounts so you’re able to provide accurate details of your earnings and complete a tax return each year. Your tax return will decide how much income tax and National Insurance contributions you need to pay.
Gather the Right Tools
You can rent many tools, which is useful for rare jobs but you will need to build a collection of tools to use for everyday jobs. Gather together a decent collection that has all the basics such as:
- Drill and drill bits
- Extension cords
- Hammer
- Screwdriver set
- Tape measure
- Level
- Gloves
- Torch
- Duct tape
- Step ladder
- Wrench set
- Knife
- Safety glasses
You should also consider buying a van to transport your goods and to help you advertise your business as you move around town. A van can be an expensive purchase but there are plenty of good deals on second hand vans at Howard Commercials LTD.
About the Author
The author, Mark Jones, set up his own handyman business back in 2000 and he now runs a popular DIY blog which is full of useful articles and advice. In addition to his blog the author also regularly contributes to several popular websites. He has had hundreds of articles published online while managing his small business.
(
