Oftentimes when people think of a job, they’re thinking of being hired by someone who pays them at regular intervals: daily, weekly, or bi-monthly for example. Vacation, sick leave and health care may or might not be a part of the deal. But at any rate, that’s helping to make someone else’s dream a reality. That’s not to say there aren’t a lot of agencies and organizations or businesses where you to can fulfill your dreams also. But being employed by someone else is not the only way to work.
Some have found that for them becoming their own boss is the way to go; they’re self-employed entrepreneurs. There are no guarantees a pay check will be issued on time or on schedule, but if the person has an idea, a dream, the drive, the dedication and the patience it just might be the best way for them to go.
Some take a hobby, a skill, or a talent and turn it on its heels … and into a money making proposition. Your skill set might not be in the list below, but you should take the time to review it. There are many skills (and even hobbies) people make into their own jobs:
- Antiques
- Auto Maintenance/Painting
- Body Art/Tattoos
- Cake Decorating
- Computer and Videos Games
- Cooking
- Dance
- Drafting
- Drawing/Sketching
- Floral Arrangements
- Gardening
- Jewelry Making
- Judo
- Kickboxing
- Martial Arts
- Music Instruments/Vocal
- Paper Making
- Pet Care
- Photography
- Physical Fitness
- Sewing
- Singing/Music/Art Lessons
- Speed Skating
- Stained Glass
- Swimming
- Web Design
- Woodworking/Carpentry
- Writing
Maybe at some point in your life — maybe even now — one of these skills, or one not listed, was of interest to you. Even if you don’t have access to any of these you need to take advantage of whatever recreational activities there are where you are. Additionally, there is always the library, a place to learn that’s open to everyone — and it’s free.
Have no doubt being an entrepreneur is being a dedicated business person and you really need certain skills no matter which field you choose.
You must be self-motivated; start your day on time; be able to schedule your day and stick to it.
You also must be confident in yourself and your product. One thing newcomers need to be aware of is their pricing structure: Is it competitive … is fair to both you and your customers?
Integrity in business is important. What do you stand for? Do you know? What are your limits, how far will you stray from your core values? Will you, simply to make a profit, do business with someone or in a fashion that is not representative of what you think your business should be about?
There’s a saying “time is money.” In the beginning, if you have got more time than appointments use those extra minutes to brush up on skills, refine your marketing plan, expand your contact list, do something that moves you further along.
Not a salesman? Oh, yes you are! You have to be in a small business. You have to decide what type of sales approach is best for your services or products. If you’re not quite sure what to do check out a sales seminar, read a book on selling (there are many out there) or do some research on the Internet and find motivational programs.
Keep your checkbook balanced. All small business owners have to learn to do the paperwork, even if they have an accountant. You’ll need to get into the habit of collecting all receipts and setting aside a little time to mange your finances. Failure in this critical area can spell failure for your business. The tax man never shows mercy or takes pity.
Here are a few examples: Did you notice the pictures throughout the text? Those are of the work of two very talented men living in Ohio and Arkansas using their skills and talents to make a living.
If you have a felony conviction, getting a part time job until you can find better work might be a good idea. That way, you’re at least bringing money in and can show that you’re making an effort to become a productive member of society. This can go a long way if you have a parole officer as well. Even a part time job can be beneficial for a number of reasons.
If you have a felony conviction in your past, one good option for work is truck driving. There is some education required, but for many it is very much worth the work. There’s no guarantee of a job for anyone these days, but if you’re an ex-felon, you might seriously think about getting a truck driving job.