When the economy is bad, jobs can be difficult to find due to increased competition and low hiring rates. To stay afloat during an economic hard time, you can start a small business that will allow you to work and maintain an income. To keep costs down, choose a business that has a low start-up cost and that can be run from your home or a cheap rental space.
Web Development
Even in a tough economy, businesses are in need of website development and maintenance. If you have coding, search engine optimization or design skills, you can start a web development business. Start with local businesses and offer a lower rate than established web companies to entice companies to go with your services. Build a portfolio that shows off your best work, and emphasize your personal service and dedication to customer satisfaction. If you have a specific background in a particular industry, consider going after clients in that area. Your expertise can be useful in choosing a design and function that will help clients.
Handmade Wedding Items
Weddings go on no matter what the state of the economy, and brides who are looking for unique weddings often look for handcrafted items. Set up a business selling your crafts on a dedicated website or a site like Etsy, which includes an ordering function and personalized display page. Take high-quality photos of your items to include, and broadcast your store's link on Facebook, Twitter and your email list. Spread the word by commenting on wedding blogs and including a link to your store in the signature and take out advertisements on wedding websites.
Fitness Classes
Even in hard times, consumers want to stay fit, and you can capitalize on their desire by starting a fitness class business. Rent a space in a local church or community center and check into the certifications that are required to hold fitness classes in your city or state. Start with large, low-cost classes. Choose offerings that call to the local community: you might do a parent-and-child class if your town has many young families, for example, or offer classes that are not available at local fitness centers.
Child Care
Child care can be a competitive and lucrative business, and requires only your home. Start by securing the necessary certifications or permits that are required by your state. You may need to have your home inspected for safety. Advertise your child care business among friends, former colleagues and contacts in your community. Pass the word along, mentioning your competitive prices, and ask friends and family to spread the news. Childcare businesses are ideal for mothers with children at home because they allow them to make money without neglecting their own kids.
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