...continuing the last blog entry...
*"Spend some time planning how you will use your time, and always allow for the unexpected by scheduling 'just-in-case time,' says one home-based working mother of several children. She suggests to help eliminate stress caused by attempts to balancing parenting and money-maker roles, that you concentrate on time management and planning.
*Realize family "emergencies" can happen any time and disrupt your business schedule. Prepare for this with back-up plans and building in some extra time to complete a project.
*Take breaks with your family. Depending on the age of your child, take periodic breaks to eat lunch, take a walk, play a short game, or do some other one-on-one activity with them.
*"Do not forget why you are home in the first place," says another home-based mother. She says to take time with your children and significant other. "They grow up so quickly, and you can never have yesterday back. Live today to the fullest." One parent often takes turns taking her daughters to lunch or shopping, one-on-one time.
to be continued...
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
INTEGRATING HOME & BUSINESS WORK SPACE**
One of the reasons many women and men want to work from home is to stay home with their children, usually with their pre-school children. But older children and teens may need even more support these days with their academic and activities' demands (not to mention the potential for all kinds of "trouble" that can occur in a home with no adult supervision!). It can be especially hectic to work from home with children of any ages, but here are some helpful tips from parents who do:
*Involve your children when possible. When her four children were at home, Patricia C. Gallagher (http://www.patriciausa.com/), MBA and professional speaker, says to involve your children so they really feel they are contributing, and celebrate with them when something special happens in your business.
*Try to keep to a working schedule so your children will know when you are and are not working. Have a sign posted or a signal they know that means you are busy at the moment.
(excerpt, 101 Best Home-Business Success Secrets for Women)
...to be continued.
*Involve your children when possible. When her four children were at home, Patricia C. Gallagher (http://www.patriciausa.com/), MBA and professional speaker, says to involve your children so they really feel they are contributing, and celebrate with them when something special happens in your business.
*Try to keep to a working schedule so your children will know when you are and are not working. Have a sign posted or a signal they know that means you are busy at the moment.
(excerpt, 101 Best Home-Business Success Secrets for Women)
...to be continued.
Friday, October 21, 2011
“Hot” Jobs May Be Leads for In-Demand Businesses; Zazzle.com
“Hot” Jobs May Be Leads for In-Demand Businesses; Zazzle.com
A tip for starting a business is to see what industry and types of jobs need employees. For example, a NPR.org feature described how there is a shortage of chemical engineers…and especially a need for truckers (NPR.org http://tinyurl.com/6hnqq85). Thus, if you have experience and training in chemical engineering, for example, you might consider being a consultant; or conduct your own independent studies; or in being a long-short haul trucker, you might start your own trucking company.
Stay updated with the jobs in demand by taking note of “hot” job news stories, government occupational jobs’ outlook, and trade and industry reports. Then see how you might create a business based on the demand for these services and-or products. Depending on your present skills and knowledge, you may need extra training and-or schooling to start a business.
***
If you are creative with phrases, illustrations, and-or photography, look in designing your own apparel and other products using Zazzle.com. Here are a tie and a t-shirt I designed for my son, a biologist; and my friend who raises Monarch butterflies.
http://www.zazzle.com/dscf6544_monarchs_mama_tshirt-235074232534130959
http://www.zazzle.com/female_prometheus_moth_tie-151316772747473425
-30-
A tip for starting a business is to see what industry and types of jobs need employees. For example, a NPR.org feature described how there is a shortage of chemical engineers…and especially a need for truckers (NPR.org http://tinyurl.com/6hnqq85). Thus, if you have experience and training in chemical engineering, for example, you might consider being a consultant; or conduct your own independent studies; or in being a long-short haul trucker, you might start your own trucking company.
Stay updated with the jobs in demand by taking note of “hot” job news stories, government occupational jobs’ outlook, and trade and industry reports. Then see how you might create a business based on the demand for these services and-or products. Depending on your present skills and knowledge, you may need extra training and-or schooling to start a business.
***
If you are creative with phrases, illustrations, and-or photography, look in designing your own apparel and other products using Zazzle.com. Here are a tie and a t-shirt I designed for my son, a biologist; and my friend who raises Monarch butterflies.
http://www.zazzle.com/dscf6544_monarchs_mama_tshirt-235074232534130959
http://www.zazzle.com/female_prometheus_moth_tie-151316772747473425
-30-
Thursday, September 8, 2011
Miss Stephanie’s Potions
Here is a creative entrepreneur that I read about on Linked-in:
Stephanie Corey left Corporate America to start her own company after her seven year old son developed a debilitating fear of zombies and refused to go to bed at night. She now makes:
*5 all-natural, deliciously scented products that repel monsters (or turn them into friends if you happen to catch them);
*"Monster Armor” bath products that cover children in all night protective monster armor;
*Fairy attraction spray to bring fairies and sweet dreams.
She uses a certified green manufacturer out of Michigan. Along with her sprays and bath products, and T-shirts, Stephanie Corey’s company will soon be offering stuffed animals with all the characters, as well as “Essence of Fairy Dust” bath products.
Stephanie Corey has her M.B.A. from Lehigh University, and B.A. in Economics from Wilkes University
For more information: www.MissStephaniesPotions.com and direct email is Stephanie@MissStephaniesPotions.com.
-30-
Stephanie Corey left Corporate America to start her own company after her seven year old son developed a debilitating fear of zombies and refused to go to bed at night. She now makes:
*5 all-natural, deliciously scented products that repel monsters (or turn them into friends if you happen to catch them);
*"Monster Armor” bath products that cover children in all night protective monster armor;
*Fairy attraction spray to bring fairies and sweet dreams.
She uses a certified green manufacturer out of Michigan. Along with her sprays and bath products, and T-shirts, Stephanie Corey’s company will soon be offering stuffed animals with all the characters, as well as “Essence of Fairy Dust” bath products.
Stephanie Corey has her M.B.A. from Lehigh University, and B.A. in Economics from Wilkes University
For more information: www.MissStephaniesPotions.com and direct email is Stephanie@MissStephaniesPotions.com.
-30-
Thursday, August 18, 2011
U. S. Factory Tours; Made by U. S. Companies.
A relative of my husband’s loves to visit factories wherever she travels, especially those that are (1) free; and (2) offer product samples. These tours are an excellent marketing tool for these companies; plus it helps to support companies that make and produce items here in the U. S.
In middle school, one of our class trips was a tour of the candy company, Hershey Chocolate. They no longer have these, but instead have turned it into a ride, “Hershey’s Chocolate World,” located just outside the Hershey Amusement Park in Hershey, Pennsylvania. www.hersheys.com/chocolateworld/.
My husband, friends and I visited the Yuengling Brewery in April. A fun, short tour ending with a cup of free brew or soda. www.yuengling.com/breweries/pottsville.
We also enjoy a local cable network, “PCN Tours,” featuring local businesses and manufacturers in Pennsylvania: www.pcntv.com/shows_tours.html.
Here are two related sites of interest for you:
*Factory Tours – www.factorytoursusa.com/
*Reviews of U. S companies – www.usstuff.com/
-30-
In middle school, one of our class trips was a tour of the candy company, Hershey Chocolate. They no longer have these, but instead have turned it into a ride, “Hershey’s Chocolate World,” located just outside the Hershey Amusement Park in Hershey, Pennsylvania. www.hersheys.com/chocolateworld/.
My husband, friends and I visited the Yuengling Brewery in April. A fun, short tour ending with a cup of free brew or soda. www.yuengling.com/breweries/pottsville.
We also enjoy a local cable network, “PCN Tours,” featuring local businesses and manufacturers in Pennsylvania: www.pcntv.com/shows_tours.html.
Here are two related sites of interest for you:
*Factory Tours – www.factorytoursusa.com/
*Reviews of U. S companies – www.usstuff.com/
-30-
Friday, August 5, 2011
FEATURE INTERVIEW: Eva Asmar - Bionée Certified Organic Maternity Skin Care
1) What inspired you to start your business (es)?
What inspired me were my pregnancy and my experience in product development at international cosmetics companies. While pregnant with my first child I was unsatisfied with the products available to me on the market. With 10+ years of experience in the industry I knew there was more out there that I could offer women like myself.
2) A brief description of your business (es)?
Bionée is an organic certified skin care brand dedicated to mothers, moms to be and babies. We strive to provide safe and efficient products for women and their children. Our skin care line is divided into 3 categories: Pregnancy, Motherhood and Baby.
3) Your most effective method(s) of promoting your businesses?
I believe that if you have a good product there is no need for actual promotion in its strong sense. I truly believe that moms are savvy and very educated about what is safe for their babies and themselves, and they share that knowledge with other moms! Bionée offers the safest and most indulgent ingredients in the market, so it’s only a matter of trying the products to be convinced about its effectiveness. We are also becoming a player in the direct selling industry where ‘playdates’ become opportunities for sharing knowledge about healthy beauty care and Bionée’s products among moms!
4) Your best customers?
Women, Mothers, Moms-to-be, and children!
5) What do you consider your best business achievement?
My best business achievement is the great feedback I’m receiving from other moms that introduced Bionée into their beauty routine. I also consider an achievement the fact that moms are very serene about applying these gentle ingredients on their babies and on their own skin, and seeing children playing with the lotion and loving the fragrances!
6) What do you like about being a business owner?
As an entrepreneur and work at home mom I love the freedom of being able to make my own schedule so that I can spend more time with my son Gabriel and prepare for the new baby that is on the way, as well as build my new business!
7) Do you have a business success tip in tough economic times?
There is nothing more important than being close to your customers; at Bionée we rate our success by building friendships and relationships with other moms through our playdates. We are also in contact with mom-bloggers, and we try to assist at and attend every mom event we can! I am pregnant with my second child at the moment so I perfectly understand future moms and young moms. I relate to them and they relate to me. There is nothing more important than to understand the needs of your customers and their purchase behaviors: where she shops, what she eats, what she does in her free time, where she buys diapers from, etc...
8) Do you have a favorite business-building idea(s)?
At Bionée we say “Become who you are” and do not force yourself into roles imposed by others. My business building idea to share, is that you have to know the market you are entering well, inform yourself and evaluate issues that your products may face, be prepared! But most importantly I believe that every successful entrepreneur has to be an expert in his/her domain as well as a good business person. My past experience in the beauty industry was a key factor in the success of Bionée.
9) Do you wish to add any additional comments or tips for our readers?
My tips for a new entrepreneur would be - Be patient because things will happen if you work hard! And be passionate to inspire others and make them follow you!
10) Goals for your business in 2011 and beyond?
Right now we are trying to bring together moms who want to be part of our adventure and become an entrepreneur like me! We are currently enlisting passionate mothers and women to join our “Advocate” program (www.bionee.com/advocate) to promote our products through “educational playdates”. In the next year we would like to grow and expand this program. We also have 11 new products in the making that we hope will hit the market soon!
11) Your Name, name of business, web site, other?
Name: Eva Asmar
Business: Bionée Certified Organic Maternity Skin Care
Website: www.bionee.com, Facebook: www.facebook.com/bionee, Twitter: www.twitter.com/bionee, Blog: www.bionee.com/blog
-30-
What inspired me were my pregnancy and my experience in product development at international cosmetics companies. While pregnant with my first child I was unsatisfied with the products available to me on the market. With 10+ years of experience in the industry I knew there was more out there that I could offer women like myself.
2) A brief description of your business (es)?
Bionée is an organic certified skin care brand dedicated to mothers, moms to be and babies. We strive to provide safe and efficient products for women and their children. Our skin care line is divided into 3 categories: Pregnancy, Motherhood and Baby.
3) Your most effective method(s) of promoting your businesses?
I believe that if you have a good product there is no need for actual promotion in its strong sense. I truly believe that moms are savvy and very educated about what is safe for their babies and themselves, and they share that knowledge with other moms! Bionée offers the safest and most indulgent ingredients in the market, so it’s only a matter of trying the products to be convinced about its effectiveness. We are also becoming a player in the direct selling industry where ‘playdates’ become opportunities for sharing knowledge about healthy beauty care and Bionée’s products among moms!
4) Your best customers?
Women, Mothers, Moms-to-be, and children!
5) What do you consider your best business achievement?
My best business achievement is the great feedback I’m receiving from other moms that introduced Bionée into their beauty routine. I also consider an achievement the fact that moms are very serene about applying these gentle ingredients on their babies and on their own skin, and seeing children playing with the lotion and loving the fragrances!
6) What do you like about being a business owner?
As an entrepreneur and work at home mom I love the freedom of being able to make my own schedule so that I can spend more time with my son Gabriel and prepare for the new baby that is on the way, as well as build my new business!
7) Do you have a business success tip in tough economic times?
There is nothing more important than being close to your customers; at Bionée we rate our success by building friendships and relationships with other moms through our playdates. We are also in contact with mom-bloggers, and we try to assist at and attend every mom event we can! I am pregnant with my second child at the moment so I perfectly understand future moms and young moms. I relate to them and they relate to me. There is nothing more important than to understand the needs of your customers and their purchase behaviors: where she shops, what she eats, what she does in her free time, where she buys diapers from, etc...
8) Do you have a favorite business-building idea(s)?
At Bionée we say “Become who you are” and do not force yourself into roles imposed by others. My business building idea to share, is that you have to know the market you are entering well, inform yourself and evaluate issues that your products may face, be prepared! But most importantly I believe that every successful entrepreneur has to be an expert in his/her domain as well as a good business person. My past experience in the beauty industry was a key factor in the success of Bionée.
9) Do you wish to add any additional comments or tips for our readers?
My tips for a new entrepreneur would be - Be patient because things will happen if you work hard! And be passionate to inspire others and make them follow you!
10) Goals for your business in 2011 and beyond?
Right now we are trying to bring together moms who want to be part of our adventure and become an entrepreneur like me! We are currently enlisting passionate mothers and women to join our “Advocate” program (www.bionee.com/advocate) to promote our products through “educational playdates”. In the next year we would like to grow and expand this program. We also have 11 new products in the making that we hope will hit the market soon!
11) Your Name, name of business, web site, other?
Name: Eva Asmar
Business: Bionée Certified Organic Maternity Skin Care
Website: www.bionee.com, Facebook: www.facebook.com/bionee, Twitter: www.twitter.com/bionee, Blog: www.bionee.com/blog
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
Tips for Starting a Home-Based Business in a Recession
LAID-OFF? DOWNSIZED OUT? OR FACING THE POSSIBILITY OF? IF SO, HERE ARE TIPS FOR STARTING A HOME BUSINESS
If you are one of those who has been laid-off, downsized, or fear you are about to be, this may be the time for you to consider joining the ranks of the millions of home-based business owners.
Prepare, Plan, and Persevere
No matter if you expect or expected a job loss, or if you were unceremoniously “dumped” from your position, you may still suffer an emotional “shock” of sorts. However, #1 if you see your unemployment time as an opportunity to follow a work “passion” or “dream,” you will be more likely to recover faster and accomplish the goal of being a successful home-business owner. Here are common-sense tips to help you succeed in a home-business startup if you are either unemployed or may be shortly:
Preparation
Even though you may want to start a home business immediately, taking preparation steps like the following will help insure your venture’ success:
*Research a home business idea(s) that interests you to see if a profitable market exists (potential customers).
*Assess what marketable skills you have gained through job and volunteer experiences. You could write a resume’ for yourself and then list all the skills you have gained from each paid and volunteer experience and decide which will be best utilized in your business. Choose a business idea you really like, because you will be working many hours to make your home-business startup a success.
*“Match” your skills with your desired business idea. Decide if you will need more training, education, and/or work experience in order to pursue your chosen venture.
*Consult with your family and discuss the impact a new business could have on their lives in terms of your time and the money that will be involved. Enlist their help and reward them accordingly.
*Gather your business’ experts such as a lawyer, accountant, insurance agent, business coach, computer consultant, financial advisor and other professionals before you start-up so you will know whom to turn to when you need their advice.
*Legal Considerations. Find out from local, state, and federal agencies what licenses, permits, you need, and if there are zoning considerations for your home business. Determine your business’ structure.
Essential Plans
The adage that explains why many businesses go under, ‘Businesses do not plan to fail; they fail to plan,’ really is true. Do not neglect to create the following plans:
*Business Plan – A business plan is a blueprint or strategic plan for you to follow in setting up and managing a business. If you need help in writing one, seek a small business consultant, or use books and software like Linda Pinson’s Anatomy of a Business Plan and Automate Your Business Plan.
*Financial Plan – This will include two parts: personal financial planning; and one for your business start-up and on-going finances. Eliminate as much personal debt as you can and try to have at least six months living expenses saved before you start a business full-time. Do not underestimate your business’ startup costs. Make sure your business’ prices factor in your overhead and other expenses, your profit margin, and a salary for yourself.
*Marketing Plan – Experts recommend that a new business owner spend 50 to 75 percent of his/her time in marketing their new business. Take time to plan your marketing strategies. Research your competition and strive to find your business’ market “niche” –what will make your business unique in its offerings to its customers.
Perseverance
True entrepreneurs persevere and never give up until they find the answers that lead them to business success. Persevere until you…
*Conquer your fear of failure. – Many successful entrepreneurs have failed in their previous startup ventures, but learned from their mistakes and have gone on have profitable enterprises. *Learn to manage your business. – Monitor your business’ cashflow, and its expenditures and profits, and make adjustments as needed to keep your businesses thriving and going forward.
*Know how to stay current. Know the latest in trends and technology in your industry and be flexible to change if the profits are to be made in those new directions. Trade groups and business publications are good sources of this information.
*Put customers’ needs first and have lots of them! Maintain a quality product, service, and treat all customers with respect. This policy will help develop loyalty with current customers and attract new ones, without having to lower your prices in the face of competition or in a slow economy.
Working a Home Business Venture Around Your Day Job
If you fear that your days in your current job may be numbered, you might consider starting a venture now and operating it inconspicuously while at your day job. Make use of mobile technology, such as a cell phone, a laptop computer with a business e-mail address, and other devices that you can use in during work and lunch breaks to market your business and reach customers. In using time more efficiently, many new entrepreneurs discover they can free up time for business tasks they can do at their current job or later when they are home. (SEE article, “Sneak a Part-Time Home Business Around Your Day Job”).
First Customers—Your Former Boss, Co-Workers, Clients
Many home business entrepreneurs’ first clients are the people with whom they have worked for or with previously. If you have been a valued employee, but management was forced to let you go, you may be able to work for them as an independent contractor. If your business will compete with your former company, it is best to first check with an experienced attorney about non-compete contract issues, protected trade secrets, and former client business relationships so you will not be sued. However, if your business does not compete, people you know will be more likely to become your first customers because generally, people like doing business with people they know.
Possible Start-Up Funds from Your Existing or Previous Job
Realize that it make take six months or longer for your business to turn a profit, so the more funds you have available for your new venture, the longer your business can survive. If you are still employed, check to see if you will be getting a severance or retirement package, and if you will qualify for unemployment compensation that could help finance a business or pay living expenses. You may be able to cash in company stock or use money form your 401K, but know there may be restrictions and possible taxes to pay.
It may be daunting to start a business, especially when a regular paycheck is no longer a reality, but with careful planning and preparation, your home business can provide a good living and you and your family a good life.
SIDEBAR: Resources Close to Home
Some of the best resources for information for your home business startup can be found right in your own neighborhood. Here are some of the best:
1) Public and College Libraries – Provides business-related books, publications, directories, and Internet access (if you do not have a computer).
2) Business Owners’ Organizations – Local chamber of commerce organizations, women’s business clubs, and local chapters of trade associations can provide you with networking opportunities, business tips and and possibly mentors to guide you.
3) Government: – Offices of local agencies, state (or province) officials, and regional offices of federal agencies such as Women’s Business Development Centers (www.sba.gov), Small Business Development Centers (www.sba.gov/), and offices of SCORE (www.score.org) can provide you with free or low-cost business consulting.
-30-
Previously published in HOME BUSINESS® Magazine, an international publication for the growing and dynamic home-based market. Available on newsstands, in bookstores and chain stores, and via subscriptions ($15.00 for 1 year, six issues). Visit http://www.homebusinessmag.com/
Read other similar articles that I wrote for Home Business Magazine about starting in tough times: (www.HomeBusinessMag.com)
“Selecting the Right Business for Tough Economic Times: Match Your Talents, Skills, and Interests with an Economic Downturn”
http://homebusinessmag.com/business-start/how-guides/10-start-success-tips-recession
“Ten Start-Up Success Tips for a Recession”
http://homebusinessmag.com/business-start/how-guides/10-start-success-tips-recession
# # #
If you are one of those who has been laid-off, downsized, or fear you are about to be, this may be the time for you to consider joining the ranks of the millions of home-based business owners.
Prepare, Plan, and Persevere
No matter if you expect or expected a job loss, or if you were unceremoniously “dumped” from your position, you may still suffer an emotional “shock” of sorts. However, #1 if you see your unemployment time as an opportunity to follow a work “passion” or “dream,” you will be more likely to recover faster and accomplish the goal of being a successful home-business owner. Here are common-sense tips to help you succeed in a home-business startup if you are either unemployed or may be shortly:
Preparation
Even though you may want to start a home business immediately, taking preparation steps like the following will help insure your venture’ success:
*Research a home business idea(s) that interests you to see if a profitable market exists (potential customers).
*Assess what marketable skills you have gained through job and volunteer experiences. You could write a resume’ for yourself and then list all the skills you have gained from each paid and volunteer experience and decide which will be best utilized in your business. Choose a business idea you really like, because you will be working many hours to make your home-business startup a success.
*“Match” your skills with your desired business idea. Decide if you will need more training, education, and/or work experience in order to pursue your chosen venture.
*Consult with your family and discuss the impact a new business could have on their lives in terms of your time and the money that will be involved. Enlist their help and reward them accordingly.
*Gather your business’ experts such as a lawyer, accountant, insurance agent, business coach, computer consultant, financial advisor and other professionals before you start-up so you will know whom to turn to when you need their advice.
*Legal Considerations. Find out from local, state, and federal agencies what licenses, permits, you need, and if there are zoning considerations for your home business. Determine your business’ structure.
Essential Plans
The adage that explains why many businesses go under, ‘Businesses do not plan to fail; they fail to plan,’ really is true. Do not neglect to create the following plans:
*Business Plan – A business plan is a blueprint or strategic plan for you to follow in setting up and managing a business. If you need help in writing one, seek a small business consultant, or use books and software like Linda Pinson’s Anatomy of a Business Plan and Automate Your Business Plan.
*Financial Plan – This will include two parts: personal financial planning; and one for your business start-up and on-going finances. Eliminate as much personal debt as you can and try to have at least six months living expenses saved before you start a business full-time. Do not underestimate your business’ startup costs. Make sure your business’ prices factor in your overhead and other expenses, your profit margin, and a salary for yourself.
*Marketing Plan – Experts recommend that a new business owner spend 50 to 75 percent of his/her time in marketing their new business. Take time to plan your marketing strategies. Research your competition and strive to find your business’ market “niche” –what will make your business unique in its offerings to its customers.
Perseverance
True entrepreneurs persevere and never give up until they find the answers that lead them to business success. Persevere until you…
*Conquer your fear of failure. – Many successful entrepreneurs have failed in their previous startup ventures, but learned from their mistakes and have gone on have profitable enterprises. *Learn to manage your business. – Monitor your business’ cashflow, and its expenditures and profits, and make adjustments as needed to keep your businesses thriving and going forward.
*Know how to stay current. Know the latest in trends and technology in your industry and be flexible to change if the profits are to be made in those new directions. Trade groups and business publications are good sources of this information.
*Put customers’ needs first and have lots of them! Maintain a quality product, service, and treat all customers with respect. This policy will help develop loyalty with current customers and attract new ones, without having to lower your prices in the face of competition or in a slow economy.
Working a Home Business Venture Around Your Day Job
If you fear that your days in your current job may be numbered, you might consider starting a venture now and operating it inconspicuously while at your day job. Make use of mobile technology, such as a cell phone, a laptop computer with a business e-mail address, and other devices that you can use in during work and lunch breaks to market your business and reach customers. In using time more efficiently, many new entrepreneurs discover they can free up time for business tasks they can do at their current job or later when they are home. (SEE article, “Sneak a Part-Time Home Business Around Your Day Job”).
First Customers—Your Former Boss, Co-Workers, Clients
Many home business entrepreneurs’ first clients are the people with whom they have worked for or with previously. If you have been a valued employee, but management was forced to let you go, you may be able to work for them as an independent contractor. If your business will compete with your former company, it is best to first check with an experienced attorney about non-compete contract issues, protected trade secrets, and former client business relationships so you will not be sued. However, if your business does not compete, people you know will be more likely to become your first customers because generally, people like doing business with people they know.
Possible Start-Up Funds from Your Existing or Previous Job
Realize that it make take six months or longer for your business to turn a profit, so the more funds you have available for your new venture, the longer your business can survive. If you are still employed, check to see if you will be getting a severance or retirement package, and if you will qualify for unemployment compensation that could help finance a business or pay living expenses. You may be able to cash in company stock or use money form your 401K, but know there may be restrictions and possible taxes to pay.
It may be daunting to start a business, especially when a regular paycheck is no longer a reality, but with careful planning and preparation, your home business can provide a good living and you and your family a good life.
SIDEBAR: Resources Close to Home
Some of the best resources for information for your home business startup can be found right in your own neighborhood. Here are some of the best:
1) Public and College Libraries – Provides business-related books, publications, directories, and Internet access (if you do not have a computer).
2) Business Owners’ Organizations – Local chamber of commerce organizations, women’s business clubs, and local chapters of trade associations can provide you with networking opportunities, business tips and and possibly mentors to guide you.
3) Government: – Offices of local agencies, state (or province) officials, and regional offices of federal agencies such as Women’s Business Development Centers (www.sba.gov), Small Business Development Centers (www.sba.gov/), and offices of SCORE (www.score.org) can provide you with free or low-cost business consulting.
-30-
Previously published in HOME BUSINESS® Magazine, an international publication for the growing and dynamic home-based market. Available on newsstands, in bookstores and chain stores, and via subscriptions ($15.00 for 1 year, six issues). Visit http://www.homebusinessmag.com/
Read other similar articles that I wrote for Home Business Magazine about starting in tough times: (www.HomeBusinessMag.com)
“Selecting the Right Business for Tough Economic Times: Match Your Talents, Skills, and Interests with an Economic Downturn”
http://homebusinessmag.com/business-start/how-guides/10-start-success-tips-recession
“Ten Start-Up Success Tips for a Recession”
http://homebusinessmag.com/business-start/how-guides/10-start-success-tips-recession
# # #
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