How to Start a Personal Shopper Business
For successful working folks, time is money. Running out during the day to buy a gift for a wedding or birthday party can be time consuming. Busy execs, salespeople and small business owners all can use the services of a personal shopper with good taste and sense of discretion. A good personal shopper needs to be flexible and creative, and willing to accept request with little notice.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Volunteer for organizations that have a high level board of directors. It's a great way to meet busy people and gives them an opportunity to get to know you on a personal level and see how you operate.
-
2
Introduce yourself and pass out cards at upscale clothing and gift stores. Shops often refer their customers to personal shoppers to their clientele.
-
-
3
Set your rates by looking at other personal shoppers' websites or flyers. You don't want to undercut yourself too much or price yourself out of the market. If there are no other services in your community, consider the value of your time and how much gas you will use. Factor in accounting and paperwork to come up with an hourly rate.
-
4
Visit senior retirement communities to pass out flyers and get to know the residents and their needs. Many upscale retirement facilities house wealthy retirees who could use the services of a personal shopper.
-
5
Take classes at the community college in fashion and décor so that you can advertise some credentials. In addition to gift buying, many personal shoppers buy clothes for clients, as well as home décor and groceries.
-
6
Take a class with your local SCORE group. SCORE is a group of retired executives who volunteer to teach small business owners the ins and outs of starting a business, including marketing, business plans and obtaining financing.
-
1
Resources
More Like This
Comments
-
This is what I want, advice. I am thinking of keeping it local, so that will help with the gas. Time? No. I was thinking of charging more for "per trip". I don't want to do a lot on one day. I am also thinking of 2, maybe 3 days a week IF I can get someone to stay with Ron. Think that part will not be a problem. Trying to accomplish 2 things. First of all get some extra money after I retire and second, help others who can really use it. I am not looking to charge an arm and leg, just some. Need to look into that part and most of all, pray about it. Thanks for the advice. It is what I need.
-
Consider applying for grants to help keep customer cost down
-
I agree with Chris... also factor in the price of gasoline which is rising once again... I think it's a great idea! Good luck!
-
This is entirely a time-based fee. Either actual time or a per trip fee. You have to get the list. You have to go to the place(s). You have to return. Depending on the person they might like company for a short while. I know why you're thinking about this. Planning on high volume or a trip or two a week? And bear in mind you and your body. You clients will rely on you. Just make sure you'll be up to it. Love ya, Mom.
-
I am considering starting a personal shopper business for senior citizens who cannot get out, mainly focusing on grocery type items. I could have used this service myself many times but none is available in this area. My question is cost? How do I determine the cost for this service?
