Some of you visit SmallBizMentor because you're already operating a small- or home-based business...others are in the planning stages (or even just mulling over the concept). One thing we all have in common is that entrepreneurial spirit that makes us stop and think about all of the available options. Whether you want to work from home or create a brick-and-mortar shop that will let your passions flow and keep you "out and about" in the business community, there are plenty to choose from.
Those of you who have figured out that striking out on your own is the way to go but haven't decided exactly what that will entail will be interested in some of these resources. Some may strike you as exciting, others may smack of "too good to be true"; that part is up to you to decide. The most important concept to take away from each is some food for thought. Nothing strikes you as "you"? Let them percolate for a day, week, or month. Some of these may inspire you to create your very own niche!
Places to go so you can start brewing:
- Altavado Limited's HomeJobIdeas.com isn't an exhaustive resource, but their list of home-based income opportunities will at least get you thinking. Some of these, such as event organizing and a photography business, can actually be done from home or from a traditional office or retail space. Don't limit yourself by thinking you must work from home if you prefer to be out of the house...but consider the option since it does reduce your overhead.
- Success from Home is a fairly new publication that caters to "independent business-builders worldwide" by featuring in-depth success stories from direct selling companies. Looks like their website isn't complete yet, but the February 2006 issue of their print publication I purchased this week offers a lot of information about EcoQuest International. Direct selling may be an option for you, but remember the old phrase "caveat emptor" when it comes to investing in certain opportunities. (Just my personal little two cents for ya.)
- Considering a franchise operation? There are tons of companies advertising in Home Business, and the publication features success stories as well. This is another way to start your brainstorming process. At the very least, you can sit down and mark off the businesses you would not want to participate in. If you truly don't know what you want to do, eliminating the things you completely don't want will get you going! (Rather like the way I cook dinner...I may not know what I want, but I do know what I'm NOT in the mood for!)
- Last but most definitely not least is one of my personal faves, Entrepreneur. All I can say, folks, is resources, resources, resources. But that's a story for another post! Take my word on this one...if you need ideas for creating a business, head on over to their site. Then come back here to SmallBizMentor so we can discuss a plan for where you're going and how you're getting there!
Don't forget: to create a successful business, you must plan ahead. Let's work on that plan together! If you've got questions, be sure to email me or leave a comment so we can all learn together.
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