Posts Tagged ‘home business’
Is it Possible to Become a Wholesaler and Call it a Home Business?
Tuesday, October 14th, 2008
The short answer is yes. You see, there is this thing called the "China Price". This started with manufacturers in China selling their goods so much below the normal price that it sent shivers down the backs of manufacturers world wide. In the past, factories wanted to ship very large minimum quantities and have exclusive agents. With increasing competition and manufacturers from other countries having to offer the China Price the minimum order quantities demanded by factories have come down and exclusive agencies are getting less prevalent.
In theory, you can now order a product of a small enough quantity, store it in your house and sell it to retailers in your area. If the products are well chosen and you handle the business well, this can make serious money.
Let us take for instance a product that is below average in potential income to illustrate what is meant by the proposition here - instant electronic thermometers. You can buy these for about US$1.70 to US$1.80 delivered to you depending on where you live and the tax that has to be paid on them. They normally retail at between US$ 9.95 to US$14.95.
The sales can be to existing retailers, fund raising events and people who sell at weekend and night markets. These sales could be priced in the range of US$ 4.00 to US$ 5.00.
In addition, you could sell at markets yourself at perhaps US$ 8.00 per thermometer to make them very attractively priced.
It would be great to help the local school, club or charity organization by selling to them at wholesale prices so that they could resell at the normal retail price. This would extend your income greatly and you would be helping them raise money.
How many of these can you sell on average per week? That is like asking how long a piece of string is.
Sales per year depend on many factors, how big a market do you intend to tap, your commitment and skills and many other factors.
Take a reasonable example of a city of one million people as your market; the likely total potential market for instant electronic thermometers would probably be in the order of 80,000 thermometers per year. Since you are local and you have concentration on one product and if you are committed, it would be reasonable to assume you could sell 20,000 thermometers per year.
How much could you make from that? That again depends on how your sales are distributed. Your margins on sales to current retailers, market sales people and to schools, clubs and charities could average $2.50 each and your own sales at the markets, to friends and neighbors could average $6.00 each.
If the overall average margin is $3.00, you would have an income of $60,000 per year.
How much money do you have to invest in all this? It should be well under $10,000.
How many hours would you have to work on this per day? That depends on you. For the example above, it should not take a well organized person more than 3 to 4 hours average per day.
You could then add a complementary product and double your income.
This is just a basic overall view and there are many pitfalls and things to watch out for and things you have to do. A series of articles are being written to help you step by step to achieve your goals. Watch out for them.
Jag Kaurah, is CEO of MarketClub , located in Melbourne, Australia. MarketClub is an online shopping site and offers a variety of Home Business opportunities operable in any part of the world. Jag can be contacted at jag@marketclub.biz.
Article source: ArticleCity.com
Tags: ArticleCity.com, home business, jag kaurah, MarketClub, Starting a Business, startups, wholesaler
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Avoid Spring Cleaning (sort of) - 4 Ways to Clear Computer Clutter
Tuesday, April 1st, 2008
April 1st. Many know it by it’s widely known and celebrated OTHER name…April Fool’s Day. Unfortunately, for many others it’s also officially the first day of facing projects they’ve managed so diligently to put off all winter. And what is usually at the top of everyone’s list? That’s right, (cue Beethoven’s 5th):
Spring Cleaning!
(Yeah, I know…I thought maybe the happy colors would make it less painful but alas, there is no way to overcome the incredible demoralizing strength of those two words combined. They continue to stand the test of Time…and apparently the test of Color Wheel as well.)
Fortunately, I have an alternative for those who wish to avoid the catastrophes otherwise known as basements, garages and landscaping. Why not take this opportunity to a little spring cleaning–er–organizational restructuring for your business? Now I don’t mean you’re whole business. Just focus on your computer. It’s probably full of backlogged information that you could easily do without not only from an aesthetic aspect but also in the sense that getting rid of needless files and emails will make your computer run faster.
Courtesy ManageSmarter.com and My Computer Works , a PC repair company, here are 4 easy ways to clear your computer clutter:
1. Slow E-mail
Topping the list of performance issues for most people is e-mail problems. Some issues are caused by settings that are incorrectly entered into the e-mail application. However, it is possible to speed up Microsoft Outlook and other popular e-mail programs by archiving or pruning old e-mails, especially those with attachments. Deleting unneeded messages from the Sent folder and emptying the Deleted Items folder will also allow the software to open and operate smoothly.
2. Sluggish Operations
Another common problem is deteriorating PC performance. Boot-ups seem to take forever, applications don’t load as fast and the dreaded "blue screen of death" shows up more and more often. There are a number of things owners can do to improve the situation: defragment the hard drive using the Disk Defragmenter utility in Windows, remove unneeded personal files as well as old or unused programs, many of which get automatically loaded with new software whether you want them or not, remove unused programs. If run-time is still down after deleting the digital clutter, users should look into purchasing more RAM from a local retailer.
3. Security
Malware, spyware, viruses and other PC infections can slow PC performance, but they can also damage files and compromise highly confidential information such as email and financial data. It’s essential to install, and routinely update, anti-virus and anti-spyware/malware programs. Make sure the programs are set to scan files, e-mail and memory on a regular basis.
4. Periodic Cleanup/Backup
A little housekeeping can extend a PCs life and ensure that important information is never lost. Dust is a major problem with both laptops and desktop units; tower units are especially prone to dirt and dust since they usually sit on the floor. To clean a PC case, remove the side panel and use a can of compressed air to blow away dust. Never use a vacuum, as the suction causes static that can short-circuit delicate electronics. The last and perhaps most important task of all is to back up data at least weekly: PCs are replaceable, but photos, videos, financials and business data can be lost forever.
Taking the time to give your computer a little love will likely save you time and gray hairs…so grab a snack, plop down in front of that PC and knock it out. Come on, it’s gotta be better than whatever is waiting for you in the attic, right?
Tags: computer, E-Commerce and E-Business, e-mail, home business, PC, Rebecca Button, spring cleaning
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3 Steps to Staying Productive in Your Home-Based Business
Friday, February 1st, 2008
As many entrepreneurs know, working from home isn’t as easy as it seems. Being in control of your own time and freedom is powerful, but if misused you could find yourself watching TV, playing with the kids, surfing the internet, talking on the phone with friends - and wondering why you didn’t get anything done all day. Working from home is filled with all sorts of luring temptations - and the only way to stay productive during your workday is to give in to them as little as possible.
Being productive means getting the most amount of work done in the shortest amount of time. While the reward for that as an office employee just means more work, the reward for a productive day at the home office could mean increased profits for the week by as much as 15% - and that’s money that goes right into your bottom line!
How to get productive in 3 easy steps:
Schedule work hours - It’s nice to fantasize about waking up in the morning at your leisure and walking twenty paces in your pajamas to the office. But, in reality, a productive day means a scheduled day. It not only gives you structure for a working mindset, it lets friends and family know when you are working (and not available to socialize). Of course, working from home allows you to set your hours whenever you want. You can choose to work the hours that suit you best, say 6am-11am and then 7pm-9pm, or stick with the usual 9am-5pm workday. Then let your clients, friends and family know your schedule and add your office hours to your business’ voicemail and website.
Limit internet networking and e-mails - Online business socializing sites, business blogs and email can be crucial for making contacts, solidifying relationships and building your business; but if you’re not careful, they can easily overtake your workday. Answering emails could take up 2-3 hours of your day if you’re not careful. Try to limit emails and internet networking to a specific amount of time per day or per week. If you keep your email program closed all but during your specified “checking times”, you will be amazed at how much your productivity will increase during the day.
Plan out your day/week/month - With a schedule of tasks already laid out for you, you’ll have trouble convincing yourself that “there’s nothing to do”. Each day you should have a list of things to get done. You should also have longer-term goals laid out for each week and for the month. The best way to do this is with a dry erase board for your office wall. That makes the jobs easy to see and you’ll feel productive as you cross each one off the list.
Now that you have the tools necessary to make the most out of your stay-at-home workday, you just need to put them into action. Remember why you wanted to work at home in the first place - being productive will help you to achieve those goals even faster.
Tags: Carrie Hinkel, Growing Your Business, home based business, home business, management, staying productive
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Finding a Web Designer for Your Home Business Website
Thursday, January 24th, 2008
Your home business needs a website that is fully-functional and professional. Home businesses need to establish credibility; they should be an extension of your experience and skill. All too often, home businesses are turned down for larger companies, and your website can be a way of creating peace of mind for your customers. These reasons are why you need a talented web designer to create your website.
How to find a qualified website designer for your home business
It is not hard to find a qualified web designer for your needs, as web design is a hot industry. You should look for a pleasant web designer with proven results at creating effective websites. When interviewing candidates, make sure to ask to see their portfolio of work as well as for a list of references you can contact.
Your colleagues may be able to suggest a web designer who would succeed at creating your website for you. Ask other home business owners in your area at the next chamber of commerce meeting. Network - good web designers rely on positive word of mouth to market their services.
Web designers advertise almost exclusively on the Internet. There should be a web directory of businesses in your area, and it is almost guaranteed that there will be at least one web designer listed there. If not, look to see who designed the community business website and contact them. You can also use freelance sites like Guru and Elance to find web designers.
College campuses are a great place to find web designers for your website.
Community and technical colleges teach web design courses to students who are eager to design your home business website. Many of these students may be only credits away from earning a degree in web design and would appreciate the chance to expand their portfolio; therefore, you can hire them at a fraction of the cost of a professional we designer.
How can you find untapped student talent? Visit your local college campuses to find out about your options for getting the word out about your project, such as posting flyers in student common areas, or advertising in a student publication. You can even post a free listing on your local Craigslist site.
Make sure to establish terms before the work starts
When you’ve decided on a web designer to hire for your project, make sure you talk to them about your project terms before hiring them. What will the payment terms be - by the hour or for the project as a whole? What are your expectations as far as what the website will look like, what it will do, and when it should be ready? Come to an agreement with the designer beforehand, then get everything in writing to avoid confusion later.
Finding a web designer for your home business website does not have to be difficult, nor does it have to be expensive. Just make sure you have a good idea of what you want your home business website to be first, so you know what to look for in a web designer.
Tags: building a website, E-Commerce and E-Business, hiring a web designer, home business, Web Design
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Do Your Homework Before You Start Your Home Based Business
Friday, December 14th, 2007
How often have you caught yourself lecturing your children just like your parents did you to? One common theme is to do your homework. Not just in the literal after school variety, but checking in to jobs to apply for, future careers, colleges to attend. We want our kids to evaluate their alternatives and make good choices. We need to make sure we follow our own advice.
For many of us the idea of working at home sounds perfect. Get the kids off to school, finish off the coffee, and enjoy the 20 foot commute to the office. However ideal this may sound, make sure you have done your homework before you decide to quit your job and start working at home.
Working at home definitely has its advantages. You have the independence of working for yourself for the most part and setting your own schedule. It allows you the flexibility to balance priorities and schedules with work, and there are zero commuting costs or time lost commuting each day.
On the negative side, it can be difficult to get things done when you have lots of family distractions. Additionally, some people have a very hard time setting boundaries and can wind up working more at home than they ever did in the office. There are also a number of legal and tax issues to make sure you have resolution to before you start your work from home career.
Zoning
Your local city or county’s local zoning law may or may not allow you to run your business from your home when you live in a residential area, as most of us do. Being a freelance writer or web designer shouldn’t present a problem, but there can be problems if your business involves lots of car traffic in your neighborhood and causes parking issues for your neighbors.
If you live in an apartment or condominium, make sure to check with your association to see if there are any restrictions on your ability to have a business in your residence. Also, if you do find out it is ok to open a business in your house or apartment, find out if it is ok for you to put out a sign with your business name. Check to see if there are any restrictions as far size, colors, etc, for your sign.
Business Formation
When setting up your home based business, make sure you consider what type of entity you are going to set up. Consider an LLC (limited liability company) at the very least to protect yourself. If ever something happens and your company is sued, the LLC protects your personal assets; the only liability in the case of a judgment against your company would be the assets of the LLC, not your personal assets. There are different types of LLCs with different advantages and disadvantages. The best thing to do is spend a little bit of money and seek the advice of a competent CPA and also a competent business law attorney. The can advise you what is the best strategy for your situation and it will be well worth the money spent to talk with them for a half an hour or an hour.
If you have designed or come up with a unique name or logo for your business, obtain trademark protection. To learn if you need this type of protection and how to obtain it contact the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (www.upsto.gov ). You can also read about it in our article Trademarking Your Business: Why It’s Important .
Taxes
While you still have to pay taxes on your home based business, the good news is you can qualify for many tax advantages. You will need to learn the tax laws of your state in addition to federal tax laws. Put taxes on your list of things to talk to the accountant about, as different LLCs have different taxation for the wages you pay yourself. You will need to obtain a federal employer identification number (EIN) for your home-based business or you may be able to use your personal Social Security number; but check with the IRS online to be sure.(irs.gov )
Licenses
Many businesses require you to have a business license. To check if your business is one requiring a license from your city and/or state, you can check on requirements in your area through Business.gov (www.business.gov/topic/Licenses_and_Permits ).
While there are lots of considerations to take into account before opening a home based business, the benefits present a huge upside. Make sure you do your homework, and good luck pursuing your dreams.
Tags: advice, business licenses, home based business, home business, larry Slusser, Starting a Business, startups, taxes, tips, zoning
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Capital is Key
Monday, December 3rd, 2007
If you think "capital" is the uppercase letters at the beginning of a sentence, then this article is for you.
Capital: The Key to Starting a Successful Home Business
Tags: Accounting, capital, Finance, Finance and Accounting, home business, Rebecca Button, Starting a Business, startups
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How to Avoid Home Business Burnout
Monday, December 3rd, 2007
Burnout is very common among entrepreneurs, sadly enough, because of the long hours in the office and because of the solitude. There are ways to avoid becoming exhausted. It is important to break the monotony of working from home and release the pressures of being your own boss.
Five Ways to Avoid Home Business Burnout
Tags: advice, entrepreneur burnout, home business, Rebecca Button, small business, Starting a Business, tips
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Five Ways to Avoid Home Business Burnout
Monday, December 3rd, 2007
If you run your own home business, you know how tough it can be. Everyone is envious of home business owners; they get to set their own hours, dress however they choose, and create their own rules. What most people don’t realize is that you are responsible for every aspect of your business, you often work very long hours, and you can never truly get away from the office.
Burnout is very common among entrepreneurs, sadly enough, because of the long hours in the office and because of the solitude. There are ways to avoid becoming exhausted. It is important to break the monotony of working from home and release the pressures of being your own boss.
Exercise
Exercise is one of the best ways to burn off steam, and staying fit provides the energy you need to work those long days. If you have a gym membership, use it regularly. In fact, you can schedule trips to the gym to avoid the peak gym times if your workload allows. You can miss the crowds before and after normal business hours.
Getting exercise doesn’t mean you have to go to the gym. Even a brisk walk around the block will get your blood flowing and help you release stress. Not only will the sunlight energize you, the time away from your desk will help clear your mind.
Get Away
Sure, home businesses do require a great deal of attention. You should schedule a vacation or a long weekend every so often. With the freedom to set your own time off, you can plan to vacation during the off-season. A full-fledged vacation every six months would be ideal, but perhaps impractical if your business relies on you to physically be present.
A short getaway to a nearby city for a long weekend or even an overnight stay will give you time away from the office. You need this time to mentally and physically re-group, and going to a new location will allow you to think about things other than clients and deadlines.
If you must work while you’re away from home, you could turn your time away from home into a marketing adventure. Don’t forget your business cards - you may win some new clients while taking time away from home.
Set a Schedule and Stick to It
The average day for someone who works at home can vary. One day you could be rushing to finish a project, while the next day you could be focused on marketing. It is not uncommon to wear many hats during a single day. Although your schedule may be hard to plan, it is important to develop set timeframe of when you’ll be working.
Without a set schedule in place, you will probably find yourself working much more than you did at a traditional job. Most people who work at home have a hard time getting out of the office, as their reputation is at risk and they want to achieve success even more than when they were working for someone else. It is a fact that anyone who works more than fifty-five hours per week will get burned out eventually.
Don’t spread yourself too thin. Being at your personal best means not being overly tired and being able to devote quality attention to each project. Establish hours of operation for your home business, such as from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm daily.
Bring Your Dog (or Pet) to Work
Studies have shown that pets in the workplace reduce stress. If you have a dog, cat, or other pet, let them hang out in your home office while you’re working. Pets are great to have in the home office, as they are quietly supportive, great companions, and they admire you no matter how poorly your day is going. Plus, dogs will eventually have to go for a walk; this will get you outside for a short while, away from stress in the office. Cats make wonderful office companions, as they (usually) require very little attention and are less of a distraction than dogs.
Weekly Treats
Remember how exciting it was when you worked for a company that brought bagels or lunches in for the employees? It was both motivating and friendly. You can bring that to your home office, too. Treat yourself to muffins and specialty coffee at least once a week. You could order lunch from your favorite caf� in town, or even order a pizza for those late workdays.
Doing something nice for yourself during the day is a great reward, and it will give you something to look forward to. Most businesses that deliver allow you to order online, or at least provide menus online, so ordering is easy and quick. Best of all, it could be the one day of the week when you don’t skip lunch because you’re too busy!
Tags: advice, burnout, home business, Starting a Business, tips, work from home
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The Best Home Businesses for Work at Home Moms
Tuesday, November 27th, 2007
There’s a growing trend for people to work from home these days, especially in today’s climate of job insecurity, mergers and company collapses. One market that has grown exponentially in the last ten years is work at home moms (or WAHMs), especially new mothers. It’s an ideal arrangement, since the mom gets to spend more time with her family, and start her own business at the same time. So what are some of the best home businesses for WAHMs?
* Starting an online business. This could be anything, and you can start from the smallest amount of income as well. Whether you become an affiliate marketer and sell other people’s products on your site, or even become an eBay Power Seller, the options are almost limitless here. Just make sure you don’t get caught up in one of the hundreds of scam businesses out there - a quick check on the Better Business Bureau website will help you find out. For more information, check out our article Avoiding Work At Home Scams .
* Become a scrapbook organizer. Although this may sound unusual, it’s precisely because of this that you will have a better chance of success. Artwork and design is always needed, and if you can provide a service where you help people gather all their precious photographs and memoirs together, you’ll find yourself in a niche area that pays well and has a lot of inquiries.
* Offer pet services. One of the reasons that many people are wishing they could work at home is that it would give them some of their home life back. This is especially true of pet owners, who find themselves with less time to walk their dogs or having to arrange pet sitters when they go on vacation. This is an excellent market for someone to get into, and pays reasonably well too.
* Run a day care center. This is another ideal home-based business for a work at home mom, since you’re already caring for your own children. You’ll need to pass certain requirements and meet strict regulations, including a police clearance check, but for those that are eligible, this is an excellent home-based business.
* Become a wine consultant. Perhaps the dream job for many people, and not just work at home moms, this involves organizing house parties for wine tasting, and selling specialist wines to friends and family. It’s harder work than it sounds (you’ll need to invest time and money into books and classes on wine-tasting, if you don’t already have expertise), but it is a lot of fun and is one of the more enjoyable home based businesses.
* Make gifts and accessories. If you look on eBay, you’ll see literally thousands of small items for sale, and many of these have been handmade by the seller. By taking this one step further and making unique gifts and gift baskets, or even bespoke presents, you can sell them though eBay and make a good profit. Additionally, open up your own webstore and sell them directly to the public.
As you can see, there are many varied options for setting up a home business for the work at home mom. These are just a few examples - there are many more, and it depends on your skills and creativity. One thing that can’t be denied is that there are more choices than ever before, making the opportunity to have a work at home business a strong one.
Tags: advice, danny brown, home business, Starting a Business, startups, tips, women entrepreneurs, work at home moms
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