Business IDEAS for Small Spaces
Have you ever wanted to start your own business? If so, you realize that there are a lot of risks involved, not to mention that it may require you to take out a loan or quit your current job. While that sounds great on paper, not all of us can completely give up our 9-to-5 jobs. You can, however, start a side business and keep working on it until it has enough traction to become a full-time job.
When I started my own company years back, I was working at a job. I realized that I wanted more but was really scared of moving forward and quitting. I decided to take it at a level I was comfortable with. I built a side business while working my job. By the time I quit, I was earning almost double outside of work than I was inside my regular job. It was still one of the hardest things I'd ever done, giving up my stability for the unknown.
When deciding on a business idea, let factors like your passion and expertise guide you. You also want to consider how difficult and expensive it will be to launch this side business. In most cases, your business idea should be relatively inexpensive to start. You should reinvest what you make into the business to help it grow faster. Finally, you want to make sure that your business idea is legal. You don't want to get in trouble with the law or IRS. I recommend setting up a company to help protect you personally, as well.
If you're still stuck on business ideas that you can launch while working full-time, here are 25 possibilities to help get you started.
1. Local Business Consultant
If you have experience or knowledge in a specified field, then put those skills sets or certifications to use by becoming a consultant for local business owners. There are plenty of businesses that might be willing to pair with you to help them solve a problem, such as implementing a business strategy or managing social media. You can use this handy 18-Step Checklist to get started.
2. Repairs or Handyman
If you're good at home repairs, like replacing a window, fixing a leaking pipe, or putting together a piece of furniture, you can definitely use those skills to help people who either don't have the time or skills to do so on their own.
3. Graphic Design
Having experience or training in graphic design is definitely a plus. But if this is an area that excites you, you can learn graphic design on your own and become one of the 10 million designers now working in the U.S. Also, there are now sites like Canva and Adobe Post that make graphic design work possible for anyone.
4. Web or App Design and Development
Web or app design and development is another field that is becoming increasingly important for businesses, as they look to enhance the experience of their customers. Just as with graphic design, experience is beneficial, but there numerous online courses on sites like General Assembly, Skillcrush, or CareerFoundry that can teach these skills.