Best Self Employment Jobs and Ideas

Senior Citizen Caregiver

Research tells us that there are over 50 million senior citizens in the US right now, and the number is rising. Taking care of others provides a lot of self-satisfaction, and the non-monetary rewards are great. In addition, many seniors are looking for a caring caregiver. So why not provide a helping hand and create a profit all at once?

The senior healthcare business sector is only growing, and seniors need help doing tasks, staying social, getting outside, and even playing games. All one needs is a willingness to provide care and companionship. While a background in first aid is helpful, this business has few startup costs.

For entrepreneurs who want to give something back and who enjoy spending time with the elderly, this idea should be a great fit. Many senior care workers report not only increased fulfillment but also that they make new friends. Plus, there are multiple ways to get involved since individuals can become caregivers or care consultants.

Pet Groomer

Entrepreneurs who enjoy spending time with various pets can easily and inexpensively start a pet-grooming service. Startup costs are minimal, especially if they can host the business in their own homes. This opportunity is always in demand because Americans love their pets and do not mind spending money on them.

Pet grooming is also a growing business; already, 70 percent of Americans own pets. Individuals can offer pet bathing, grooming, and other resources if they do not mind getting a little dirty. Some pet groomers use a car or truck for their supplies and operate their business as a mobile entity, bringing the gift of cleanliness to household pets all over their communities. If individuals enjoy spending time with dogs, cats, and other pets, why not give it a shot?

Menu Planner

Many people are too busy to cook for themselves or their families, but they realize how important it is to eat healthily. These busy lifestyles create opportunities through increased demand for menu planners and personal chefs. There are virtually no startup costs to be a meal consultant, but entrepreneurs should be knowledgeable about healthy diets and have some culinary knowledge. Individuals can start small, with one or two clients, and build the business from there.

Working with food can be rewarding and even more rewarding to help people achieve their food-based goals. Some entrepreneurs succeed in a specific niche, such as vegan meals or a paleo diet. Entrepreneurs who are talented chefs can combine their skills and prepare meals to fit a certain diet, as well.

Crafts Seller

Some small business owners relax by making crafts. Why not focus these crafty talents on an inexpensive small business idea? Talented entrepreneurs who make crafts can sell them online via websites such as Etsy. Etsy does take a small percentage of crafter’s profits, but the platform makes up for this with its ease of use and built-in exposure.

In this case, it makes sense to try to categorize one’s crafts so that customers can quickly identify one’s work. For example, some entrepreneurs focus on cutting boards or welcome mats, while others produce beautiful paintings, sculptures, or carvings. We suggest using social media marketing to get one’s name out there and offering deals to repeat customers. As the business grows, why not create one’s website for direct sales and eliminate the middleman?

Dog Trainer

Those interested in starting their small businesses may be surprised to know that the US pet business offers many opportunities. Dogs are the most popular pet in the country by far, and as long as people own dogs, there exists a demand for dog trainers.

To excel at this opportunity, entrepreneurs need to be friendly with dogs and understand how to deal with their difficult behavior. A little research can help, and individuals can decide whether to work from home or provide a mobile service. Training dogs is satisfying as long as one is up to the task. The costs of leashes and a book or two on the topic are minimal, and people pay top dollar for trainers with a track record of success, so get moving and come prepared with pockets full of dog treats.

Tour Leader

Many entrepreneurs don’t know that being an authority in one’s local area can lead to a self-employment business idea. For example, local walking tour companies can easily start based on an individual’s knowledge, charisma, and interests.

Begin by investigating the region’s local history, and prepare a tour based on the interesting features of one’s local city or town. Building on one’s knowledge is easy; entrepreneurs can contact local offices and conduct online research. Then, they can start a website with information about the tours. An interesting name for the tour company will drum up interest, and word of mouth will help to pass the news of the new business along.

Another tip: consider pairing up with the town or city’s visitor’s bureau to bring business. This idea is ideal for individuals who love local history. Variations to a walking tour include biking tours, if the area is easier to navigate on two wheels, or even boat or trolley tours.

Professional Mentor

Helping others makes us feel good, and some have particular talents suited to mentorship. Many individuals struggle through important decisions or life lessons, and life coaches and mentors can help people navigate new and trying situations more easily.

For those interested in mentorship, we suggest specializing in a specific area, such as “professional decisions,” “weight loss and health,” or “organization.” Costs are low to start such a business, and most life coaches attest to getting a feeling of personal satisfaction from their work.

Mentors and life coaches enjoy endless fields of focus and can charge profitable hourly rates based on both demand and experience level. Entrepreneurs who enjoy helping people and are good listeners should look into this important self-employment business idea.

It’s inexpensive to get started, and the specialty fields are endless. You can coach or mentor in any area, from sports to weight loss, an organization to personal happiness.

Eco-Friendly Cleaning Service

As many of us switch to more eco-friendly cleaning products, the demand for “green” cleaning services rises. Of course, everyone still wants a clean house, but many people are concerned about the effect of cleaning toxins on the environment and their families.

Being able to tell customers that the service is eco-friendly sets the business apart from the competition, plus, green cleaning products are often more inexpensive. Some eco-friendly services even make their own cleaning products and sell their services and the products themselves. So, as the business grows, entrepreneurs may be able to make double profits based on solid hourly rates and product sales. Plus, running a business that helps and does not hurt the environment is good.

Organization Consultant

Being a Professional Organizer is one specialized category of mentoring that deserves its category. More and more professionals have recently found that being organized is the key to success, just as many professionals aren’t completely sure how to add structure to their lives.

The number one requirement for being an organization consultant is clear: entrepreneurs must be organizational experts, and not everyone is skilled at the structure. However, those who possess this coveted skill can become professional consultants, charging a high hourly rate for their time. Begin by creating a website and encourage existing clients to spread the word to others.

Plant and Flower Seller

Entrepreneurs with green thumbs are not relegated to traditional plant stores anymore. Instead, more and more people purchase their plants and flowers online. Therefore, if individuals have the time, talent, and physical space to devote to growing plants, they can create a website and start selling immediately.

Since online plant vendors are relatively new, there exists less competition for plant sellers. Try discounting some plants and weekly advertising specials. Some growers are known for colorful flowers or organic seeds with excellent origins. Why not branch out and offer landscaping or garden designs, too?

Plants are big business in the US, with over 65% of American households owning at least one house plant. People pay top dollar for long-lasting, healthy plants, and they will return to the source, so entrepreneurs may have high-profit repeat customers.

Social Media Consultant

Social media has already changed the world, but being a master of social media might also change how some entrepreneurs do business. Many of us search for self-employment business ideas and ignore that we spend hours daily on Twitter or Instagram promoting our content.

The beauty of running a social media consulting business is that everyone wants a strong social media presence, from large firms to small, individualized businesses. So entrepreneurs who see social media as more than entertainment and are comfortable online can start by offering their services to local business owners and build up from there.

Grocery Delivery

Some major grocery chains offer delivery, but many smaller markets do not. Plus, there is a perpetual demand for food and convenience items, and many of us are too busy to constantly hit the stores.

For this idea, we suggest starting small: try networking with small local stores in the area, and ask them if they could use a reliable delivery service. They may be open to paying a fee if they do not already have one. Another way to make grocery delivery a solid option is to buy specific grocery items and sell them directly from one’s website. By buying bulk, entrepreneurs can earn wholesale deals with local stores, making money on delivery fees and the products themselves. Double the grocery profits sound good to most entrepreneurs, correct?

Web Safety Consultant

The more time we spend online, the more professionals in all fields realize that security is paramount to safe interactions and a successful working environment. Entrepreneurs who know internet safety and enjoy spending time online should look into this field.

From setting up clients’ home networks to ensuring that their personal information and data are secure, there are many ways to get involved.

Web safety consultants also work with clients, from individual entrepreneurs to larger companies. Plus, people are concerned enough about sacrificing personal information that they are willing to pay high prices, providing one has a proven track record. Gathering customer reviews is an excellent way to build a new web security business and keep it rolling.

Foreclosed Homes Cleaner

When homes become foreclosed, they sometimes quickly fall into disrepair. However, entrepreneurs who do not mind getting their hands dirty can clean these homes and prepare them to be sold.

While this may not be a glamorous job, it is a necessity, so there very well may exist demand in your area. Contact realtors and foreclosure agents to find out about opportunities in the local area. Cleaning a house from top to bottom can be satisfying, and the startup costs only involve cleaning products and old clothes that one doesn’t mind ruining. Also, those who clean foreclosed homes are ultimately helping a family move into a new home, even if they never meet them.

Personal Grocery Shopper

Many people want groceries delivered to their homes, so they can save time and avoid the hassle of shopping. As a result, grocery delivery has become a necessary service, and if entrepreneurs are reliable and organized, they can help people out while making a profit.

Helping people shop for groceries is different from starting a grocery delivery service, but savvy entrepreneurs may be able to put both ideas together. For example, if shopping appeals to people, they should target seniors and brand-new parents, two groups who often can use a helping hand. Grocery deliverers can also specialize in specific diets, such as vegan food delivery, and contract with delivery chains such as Doordash and Grubhub.

Project Manager

One skill that many entrepreneurs already possess is the ability to manage projects. Unfortunately, many companies cannot afford a full-time project manager and seek individuals who can successfully oversee projects for contract work.

Project management is stimulating since managers work with all types of businesses and industries. Plus, entrepreneurs who have a specific background in a particular field make attractive candidates. Run a few excellent projects, and the word will spread quickly.

How can individuals become independent project managers? Choose an interesting local company and ask if they need a qualified project manager. Be confident, and keep that resume ready!

Computer Repair Person

Many people rely on their computers but don’t know how to fix them when they encounter problems. Entrepreneurs who are adept at technology can offer on-the-go laptop and desktop repairs. This low-cost startup idea is easy to get going since many friends, and family members struggle with their machines.

As computer repair persons, entrepreneurs can replace the support line or genius bar and offer affordable repairs while traveling door-to-door. Individuals can also offer to consult remotely, by phone, and help more people fix their technological problems.

Picture Framer

Some entrepreneurs are also artists and photographers, but one doesn’t have to be either to learn how to perfectly frame a picture. Once individuals acquire this distinct skill, they have a variety of options for self-employment. For example, they can work from home, create their schedules, network with area photographers, and join one of their teams.

Everyone needs a picture framer, from art festivals to people decorating new apartments and houses. Additionally, the framing business is about significant markups, so the profits are there for the taking.

Tutor

We all struggle with certain subjects, just as many possess specific academic strengths. As a result, tutors remain indispensable at every level, making the field open for academic entrepreneurs. Additionally, some tutors decide to branch out and teach non-traditional skills such as cooking or organizing.

Both adults and children rely on tutoring to get through high school and college, so if individuals can establish themselves in the field, there is no shortage of business. Some individuals tutor from home via the web, and others travel from house to house. Starting a tutoring business could be as simple as reviewing a few subjects and owning a computer or a car.

Chef

Entrepreneurs who enjoy mixing it up in the kitchen can turn their passion into a tasty self-employment business idea. Being a personal chef provides individuals with a fulfilling, flexible side gig that has the potential to become a high-paying, full-time job.

Some personal chefs prepare dishes at their own homes, while others travel to their client’s dinner tables. Some chefs prepare bulk foods so clients can reheat them, and others spend time in their client’s homes. In any case, the demand for healthy, delicious food is high since many people do not have the time or ability to cook for themselves and their families.

To get started, all one needs is a website for marketing and some talent in the kitchen. Some chefs specialize in certain types of food, while others focus on specific diets, but we suggest you allow your clients to dictate what you make at first and go from there.

Athletic Trainer

These days, having a personal trainer to work out with is popular and affordable enough for many clients. Entrepreneurs who enjoy working out, staying in shape, and focusing on nutrition can turn their passions into profits by being athletic trainers.

Not only do personal trainers get to feel good about helping others, but they also can collect tips and build up valuable relationships with clients. Deciding where individuals want to work is the first step. Some trainers use the web, some train in local gyms and clubs, and others use their homes or clients’ homes as a practice space. This opportunity is another area where specialization can help, and entrepreneurs can play off their skills by helping people get in shape or prepare for certain sports, such as surfing or skiing.

Gourmet Food Artisan

Many entrepreneurs find that making gourmet, homemade foods from their homes is a top-notch self-employment business idea. In addition, people love delicious treats, which artisans can sell at local markets, stores, and food festivals.

Laws restrict what foods chefs can legally prepare at home, so check on those before putting that apron on. However, many artisans create a niche, for example, paleo desserts or vegan cookies, and find success in the kitchen.

Errand Runner

Let’s face it: with more and more people worldwide, running errands takes longer and longer. In addition, many busy people do not want to take time out of their days to run to the dry cleaners, the grocery store, the hardware store, and more. So why not spend a few hours a day charging interested parties for errands?

TaskRabbit and other companies have latched on to this idea, but these services are only available in certain areas. If entrepreneurs find demand in their area, they can target certain markets, such as seniors who cannot get around or college students who are studying for finals. As long as you do not mind working on a deadline, the market for errand runners exists, and customers do not mind paying extra for fast, reliable service.

Resume Writer

In our busy job market, many find themselves searching for an advantage. Having someone who can help write and edit a resume gives applicants a better chance of landing their dream job, and successful resume writers charge a high hourly rate.

Resumes are typically the backbone of a job application since they provide an organized, concise, and readable description of the individual’s talents and skills. However, many job applicants have never learned how to correctly present themselves on paper.

Organized entrepreneurs who are skilled writers may want to target those in the sciences as opposed to the humanities, but everyone can use help regarding their resumes. Also, why not branch out and help with CVs, cover letters, essays, and more? This business has no high startup costs since it relies on editing skills, writing talent, and pen and paper.

E-Commerce Seller

Many entrepreneurs find that selling goods from the comfort of their homes is an easy way to create extra income. These enterprising individuals either sell old belongings on Amazon or buy in bulk and sell the goods on eBay.

Entrepreneurs who do not mind doing research and have the skills to create intriguing listings can turn e-commerce into a business. How? Individuals can sell other peoples’ goods online for a fee.

Entrepreneurs can also reach out to family and friends and begin selling their products to get a jump on business. Once entrepreneurs create a name for themselves online, the process becomes easier and more profitable. Next, try out Amazon and eBay and see which site is more of a fit for your products. Craigslist is also a great option; those who sell artwork and creative goods can try Etsy.

We hope that our list of 25 self-employment ideas provides a spark for your next business concept. Good luck in all of your entrepreneurial pursuits.