Good Ideas for Successful Self-Employed Businesses

Work for yourself by pursuing one of several business ideas.

Eliminate bosses, long commutes and gas expenses with a successful self-employed business. Turn passion into full-time work by offering a marketable product to the public, whether the product is handmade goods or intangible services. Match your interests with market demand and pick the option that best suits your situation. With hard work, your business could become self-sustaining and profitable.

Handmade Goods

Handmade items have gained popularity on the Internet.

Consumers are always looking for a rare find. If you create one-of-a-kind products, consider turning the idea into a business. Places like Etsy and Artfire have countless success stories of crafters whose handmade products turned into full-time income. Your merchandise might be something in demand or something that hasn't been marketed before. Start a fan page through Twitter or Facebook to build a base of clients. Approach popular bloggers with feature ideas and offer contests to bring customers to your online shop.

Services

Market your expertise.

Service businesses are helpful for customers who don't have the time or ability to do a job themselves. Website designers, consultants and marketing managers are examples of service-based businesses you can do online while self employed. Consider offering hands-on services in an area of expertise, such as painting and restoration, pet sitting, home organization, car repair or plumbing. If you have a marketable skill, you can make it the base of your self-employed business.

Classes

Teach others what you know.

Instead of providing your services in an area of expertise, consider empowering others with your knowledge. Become a motivational speaker, teach soap-making in your home, explain basic photography techniques or advise others on creating a feng shui home. Be encouraging as you educate your clients, and they may recommend your classes to friends. You may consider a self-employed contracting position with community colleges, which typically offer continuing education courses open to the public. The classes are a form of advertising for your business.

Host Travelers

Turn a spare guest room into a sanctuary for travelers.

If you live in a tourist destination, consider hosting out-of-town travelers for a fee. Provide a room, meals and language assistance in exchange for cash. You might even offer tours to familiarize visitors with the area. The business requires minimal accommodations, such as a plain spare bedroom. Add stylish comforters, local artwork and an alarm clock. Internet access may be an important feature to guests as well. You could consider offering extra services for an additional fee, such as airport pick-up and drop-off.

References

• Joyfully Jobless: Creating a Steady Cashflow

Resources

• IRS: Self-Employed Individuals Tax Center