7 Easy Ways to Get Your Small Business Up and Running

business-start

If you’ve always dreamed of starting your own business and being your own boss, you may be daunted by the amount of red tape and hassle it takes to begin your own venture. You may not want to deal with filling out the paperwork, renting out a business space, hiring employees, and other expensive steps that are necessary for some new companies. If you’re not sure your business idea is going to be a hit, it’s tricky to take that risk. It can also be expensive. Instead, try one of these easy, inexpensive small business ideas to start creating income.

1. Start Blogging

One easy way to go into business for yourself is by starting a blog. While not every blogger is making money, there are ways to generate revenue from blogging. Creating a blog is simple and most of the time, free. You simply need to find a unique topic and begin to post information about it. Using services like Google AdWords can help you make money.

2. Refinish Antiques

The next idea is to take on antique furniture and household items. Start by scanning online ads for free or low-cost pieces of furniture. Another route to get free stuff is to drive around and look for items placed on the curb or near dumpsters. You may not always find an antique treasure, but you can still clean the piece up and paint it for a fresh look. Then, you can resell the item at a profit. Eventually, you can work your way up to finding true antiques at markets and auctions.

3. Selling Produce

If you’re still not sure about the type of business idea that would be perfect for you, try looking at your backyard. With a spacious plot of land, you can start your own produce business. This works best when you plan it out over the fall or winter, so you can start planting your crops as soon as spring begins. Focus on popular items or rare items that can grow well in your climate. You could sell your goods at farmer’s markets or at roadside stands throughout the summer and fall.

4. Reselling Items

The reselling market can be a great way to make money as well. Simply find items that are inexpensive or free through free groups online or at yard sales and resell on your own or through a service like eBay. Be smart about the type of products you choose to buy or take on, so you’re not stuck with items that aren’t moving or selling.

5. Designing Websites

If you love working with computers and have a flair for graphic design, begin offering your services as a web designer. Build up your portfolio by starting off with some clients you get through project bidding websites. Create an online design space that offers your services and shows off your work. Then, continue to work on expanding your reputation and your hourly rate.

6. Making Crafts

Crafting is another viable business idea if you have the passion and talent for it. You can create your own unique items, advertise them, and sell them on sites like Etsy. You must build up your reputation slowly on sites like this, so you may have to price very competitively until you get a solid history online.

7. Tutoring Students

The last business idea is great for college students and teachers. Spend a few hours a week working with students on their math or reading skills, and increase your monthly pay. As you expand your client base, you can begin to build a solid tutoring reputation.

Starting your own business doesn’t always need a big investment. Make sure to do research on who you’re selling to, and although you’re small, you need to create a business plan. You can find examples from successful business of all types. For example, this is an article with tips from Fisher Investments about what to consider when planning your business.

Whatever you decide, make sure you choose something that works for you, and you’ll be on your way to getting your own business up and running .

Comments

  1. Mark Wineburger says

    Hi Steve,
    I have tried several and I wasn’t impressed until I just started using STAX App, creating a card took a little longer than I would have liked, but what I really like about it is how easy it is to share once your card is created. It’s still a little new but so far it is pretty easy to use and has a nice UI.

  2. Steve Williamsen says

    Does anyone know of a good business card app?