Things You'll Need:
- Knowledge of the subjects you plan to tutor
- Basic advertising skills
- Business cards
- Name for the business
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Step 1
Choose the locations where you are willing to work. Start out with a small area, such as your own neighborhood or town. You can branch out to further locations as your business grows. At some point, your goal might be to tutor all around your county. It is advisable to stay close to home when starting out; taking too many jobs that are scattered all over the county may kill your business before it gets off the ground.
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Step 2
Decide which subjects you are qualified to teach. Don't accept a job tutoring math if you know nothing about math. Likewise, don't accept jobs teaching high school if you don't have experience with teenagers. Consider also adding study skills and test-taking strategies to the subjects you offer. Choose the grade levels you are comfortable with.
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Step 3
Establish the fees you will charge. Research other tutors in your area, and set your fees slightly below theirs when you are starting out. You can raise your fees later after you have an established client base. As your business expands, you may consider adding other tutors to your business. Typically, you would charge the client a slightly higher fee so that you can pay the tutor and keep a percentage.
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Step 4
Advertise in local papers and at local schools. Most schools have bulletin boards where you can post your tutoring services. Also consider posting an ad in church bulletins and in online communities such as craigslist. Be professional in all of your marketing efforts. Come up with a catchy phrase and a logo, print business cards and use professional invoices and stationery.
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Step 5
Keep accurate records. Each year, you will need to file taxes, and having accurate records will make the job easier. There are many items that you can deduct when running your own business, such as home office, utilities, office supplies and travel expenses. Check with your county's revenue department and IRS rules for tips on accurate record keeping.
