2009 Money moves: Start a side business
Remember all those great business ideas you once wished you had time to pursue? Well, many of us now have the time, and while, sure, the economy sucks, a good idea diligently pursued can still succeed. Perhaps now is the right time to begin a side business, to pad your take-home pay and cushion you against a sudden job loss.
Many people succeed by discovering an unfulfilled niche. Among those that have caught my eye recently are --
Internet dating coaches who help people make iHarmony and similar sites work for them
Salvaging architectural details from old houses
Managing medical records and expenses for the elderly
However, a new idea isn't essential. Many tried and true businesses such as house cleaning, maintenance, dog walking, pet sitting, tutoring, and secretarial services, can be started on a shoestring. Such businesses also allow you to keep the time commitment under control. A common mistake many make is to launch a side business that requires a great time commitment well in advance of anticipated earnings (such as a storefront operation). Those people end up working twice as many hours a week for no more money. Ouch!
