Whether you have been in paid employment all your life or you’re an experienced entrepreneur, trying to find a business that fits in with your family needs can be a challenge, especially if you are relying on the income.
The options are limitless if you just use some imagination and think about what you are good at – and enjoy – doing. We’ve whittled down the list to 10 ideas to help you get started. If you need more ideas, just drop us a line at editor@motherswhowork.co.uk, we?re always happy to help, or see some of the related articles at the end of the feature.
1.Childminder
The obvious advantage with being a childminder is that you can earn a regular income while looking after your own children in your own home. Not only does this mean you don’t need to fork out for childcare yourself, it also gives you the flexibility to choose your hours and days of work.
Childminders must be registered with Ofsted and they can look after a maximum of six children, including their own. Your home will be inspected to ensure it is safe and suitable for children.
2.Freelance copywriter/sub-editor/proofreader
If you have a publishing or media background, this will be a natural choice for you. You can choose how much work to take on and what hours you wish to work, but, remember, you may still have deadlines. All you need is a home computer and access to the internet, and assuming start-up costs are negligible.
3. CV writer
A CV writer prepares CVs and covering letters in consultation with clients. You may get contacts in person, over the phone or online. You will need to be able to write clearly and succinctly. The market for CV writers is very competitive.
4. eBay trader
eBay traders make a profit by selling goods using online auctions. About 160,000 people currently make a living from eBay while countless others use it to supplement their income.
It can be a time-consuming business, though, as you need to answer bidders? questions, pack and post goods, organise new listings, as well as keep an eye on the market and buy goods. No formal training is required to start trading on eBay, but there are courses and books that can help you optimize your sales and profits.
5. Translator
If you are fluent in another language or more, translation work may be a good route. You may have to translate scientific text, legal documents or novels.
6. Virtual office assistant
A virtual assistant provides administrative support for clients. You will work from your home and communicate through electronic media. Duties typically include answering a clients calls (which will often be diverted to your phone line), secretarial tasks, book-keeping, typing, filing (electronically, obviously), travel booking and data entry. Working hours are usually flexible.
This is becoming a popular option for people with secretarial, PA and administrative backgrounds, so if this sounds like you, and you have some years? experience under your belt this could be a great way to become your own boss.
7. Ironing and cleaning service
If you can get through the family’s weekly load, and can get the house looking pristine in a flash, you might have a natural knack for ironing and cleaning – why not get paid to help other people out? You literally just need to print a few leaflets, post them through letterboxes and wait for the phone to start ringing. This is another hob that you can do in your own time, and dictate your working hours.
8. Web developer/web designer
Smallscale website designers and developers can work from home with minimal face-to-face contact with clients. A background in web design and development will help when starting out on your own. You can take on as much or as little work as you want.
There are many outsourcing websites out that help providers connect with businesses who need to outsource various projects: People Per Hour, Workology, Remote Employment and Elance are just a handful.
9. Sewing and embroidery service
You can offer various services including textile repairs, embroidering logos onto clothing and linen. It?s a thriving but competitive industry, as it appeals to people interested in developing a business with low overheads. So dust off that sewing machine or overlocker and start making contacts.
10. Homemade food producer
If you?re a dab hand in the kitchen and like creating treats that people love to eat, this could be perfect for you.
A producer may make marmalades, jams, jellies, curds, pickles, chutneys, tray bakes (such as flapjacks), cakes, muffins, biscuits, toffee, nut brittle, fudge, or even soups. You may sell direct to the consumer or through retailers, hoteliers and restaurateurs. You will need knowledge of specific food production techniques and have a creative approach to food.
For more in-depth tips and advice on finding a good solution for staying home and raising your child, read the How to Stay Home and Earn Money guide.