Home Based Business Ideas for Beginners

If you are new to entrepreneurship, the thought of starting your own business can seem a bit overwhelming to say the least. A good piece of advice is to stick with what you already know.

By this, I mean stick with the skills and knowledge you have already acquired over the years. Use your years of life experience to your advantage instead of trying to learn something entirely new right off the bat (learning how to start a business will keep you busy enough!).

Idea 1:

A simple way to get started working for yourself with minimal expense or risk is teaching what you know. No, you don’t have to stand up in front of a classroom or on a stage – unless you want to.

You can teach through writing (a blog or an ebook), through audio, video or in person. You can share your ideas on any topic to any size group – even one on one. There are web-based resources that can turn your business concept into a professional operation for very little cost – and you won’t have to hire any staff (check out SkillShare.com).

Some people love the idea of working for themselves, but they incorrectly assume that they don’t know enough or they aren’t an expert in any one area, so they won’t be successful as a business owner.

Avoid falling into this trap! Everyone has something special to share. The key is to focus on a specific niche topic instead of trying to teach a very general topic. You will have less competition that way, and usually a hungrier market who is ready to buy.

You might be surprised at how simple it can be to put together a digital book and sell it on Amazon. Yes Amazon. There are also resources that let you teach small workshops or classes online or in your local community.

Keep your classes small, casual and low-key if you find this idea intimidating. Many students want to learn – but they are also looking for a social outlet where they can connect with people who share similar interests.

Idea 2:

Another low-cost, low-risk way to break into entrepreneurship is through freelancing. If your past career has involved a specialized skill, such as graphic design, computer programming, engineering, marketing or writing, take your assets and turn them into a business.

Freelancing essentially allows you to continue getting paid for your skills. However, instead of following your boss’s orders, you call the shots and work with clients directly.

Going out on your own can feel a little strange at first, but freelancing is a good transition for new entrepreneurs because there are freelance websites that can help you find work. It also doesn’t hurt to network with past business associates whom you might have worked with in the past to help generate more business.

Don’t be afraid to start small either. Your business can grow over time, and this way it takes a lot of the pressure off that you “need to know everything” before you start – because you don’t.

Resources:

• How to Start a Blog
• How to Write an eBook
• Where to Find Freelance Jobs Online

For more small business ideas, visit The New Business Idea. You can also get start-up instructions for 200+ businesses and download the Home Business Start-Up Checklist free from HomeBusinesscenter.com.