Public domain software is software that is not copyrighted by their authors. Public domain software is written by authors that place their software in the Public Domain and may be copied and distributed freely by anyone with few or no restrictions.
Shareware software is software that is copyrighted by their authors. Share ware is written by authors that allow the user, you or your customers, to try the software before having to register it with the author.If a user likes the software enough to continue using it, the user is put on the honor system to register the software with the author for a fee, usually from $5 to $100. This registration fee provides the user with benefits like free update versions, printed manuals, technical support, other available software, etc.
Share ware software may be copied and distributed freely by anyone with few or no restrictions and without payment to the author. Most authors list their distribution restrictions, if any, usually in a"READEME" file on their software disks. Also check these files for registration procedures and fees.
You Will Distribute Your Software . . . You Will NOT Sell It'
One of the most common restrictions set by authors of both Public Domain & Share ware software is that you cannot sell their software. But you can freely copy it onto a diskette and distribute it to people that pay you a fee for the diskette and your copying service of the public domain or share ware programs onto the diskette. The maximum fee most authors allow you to charge to distribute their software is $7.00.
How to Get Your Software . . . FREE of Charge
Public domain & share ware software is available from a number of Bulletin Boards Services (BBS's)located in every small or large city. With the use of a modem and telephone ,you can download any public domain and/or shareware software program available . . . FREE OF CHARGE!
If you plan on distributing only a few different public domain & shareware programs, then downloading them from your local BSS is a very good way to start. However, if you plan on distributing 50, 100 or more different public domain & shareware programs (there are over 1500 different public domain & shareware software programs available for you to distribute), then the cost of telephone calls to the BBS's will prohibit you from downloading any large quantities of programs. You must then purchase them from a Public Domain & Shareware Library House.
How to Get Your Software for only $2 to $7 per disk
Most public domain & share ware libraries, including Infopreneur Services library, supply the diskettes, the copying service of the public domain & shareware programs onto the diskette and the special knowledge to help and provide you with the very best public domain & shareware software available.
Here's a list of some of the major public domain & share ware libraries. Write to each one for a copy of their catalog and their breakdown of prices.
INFOPRENEUR 3755 Avocado Blvd #110, La Mesa, CA 91941 PC-SIG, 1030D East Duane Avenue, Sunnyvale, CA 94086 PUBLIC BRAND SOFTWARE, PO Box 51315, Indianapolis, IN 46251 SIZZLE WARE, PO Box 6429, Lake Charles, LA 70606
How Much You Should Charge
Most public domain & share ware software libraries charge a diskette and copying service fee ranging from $2.00 to $7.00. We suggest you charge $3.99 to start. You will have less sales resistance with the lower fee and therefore get many, many more orders!
If you get all of your public domain & share ware software for only $3.99 per disk, you will break even when you get your first copying fee of $3.99 for that program. But every time you distribute that same program again and again, it will only cost you 25 cents for the diskette (use the 25 cent bulk diskettes you see advertised in most computer magazines -- they work great), about 2 cents for an envelope and 29 cents for first class postage
. . . that's only 56 cents subtracted from the $3.99 leaves you a net profit of $3.43 for each disk you sell! And most people that buy public domain & share ware software buy an average of 4 to 12 different diskettes each time they place an order!
How to Distribute Public Domain & Share ware Software
Depending on your advertising budget, you will probably want to begin using one of the methods explained in this report, such as classified ads and/or direct mail.
CLASSIFIED ADS . . . You will offer in your classified ad a FREE CATALOG. This catalog must be simple . . . use just one, two or three sheets of paper listing the public domain & shareware software you offer and your copying fee. Include an order form. A good idea here is to put two order forms on one 8 1/2" x 11 " piece of paper. Use one color of paper for your catalog sheets and a different color for your order forms. But do use colored paper for both -- it will pull a better response with more orders than by simply using plain white paper!
DISPLAY ADS . . . as your advertising budget increases, consider a display ad in a national computer magazine. Go to your local library or bookstore and find all the public domain & shareware software ads in the major computer magazines. Use the ads you find to get ideas for your own ad. Remember, these advertisers are spending money each and every month on the same ads. They are spending this money because these ads are bringing them a lot of money every single month. Most of these advertisers have the same ads running in a number of different magazines.
DIRECT MAIL . . . If you decide to use direct mail, then simply mail your catalog sheets and order forms to a mailing list of computer users. Mailing lists are available from any mailing list broker in your city.
COMPUTER and SOFTWARE STORES . . .these stores buy software in quantities . . .not just one order at a time. A great source for volume orders.
BULLETIN BOARD POSTERS . . . bulletin board posters are known as one of the best FREE ADVERTISING media methods available. Don't pass this method by.
FLEA MARKETS and SWAP MEETS . . . flea markets and swap meets are visited by thousands of people and computer users every Saturday and Sunday all year long. This is a very profitable, easy and fun way to distribute Public Domain oft Shareware Software.
How to Package Public Domain & Share ware Software
This is simple. You don't package it . . . you simply copy the program onto a diskette, put a label on the diskette and mail it to your customer in a plain envelope. It's that simple!
How to Distribute Software WITHOUT Owning a Computer
You do NOT need to own a computer AND you do NOT need any computer experience to distribute Public Domain & Shareware software. Listed below are the major disk duplication service houses that will do all your disk copying for you, for only pennies per disk. This eliminates your need to know anything at all about computers or software. Call or write each company for their quantity and price per disk copying fees.
Diversified Systems Group Inc, PO Box 1114, Issaquah, WA 98027, 800-255-3142
MegaSoft, PO Box 710, Freehold, NJ 07728, 800-222-0490
Princeton Diskette, 1101 Richmond Avenue, Pt Pleasant Beach, NJ 08742, 800-426-0247
Star-Byte Inc, 2880 Bergen Road, Hatfield, PA 19440, 800-243-1515
Duplication Services Corporation, Scottsdale, AZ, 800-322-8392
Where to Buy Computers at Discount Prices
The best place to buy any computer system and /or accessory at the lowest possible prices is by mailorder.The single best magazine (filled with hundreds of advertisements) to find any computer related product is the COMPUTER SHOPPER Magazine. Go to your local bookstore and buy a copy. Then, get a pen and a piece of paper. Write down the items) you want to purchase. Read every ad in COMPUTERSHOPPER Magazine that sells the items) you want to purchase, making notes of each companies name,address, phone number, prices, return policies, etc. When your list is done, you can then decide which company offers the best prices and policies.
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
How To Start Your Own Profitable Home-Based Computer Business
Anyone who owns a computer has the means to earn a sizable full-time income from the comfort and privacy of his/her own home. That's because, practically anything you can do for yourself on a computer, you can also do for someone else -- for money! Therefore, the hundreds of services which can be provided with a computer present the opportunity of a lifetime to achieve independence and financial security. Of course, starting your own homebased computer business will require careful thought and planning. Some services are more feasible than others and you'll need to be as certain as possible that there is a demand for the services you intend to offer. The first thing to consider when picking a computer service to offer are what you do best and what you enjoy doing. You'll need to be certain you are capable of providing a quality service.
After all, your success will largely depend on the quality of your work. Therefore, you should stay away from offering those services for which you are not qualified.
After you decide on what service(s) you want to offer, there are several other factors to consider before taking the big step of actually starting up. The first of those factors is profit potential, or how much income you can reasonably expect. The particular service(s) you provide and your own personal initiative have a lot to do with how much money you can make, but you should also be aware that service business income can be limited by the number of hours you can realistically work each week.
It may be difficult to bill more than 30 hours a week when you are not only doing all of the work, but you are also "soliciting" work, running the business, and keeping your own books and records. With that in mind, it's usually a good idea to try to provide services for which the hourly fee is high. Of course, once you've established a sound reputation, you can also begin taking in more work than you can handle alone. This extra work can be subcontracted out, and your total income increased.
The next consideration is what kind of demand there is for the service(s) you plan to offer. This will require some basic market research on your part. Find out for yourself, as best you can, just how many people there are who are interested in your proposed service, and would be willing to pay a "fair" price for it. It's important that you be able to define your market and pin-point your customers.
Once you've conducted 2 to 3 months of market research and, to your satisfaction, feel that there is indeed a potentially profitable market for your services, your next step should be toward "fleshing out" your overall business plan. Your business plan should outline how much capital you will need as a start-up investment, monthly operating expenses and procedures, an advertising plan, and a detailed breakdown of your work schedule.
The success of your computer business will come a lot more easily if you have a specific and detailed plan before you actually start up. Too many home-based businesses fail because their operators "jumped in" before they understood that the costs involved and the time required were beyond their means and abilities. If you have everything down on paper before you start, you have a much better chance for success.
You should also have a good idea of how well your business will do in especially tough economic times. In order to achieve long-term success, your business will need to be one that provides economic security even during periods of recession. It's essential that the computer service(s) you plan to offer will have a stable demand throughout any type of economic conditions and, in fact, have a good growth potential.
After all these considerations, before you start your business, you must be certain that you have the capital and time to sustain your business throughout the first six to twelve months of operation. In order for your business to be profitable, your living expenses must not come out of your business until it is on solid financial ground. And that usually takes 6 months to a year. Generally, once you have been in operation for 9 months, you can start giving yourself a monthly salary. Until that time, all the money you make from your service, should be re-invested in your business so it will grow and reach its planned profit potential.
Obviously, no one home-based computer business will excel in all the areas described in this report. That's why choosing the business that is best for you may require finding one that is the most desirable in light of the importance of factors such as what you are qualified to do, what you would enjoy doing, profit potential, demand, capital required to start-up, and resistance to low economic cycles. And, as mentioned before, there are hundreds of such computer services from which to choose.
Some of the more standard home-based computer businesses include desktop publishing, tax preparation, resume writing, word processing, and freelance writing. Starting up any of those services is relatively easy. As long as you already have the necessary computer and equipment, your biggest expense will most likely be in advertising your service. Once you have your market targeted and you know who your customers are going to be, you'll need to determine exactly how you are going to reach them. In general, your most effective advertising for computer-based services will come from classified or display ads in national magazines, and less frequently, newspaper ads.
Some other computer-based businesses that currently present viable long-term opportunities include computer consulting, mailing-list service, medical-billing service, collection agency, and a brokerage service. All of these businesses have excellent income potential, good-to-high demand, good resistance to recessionary periods, good-to-excellent growth potential, and relatively modest start-up costs. While a medical billing service requires a special knowledge, the other businesses listed above have only moderate qualification requirements.
You may also want to investigate the possibility of some other relatively new computer-based businesses such as desktop video production, an export agency, a medical transcription service, real estate appraisal service, and a temporary-help service. All of these services are experiencing increased demand, and present home-based entrepreneurs with above average profit potential.
Whatever computer service(s) you decide to offer, you'll need to have your business plan properly organized before you begin. Once you've implemented and followed your plan for about one year, you may be able to consider hiring other people to take over at least part of your workload. Of course, that decision will be entirely up to you. Operating your own home-based computer business should ultimately give you the independence and the financial security that will enable you to choose between running the entire operation and doing all the work yourself, or hiring other people to do the work for you while you relax and collect a regular income from your original investment.
Depending on the type of computer service(s) you offer, you can realistically expect to make an annual income of $20,000 to $100,000 and more. Your desire and initiative will go a long way in determining just how much profit you make. The opportunities for success in operating a home-based computer service are expanding every day. Any enterprising person who has a computer and who is willing to do the necessary research and planning, can achieve success and financial security with a home-based computer service.
After all, your success will largely depend on the quality of your work. Therefore, you should stay away from offering those services for which you are not qualified.
After you decide on what service(s) you want to offer, there are several other factors to consider before taking the big step of actually starting up. The first of those factors is profit potential, or how much income you can reasonably expect. The particular service(s) you provide and your own personal initiative have a lot to do with how much money you can make, but you should also be aware that service business income can be limited by the number of hours you can realistically work each week.
It may be difficult to bill more than 30 hours a week when you are not only doing all of the work, but you are also "soliciting" work, running the business, and keeping your own books and records. With that in mind, it's usually a good idea to try to provide services for which the hourly fee is high. Of course, once you've established a sound reputation, you can also begin taking in more work than you can handle alone. This extra work can be subcontracted out, and your total income increased.
The next consideration is what kind of demand there is for the service(s) you plan to offer. This will require some basic market research on your part. Find out for yourself, as best you can, just how many people there are who are interested in your proposed service, and would be willing to pay a "fair" price for it. It's important that you be able to define your market and pin-point your customers.
Once you've conducted 2 to 3 months of market research and, to your satisfaction, feel that there is indeed a potentially profitable market for your services, your next step should be toward "fleshing out" your overall business plan. Your business plan should outline how much capital you will need as a start-up investment, monthly operating expenses and procedures, an advertising plan, and a detailed breakdown of your work schedule.
The success of your computer business will come a lot more easily if you have a specific and detailed plan before you actually start up. Too many home-based businesses fail because their operators "jumped in" before they understood that the costs involved and the time required were beyond their means and abilities. If you have everything down on paper before you start, you have a much better chance for success.
You should also have a good idea of how well your business will do in especially tough economic times. In order to achieve long-term success, your business will need to be one that provides economic security even during periods of recession. It's essential that the computer service(s) you plan to offer will have a stable demand throughout any type of economic conditions and, in fact, have a good growth potential.
After all these considerations, before you start your business, you must be certain that you have the capital and time to sustain your business throughout the first six to twelve months of operation. In order for your business to be profitable, your living expenses must not come out of your business until it is on solid financial ground. And that usually takes 6 months to a year. Generally, once you have been in operation for 9 months, you can start giving yourself a monthly salary. Until that time, all the money you make from your service, should be re-invested in your business so it will grow and reach its planned profit potential.
Obviously, no one home-based computer business will excel in all the areas described in this report. That's why choosing the business that is best for you may require finding one that is the most desirable in light of the importance of factors such as what you are qualified to do, what you would enjoy doing, profit potential, demand, capital required to start-up, and resistance to low economic cycles. And, as mentioned before, there are hundreds of such computer services from which to choose.
Some of the more standard home-based computer businesses include desktop publishing, tax preparation, resume writing, word processing, and freelance writing. Starting up any of those services is relatively easy. As long as you already have the necessary computer and equipment, your biggest expense will most likely be in advertising your service. Once you have your market targeted and you know who your customers are going to be, you'll need to determine exactly how you are going to reach them. In general, your most effective advertising for computer-based services will come from classified or display ads in national magazines, and less frequently, newspaper ads.
Some other computer-based businesses that currently present viable long-term opportunities include computer consulting, mailing-list service, medical-billing service, collection agency, and a brokerage service. All of these businesses have excellent income potential, good-to-high demand, good resistance to recessionary periods, good-to-excellent growth potential, and relatively modest start-up costs. While a medical billing service requires a special knowledge, the other businesses listed above have only moderate qualification requirements.
You may also want to investigate the possibility of some other relatively new computer-based businesses such as desktop video production, an export agency, a medical transcription service, real estate appraisal service, and a temporary-help service. All of these services are experiencing increased demand, and present home-based entrepreneurs with above average profit potential.
Whatever computer service(s) you decide to offer, you'll need to have your business plan properly organized before you begin. Once you've implemented and followed your plan for about one year, you may be able to consider hiring other people to take over at least part of your workload. Of course, that decision will be entirely up to you. Operating your own home-based computer business should ultimately give you the independence and the financial security that will enable you to choose between running the entire operation and doing all the work yourself, or hiring other people to do the work for you while you relax and collect a regular income from your original investment.
Depending on the type of computer service(s) you offer, you can realistically expect to make an annual income of $20,000 to $100,000 and more. Your desire and initiative will go a long way in determining just how much profit you make. The opportunities for success in operating a home-based computer service are expanding every day. Any enterprising person who has a computer and who is willing to do the necessary research and planning, can achieve success and financial security with a home-based computer service.
Monday, August 25, 2008
BECOME A COMPUTER CONSULTANT
With the advent of PCS, computer systems are now accessible to small and mid-sized companies. Very few businesses, no matter how small, can not afford to ignore the growing demand for instant information and finger-tip response to their clientele. Computerization is a standard tool of competition and, if used correctly, should rapidly pay for itself in a reduction of man hours and an increase in efficiency.
Most companies have to computerize in order to "keep up with the Jones" but many small and mid-sized businesses haven't the slightest idea which of the myriad of available hardware and software makes the most sense in terms of their own business. And ...this creates a natural marketplace for the computer consultant. The demand for these services is growing by leaps and bounds.
Making Cents
Computer consultants serve two basic functions:
Selecting the appropriate computer system, including hardware, software,networks and peripherals. This is a one-time project and vital to the success of the automation process. Most business people are afraid of spending thousands of dollars for an inadequate or incomplete system. A consultant maps out the strategy for the appropriate system and the most effective and efficient software.
Integrating the computer into day-to-day operations. A consultant may be used on a on-going basis as upgrades in software occur or then network needs to be expanded.
A computer should make a business so much more efficient and productive that is pays for itself. Computer consultants not only productive that it pays for itself. Computer consultants not only help businesses realize this potential but a computer consultant's expertise should make the process much less stressful and the transition processes more comfortable and easier to accept.
Overhead Is Minimal
The only inventory you need is what's stored away in your brain: education and on-hands experience are your greatest assets. Like most computer experts, you probably already own your own PC and that's the only equipment necessary for start-up. The more involved systems work will come on-site as you design and install your client's more sophisticated hardware and software. The lion's share of your start-up expenses will be advertising and marketing your services.
Because your work will be exclusively on-site at your corporate customer's locations, it will not be necessary, especially in the beginning, to have an outside office. Not only will your costs be kept at a minimum by working from your home, but you can deduct office-at-home expenses off your taxes for the percentage of your home you convert into office space, but be sure to use that area of your home exclusively for your work.
When you begin your marketing efforts, do your homework and find out the type of customer who is truly in need of your services. Most undoubtedly, you will want to target mid-sized corporations. The big boys probably have permanent on-site computer experts and the little guys probably can't afford you. Make your marketing dollar as effective as possible by doing some legwork before you begin.
You will also want to look long and hard at your areas of expertise. Do you have a specialty or are you an across-the-board type of computer expert? Should you target a specific industry? Can you easily recommend the proper system to an accountant as you can for a trucking company?
Geography plays a major part in identifying potential clientele. If your specialty market is scattered all over the country, you'll want to advertise on a wide-scale. If you are the across-the-board expert, you can target a specific location. Keep in mind, the closer to home you're working, the less of your capital will be eaten up with travel expenses.
It is very important to establish on-going relationships with your clientele. Many companies pay their consultant a retainer good for a few hours per month in order to have a standing opportunity to ask questions or upgrade programming. This is often a less expensive option for your clients than hiring a full-time staff person. You will need to let your clients know how you can help them in their day-to-day operations and set up a flexible enough schedule so that you will be able to work within their parameters. Working on this basis with a number of companies will guarantee you some regular income and cut back on marketing expenses.
Balance What You Know and Who You Know
Since you can't possibly know all there is to know about computers, you'll need to make contacts in the industry who can assist you when you come up against a situation you're not qualified to handle. You will want to compile a network of professionals you can call on to fill any voids you find as you go along. You have the option to subcontract to other consultants (many university professors, for example, free-lance as consultants). You may want to put your subcontractors on the payroll or you may simply wish to put your client in touch with your source and then step quietly out of the picture. You may not receive immediate remuneration for the recommendation, but the long-term benefits can be well worth your efforts. Not only will this build good-will with your client but the other consultants may wish to return the favor when they have a need for your area of expertise.
To Market or Not to Market?
When starting any new business, the main focus must be on effective marketing. The first contacts will be the most difficult and will probably require references. However, after you reach your capacity, you will have a tendency to slack off on your marketing. You'll be so busy with one or two clients that you'll forget that there is an end to the work and to the income. Suddenly, the work will be are starting all over gain. It is absolutely essential to keep marketing even when things are at their most hectic.
A certain percentage of your time should be spent bringing in new business no matter how busy your are. You will have to decide what percentage of time allows you to keep an even flow of business coming in and out. You will find yourself only spending a portion of your time in "billable hours." A certain amount of time must be spent doing administrative functions, like billing and taxes. Another portion of your work must be spent in staying up-to-date with current developments in the industry and with software and hardware innovations.
You may also want to round out your services by writing articles for magazines or publications or giving seminars or workshops. These types of endeavors can help provide additional revenues and expand your network for both clients and subcontractors.
If you billable hours fall off, you will want to devote more time to marketing but remember, no matter how much money you already to have to do,, your's is a finite service and sooner or later, you're going to need new business. So never forget to continue to market..., network, and expand your client base. This will help to curtail the roller-coaster ride many new and/or small businesses face.
Common courtesy will also help your gain referrals and keep your clients happy. Send a thank you note to clients to let them know that you appreciate their business. Make follow up calls to let them know that you are concerned that the services you provided them are effective and producing the results you were anticipating. A little personal touch here and there can keep your name in the minds of the most hardcore business person.
Manage Your Growth
Many computer consultants opt to stay one person operation. One of the attractions of being your own boss is that you can leave behind the hassles and politics of corporate life. The flip side of that coin is that the only funds coming into the business are your own billable hours in any given day. Owners of large computer-consulting firms reap a percentage of every dollar earned by each associate. There are many trade-offs involved in being self-employed. Neither option is going to be a walk in the park. But the most important thing to keep in mind is to manage your company's growth. Don't get in over your head, just take one step at a time and keep an eye on the road ahead.
Resources
Industry Associations:
Independent Computer Consultants Association, 433 N New Ballas, P.O. Box 27412, St Louis MO 63141 (314) 997-4633
ACME Inc., 230 Park Ave., New York, NY 10169 (212) 697-9693
Institute of Management Consultants Inc.,19 W 44th St.,New York, NY 10036 (212) 921-2885
Publications:
Consultants News, Templeton RD.,Fitzwilliam, NH 03447 (603) 585- 2200
Byte, 70 Main St.,Petersborough, NH 03458 (603) 949-9281
Business Computer Systems., 375 Washington St.,Newton, MA 02158 (617) 964-3030
Info World, 1060 Marsh Rd.,Suite C-200, Menlo Park, CA 94025 (415) 328-4602
For additional information helpful in setting up your new business, information about licenses, permits, the legal structure of your business, taxes, insurance and much more refer to the:
Business Start-Up fact Finder Manual
Most companies have to computerize in order to "keep up with the Jones" but many small and mid-sized businesses haven't the slightest idea which of the myriad of available hardware and software makes the most sense in terms of their own business. And ...this creates a natural marketplace for the computer consultant. The demand for these services is growing by leaps and bounds.
Making Cents
Computer consultants serve two basic functions:
Selecting the appropriate computer system, including hardware, software,networks and peripherals. This is a one-time project and vital to the success of the automation process. Most business people are afraid of spending thousands of dollars for an inadequate or incomplete system. A consultant maps out the strategy for the appropriate system and the most effective and efficient software.
Integrating the computer into day-to-day operations. A consultant may be used on a on-going basis as upgrades in software occur or then network needs to be expanded.
A computer should make a business so much more efficient and productive that is pays for itself. Computer consultants not only productive that it pays for itself. Computer consultants not only help businesses realize this potential but a computer consultant's expertise should make the process much less stressful and the transition processes more comfortable and easier to accept.
Overhead Is Minimal
The only inventory you need is what's stored away in your brain: education and on-hands experience are your greatest assets. Like most computer experts, you probably already own your own PC and that's the only equipment necessary for start-up. The more involved systems work will come on-site as you design and install your client's more sophisticated hardware and software. The lion's share of your start-up expenses will be advertising and marketing your services.
Because your work will be exclusively on-site at your corporate customer's locations, it will not be necessary, especially in the beginning, to have an outside office. Not only will your costs be kept at a minimum by working from your home, but you can deduct office-at-home expenses off your taxes for the percentage of your home you convert into office space, but be sure to use that area of your home exclusively for your work.
When you begin your marketing efforts, do your homework and find out the type of customer who is truly in need of your services. Most undoubtedly, you will want to target mid-sized corporations. The big boys probably have permanent on-site computer experts and the little guys probably can't afford you. Make your marketing dollar as effective as possible by doing some legwork before you begin.
You will also want to look long and hard at your areas of expertise. Do you have a specialty or are you an across-the-board type of computer expert? Should you target a specific industry? Can you easily recommend the proper system to an accountant as you can for a trucking company?
Geography plays a major part in identifying potential clientele. If your specialty market is scattered all over the country, you'll want to advertise on a wide-scale. If you are the across-the-board expert, you can target a specific location. Keep in mind, the closer to home you're working, the less of your capital will be eaten up with travel expenses.
It is very important to establish on-going relationships with your clientele. Many companies pay their consultant a retainer good for a few hours per month in order to have a standing opportunity to ask questions or upgrade programming. This is often a less expensive option for your clients than hiring a full-time staff person. You will need to let your clients know how you can help them in their day-to-day operations and set up a flexible enough schedule so that you will be able to work within their parameters. Working on this basis with a number of companies will guarantee you some regular income and cut back on marketing expenses.
Balance What You Know and Who You Know
Since you can't possibly know all there is to know about computers, you'll need to make contacts in the industry who can assist you when you come up against a situation you're not qualified to handle. You will want to compile a network of professionals you can call on to fill any voids you find as you go along. You have the option to subcontract to other consultants (many university professors, for example, free-lance as consultants). You may want to put your subcontractors on the payroll or you may simply wish to put your client in touch with your source and then step quietly out of the picture. You may not receive immediate remuneration for the recommendation, but the long-term benefits can be well worth your efforts. Not only will this build good-will with your client but the other consultants may wish to return the favor when they have a need for your area of expertise.
To Market or Not to Market?
When starting any new business, the main focus must be on effective marketing. The first contacts will be the most difficult and will probably require references. However, after you reach your capacity, you will have a tendency to slack off on your marketing. You'll be so busy with one or two clients that you'll forget that there is an end to the work and to the income. Suddenly, the work will be are starting all over gain. It is absolutely essential to keep marketing even when things are at their most hectic.
A certain percentage of your time should be spent bringing in new business no matter how busy your are. You will have to decide what percentage of time allows you to keep an even flow of business coming in and out. You will find yourself only spending a portion of your time in "billable hours." A certain amount of time must be spent doing administrative functions, like billing and taxes. Another portion of your work must be spent in staying up-to-date with current developments in the industry and with software and hardware innovations.
You may also want to round out your services by writing articles for magazines or publications or giving seminars or workshops. These types of endeavors can help provide additional revenues and expand your network for both clients and subcontractors.
If you billable hours fall off, you will want to devote more time to marketing but remember, no matter how much money you already to have to do,, your's is a finite service and sooner or later, you're going to need new business. So never forget to continue to market..., network, and expand your client base. This will help to curtail the roller-coaster ride many new and/or small businesses face.
Common courtesy will also help your gain referrals and keep your clients happy. Send a thank you note to clients to let them know that you appreciate their business. Make follow up calls to let them know that you are concerned that the services you provided them are effective and producing the results you were anticipating. A little personal touch here and there can keep your name in the minds of the most hardcore business person.
Manage Your Growth
Many computer consultants opt to stay one person operation. One of the attractions of being your own boss is that you can leave behind the hassles and politics of corporate life. The flip side of that coin is that the only funds coming into the business are your own billable hours in any given day. Owners of large computer-consulting firms reap a percentage of every dollar earned by each associate. There are many trade-offs involved in being self-employed. Neither option is going to be a walk in the park. But the most important thing to keep in mind is to manage your company's growth. Don't get in over your head, just take one step at a time and keep an eye on the road ahead.
Resources
Industry Associations:
Independent Computer Consultants Association, 433 N New Ballas, P.O. Box 27412, St Louis MO 63141 (314) 997-4633
ACME Inc., 230 Park Ave., New York, NY 10169 (212) 697-9693
Institute of Management Consultants Inc.,19 W 44th St.,New York, NY 10036 (212) 921-2885
Publications:
Consultants News, Templeton RD.,Fitzwilliam, NH 03447 (603) 585- 2200
Byte, 70 Main St.,Petersborough, NH 03458 (603) 949-9281
Business Computer Systems., 375 Washington St.,Newton, MA 02158 (617) 964-3030
Info World, 1060 Marsh Rd.,Suite C-200, Menlo Park, CA 94025 (415) 328-4602
For additional information helpful in setting up your new business, information about licenses, permits, the legal structure of your business, taxes, insurance and much more refer to the:
Business Start-Up fact Finder Manual
Saturday, August 23, 2008
100 WAYS TO EARN MONEY WITH YOUR COMPUTER
Provide computer-based office management services for attorneys
Do word processing
Do medical billing for doctors
Do automated telemarketing
Manage a church
Start a computer user's group
Learn to win at blackjack
Bet on horse races
Bet on pro football
Sell computers from your home
Provide medical information management
Broker information
Trade stock by computer
Provide astrological services
Offer an interactive electronic newsletter
Produce book indexes
Provide a computer-assisted booking service
Make stock market investment decisions
Do genealogical research
Manage a band
Manage a house or pet sitting service
Track precious gems
Sell information to collectors
Analyze real estate investments
Support a small law practice
Write a book
Market collectables
Do psychological counseling
Prepare income tax returns
Provide economic consulting
Solve real estate financing problems
Do data base research
Publish your own book
Design your own small business system
Crop management
Analyze farm expenses
Provide weekly printout of bowling league statistics
Make computer-generated portraits
Manage investment shelters
Manage construction costs
Produce computer utility products
Provide computer-aided financial planning
Sell life insurance
Support a small publishing business
Provide weekly printout of little league Baseball statistics
Run a small pharmacy
Become a computer dealer
Interpret physical therapy test results
Manage a restaurant
Start your own yellow pages
Conduct computer-assisted telephone interviewing
Stream-line executive search activities
Provide agricultural commodities planning
Turn financial statements into financial pictures
Manage a museum collection
Support consumer education programs
Do freelance technical writing
Do multi-level direct mail marketing
Review specialty software
Be an engineering consultant
Provide sports information services
Produce products for hobbyists
Provide specialty-focused software services
Run a multi-level, direct sales operation
Do litigation management
Manage a dairy farm
Provided automated debt collection
Provide date-base installation and instruction
Run a beauty school/beauty salon
Improve small business services
Broker used computers!
Telecommute
Enhance medical diagnosis and treatments
Create electronic marketing tools
Do independent software documentation
Teach people how to use microcomputers
Become your own computer book publisher
Create computer-generated puzzles and word games
Become a software consultant
Produce low-cost computer graphics products
Develop software for children
Perform real estate inspections
Do software translations
Produced a computer-controlled home security system
Automate conference registration
Create computer gifts
Enhance scientific products
Write software for use in the home
Manage a winery
Design and produce personal computer hardware or peripherals
Design, publish and distribute software
Provide information vending machines
Start a software writing cooperative
Develop small scale real estate partnerships
Do property management
Do mortgage loan brokerage
Perform non-judicial foreclosures
Develop mini-warehouse storage facilities
Sell instant signs
Start an advertising agency
Start a resume service.
Manage a talent agency
Operate a referral service
Operating a mailing list service
Operate a typesetting service
Offer a legal forms service for the general public
Publish your own newsletter or help others for a fee
Operate a voice mail service
Start your own local classified newspaper
Provide a collection letter service
Offer a custom diet plan service
Start your own local real estate newspaper
Start an apartment rental newspaper
Provide a payroll service
Start a singles dating service
Do word processing
Do medical billing for doctors
Do automated telemarketing
Manage a church
Start a computer user's group
Learn to win at blackjack
Bet on horse races
Bet on pro football
Sell computers from your home
Provide medical information management
Broker information
Trade stock by computer
Provide astrological services
Offer an interactive electronic newsletter
Produce book indexes
Provide a computer-assisted booking service
Make stock market investment decisions
Do genealogical research
Manage a band
Manage a house or pet sitting service
Track precious gems
Sell information to collectors
Analyze real estate investments
Support a small law practice
Write a book
Market collectables
Do psychological counseling
Prepare income tax returns
Provide economic consulting
Solve real estate financing problems
Do data base research
Publish your own book
Design your own small business system
Crop management
Analyze farm expenses
Provide weekly printout of bowling league statistics
Make computer-generated portraits
Manage investment shelters
Manage construction costs
Produce computer utility products
Provide computer-aided financial planning
Sell life insurance
Support a small publishing business
Provide weekly printout of little league Baseball statistics
Run a small pharmacy
Become a computer dealer
Interpret physical therapy test results
Manage a restaurant
Start your own yellow pages
Conduct computer-assisted telephone interviewing
Stream-line executive search activities
Provide agricultural commodities planning
Turn financial statements into financial pictures
Manage a museum collection
Support consumer education programs
Do freelance technical writing
Do multi-level direct mail marketing
Review specialty software
Be an engineering consultant
Provide sports information services
Produce products for hobbyists
Provide specialty-focused software services
Run a multi-level, direct sales operation
Do litigation management
Manage a dairy farm
Provided automated debt collection
Provide date-base installation and instruction
Run a beauty school/beauty salon
Improve small business services
Broker used computers!
Telecommute
Enhance medical diagnosis and treatments
Create electronic marketing tools
Do independent software documentation
Teach people how to use microcomputers
Become your own computer book publisher
Create computer-generated puzzles and word games
Become a software consultant
Produce low-cost computer graphics products
Develop software for children
Perform real estate inspections
Do software translations
Produced a computer-controlled home security system
Automate conference registration
Create computer gifts
Enhance scientific products
Write software for use in the home
Manage a winery
Design and produce personal computer hardware or peripherals
Design, publish and distribute software
Provide information vending machines
Start a software writing cooperative
Develop small scale real estate partnerships
Do property management
Do mortgage loan brokerage
Perform non-judicial foreclosures
Develop mini-warehouse storage facilities
Sell instant signs
Start an advertising agency
Start a resume service.
Manage a talent agency
Operate a referral service
Operating a mailing list service
Operate a typesetting service
Offer a legal forms service for the general public
Publish your own newsletter or help others for a fee
Operate a voice mail service
Start your own local classified newspaper
Provide a collection letter service
Offer a custom diet plan service
Start your own local real estate newspaper
Start an apartment rental newspaper
Provide a payroll service
Start a singles dating service
Friday, August 22, 2008
100 PART-TIME WORK AND BUSINESSES FOR STUDENTS
A collection of businesses selected especially for college and senior high school students interested in augmenting their income through free enterprise.
These businesses can be started with minimal training and investment and are virtually certain to produce extra income. Most can be operated by one or a group of students, and can be sold for an additional profit upon graduation.
For best results browse through the enclosed business suggestions and note those that sound interesting. Jot down alternative products and services that come to mind. This list is designed to work with and stimulate your imagination. Only you can possibly know your personal qualifications and interests or the current market in your community. As you compile your list of "possibles", take a good look around your market area. Note what is and isn't available, what is over priced and inadequate that people in your community will pay for. When you find just the right combination for your particular situation, start preparing for a successful business!
The recommended method to prepare for a successful business is to write out a business plan. This is simply an outline of what you plan to do and how you intend to do it. Writing your business plan will force you to organize your business both on paper and in your own mind and help insure your ultimate business success.
Finally, check with city hall or the county courthouse (and school if you operate on campus) on state and local license, tax or permit requirements before investing. Sometimes a minor adjustment at this stage can prevent future headaches!
Finally, familiarize yourself with your subject and start ordering initial supplies (business cards, rubber stamp, ledger). Don't invest too much in initial stock. You will undoubtedly make adjustments as you learn more about your market.
GOOD LUCK IN YOUR NEW BUSINESS!
99 PART-TIME BUSINESSES FOR STUDENTS
01 - SCHOOL TYPING. Operate a typing/word processing service for other students: type assignments in draft and then in final form. Charge by the page; extra to correct spelling (except for computer spell or Thesaurus) and/or grammar and for rush jobs.
02 - AUTO MARKING Engrave (vibrator or drill bit) or etch (acid creme) auto serial numbers on bottom corners of front and rear window glass as a theft deterrent. Expand to etching custom designs or monograms on windows and around mirrors.
03 - DESERT GLASS. Collect and sell sun-baked, weather-beaten glass in interesting colors. Make your own synthetic version by baking and/or sandblasting suitable objects with inexpensive equipment. Advertise your materials in hobby magazines.
04 - TEACHER DIRECTORY. Collect and publish names, credentials, photos of teachers in your area or at your school. Include their education, some background, current duties, interests and other qualifications. Sell to educators and the teachers.
05 - CHAIR CANING. Use cane, plastic or other interesting materials to weave chair, etc., seats and backs onto casual and picturesque chairs for clients. Buy old chairs with promise at bargain prices to re-glue, refinish, re-cane and sell.
06 - CITY LOT CLEAN-UP. Work with the city to learn of lots that must be cleaned up. Contract to do the required work on lots they designate (city adds bill to owner's taxes). Contact absentee owners to help them avoid future city actions.
07 - MINERALS AND GEMS. Where petrified wood, meteorites, jade or other potential gem minerals are available, gather, sort and process them. Sell finished jewelry and polished or cut stones, create displays, including information cards with specimens.
08 - GARAGE SALES. Buy a variety of bargain priced items at auctions and other garage sales (learn which things sell best). Clean them up (don't repair). Store until sufficiently stocked, then have your own sale " or "joint" sales at various locations.
09 - BALLOON BOUQUETS. Make up and sell balloon arrangements for special occasions. Add other unusual features, such as "talking" strings, delivery in costume or with a song (from a pocket recorder?). Offer extras such as gifts and boxed candy.
10 - TELEPHONE SALES. Call listed or phone book names to sell merchandise, services or subscriptions for a commission or hourly basis. Consider adding your own products where you keep all the profit. Pay fellow students to help on a part-time basis.
11 - BASKET WEAVING. Design, make and sell a variety of your basket creations: plain and decorated (or with arrangements). Include a small descriptive folder with each basket indicating it's lore and the fact that it was made by a student!
12 - CAT FURNITURE. Specialize in furniture and accessories for cats: toys, rug covered scratch poles, inside and outside (insulated) sleeping boxes, leashes, even clothing. Grow (or have grown) and dry your own catnip for toy stuffing and sales.
13 - TUTOR REFERRAL. List teacher specialties and availability for private sessions. Advertise for students and schedule them for tutor sessions. Arrange for student led group tutorials (seminars) for reviews to brush up for exams and tests.
14 - LITTLE LEAGUE CARDS. Take pictures of small fry baseball, etc., players, posed in uniform with their equipment Have printed on cards with name, position and other ''official'' information. Sell in sets with extra copies for parents.
15 - YARD CLEAN-UP. Clean up yards after winter, evictions or storms. Mow, remove debris, trim shrubbery, water, replant,. fertilize. Place ad after storms for private homeowners; list with real estate and rental agencies for wholesale work.
16 - POMANDERS. Revive this old Egyptian art in your spare time. Process oranges into hardened, long-lasting sachets. Use your own blend of spice mixtures and penetrating cloves. Showcase when finished in attractive, individual (sealed) boxes.
17 - CACTUS CULTURE. Propagate, grow, and arrange native and exotic cacti for retail and wholesale markets. Prepare information booklets about the species for each plant. Expand to hybrids and grafting and unusual specimens for extra profit.
18 - CALLIGRAPHY. Easily learned by an artistic person: work through stationery stores, distribute (calligraphed, of course) cards (display one in local paper). Print graduation announcements, wedding invitations, place cards and theme paper covers.
19 - SHRUBS. Learn to start, train and nurture shrubs that do well in your area. Display the best specimens in proper sized pots and planting mixtures. Include an info folder with each (care, lore, best uses). Charge to deliver, plant and guarantee.
20 - CEMETERY CARE. Contract with cemetery associations or families for small plots to provide care for grounds or specific grave sites. Offer monthly mowing, fertilization, placement of flowers, repair of any damages and periodic checks.
21 - AFRICAN VIOLETS. Specialize in the propagation and care of this popular indoor plant (great for small student rooms!). Nurture and sell when in full bloom. Offer accessories: pots, shelves and lighting. Keep small ad in student newspaper.
22 - CHILDREN'S STORIES. Compose (or adapt) stories (some with "messages") to relate at kid's parties. Create your own props and encourage audience participation (good gauge of acceptance). When story line is perfected, write it for publication.
23 - CHRISTMAS DECORATING. Make up a variety of Christmas (or any holiday) decorations to sell at peak periods. Offer prepared and customized arrangements, for room decorations or to mail home. Buy your supplies in bulk during off season.
24 - COIN SEARCHING. Buy rolls of coins from stores and banks, (or "hoarders"). Get a good coin book (from a coin dealer) and search through them for coins worth over face value. Replace with regular coins and trade in for more rolls, repeat!
25 - CONCESSION BOOTH. Operate a weekend booth or stand at a recreation area, shopping mall, flea market or parking lot. Sell your own products (for the highest profits), but take others on consignment if they will help attract more customers.
26 - CURB PAINTING. Always good for extra bucks! Use a 3 to 4 inch number stencil and fast dry black spray paint to inscribe house numbers on curbs in front of homes. Do the job fast, then request a (usually) $2 to $5 "donation" from occupants.
27 - STAND-IN DAREDEVIL. Advertise your service to perform difficult (awkward, embarrassing or proxy) tasks for clients (break or ask for dates, apologize, pay overdue debts). Charge for your time, mileage and for any actual physical risk.
28 - DAY LABOR AGENCY. Specialize in unskilled or semi-skilled workers for short-term or part-time jobs. Keep list of workers, their job qualifications and their availability. Be able to deliver workers when and where needed for a percentage.
29 - DECORATIVE PATCHES. Design patches, quilted names and sew-on decals for sweatshirts, garden shirts, working smocks, club jackets. Make up models to show (and sell). Offer custom made garments, patch adding service, or do-it-yourself kits.
30 - DELIVERY SERVICE. Contract with local markets, drug stores and pizza parlors to deliver their products on a retainer and/or per-trip basis. Call in for orders or use car phone. Affix appropriate magnetic car signs when delivering for each client.
31 - RENTAL PREPARATION. Prepare apartments and rent houses for re-occupancy. Do touch-up painting, minor repairs, cover scratches, remove stains, replace bulbs, mow lawn, fix leaky faucets and drains, shampoo rug, clean cabinets, fog for bugs.
32 - POPCORN PRODUCTS. Make up, seal and market various popcorn base products. Give your recipes unique, exotic names. Create colorful holiday, special occasion and "message bearing" containers to attract attention and show off your product.
33 - DOG HOUSES. Build and sell plain, fancy and custom dog houses in different sizes, shapes and colors. Offer a selection of extras: insulation, treated wood on bottom, air vents, insect repellant and storage space under hinged roof panels.
34 - DRIFTWOOD ART. With sandblaster, power or hand wire brush, form and finish interesting pieces of driftwood (and similar specimen woods) into decorations, lamps, candle holders and plant mounts. Collect more driftwood on trips and vacations.
35 - CHILD PICK-UP SERVICE. Pick up and deliver client's kids after school theater, games and concerts. Deliver and pick them up from parties. Offer reduced rates for more than one child per family; extra to stay until parents return home.
36 - LAWN DISPLAYS. Make and sell painted plywood holiday displays for lawns (Santa, religious, bunnies, characters). Offer lighted versions; charge extra to deliver and set up or pick up. Use Outdoor plywood (preferably signboard) quality.
37 - AUTO DETAIL APPOINTMENTS. Go to client's home by appointment to wash, wax and vacuum their car. Charge extra to scrub tires, renew plastic and rubber, to pick up the car and have it serviced. Offer polymer wax protection as an option.
38 - BABY SITTING SERVICE. Accumulate a list of qualified, bonded sitters and advise them of your rules. Advertise your service and rates. Deliver and pick up sitters if necessary. Pay sitters a percentage of the fee (they keep any tips).
39 - GARAGE CLEANING. Contract to clean out garages, sheds and attics for individuals, rental agents and absentee landlords. Charge by the hour or bid on the entire job. Get paid for the work and keep anything of value as a bonus.
40 - COMPUTER TUTOR. Go to client's home or office and instruct them to use their equipment and operate their programs. Advertise your consulting service to prospective buyers of equipment and programs. Offer a line of shareware programs.
41 - GARDEN PREPARATION. Offer digging (Rototill) service, with options to treat and fertilize gardens for customers. Plant, cultivate, weed, maintain (water, spray), even harvest for extra charges. Very good in rural areas for senior citizen customers.
42 - ANT FARMS. Collect ant colonies and construct glass cases to display them. Learn about ants first so your colonies will survive! Include info cards with each case on the type of ant and its history. Sell to pet shops, schools and individuals.
43 - GOPHER CONTROL. Contract to rid yards and gardens of these pests. Clean up hills (smooth, water down). Set traps, use gas "bombs", gas engine exhaust or treated bait. Guarantee your service for 90 days; re-do if gophers re-appear.
44 - GOURD CULTURE. Grow or process a variety of interesting gourds. Make them into decorations, utensils, painted figures, birdhouses. Retail finished gourds and do-it-yourself finishing kits. Sell seed packets with instructions to grow gourds.
45 - HOLIDAY, SPECIAL EVENT BASKETS. Prepare holiday and special event baskets of fruit, flowers and other "goodies." Have a retail display and take custom orders. Offer local stores baskets on consignment: let stores take orders for you for a commission.
46 - HOME HANDYMAN. Perform handyman services for those who can't or don't have the time. Advertise clearly what you do, keep your appointments and guarantee your work. Make money while saving your customers an expensive service call.
47 - HOME STUDY COURSES. Sell/rent new and used home study courses. Buy new courses on sale (when available) then buy them back from students (when in good condition). Consider giving tests and issuing a diploma upon successful completion.
48 - HOSPITAL GROOMING. Assist patients with nail, hair, skin care in hospitals and nursing homes. License may not be needed when you help patients to "do it themselves". Make appointments for this service or visit on a scheduled or route basis.
49 - HOUSE PAINTING. Contract to paint houses and apartments or rooms by the job. Have assistance (other students?) on hand when needed. Increase your profit by supplying quality (only) paint and supplies and bidding on the entire job.
50 - PET SITTING. Feed, water, exercise, clean up after and check on pets twice a day (or as agreed) in their homes while owners are away. Offer additional services, such as checking the mail. Call owners or veterinarian if there are any problems.
5l - WOODEN NAME TAGS. With template, scroll or jigsaw, fashion desk signs, name tags, door names, etc., from various types of ordinary and expensive wood and plywood. Apply exotic finishes and use quality bases. Native woods may be popular.
52 - EXERCISE COMPANION. Serve as a walking, jogging or aerobics companion for company, morale support and extra protection (good in cities). Carry any necessary (legal) protection (e.g., canes). Help client stick to their exercise schedule.
53 - LAWN MAINTENANCE. Contract to mow lawns by the job or season. Charge extra to edge, rake, collect and remove clippings. Refer related jobs to cooperating businesses for a finder's fee or commission. Expand your service as you grow.
54 - CUSTOM CLOTHING DESIGNS. Paint, block print or transfer unique or custom designs onto items of clothing: smocks, T-Shirts, jackets and fabrics to be made into clothing. Use designs, illustrations, cartoons, school emblems, popular themes.
55 - LIBRARY RESEARCH. Use our talent and the school library to provide research data, technical details and background information for clients who need subject "homework" performed. Charge by the hour, page or a flat fee for your efforts.
56 - LIGHT HAULING. Use your pick-up or van to pick up groceries, haul off used bricks or deliver a large doghouse. Advertise with magnetic truck signs, in the yellow pages and paper. Hire helpers when jobs require; even others with trucks.
57 - REPORTING, LOCAL. Gather and write items about your neighborhood, school, town for local or home town paper. If necessary work free (at first) to gain experience and "name." For early acceptance, write articles about local people.
58 - MACRAME. Make and sell a good selection of hangers and hangings. Take orders for custom work. Find (and keep secret) good sources for materials, make up and sell do-it-yourself kits. Place your creations on consignment in local stores.
59 - MAGAZINE SUBSCRIPTIONS. Sell a variety of magazine subscriptions from your ''office'.' Use "gimmicky" ads, give credit for leads and prizes for multiple sales. Do lots of telephone canvassing. Have a special every time you call.
60 - ERRAND SERVICE. Run errands for individuals and businesses: go to the corner store or across the country. Deliver and pick up messages, important papers, messages. Use helpers (on percentage basis) when needed to ensure prompt service.
61 - CHILDREN'S TOWN HISTORY. Write a booklet about your (or their) town just for kids. Include photos or drawings to stimulate and hold interest. Sell copies to doctors, dentists, hospitals and banks (to use in their offices or give away).
62 - METAL RECYCLING. Pick up, sort, process (dismantle, clean wires) waste metals from any source. Accumulate into lots, wait for higher prices and sell to salvage yards. Advertise to buy surplus metals from individuals (at lower rates).
63 - PAPER ROUTE. Operate one or more newspaper routes. Large routes can be operated with a car, especially with two people. More than one paper can be handled when schedules don't conflict (just don't tell either about the other).
64 - SIGN RETOUCHING. Use quality regular or luminous paint to re-touch painted signs (no special talent needed!). Charge much less than sign painter and provide results that spruce up your customer's image and save them a good deal of money.
65 - PEN PAL CLUB. Advertise for members. Categorize by age, interests, sex, background, educational level, political persuasion, etc. Charge an initial membership fee and then for a newsletter and/or for addresses of "matches" from your files.
66 - PET CAGES. Build standard and custom cages for birds, cats, hamsters. Offer a line for travel and/or shipping as well as models that can double as a place to keep the animals while the family is on a trip. Include cage covers and accessories.
67 - SHOPPING SERVICE. Go grocery shopping for busy or housebound clients. Get their list, buy and deliver. Use your shopping and pricing knowledge to get clients the best values for their money. Charge a percentage of the bill for your services.
68 - POOL AND SAUNA CARE. Provide regular or on-call cleaning and regular maintenance for home and commercial swimming pools and sauna systems. Work with distributors or place ads for your service. Refer repair work for finder's fees.
69 - DISK JOCKEY. With your music library, equipment and talent, take charge of the music at parties, business banquets and weddings. Offer a selection of music and package deals. Agree on the type of music and length of time you are to play.
70. TEMPLE RUBBINGS. With a large lumber type crayon and large sheet of rugged paper, copy stone or metal relief designs. Place the paper over the design and rub with the crayon to form a rustic representation. Seal (spray), frame and sell.
71 - PUPPET MAKING. Create your own puppets (cartoon, caricatures or custom faces). Give shows at children's (or young adult) parties. Train both "actors" and puppet makers. Charge for your shows. Make and sell puppets, skits and accessories.
72 - RAG DOLLS. Make rag, sock and similar stuffed dolls in your own unique fashion. Attach your label and offer to stores in your area. Offer to place them on consignment at first. When satisfied they are ready to sell, advertise nationwide.
73 - ROOMMATE REFERRAL. List and "match" singles, etc., desiring company and expense sharing help. Consider apartment needs, proximity to job or school, finances AND personalities. Good part-time project for person with a computer!
74 - SCHOOL PHOTOGRAPHY. Specialize in class, team and school group photography. Sell picture packets, trading photos, graduation photographs, prom and homecoming photos plus pictures of students involved in school events (games, honors, etc.).
75 - SEED PACKETS. Collect, sort, label and sell packets of selected wildflowers or plants native to your area. On small, retail packets, include a picture of the grown plant, instructions, history and folklore to help stimulate buyer interest.
76 - PLANT INSTALLATION. Work with nurseries. Deliver, properly plant and prune new trees and shrubs. Provide initial watering and starter chemicals. Leave verbal and/or written instructions with customers on how to properly care for their shrubs.
77 - SHUT-IN SERVICE. Call and/or visit temporary or permanent shut-ins on behalf of absentee or working relatives. Take books and magazines, play games, read to them, listen to them, and be their friend. Report any problems to the relatives.
78 - SNOW CONE STAND. Sell shaved ice cones from your stand or van: with as many flavors as possible. Have a large sign with enticing illustration. Include other products to augment sales: candy, popcorn, hot dogs and coffee for cold days.
79 - SNOW REMOVAL. Use your shovel or snow blower to clear walks on a one-time basis or by the season (retainer plus time basis) for private residences and/or business locations. Sell and apply chemicals to help keep waIkways clear.
80 - STORM WINDOWS. Advertise each spring and fall to put up and take down storm windows. Expand to a complete winterizing service: caulking, weather stripping. Carry a small supply of needed materials to sell to customers.
81- SCHOOL PERFORMANCES. Record (tape or VCR) school band, plays, recitals. Sell complete copies as well as selected "up close and personal" shots that features one person or a small group. Sell these to proud moms and dads (or the students).
82 - BALLOON STAND. Set up your booth or table with an air tank (helium) and supply of balloons and accessories. Sell at parades, fairs, flea markets, ball games, wherever the kids are! Booth can be a light trailer that unfolds, ready to set up.
83 - TELEPHONE CANVASSING. Contract with salesmen or businesses to obtain leads for them or customer info from your telephone operation. Charge by the number of leads provided. Hire assistants as needed; graduate to selling your own line.
84 - TOWN HISTORY. If none exists, "publish" a booklet about your (or any) town. Sell or consign to merchants for resale. Or, show merchants a draft, sell ads and let participating merchants give them away as "permanent" advertising. Or, both!
85 - TRASH CAN HOLDERS. Improve the environment: offer several models, colors and price ranges of dog-proof but eye pleasing trash can bins and holders with covers. Arrange to sell new trash cans that fit the holders for an extra commission.
86 - WILD BERRIES. Pick preserve and sell wild (only) blackberries, gooseberries, etc. Prepare different forms, but emphasize that they are genuine wild products. If local laws prevent retailing, sell direct to stores, bakeries and fine restaurants.
87 - MOTHER NATURE'S SEEDS. In your travels, gather (pick, buy) wildflower seeds. Seal and label, then take home and cultivate carefully to produce seeds for nature's plants "from around the nation." Sell in individual and mixture seed packets.
88 - BIRDHOUSE BUILDING. Build and decorate fine, scientifically designed birdhouses and feeders for native birds as well as those that migrate to or through your area. Make up little info folders for each model listing its application.
89 - BIRTHDAY LISTS. Compile birthday (anniversary, etc.) mailing lists to rent to merchants. Or, contract to mail cards out each season on their behalf, with their return address. Get info from tax and voting lists, from drawings and contests.
90 - FLYER DISTRIBUTION. Hire students to distribute ads, samples, coupons, announcements, door-to-door or on parked car windows. Charge extra to record occupant reactions. Contract with individual businesses and advertising agencies.
91 - RESIDENTIAL POSTCARDS. Take flattering pictures of well-kept homes (business fronts, too!) and have printed as postcards. Mail sample postcards to homeowners with an offer of 2 dozen or so additional copies at a "special introductory" price.
92 - LOCAL HEROES. Research and write items about local citizens that qualify as heroics (police, scouts, lady pioneers, ancestors, office holders). Sell to local publications, subject's family. After writing several, publish as a collection.
93 - PET PHOTOGRAPHY. Specialize in pet portraits: in their home, your studio or in a "natural" setting. Offer a base price for a portfolio. Go to dog shows and take pictures of willing subjects (don't forget the losers!). Sell to proud owners.
94 - SAWDUST MOLDING. Use free sawdust (yours or from mill). Mix with glue, sand, pumice, etc. Mold into figurines, lamp bases and other products. Develop your own sawdust, glue, coloring recipes. Make molds with rubber mold compound.
95 - MINIATURE GARDENS. Create various sizes of garden-like display containers of live plants for hospital sick rooms, boxes for balconies, rooftop planters, offices and apartments. Include instructions for plant care so your products will last.
96 - BUILDER'S CLEAN-UP. Clean up nails, wrappers, wood scraps after construction jobs. Sweep out building, pick up and haul away all debris. Salvage leftovers as a bonus. Work with contractors in your area - call them and offer your services.
97 - TEXTBOOK EXCHANGE. Buy, sell trade and rent textbooks, reference books and clean workbooks in demand near educational institutions. Offer your service by mail to new students. Advertise that you take in trades (last year's subject for this).
98 - SCARECROWS. Create interesting and authentic scarecrows for gardeners and garden displays. Sell do-it-yourself kits, complete with frames, straw, old clothes, frames, hand and face parts. Design and offer wind-driven movements as extras.
99 - HOUSEHOLD PACKER. Work on-call with moving companies and/or advertise your services to self-movers (list with truck rentals). Find a source for packing materials and make an extra commission on them. Help customer move for an additional fee.
AND, A FEW EXTRAS...
100 - ESCORT SERVICE. Supply (legitimate) escorts for social events, official and business functions. Advertise for on-call escorts. Interview, qualify and have bonded. Have strict rules on conduct with signed employee contract agreements.
101 - EDUCATIONAL CASSETTES. Make, duplicate and market cassettes: technical studies, bible readings, children's stories, educational lectures (with permission), textbook chapters, language declensions, etc. Sell to stores or rent to students.
102 - BUTTON MAKING. Make and sell buttons and badges for promotions, special events and elections (both sides!). Work from a corner in your home; travel to and set up booths at fairs. Prepare buttons in advance for games, causes, celebrations.
103 - AUTO THEFT PROTECTION. Offer a variety of devices, systems and price ranges that you can install (and maintain) to help prevent your customers' cars from being stolen. Work with security supply houses and/or design your own deterrents.
104 - DAMAGE REPAIR. Restore property damaged by vandalism. Hire fellow students to clean, paint over graffiti, make minor repairs, replace glass. Provide owners with itemized list of duties performed and supplies utilized (for insurance).
105 - LAMPSHADES, PHOTO. Make lampshades from translucent, heat resistant materials with family or fellow student photos (with school emblems, pretty coeds, football heroes). Use client's pictures or take them anew to adorn the custom lampshades.
106 - COPYRIGHT FREE BOOKLETS. Advertise and sell unprotected booklets from government/state/university printing facilities. Reproduce them (most are copyright free), but do not claim authorship. Offer a selection to customers answering your ads.
107 - ETHNIC ARTIFACTS. Buy/create and market one category of products (Indian, Black heritage, German). Focus your advertising and expertise on a specific market segment. It's cheaper than "shotgun" advertising and undoubtedly, more profitable.
These businesses can be started with minimal training and investment and are virtually certain to produce extra income. Most can be operated by one or a group of students, and can be sold for an additional profit upon graduation.
For best results browse through the enclosed business suggestions and note those that sound interesting. Jot down alternative products and services that come to mind. This list is designed to work with and stimulate your imagination. Only you can possibly know your personal qualifications and interests or the current market in your community. As you compile your list of "possibles", take a good look around your market area. Note what is and isn't available, what is over priced and inadequate that people in your community will pay for. When you find just the right combination for your particular situation, start preparing for a successful business!
The recommended method to prepare for a successful business is to write out a business plan. This is simply an outline of what you plan to do and how you intend to do it. Writing your business plan will force you to organize your business both on paper and in your own mind and help insure your ultimate business success.
Finally, check with city hall or the county courthouse (and school if you operate on campus) on state and local license, tax or permit requirements before investing. Sometimes a minor adjustment at this stage can prevent future headaches!
Finally, familiarize yourself with your subject and start ordering initial supplies (business cards, rubber stamp, ledger). Don't invest too much in initial stock. You will undoubtedly make adjustments as you learn more about your market.
GOOD LUCK IN YOUR NEW BUSINESS!
99 PART-TIME BUSINESSES FOR STUDENTS
01 - SCHOOL TYPING. Operate a typing/word processing service for other students: type assignments in draft and then in final form. Charge by the page; extra to correct spelling (except for computer spell or Thesaurus) and/or grammar and for rush jobs.
02 - AUTO MARKING Engrave (vibrator or drill bit) or etch (acid creme) auto serial numbers on bottom corners of front and rear window glass as a theft deterrent. Expand to etching custom designs or monograms on windows and around mirrors.
03 - DESERT GLASS. Collect and sell sun-baked, weather-beaten glass in interesting colors. Make your own synthetic version by baking and/or sandblasting suitable objects with inexpensive equipment. Advertise your materials in hobby magazines.
04 - TEACHER DIRECTORY. Collect and publish names, credentials, photos of teachers in your area or at your school. Include their education, some background, current duties, interests and other qualifications. Sell to educators and the teachers.
05 - CHAIR CANING. Use cane, plastic or other interesting materials to weave chair, etc., seats and backs onto casual and picturesque chairs for clients. Buy old chairs with promise at bargain prices to re-glue, refinish, re-cane and sell.
06 - CITY LOT CLEAN-UP. Work with the city to learn of lots that must be cleaned up. Contract to do the required work on lots they designate (city adds bill to owner's taxes). Contact absentee owners to help them avoid future city actions.
07 - MINERALS AND GEMS. Where petrified wood, meteorites, jade or other potential gem minerals are available, gather, sort and process them. Sell finished jewelry and polished or cut stones, create displays, including information cards with specimens.
08 - GARAGE SALES. Buy a variety of bargain priced items at auctions and other garage sales (learn which things sell best). Clean them up (don't repair). Store until sufficiently stocked, then have your own sale " or "joint" sales at various locations.
09 - BALLOON BOUQUETS. Make up and sell balloon arrangements for special occasions. Add other unusual features, such as "talking" strings, delivery in costume or with a song (from a pocket recorder?). Offer extras such as gifts and boxed candy.
10 - TELEPHONE SALES. Call listed or phone book names to sell merchandise, services or subscriptions for a commission or hourly basis. Consider adding your own products where you keep all the profit. Pay fellow students to help on a part-time basis.
11 - BASKET WEAVING. Design, make and sell a variety of your basket creations: plain and decorated (or with arrangements). Include a small descriptive folder with each basket indicating it's lore and the fact that it was made by a student!
12 - CAT FURNITURE. Specialize in furniture and accessories for cats: toys, rug covered scratch poles, inside and outside (insulated) sleeping boxes, leashes, even clothing. Grow (or have grown) and dry your own catnip for toy stuffing and sales.
13 - TUTOR REFERRAL. List teacher specialties and availability for private sessions. Advertise for students and schedule them for tutor sessions. Arrange for student led group tutorials (seminars) for reviews to brush up for exams and tests.
14 - LITTLE LEAGUE CARDS. Take pictures of small fry baseball, etc., players, posed in uniform with their equipment Have printed on cards with name, position and other ''official'' information. Sell in sets with extra copies for parents.
15 - YARD CLEAN-UP. Clean up yards after winter, evictions or storms. Mow, remove debris, trim shrubbery, water, replant,. fertilize. Place ad after storms for private homeowners; list with real estate and rental agencies for wholesale work.
16 - POMANDERS. Revive this old Egyptian art in your spare time. Process oranges into hardened, long-lasting sachets. Use your own blend of spice mixtures and penetrating cloves. Showcase when finished in attractive, individual (sealed) boxes.
17 - CACTUS CULTURE. Propagate, grow, and arrange native and exotic cacti for retail and wholesale markets. Prepare information booklets about the species for each plant. Expand to hybrids and grafting and unusual specimens for extra profit.
18 - CALLIGRAPHY. Easily learned by an artistic person: work through stationery stores, distribute (calligraphed, of course) cards (display one in local paper). Print graduation announcements, wedding invitations, place cards and theme paper covers.
19 - SHRUBS. Learn to start, train and nurture shrubs that do well in your area. Display the best specimens in proper sized pots and planting mixtures. Include an info folder with each (care, lore, best uses). Charge to deliver, plant and guarantee.
20 - CEMETERY CARE. Contract with cemetery associations or families for small plots to provide care for grounds or specific grave sites. Offer monthly mowing, fertilization, placement of flowers, repair of any damages and periodic checks.
21 - AFRICAN VIOLETS. Specialize in the propagation and care of this popular indoor plant (great for small student rooms!). Nurture and sell when in full bloom. Offer accessories: pots, shelves and lighting. Keep small ad in student newspaper.
22 - CHILDREN'S STORIES. Compose (or adapt) stories (some with "messages") to relate at kid's parties. Create your own props and encourage audience participation (good gauge of acceptance). When story line is perfected, write it for publication.
23 - CHRISTMAS DECORATING. Make up a variety of Christmas (or any holiday) decorations to sell at peak periods. Offer prepared and customized arrangements, for room decorations or to mail home. Buy your supplies in bulk during off season.
24 - COIN SEARCHING. Buy rolls of coins from stores and banks, (or "hoarders"). Get a good coin book (from a coin dealer) and search through them for coins worth over face value. Replace with regular coins and trade in for more rolls, repeat!
25 - CONCESSION BOOTH. Operate a weekend booth or stand at a recreation area, shopping mall, flea market or parking lot. Sell your own products (for the highest profits), but take others on consignment if they will help attract more customers.
26 - CURB PAINTING. Always good for extra bucks! Use a 3 to 4 inch number stencil and fast dry black spray paint to inscribe house numbers on curbs in front of homes. Do the job fast, then request a (usually) $2 to $5 "donation" from occupants.
27 - STAND-IN DAREDEVIL. Advertise your service to perform difficult (awkward, embarrassing or proxy) tasks for clients (break or ask for dates, apologize, pay overdue debts). Charge for your time, mileage and for any actual physical risk.
28 - DAY LABOR AGENCY. Specialize in unskilled or semi-skilled workers for short-term or part-time jobs. Keep list of workers, their job qualifications and their availability. Be able to deliver workers when and where needed for a percentage.
29 - DECORATIVE PATCHES. Design patches, quilted names and sew-on decals for sweatshirts, garden shirts, working smocks, club jackets. Make up models to show (and sell). Offer custom made garments, patch adding service, or do-it-yourself kits.
30 - DELIVERY SERVICE. Contract with local markets, drug stores and pizza parlors to deliver their products on a retainer and/or per-trip basis. Call in for orders or use car phone. Affix appropriate magnetic car signs when delivering for each client.
31 - RENTAL PREPARATION. Prepare apartments and rent houses for re-occupancy. Do touch-up painting, minor repairs, cover scratches, remove stains, replace bulbs, mow lawn, fix leaky faucets and drains, shampoo rug, clean cabinets, fog for bugs.
32 - POPCORN PRODUCTS. Make up, seal and market various popcorn base products. Give your recipes unique, exotic names. Create colorful holiday, special occasion and "message bearing" containers to attract attention and show off your product.
33 - DOG HOUSES. Build and sell plain, fancy and custom dog houses in different sizes, shapes and colors. Offer a selection of extras: insulation, treated wood on bottom, air vents, insect repellant and storage space under hinged roof panels.
34 - DRIFTWOOD ART. With sandblaster, power or hand wire brush, form and finish interesting pieces of driftwood (and similar specimen woods) into decorations, lamps, candle holders and plant mounts. Collect more driftwood on trips and vacations.
35 - CHILD PICK-UP SERVICE. Pick up and deliver client's kids after school theater, games and concerts. Deliver and pick them up from parties. Offer reduced rates for more than one child per family; extra to stay until parents return home.
36 - LAWN DISPLAYS. Make and sell painted plywood holiday displays for lawns (Santa, religious, bunnies, characters). Offer lighted versions; charge extra to deliver and set up or pick up. Use Outdoor plywood (preferably signboard) quality.
37 - AUTO DETAIL APPOINTMENTS. Go to client's home by appointment to wash, wax and vacuum their car. Charge extra to scrub tires, renew plastic and rubber, to pick up the car and have it serviced. Offer polymer wax protection as an option.
38 - BABY SITTING SERVICE. Accumulate a list of qualified, bonded sitters and advise them of your rules. Advertise your service and rates. Deliver and pick up sitters if necessary. Pay sitters a percentage of the fee (they keep any tips).
39 - GARAGE CLEANING. Contract to clean out garages, sheds and attics for individuals, rental agents and absentee landlords. Charge by the hour or bid on the entire job. Get paid for the work and keep anything of value as a bonus.
40 - COMPUTER TUTOR. Go to client's home or office and instruct them to use their equipment and operate their programs. Advertise your consulting service to prospective buyers of equipment and programs. Offer a line of shareware programs.
41 - GARDEN PREPARATION. Offer digging (Rototill) service, with options to treat and fertilize gardens for customers. Plant, cultivate, weed, maintain (water, spray), even harvest for extra charges. Very good in rural areas for senior citizen customers.
42 - ANT FARMS. Collect ant colonies and construct glass cases to display them. Learn about ants first so your colonies will survive! Include info cards with each case on the type of ant and its history. Sell to pet shops, schools and individuals.
43 - GOPHER CONTROL. Contract to rid yards and gardens of these pests. Clean up hills (smooth, water down). Set traps, use gas "bombs", gas engine exhaust or treated bait. Guarantee your service for 90 days; re-do if gophers re-appear.
44 - GOURD CULTURE. Grow or process a variety of interesting gourds. Make them into decorations, utensils, painted figures, birdhouses. Retail finished gourds and do-it-yourself finishing kits. Sell seed packets with instructions to grow gourds.
45 - HOLIDAY, SPECIAL EVENT BASKETS. Prepare holiday and special event baskets of fruit, flowers and other "goodies." Have a retail display and take custom orders. Offer local stores baskets on consignment: let stores take orders for you for a commission.
46 - HOME HANDYMAN. Perform handyman services for those who can't or don't have the time. Advertise clearly what you do, keep your appointments and guarantee your work. Make money while saving your customers an expensive service call.
47 - HOME STUDY COURSES. Sell/rent new and used home study courses. Buy new courses on sale (when available) then buy them back from students (when in good condition). Consider giving tests and issuing a diploma upon successful completion.
48 - HOSPITAL GROOMING. Assist patients with nail, hair, skin care in hospitals and nursing homes. License may not be needed when you help patients to "do it themselves". Make appointments for this service or visit on a scheduled or route basis.
49 - HOUSE PAINTING. Contract to paint houses and apartments or rooms by the job. Have assistance (other students?) on hand when needed. Increase your profit by supplying quality (only) paint and supplies and bidding on the entire job.
50 - PET SITTING. Feed, water, exercise, clean up after and check on pets twice a day (or as agreed) in their homes while owners are away. Offer additional services, such as checking the mail. Call owners or veterinarian if there are any problems.
5l - WOODEN NAME TAGS. With template, scroll or jigsaw, fashion desk signs, name tags, door names, etc., from various types of ordinary and expensive wood and plywood. Apply exotic finishes and use quality bases. Native woods may be popular.
52 - EXERCISE COMPANION. Serve as a walking, jogging or aerobics companion for company, morale support and extra protection (good in cities). Carry any necessary (legal) protection (e.g., canes). Help client stick to their exercise schedule.
53 - LAWN MAINTENANCE. Contract to mow lawns by the job or season. Charge extra to edge, rake, collect and remove clippings. Refer related jobs to cooperating businesses for a finder's fee or commission. Expand your service as you grow.
54 - CUSTOM CLOTHING DESIGNS. Paint, block print or transfer unique or custom designs onto items of clothing: smocks, T-Shirts, jackets and fabrics to be made into clothing. Use designs, illustrations, cartoons, school emblems, popular themes.
55 - LIBRARY RESEARCH. Use our talent and the school library to provide research data, technical details and background information for clients who need subject "homework" performed. Charge by the hour, page or a flat fee for your efforts.
56 - LIGHT HAULING. Use your pick-up or van to pick up groceries, haul off used bricks or deliver a large doghouse. Advertise with magnetic truck signs, in the yellow pages and paper. Hire helpers when jobs require; even others with trucks.
57 - REPORTING, LOCAL. Gather and write items about your neighborhood, school, town for local or home town paper. If necessary work free (at first) to gain experience and "name." For early acceptance, write articles about local people.
58 - MACRAME. Make and sell a good selection of hangers and hangings. Take orders for custom work. Find (and keep secret) good sources for materials, make up and sell do-it-yourself kits. Place your creations on consignment in local stores.
59 - MAGAZINE SUBSCRIPTIONS. Sell a variety of magazine subscriptions from your ''office'.' Use "gimmicky" ads, give credit for leads and prizes for multiple sales. Do lots of telephone canvassing. Have a special every time you call.
60 - ERRAND SERVICE. Run errands for individuals and businesses: go to the corner store or across the country. Deliver and pick up messages, important papers, messages. Use helpers (on percentage basis) when needed to ensure prompt service.
61 - CHILDREN'S TOWN HISTORY. Write a booklet about your (or their) town just for kids. Include photos or drawings to stimulate and hold interest. Sell copies to doctors, dentists, hospitals and banks (to use in their offices or give away).
62 - METAL RECYCLING. Pick up, sort, process (dismantle, clean wires) waste metals from any source. Accumulate into lots, wait for higher prices and sell to salvage yards. Advertise to buy surplus metals from individuals (at lower rates).
63 - PAPER ROUTE. Operate one or more newspaper routes. Large routes can be operated with a car, especially with two people. More than one paper can be handled when schedules don't conflict (just don't tell either about the other).
64 - SIGN RETOUCHING. Use quality regular or luminous paint to re-touch painted signs (no special talent needed!). Charge much less than sign painter and provide results that spruce up your customer's image and save them a good deal of money.
65 - PEN PAL CLUB. Advertise for members. Categorize by age, interests, sex, background, educational level, political persuasion, etc. Charge an initial membership fee and then for a newsletter and/or for addresses of "matches" from your files.
66 - PET CAGES. Build standard and custom cages for birds, cats, hamsters. Offer a line for travel and/or shipping as well as models that can double as a place to keep the animals while the family is on a trip. Include cage covers and accessories.
67 - SHOPPING SERVICE. Go grocery shopping for busy or housebound clients. Get their list, buy and deliver. Use your shopping and pricing knowledge to get clients the best values for their money. Charge a percentage of the bill for your services.
68 - POOL AND SAUNA CARE. Provide regular or on-call cleaning and regular maintenance for home and commercial swimming pools and sauna systems. Work with distributors or place ads for your service. Refer repair work for finder's fees.
69 - DISK JOCKEY. With your music library, equipment and talent, take charge of the music at parties, business banquets and weddings. Offer a selection of music and package deals. Agree on the type of music and length of time you are to play.
70. TEMPLE RUBBINGS. With a large lumber type crayon and large sheet of rugged paper, copy stone or metal relief designs. Place the paper over the design and rub with the crayon to form a rustic representation. Seal (spray), frame and sell.
71 - PUPPET MAKING. Create your own puppets (cartoon, caricatures or custom faces). Give shows at children's (or young adult) parties. Train both "actors" and puppet makers. Charge for your shows. Make and sell puppets, skits and accessories.
72 - RAG DOLLS. Make rag, sock and similar stuffed dolls in your own unique fashion. Attach your label and offer to stores in your area. Offer to place them on consignment at first. When satisfied they are ready to sell, advertise nationwide.
73 - ROOMMATE REFERRAL. List and "match" singles, etc., desiring company and expense sharing help. Consider apartment needs, proximity to job or school, finances AND personalities. Good part-time project for person with a computer!
74 - SCHOOL PHOTOGRAPHY. Specialize in class, team and school group photography. Sell picture packets, trading photos, graduation photographs, prom and homecoming photos plus pictures of students involved in school events (games, honors, etc.).
75 - SEED PACKETS. Collect, sort, label and sell packets of selected wildflowers or plants native to your area. On small, retail packets, include a picture of the grown plant, instructions, history and folklore to help stimulate buyer interest.
76 - PLANT INSTALLATION. Work with nurseries. Deliver, properly plant and prune new trees and shrubs. Provide initial watering and starter chemicals. Leave verbal and/or written instructions with customers on how to properly care for their shrubs.
77 - SHUT-IN SERVICE. Call and/or visit temporary or permanent shut-ins on behalf of absentee or working relatives. Take books and magazines, play games, read to them, listen to them, and be their friend. Report any problems to the relatives.
78 - SNOW CONE STAND. Sell shaved ice cones from your stand or van: with as many flavors as possible. Have a large sign with enticing illustration. Include other products to augment sales: candy, popcorn, hot dogs and coffee for cold days.
79 - SNOW REMOVAL. Use your shovel or snow blower to clear walks on a one-time basis or by the season (retainer plus time basis) for private residences and/or business locations. Sell and apply chemicals to help keep waIkways clear.
80 - STORM WINDOWS. Advertise each spring and fall to put up and take down storm windows. Expand to a complete winterizing service: caulking, weather stripping. Carry a small supply of needed materials to sell to customers.
81- SCHOOL PERFORMANCES. Record (tape or VCR) school band, plays, recitals. Sell complete copies as well as selected "up close and personal" shots that features one person or a small group. Sell these to proud moms and dads (or the students).
82 - BALLOON STAND. Set up your booth or table with an air tank (helium) and supply of balloons and accessories. Sell at parades, fairs, flea markets, ball games, wherever the kids are! Booth can be a light trailer that unfolds, ready to set up.
83 - TELEPHONE CANVASSING. Contract with salesmen or businesses to obtain leads for them or customer info from your telephone operation. Charge by the number of leads provided. Hire assistants as needed; graduate to selling your own line.
84 - TOWN HISTORY. If none exists, "publish" a booklet about your (or any) town. Sell or consign to merchants for resale. Or, show merchants a draft, sell ads and let participating merchants give them away as "permanent" advertising. Or, both!
85 - TRASH CAN HOLDERS. Improve the environment: offer several models, colors and price ranges of dog-proof but eye pleasing trash can bins and holders with covers. Arrange to sell new trash cans that fit the holders for an extra commission.
86 - WILD BERRIES. Pick preserve and sell wild (only) blackberries, gooseberries, etc. Prepare different forms, but emphasize that they are genuine wild products. If local laws prevent retailing, sell direct to stores, bakeries and fine restaurants.
87 - MOTHER NATURE'S SEEDS. In your travels, gather (pick, buy) wildflower seeds. Seal and label, then take home and cultivate carefully to produce seeds for nature's plants "from around the nation." Sell in individual and mixture seed packets.
88 - BIRDHOUSE BUILDING. Build and decorate fine, scientifically designed birdhouses and feeders for native birds as well as those that migrate to or through your area. Make up little info folders for each model listing its application.
89 - BIRTHDAY LISTS. Compile birthday (anniversary, etc.) mailing lists to rent to merchants. Or, contract to mail cards out each season on their behalf, with their return address. Get info from tax and voting lists, from drawings and contests.
90 - FLYER DISTRIBUTION. Hire students to distribute ads, samples, coupons, announcements, door-to-door or on parked car windows. Charge extra to record occupant reactions. Contract with individual businesses and advertising agencies.
91 - RESIDENTIAL POSTCARDS. Take flattering pictures of well-kept homes (business fronts, too!) and have printed as postcards. Mail sample postcards to homeowners with an offer of 2 dozen or so additional copies at a "special introductory" price.
92 - LOCAL HEROES. Research and write items about local citizens that qualify as heroics (police, scouts, lady pioneers, ancestors, office holders). Sell to local publications, subject's family. After writing several, publish as a collection.
93 - PET PHOTOGRAPHY. Specialize in pet portraits: in their home, your studio or in a "natural" setting. Offer a base price for a portfolio. Go to dog shows and take pictures of willing subjects (don't forget the losers!). Sell to proud owners.
94 - SAWDUST MOLDING. Use free sawdust (yours or from mill). Mix with glue, sand, pumice, etc. Mold into figurines, lamp bases and other products. Develop your own sawdust, glue, coloring recipes. Make molds with rubber mold compound.
95 - MINIATURE GARDENS. Create various sizes of garden-like display containers of live plants for hospital sick rooms, boxes for balconies, rooftop planters, offices and apartments. Include instructions for plant care so your products will last.
96 - BUILDER'S CLEAN-UP. Clean up nails, wrappers, wood scraps after construction jobs. Sweep out building, pick up and haul away all debris. Salvage leftovers as a bonus. Work with contractors in your area - call them and offer your services.
97 - TEXTBOOK EXCHANGE. Buy, sell trade and rent textbooks, reference books and clean workbooks in demand near educational institutions. Offer your service by mail to new students. Advertise that you take in trades (last year's subject for this).
98 - SCARECROWS. Create interesting and authentic scarecrows for gardeners and garden displays. Sell do-it-yourself kits, complete with frames, straw, old clothes, frames, hand and face parts. Design and offer wind-driven movements as extras.
99 - HOUSEHOLD PACKER. Work on-call with moving companies and/or advertise your services to self-movers (list with truck rentals). Find a source for packing materials and make an extra commission on them. Help customer move for an additional fee.
AND, A FEW EXTRAS...
100 - ESCORT SERVICE. Supply (legitimate) escorts for social events, official and business functions. Advertise for on-call escorts. Interview, qualify and have bonded. Have strict rules on conduct with signed employee contract agreements.
101 - EDUCATIONAL CASSETTES. Make, duplicate and market cassettes: technical studies, bible readings, children's stories, educational lectures (with permission), textbook chapters, language declensions, etc. Sell to stores or rent to students.
102 - BUTTON MAKING. Make and sell buttons and badges for promotions, special events and elections (both sides!). Work from a corner in your home; travel to and set up booths at fairs. Prepare buttons in advance for games, causes, celebrations.
103 - AUTO THEFT PROTECTION. Offer a variety of devices, systems and price ranges that you can install (and maintain) to help prevent your customers' cars from being stolen. Work with security supply houses and/or design your own deterrents.
104 - DAMAGE REPAIR. Restore property damaged by vandalism. Hire fellow students to clean, paint over graffiti, make minor repairs, replace glass. Provide owners with itemized list of duties performed and supplies utilized (for insurance).
105 - LAMPSHADES, PHOTO. Make lampshades from translucent, heat resistant materials with family or fellow student photos (with school emblems, pretty coeds, football heroes). Use client's pictures or take them anew to adorn the custom lampshades.
106 - COPYRIGHT FREE BOOKLETS. Advertise and sell unprotected booklets from government/state/university printing facilities. Reproduce them (most are copyright free), but do not claim authorship. Offer a selection to customers answering your ads.
107 - ETHNIC ARTIFACTS. Buy/create and market one category of products (Indian, Black heritage, German). Focus your advertising and expertise on a specific market segment. It's cheaper than "shotgun" advertising and undoubtedly, more profitable.
Thursday, August 21, 2008
TOP 100 BUSINESSES FOR RETIREES
A collection of businesses selected especially for retirees who are interested in augmenting their income through the American free enterprise system.
These businesses can be started with minimum training and investment and are all capable of producing extra income. Most can easily be operated by one person or couple and eventually be sold for an additional profit.
For best results browse through the enclosed business suggestions and note those that sound interesting. Jot down alternative products and services that come to mind. These ideas are intended to stimulate your imagination. Only you can possibly know your personal qualifications and interests or the current market in your community. As you compile your list of possibilities, take a critical look around your market area. Note what is and isn't available, what is overpriced or inadequate that people in your community will pay for. When you find just the right combination for your particular situation, start preparing for a successful business!
The recommended method to prepare for a successful business is to write out a business plan. This is simply an outline of what you plan to do and how you intend to do it. Writing your business plan will force you to organize your business both on paper and in your own mind and help insure your ultimate business success.
Check with city hall or the county courthouse on state and local license, tax or permit requirements before making your final selection and investing your available funds. Sometimes a minor adjustment can prevent future headaches!
01 - SHUTTLE SERVICE. Use your van to pick up and deliver commuters in cities. Save your customers the cost of a second car or risk of leaving their vehicles untended in parking lots.
02 - COIN SEARCHING. Buy rolls of coins from banks (whatever denomination you can afford). Search for coins worth over face value. Keep these, replace with "regular" coins and trade in.
03 - SEED PACKETS. Collect and label packets of selected wild flowers native to your area. Include picture, instructions and folklore on each package. Advertise in garden magazines.
04 - CROSSWORD PUZZLES. Construct crossword puzzles for local (then larger) markets; Offer variety of subjects, themes and sizes and subjects in different degrees of difficulty.
05 - GENEALOGY. Trace and document family archives. Provide full records to descendants. Offer a package service based on routine checks of information provided by clients.
06 - FLEA MARKET. Set up and manage a flea market at your (own or rented) location. Charge for spaces and booths, sell drinks and snacks. Advertise, provide parking and protection.
07 - GRAPHOANALYSIS. Upon completion of training, offer your services as a handwriting analyst to individuals, law enforcement agencies and attorneys from your office or by mail.
08 - LEATHER HARNESS REPAIR. Specialize in the repair of leather harness and tack (in areas with horses). Go to shows and list with tack stores and advertise in horse publications.
09 - SLIDE SHOWS. With your slides and equipment, offer a selection of narrated presentations to interested groups (PTA, church groups, clubs). Mail ads to prospective customer groups.
10 - MUSIC BOXES. Assemble, finish and install music works in standard models and your own unique music box creations. Sell through ads and displays and to local and catalog stores.
11 - SEMINAR PROMOTION. Conduct business or learning seminars in your area of expertise or hire experts to cover virtually any subject. Lease the hall, promote, sell tickets and snacks.
12 - UMPIRING. Work as an umpire for little league, company or institution teams (any non-professional sports). If necessary, start as a volunteer for experience. Move up when qualified.
13 - ARROWHEADS. Collect and make (with deer horn and leather glove) Indian arrowheads for hobbyists, displays and demonstrations. Give lectures, presentations, hold classes.
14 - PET PHOTOGRAPHY. Specialize in pet portraits: in their home, your studio or in a "natural" setting. Go to dog shows and take pictures of all willing subjects (the losers too!).
15 - NATURE'S PRODUCTS. When in an area with wild products (hickory nuts, maple syrup) that you can harvest, do so! Make sure to clear with health regulations in your area first.
16 - FLEA MARKET BOOTH. Buy one or more categories of merchandise from close-out suppliers and operate a flea market booth. Keep stock safe in a van and drive to and from the business.
17 - REAL PEOPLE DOLLS. Make and dress doll representations of real people (heroes, historical, client/client's kids). Include info card; present in attractive glass display boxes.
18 - GAZEBOS. Build, sell, deliver and install standard and custom gazebos. Design some to sell as do-it-yourself kits, which can either be picked up or delivered to the customer.
19 - ADULT DAY CARE CENTER. Operate a center to look after elderly and/or handicapped people. Offer TLC, refreshments, games activities and assistance, but not "health care".
20 - NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS. Compile, publish and distribute a neighborhood newspaper with local news and opinions. Include lots of names (balance required), sell copies and ads.
21 - DRIVING SERVICE. Drive other people's cars for them: drive second car to their new home, be their vacation driver, deliver car/truck/RV to them at the station and take the bus home.
22 - OPINION SAMPLING. Contract to conduct opinion polls in your area - by phone, door-to-door, or on the street. Work with businesses, media, list with an ad agency, or just place ads.
23 - BOOKBINDING. Set up a bookbinding and book repair service in your shop. Advertise and list your service with libraries, bookstores, printers, schools, literary clubs, collectors.
24 - WOOD NOVELTIES. In your wood shop, make whirl-i-birds, small cabinets, and novelties to sell at flea markets, wholesale to local stores and sales through mail order catalogs.
25 - GREETING CARD MAKING. Design and print (have printed) standard and custom greeting and all occasion cards. Include personalized, area, school and "company" oriented versions.
26 - CRAFTS INSTRUCTION. In your own craft shop (or the public library), conduct do-it-yourself craft courses and projects for pupils. Don't overlook special projects just for children.
27 - ELDERLY TRANSPORT. Provide scheduled "taxi" service for elderly and/or handicapped. Run regular daily routes with side trips and shopping "sprees" in between scheduled runs.
28 - PASTE CRAFT. Glue unusual fabrics onto hard surfaces (trays, dishes) to sell in craft shops. Sell finished items and also the materials. Teach the art and sell do-it-yourself kits.
29 - FIREWORKS. Put up a lockable stand and big sign in a prominent (legal) area. Sell fireworks in season and lease the booth and BACK of the sign between fireworks seasons.
30-APPRAISALS, HOME. Make official residential appraisals for home owners who want to sell, insurance companies, lending institutions and prospective buyers. Give written certificates.
31 - BALLOON STAND. Set up your booth or table with an air tank (helium) and supply of balloons and accessories. Display and sell them at parades, fairs, flea markets, wherever kids are!
32 - HOME HANDYMAN. Perform handyman services for those who can't or don't have time. Make it clear what you do and get paid for your time, not fixing things. Save customers money!
33- REPORTING, LOCAL. Gather information and write items about your neighborhood, club or town for your home town paper. Make your articles interesting to potential readers in the area.
34 - JEWELRY BOXES. Make fine jewelry boxes (lined, lacquered, inlaid, shell covered). Sell them to gift stores, catalog sales and retail. Offer music box works as optional extras.
35 - LAPIDARY (GEM MAKING). Operate a "rock shop" in your garage. Buy rough semi-precious material and fashion them into beautiful stones. Sell mounted, unmounted gems and jewelry.
36 - HOME SITTING. Agree to stay in OR look after houses, apartments while owners are away (water flowers, remove papers, turn on lights). Call the owners in the event of emergency.
37 - RAG DOLLS. Make and sell rag, sock and similar stuffed dolls in your own unique fashion. Attach your own label and offer on consignment to stores in your area and nationwide.
38 - STAMP DEALING. Buy, sell and/or trade postage stamps of the USA and/or world. Buy in bulk, sell packets, mixture sets and singles to beginning or intermediate collectors.
39 - CANDLE MAKING. Turn a hobby into a profitable business. Design your own line, offer custom styling, scents and special effects. Between orders, make a variety of items to display.
40 - PICTURE FRAMING. Make or assemble unique picture frames for stores, artists and clients from driftwood, scraps and unusual fabrics. Set up jigs in your shop for standard sizes.
41 - KITCHENWARE RENEWAL. Specialize in the renewal of fine cutlery, pans and wood kitchen utensils. Refinish, install new handles, reshape, make pieces to match missing parts of sets.
42 - OWNER'S AGENT. Check on and report condition of absentee owner's property (whether rented or vacant). Recommend (and arrange for, when authorized) necessary repairs or maintenance.
43 - DRIFTWOOD ART. With sandblaster or wire brush, form and finish pieces into lamps, candle holders, plant mounts to sell. Spend deductible "vacations" collecting your driftwood.
44 - COLLECTIONS. Accumulate collectables (glass, matchbooks, baseball cards, comic books). Sell starter collections of lower priced items and higher priced items as individual pieces.
45 - HOMEOPATHY. Specialize in natural remedy products and related folklore. Provide information on "reputed" remedial properties, but be very careful not to represent as "cures".
46 - WOODEN TOYS. Set up an assembly line to mass produce native wood toys from your shop for large markets. Rent booths at shows to help locate big buyers; contact mail order houses.
47 - WILDFLOWER SEEDS. In your travels, gather wildflower seeds. Seal and label, then take home and cultivate to produce seeds for your wild flower packets "from around the nation".
48 - BRONZING. Bronze (or pearlize) baby shoes, etc. Make mementoes, awards and trophies. Design plaques and unique bases. Arrange for engraved plates on your plaques.
49- FURNITURE RESALE. Select promising articles of furniture cheap at garage sales and auctions. Clean up, do minor repairs and sell from your home (as your own) for a nice profit.
50 - AUTO SECOND OPINION. For a fee, check customer's car to determine repairs needed and probable cost. Provide your expert and UNBIASED opinion. Offer list of several repair shops.
51 - RESIDENTIAL POSTCARDS. Take pictures of picturesque or well-kept homes and make into postcards. Mail to homeowners with offer of additional copies at a "special, reduced" price.
52 - SEWING CLASSES. When qualified, hold sewing classes in your home. Offer full courses and special "how-to" seminars for specific techniques. Sell material and supplies to students.
53 - BUSINESS EQUIPMENT. Buy equipment and supplies from bankruptcy sales and auctions. Store until qualified buyers are found, then sell at double or triple your investment.
54 - HANGING PLANTS. Specialize in hanging plants of all sizes and descriptions. Display only when in peak condition in various types of attractive pots, holders and hangers.
55 - MERCHANDISE APPRAISAL. When qualified, offer a "certified" appraisal service to prospective buyers, sellers, insurance companies and market surveyors in your field of expertise.
56 - QUILTING. Make and sell beautiful homemade quilts from "scraps" in your "spare time". Take color photographs of each quilt, attach your label and make up a "catalog" to show them.
57 - EQUIPMENT RENTAL. Rent out your tools and equipment (after retirement?). Expand your rental inventory by looking for bargains at sales and buying large items for rental contracts.
58 - CHILD PICK-UP SERVICE. Pick up and deliver client's kids after school, theater, games. Pick-up, deliver to parties, but charge if you have to stay with them until the parents return.
59 - CANE MAKING. Gather promising green hardwood pieces (like hickory) and bend and shape into interesting canes. Look for unusual shapes. Add tips, special effects and a nice finish.
60 - UNDERCOVER CRITIC. Evaluate restaurants, hotels as a patron. Report findings to owners, head office, or compile info for your own column or dining and accommodation guide.
61- ANTIQUE DEALING. When qualified, buy and sell bona fide antiques from your home showroom or gallery. Visit antique auctions regularly. Keep ads in paper to buy and sell.
62 - HERBAL AND SPICE TEA. Blend and sell different blends of herbal teas. Include leaflets with history and folklore in each package. Use uniquely decorated, preferably tin containers.
63 - REAL ESTATE ADVISOR. For a one-time fee, represent and advise either the real estate buyer or the seller (real estate agents represent neither really, they just want the sale).
64 - RENTAL AGENCY. Represent homeowners or real estate agents. Place ads, show properties, collect rents, have repairs made, check on renters; have units readied for new tenants.
65 - COLLECTION AGENCY. Work with one or more professional collection agencies; solicit delinquent accounts from local businesses. Earn a percentage of monies they collect.
66 - COOKBOOK PUBLISHING. Publish a cookbook of your own favorite recipes (usually a catchy, interesting subject collection). Promote and sell through appearances, ads and stores.
67 - HOME LIBRARY SERVICE. Go to homes (businesses) with large book collections Set up system for clients to maintain, or provide librarian services on a periodic basis. Sell kits!
68 - HERB HOUSE. Grow, process and sell herbs that grow well in your area (or greenhouse). Package products separately and in blends (pickling preparations, sausage or chili seasoning).
69 - NEEDLECRAFT. Make and sell homemade items (pot holders, bonnets, towel rings). Attach your label and sell on consignment, to mail order catalog companies, or through parties.
70 - CHAIR CANING. Use cane, plastic or other interesting materials to weave chair (etc.) seats and backs for clients. Buy old chairs; re-glue, refinish, re-stain, re-cane and sell.
71 - HOUSEHOLD INVENTORIES. Conduct official independent inventories and evaluations of personal collections, valuable furniture and family assets for insurance or probate needs.
72 - TOUR ORGANIZER. Arrange for a bus, refreshments and agenda; sell tickets (cancel when not profitable). Offer guides, musicians, box lunches; package rates for out-of-town events.
73 - TOWN HISTORY. If none exists, "publish" a booklet about your town. Sell direct or offer to merchants to sell or give away as goodwill (consider including paid advertisements).
74 - PET TOMBSTONES. Mold concrete markers for pet graves. Place reverse "epitaph" letters into the mold, pour in your mixture, remove and polish into an "engraved stone".
75 - CONSUMER ADVISOR. Advertise your free advice by phone of what and where to buy products for best values. Select from a list suppliers who pay you a fee to be recommended.
76 - RESIDENCE RECIPROCAL. Arrange for home/farm/condo owners to swap homes for vacations. Charge membership plus a small amount for matches. Advertise for members in travel magazines.
77 - BRIDGE LESSONS. Give Bridge, etc., lessons in your home when you are qualified. Charge by the lesson, or course. Hold tournaments, award prizes. Publicize your student's achievements!
78 - VENDING MACHINE. Buy, fill and place coin operated candy, gum, cigarette, drink or postage machines in strategic locations. Maintain, refill and collect coins on regular route.
79 - BASKET WEAVING. Design, make and sell a variety of your basket creations: plain and decorated (or with arrangements). Sell various fibers, plans and do-it-yourself instruction kits.
80 - CAT FURNITURE. Specialize in furniture and accessories for cats: toys, scratch poles, inside and outside sleeping boxes, leashes. Grow, dry and package your own catnip for toys.
81 - ALTERATIONS. Replace buttons, let out cuffs, shorten sleeves, turn collars, repair tears for clothing stores, laundries and cleaners who don't already offer this service.
82 - HOME SECURITY. Provide clients with thorough check of their homes/businesses. Recommend specific security measures and procedures to eliminate or minimize risks and exposure.
83 - BUILDER'S CLEAN-UP. Work with contractors to clean up after construction jobs. Sweep out building, pick up and haul away all debris and salvage leftovers as bonus.
84 - APPRAISAL SERVICE. Make certified appraisals of assets in your area of expertise and provide written evaluations. Schooling or state licensing required in some situations.
85 - VIDEO WILLS. After determining legal requirements in your state, use teleprompter and script to record client's official will. Offer update services. Combine with inventory service?
86 - BROMELIADS. Specialize in culture of these beautiful pineapple relatives with their hauntingly beautiful bloom. Sell growing on driftwood arrangements for highest prices.
87 - POMANDERS. Revive this old Egyptian art: process oranges into hardened, long-lasting sachets. Use spice and perfume mixtures and penetrating cloves. Package attractively and sell!
88 - BULLET CASTING. Cast and sell custom made ammunition for unusual or special purpose weapons. Build an inventory of popular sizes in spare time; sell kits and supplies.
89 - WINDOW BOXES. Build cedar or waterproofed wood flower boxes for windows and to hang over railings. Use rustproof screws or nails. Offer various sizes and tin lined models.
90 - BOTTLE STRETCHING. Make unusual vases and figures by heating, stretching and sometimes cutting various bottles in your ceramic kiln. Do custom "stretching" of client pieces.
91- ARTIFICIAL PLANTS. Make (or buy) your specialty artificial flowers and plants. Sell a selection of arrangements, baskets and special occasion creations; take custom orders.
92 - ART GALLERY. Display selected art items tastefully in your gallery. Offer your own creations plus those you buy to resell. Accept consignment products to round out your assortment.
93 - WELCOME WAGON. Visit and personally welcome new arrivals on behalf of stores, professionals, organizations and officials in your community. Deliver coupons and complimentary offers.
94 - CACTUS CULTURE. Propagate, grow, groom and arrange native and exotic cacti for retail and wholesale markets. Prepare information cards about the species to include with each plant.
95 - FUND-RAISING. Help local organizations raise money. Plan, promote, organize and manage their efforts. Receive commissions from suppliers plus a percentage for your expert management.
96 - CERAMIC FINISHING. Apply your expert finishes, designs and/or details to ceramic ware for retail or wholesale clients. Make items to retail, display or wholesale between jobs.
97 - AFRICAN VIOLETS. Specialize in the propagation and care of this popular indoor plant. Nurture, hybridize, put in attractive pots and sell when in full bloom. Sell accessories.
98 - CEMETERY CARE. Contract with cemetery associations, authorities or families for small plots to provide care for grounds, or specific services for individual graves.
99 - GOVERNMENT AUCTIONS. Go to major auctions and bid on items for subsequent resale. Take the time to learn both the value of the merchandise and auction procedures to get the best bargains.
AND, A FEW EXTRAS...
100 - DOLL CLOTHES. Difficult work for expert seamstress, but pays well. Work with doll makers, collectors, sell at fairs and through advertisements in doll related publications.
101 - DISTRESS SALES. Buy household items cheap at auctions, garage and bankruptcy sales. Clean them up and sell as your own from your home because you need the money. Keep other out of sight.
102 - DECOY FINISHING. Buy "carved" bird decoys and hand-finish to resell or custom finish for particular clients. Specialize in one specie or offer a variety of birds. Make some into lamps!
103 - FISHING GEAR REPAIR. Repair fishing rods, reels and nets. Sell replacement parts. List at boat basins and lakes; advertise in fishing guides, store bulletins and a large sign by the lake.
104 - SHUT-IN SERVICE. Call and/or visit temporary or permanent shut-ins on behalf of absentee relatives. Take magazines, play games, read to them. Learn something about them: be a friend.
105 - BUSINESS TUTORING. Teach your skills to others, either in classes or individually. Help others get jobs, land accounts and get promotions. Good for retired managers, executives.
These businesses can be started with minimum training and investment and are all capable of producing extra income. Most can easily be operated by one person or couple and eventually be sold for an additional profit.
For best results browse through the enclosed business suggestions and note those that sound interesting. Jot down alternative products and services that come to mind. These ideas are intended to stimulate your imagination. Only you can possibly know your personal qualifications and interests or the current market in your community. As you compile your list of possibilities, take a critical look around your market area. Note what is and isn't available, what is overpriced or inadequate that people in your community will pay for. When you find just the right combination for your particular situation, start preparing for a successful business!
The recommended method to prepare for a successful business is to write out a business plan. This is simply an outline of what you plan to do and how you intend to do it. Writing your business plan will force you to organize your business both on paper and in your own mind and help insure your ultimate business success.
Check with city hall or the county courthouse on state and local license, tax or permit requirements before making your final selection and investing your available funds. Sometimes a minor adjustment can prevent future headaches!
01 - SHUTTLE SERVICE. Use your van to pick up and deliver commuters in cities. Save your customers the cost of a second car or risk of leaving their vehicles untended in parking lots.
02 - COIN SEARCHING. Buy rolls of coins from banks (whatever denomination you can afford). Search for coins worth over face value. Keep these, replace with "regular" coins and trade in.
03 - SEED PACKETS. Collect and label packets of selected wild flowers native to your area. Include picture, instructions and folklore on each package. Advertise in garden magazines.
04 - CROSSWORD PUZZLES. Construct crossword puzzles for local (then larger) markets; Offer variety of subjects, themes and sizes and subjects in different degrees of difficulty.
05 - GENEALOGY. Trace and document family archives. Provide full records to descendants. Offer a package service based on routine checks of information provided by clients.
06 - FLEA MARKET. Set up and manage a flea market at your (own or rented) location. Charge for spaces and booths, sell drinks and snacks. Advertise, provide parking and protection.
07 - GRAPHOANALYSIS. Upon completion of training, offer your services as a handwriting analyst to individuals, law enforcement agencies and attorneys from your office or by mail.
08 - LEATHER HARNESS REPAIR. Specialize in the repair of leather harness and tack (in areas with horses). Go to shows and list with tack stores and advertise in horse publications.
09 - SLIDE SHOWS. With your slides and equipment, offer a selection of narrated presentations to interested groups (PTA, church groups, clubs). Mail ads to prospective customer groups.
10 - MUSIC BOXES. Assemble, finish and install music works in standard models and your own unique music box creations. Sell through ads and displays and to local and catalog stores.
11 - SEMINAR PROMOTION. Conduct business or learning seminars in your area of expertise or hire experts to cover virtually any subject. Lease the hall, promote, sell tickets and snacks.
12 - UMPIRING. Work as an umpire for little league, company or institution teams (any non-professional sports). If necessary, start as a volunteer for experience. Move up when qualified.
13 - ARROWHEADS. Collect and make (with deer horn and leather glove) Indian arrowheads for hobbyists, displays and demonstrations. Give lectures, presentations, hold classes.
14 - PET PHOTOGRAPHY. Specialize in pet portraits: in their home, your studio or in a "natural" setting. Go to dog shows and take pictures of all willing subjects (the losers too!).
15 - NATURE'S PRODUCTS. When in an area with wild products (hickory nuts, maple syrup) that you can harvest, do so! Make sure to clear with health regulations in your area first.
16 - FLEA MARKET BOOTH. Buy one or more categories of merchandise from close-out suppliers and operate a flea market booth. Keep stock safe in a van and drive to and from the business.
17 - REAL PEOPLE DOLLS. Make and dress doll representations of real people (heroes, historical, client/client's kids). Include info card; present in attractive glass display boxes.
18 - GAZEBOS. Build, sell, deliver and install standard and custom gazebos. Design some to sell as do-it-yourself kits, which can either be picked up or delivered to the customer.
19 - ADULT DAY CARE CENTER. Operate a center to look after elderly and/or handicapped people. Offer TLC, refreshments, games activities and assistance, but not "health care".
20 - NEIGHBORHOOD NEWS. Compile, publish and distribute a neighborhood newspaper with local news and opinions. Include lots of names (balance required), sell copies and ads.
21 - DRIVING SERVICE. Drive other people's cars for them: drive second car to their new home, be their vacation driver, deliver car/truck/RV to them at the station and take the bus home.
22 - OPINION SAMPLING. Contract to conduct opinion polls in your area - by phone, door-to-door, or on the street. Work with businesses, media, list with an ad agency, or just place ads.
23 - BOOKBINDING. Set up a bookbinding and book repair service in your shop. Advertise and list your service with libraries, bookstores, printers, schools, literary clubs, collectors.
24 - WOOD NOVELTIES. In your wood shop, make whirl-i-birds, small cabinets, and novelties to sell at flea markets, wholesale to local stores and sales through mail order catalogs.
25 - GREETING CARD MAKING. Design and print (have printed) standard and custom greeting and all occasion cards. Include personalized, area, school and "company" oriented versions.
26 - CRAFTS INSTRUCTION. In your own craft shop (or the public library), conduct do-it-yourself craft courses and projects for pupils. Don't overlook special projects just for children.
27 - ELDERLY TRANSPORT. Provide scheduled "taxi" service for elderly and/or handicapped. Run regular daily routes with side trips and shopping "sprees" in between scheduled runs.
28 - PASTE CRAFT. Glue unusual fabrics onto hard surfaces (trays, dishes) to sell in craft shops. Sell finished items and also the materials. Teach the art and sell do-it-yourself kits.
29 - FIREWORKS. Put up a lockable stand and big sign in a prominent (legal) area. Sell fireworks in season and lease the booth and BACK of the sign between fireworks seasons.
30-APPRAISALS, HOME. Make official residential appraisals for home owners who want to sell, insurance companies, lending institutions and prospective buyers. Give written certificates.
31 - BALLOON STAND. Set up your booth or table with an air tank (helium) and supply of balloons and accessories. Display and sell them at parades, fairs, flea markets, wherever kids are!
32 - HOME HANDYMAN. Perform handyman services for those who can't or don't have time. Make it clear what you do and get paid for your time, not fixing things. Save customers money!
33- REPORTING, LOCAL. Gather information and write items about your neighborhood, club or town for your home town paper. Make your articles interesting to potential readers in the area.
34 - JEWELRY BOXES. Make fine jewelry boxes (lined, lacquered, inlaid, shell covered). Sell them to gift stores, catalog sales and retail. Offer music box works as optional extras.
35 - LAPIDARY (GEM MAKING). Operate a "rock shop" in your garage. Buy rough semi-precious material and fashion them into beautiful stones. Sell mounted, unmounted gems and jewelry.
36 - HOME SITTING. Agree to stay in OR look after houses, apartments while owners are away (water flowers, remove papers, turn on lights). Call the owners in the event of emergency.
37 - RAG DOLLS. Make and sell rag, sock and similar stuffed dolls in your own unique fashion. Attach your own label and offer on consignment to stores in your area and nationwide.
38 - STAMP DEALING. Buy, sell and/or trade postage stamps of the USA and/or world. Buy in bulk, sell packets, mixture sets and singles to beginning or intermediate collectors.
39 - CANDLE MAKING. Turn a hobby into a profitable business. Design your own line, offer custom styling, scents and special effects. Between orders, make a variety of items to display.
40 - PICTURE FRAMING. Make or assemble unique picture frames for stores, artists and clients from driftwood, scraps and unusual fabrics. Set up jigs in your shop for standard sizes.
41 - KITCHENWARE RENEWAL. Specialize in the renewal of fine cutlery, pans and wood kitchen utensils. Refinish, install new handles, reshape, make pieces to match missing parts of sets.
42 - OWNER'S AGENT. Check on and report condition of absentee owner's property (whether rented or vacant). Recommend (and arrange for, when authorized) necessary repairs or maintenance.
43 - DRIFTWOOD ART. With sandblaster or wire brush, form and finish pieces into lamps, candle holders, plant mounts to sell. Spend deductible "vacations" collecting your driftwood.
44 - COLLECTIONS. Accumulate collectables (glass, matchbooks, baseball cards, comic books). Sell starter collections of lower priced items and higher priced items as individual pieces.
45 - HOMEOPATHY. Specialize in natural remedy products and related folklore. Provide information on "reputed" remedial properties, but be very careful not to represent as "cures".
46 - WOODEN TOYS. Set up an assembly line to mass produce native wood toys from your shop for large markets. Rent booths at shows to help locate big buyers; contact mail order houses.
47 - WILDFLOWER SEEDS. In your travels, gather wildflower seeds. Seal and label, then take home and cultivate to produce seeds for your wild flower packets "from around the nation".
48 - BRONZING. Bronze (or pearlize) baby shoes, etc. Make mementoes, awards and trophies. Design plaques and unique bases. Arrange for engraved plates on your plaques.
49- FURNITURE RESALE. Select promising articles of furniture cheap at garage sales and auctions. Clean up, do minor repairs and sell from your home (as your own) for a nice profit.
50 - AUTO SECOND OPINION. For a fee, check customer's car to determine repairs needed and probable cost. Provide your expert and UNBIASED opinion. Offer list of several repair shops.
51 - RESIDENTIAL POSTCARDS. Take pictures of picturesque or well-kept homes and make into postcards. Mail to homeowners with offer of additional copies at a "special, reduced" price.
52 - SEWING CLASSES. When qualified, hold sewing classes in your home. Offer full courses and special "how-to" seminars for specific techniques. Sell material and supplies to students.
53 - BUSINESS EQUIPMENT. Buy equipment and supplies from bankruptcy sales and auctions. Store until qualified buyers are found, then sell at double or triple your investment.
54 - HANGING PLANTS. Specialize in hanging plants of all sizes and descriptions. Display only when in peak condition in various types of attractive pots, holders and hangers.
55 - MERCHANDISE APPRAISAL. When qualified, offer a "certified" appraisal service to prospective buyers, sellers, insurance companies and market surveyors in your field of expertise.
56 - QUILTING. Make and sell beautiful homemade quilts from "scraps" in your "spare time". Take color photographs of each quilt, attach your label and make up a "catalog" to show them.
57 - EQUIPMENT RENTAL. Rent out your tools and equipment (after retirement?). Expand your rental inventory by looking for bargains at sales and buying large items for rental contracts.
58 - CHILD PICK-UP SERVICE. Pick up and deliver client's kids after school, theater, games. Pick-up, deliver to parties, but charge if you have to stay with them until the parents return.
59 - CANE MAKING. Gather promising green hardwood pieces (like hickory) and bend and shape into interesting canes. Look for unusual shapes. Add tips, special effects and a nice finish.
60 - UNDERCOVER CRITIC. Evaluate restaurants, hotels as a patron. Report findings to owners, head office, or compile info for your own column or dining and accommodation guide.
61- ANTIQUE DEALING. When qualified, buy and sell bona fide antiques from your home showroom or gallery. Visit antique auctions regularly. Keep ads in paper to buy and sell.
62 - HERBAL AND SPICE TEA. Blend and sell different blends of herbal teas. Include leaflets with history and folklore in each package. Use uniquely decorated, preferably tin containers.
63 - REAL ESTATE ADVISOR. For a one-time fee, represent and advise either the real estate buyer or the seller (real estate agents represent neither really, they just want the sale).
64 - RENTAL AGENCY. Represent homeowners or real estate agents. Place ads, show properties, collect rents, have repairs made, check on renters; have units readied for new tenants.
65 - COLLECTION AGENCY. Work with one or more professional collection agencies; solicit delinquent accounts from local businesses. Earn a percentage of monies they collect.
66 - COOKBOOK PUBLISHING. Publish a cookbook of your own favorite recipes (usually a catchy, interesting subject collection). Promote and sell through appearances, ads and stores.
67 - HOME LIBRARY SERVICE. Go to homes (businesses) with large book collections Set up system for clients to maintain, or provide librarian services on a periodic basis. Sell kits!
68 - HERB HOUSE. Grow, process and sell herbs that grow well in your area (or greenhouse). Package products separately and in blends (pickling preparations, sausage or chili seasoning).
69 - NEEDLECRAFT. Make and sell homemade items (pot holders, bonnets, towel rings). Attach your label and sell on consignment, to mail order catalog companies, or through parties.
70 - CHAIR CANING. Use cane, plastic or other interesting materials to weave chair (etc.) seats and backs for clients. Buy old chairs; re-glue, refinish, re-stain, re-cane and sell.
71 - HOUSEHOLD INVENTORIES. Conduct official independent inventories and evaluations of personal collections, valuable furniture and family assets for insurance or probate needs.
72 - TOUR ORGANIZER. Arrange for a bus, refreshments and agenda; sell tickets (cancel when not profitable). Offer guides, musicians, box lunches; package rates for out-of-town events.
73 - TOWN HISTORY. If none exists, "publish" a booklet about your town. Sell direct or offer to merchants to sell or give away as goodwill (consider including paid advertisements).
74 - PET TOMBSTONES. Mold concrete markers for pet graves. Place reverse "epitaph" letters into the mold, pour in your mixture, remove and polish into an "engraved stone".
75 - CONSUMER ADVISOR. Advertise your free advice by phone of what and where to buy products for best values. Select from a list suppliers who pay you a fee to be recommended.
76 - RESIDENCE RECIPROCAL. Arrange for home/farm/condo owners to swap homes for vacations. Charge membership plus a small amount for matches. Advertise for members in travel magazines.
77 - BRIDGE LESSONS. Give Bridge, etc., lessons in your home when you are qualified. Charge by the lesson, or course. Hold tournaments, award prizes. Publicize your student's achievements!
78 - VENDING MACHINE. Buy, fill and place coin operated candy, gum, cigarette, drink or postage machines in strategic locations. Maintain, refill and collect coins on regular route.
79 - BASKET WEAVING. Design, make and sell a variety of your basket creations: plain and decorated (or with arrangements). Sell various fibers, plans and do-it-yourself instruction kits.
80 - CAT FURNITURE. Specialize in furniture and accessories for cats: toys, scratch poles, inside and outside sleeping boxes, leashes. Grow, dry and package your own catnip for toys.
81 - ALTERATIONS. Replace buttons, let out cuffs, shorten sleeves, turn collars, repair tears for clothing stores, laundries and cleaners who don't already offer this service.
82 - HOME SECURITY. Provide clients with thorough check of their homes/businesses. Recommend specific security measures and procedures to eliminate or minimize risks and exposure.
83 - BUILDER'S CLEAN-UP. Work with contractors to clean up after construction jobs. Sweep out building, pick up and haul away all debris and salvage leftovers as bonus.
84 - APPRAISAL SERVICE. Make certified appraisals of assets in your area of expertise and provide written evaluations. Schooling or state licensing required in some situations.
85 - VIDEO WILLS. After determining legal requirements in your state, use teleprompter and script to record client's official will. Offer update services. Combine with inventory service?
86 - BROMELIADS. Specialize in culture of these beautiful pineapple relatives with their hauntingly beautiful bloom. Sell growing on driftwood arrangements for highest prices.
87 - POMANDERS. Revive this old Egyptian art: process oranges into hardened, long-lasting sachets. Use spice and perfume mixtures and penetrating cloves. Package attractively and sell!
88 - BULLET CASTING. Cast and sell custom made ammunition for unusual or special purpose weapons. Build an inventory of popular sizes in spare time; sell kits and supplies.
89 - WINDOW BOXES. Build cedar or waterproofed wood flower boxes for windows and to hang over railings. Use rustproof screws or nails. Offer various sizes and tin lined models.
90 - BOTTLE STRETCHING. Make unusual vases and figures by heating, stretching and sometimes cutting various bottles in your ceramic kiln. Do custom "stretching" of client pieces.
91- ARTIFICIAL PLANTS. Make (or buy) your specialty artificial flowers and plants. Sell a selection of arrangements, baskets and special occasion creations; take custom orders.
92 - ART GALLERY. Display selected art items tastefully in your gallery. Offer your own creations plus those you buy to resell. Accept consignment products to round out your assortment.
93 - WELCOME WAGON. Visit and personally welcome new arrivals on behalf of stores, professionals, organizations and officials in your community. Deliver coupons and complimentary offers.
94 - CACTUS CULTURE. Propagate, grow, groom and arrange native and exotic cacti for retail and wholesale markets. Prepare information cards about the species to include with each plant.
95 - FUND-RAISING. Help local organizations raise money. Plan, promote, organize and manage their efforts. Receive commissions from suppliers plus a percentage for your expert management.
96 - CERAMIC FINISHING. Apply your expert finishes, designs and/or details to ceramic ware for retail or wholesale clients. Make items to retail, display or wholesale between jobs.
97 - AFRICAN VIOLETS. Specialize in the propagation and care of this popular indoor plant. Nurture, hybridize, put in attractive pots and sell when in full bloom. Sell accessories.
98 - CEMETERY CARE. Contract with cemetery associations, authorities or families for small plots to provide care for grounds, or specific services for individual graves.
99 - GOVERNMENT AUCTIONS. Go to major auctions and bid on items for subsequent resale. Take the time to learn both the value of the merchandise and auction procedures to get the best bargains.
AND, A FEW EXTRAS...
100 - DOLL CLOTHES. Difficult work for expert seamstress, but pays well. Work with doll makers, collectors, sell at fairs and through advertisements in doll related publications.
101 - DISTRESS SALES. Buy household items cheap at auctions, garage and bankruptcy sales. Clean them up and sell as your own from your home because you need the money. Keep other out of sight.
102 - DECOY FINISHING. Buy "carved" bird decoys and hand-finish to resell or custom finish for particular clients. Specialize in one specie or offer a variety of birds. Make some into lamps!
103 - FISHING GEAR REPAIR. Repair fishing rods, reels and nets. Sell replacement parts. List at boat basins and lakes; advertise in fishing guides, store bulletins and a large sign by the lake.
104 - SHUT-IN SERVICE. Call and/or visit temporary or permanent shut-ins on behalf of absentee relatives. Take magazines, play games, read to them. Learn something about them: be a friend.
105 - BUSINESS TUTORING. Teach your skills to others, either in classes or individually. Help others get jobs, land accounts and get promotions. Good for retired managers, executives.
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
SOURCES OF FREE MAILING LISTS
These sources provide you with free mailing list. Usually in list form, so that you have to re-type each name on your mailing piece. They obtain these names in many different ways. They are usually opportunity seekers, buyers, or people how have paid to be listed. Each source requires a self-addressed envelope, and two first class postage stamps. Each list usually contains about 200 or more names: WILLARDS SALES CO., P.O. BOX 1036, PALM SPRINGS, CA.92262;INFOPRENEUR, 3755 Avocado Blvd #110, La Mesa, CA 91941; LEW CARD, BOX 392, BREA, CA.92621; CAVAZOS ADVERTISING, 1952 S. KING RD.,SAN JOSE, CA.95122; BEAVERS,BOX 509, McCAYSVILLE, GA. 30555; PRICHARDS, 805 NW AVENUE, "J",SEMINOLE, TX.79360; C. WALKER, 6250 BABCOCK AVE.,N. HOLLYWOOD, CA.91606; FRENCH EXPRESS, 8403 ANTHONY WAYNE AVE.,CINCINNATI, OH.45216; NORTHSIDE STUDIOS, BOX 320, SILVER SPRINGS, MD.20907; JACKSON PUBLICATIONS, BOX 419-FML, WEST HAVEN, CT.06516; WELLMANS, BOX 571, CHASE CITY, VA.23924; HEATH BOOKS, 33 IRVING AVE.,PROVIDENCE, RI.02906; ERMA MAJORS CO.,3134 N. ACHILES, MILWAUKEE, WI.53212; SQUARE DEAL CO.,BOX 272, GORDONSVILLE, VA.22942; T.J ENTERPRISES, BOX 4960, WASHINGTON, DC. 20008; JAY DAVID CO.,BOX 5, McFARLAN, NC.28102.
HOW TO CO-PUBLISH FOR MAXIMUM PROFITS
There are many fine trade magazines and ad-sheets that you may co-publish in the mailorder business. Some of the better ones are Mail Sale Advertiser., Mail Order Bulletin, Popular Advertiser, The Enterpriser, and Easy Chair Shopper. These trade publications are "in print" quickly--no long waiting for your ad to appear. They reach an amazing number of small homeowners and opportunity seekers. If your product or service appeals to these readers--the rates are right. The prime reasons for using these magazines are : 1) To get a 50% discount on our advertising after the first time in exchange for mailing a few copies; 2) We earn a 50% commission on all new co-publishers and advertisers that we get for the publisher. Of course we hope to do some business from our own adverting also. How does the system work? After you place your advertising at the first time rate, you will receive a discount on all future advertising as long as you continue to co-publish that magazine. That discount on your ads and a commission on the others is usually 50%. In return for the discount, you are expected to mail a few copies--honestly. Include the copies in orders that you will fill, big mails, or advertise them free for the postage. Using these methods your postage cost to mail your copies is zero. Another reason for co-publishing various magazines is that many of them do not require camera-ready copy. Some do an excellent job of typesetting and it's free. Items selling in these publications usually sell for $3 or less--with $1 being a heavy seller. Remember. it doesn't COST you to advertise,it PAYS.
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
HOW TO WRITE AND GET FREE ADVERTISING
Determine what type of information you intend to sell by mail. Example: Financial information. Then go to the newsstand again and buy every magazine carrying ads selling financial information. Write away for their free offers. Most will run ads inviting you to write for more "free details". Once you begin to get an influx of material, you carefully file away to use as a "model" for developing sales material for your own offer. Yes, mail order IS this simple.
It's possible to get free advertising if your product has an unique appeal of interest to the editor. Some magazines carry a special column of free or editorial ads that if your product deserves special interest, it may be carried at no charge. There are other ways of obtaining free advertising which are detailed in the special reports printed on this pages.
All you really need to get started is to run perhaps a small classified ad selling or all of the reports in this kit. If you wish to go the route of direct mail, you can obtain mailing lists through some of the advertisers in the newsstand magazines. Check the classifieds for "Mailing Lists". Later on you will want to develop your own offers to market by mail. Good luck and best wishes.
It's possible to get free advertising if your product has an unique appeal of interest to the editor. Some magazines carry a special column of free or editorial ads that if your product deserves special interest, it may be carried at no charge. There are other ways of obtaining free advertising which are detailed in the special reports printed on this pages.
All you really need to get started is to run perhaps a small classified ad selling or all of the reports in this kit. If you wish to go the route of direct mail, you can obtain mailing lists through some of the advertisers in the newsstand magazines. Check the classifieds for "Mailing Lists". Later on you will want to develop your own offers to market by mail. Good luck and best wishes.
HOW AND WHERE TO ADVERTISE
There have been entire volumes written on mail order selling. For printed information the best way to learn HOW & WHERE to advertise is to go to your newsstand and check through all the magazines carrying large numbers of classified and space ads. Magazines like Popular Science, Field & Stream, Outdoor Life, The National Enquirer, etc. Wherever competitive advertising appears on a regular basis, that's where your best advertising will be. The next step is to write to the magazines (there will be an address in the ad columns) and ask for their MAIL ORDER CLASSIFIED & DISPLAY RATE CARDS. These cards give you all the information you need to place an ad. If you need additional help, you can call them and most will provide free counsel on how to place your ad, whether it be classified or display.
Monday, August 18, 2008
HOW TO GET FREE PRINTING.
This method of getting free printing is currently being used by several different mail dealers. It works! Here's the plan. Run an ad similar to this in any mail order magazine: ATTENTION PRINTERS! WE WILL MAIL OUT FOR YOU ABSOLUTELY FREE. ALL THE CIRCULARS YOU PRINT FOR US THAT HAVE OUR ADS ON BACK. WE HAVE LINED UP OVER 200 MAILERS WHO ARE CAPABLE OF MAILING UP TO +100,000 PIECES PER MONTH. (YOUR NAME AND ADDRESS). You might also mention in the ad that you will pay all shipping charges. There will be a few printers who will respond, but one good printer is all need. After you secure a printer, your next step is to compose a commission circular to be printed on the back. This commission circular should pay whoever mails it 50%, which leaves 50% for you. You might even SELL the commission circulars, say for $12/M and make money "coming and going".
HOW TO MAKE $50 MAILING 150 ENVELOPES.
Order 5000 3x6 commission circulars from your printer selling $1.00 items and paying you 50% commission on every order you receive. Have your name printed on them--it will save hours of stamping time. Then mail 100 each to 50 "Exchange Mailers" in 50 envelopes--mark them X-11-SY, which means "EXCHANGE 100-SEND YOURS." When you receive 100 circulars from each of the exchange mailers in return, mail out one each in 100 envelopes. This way, 150 envelopes mail your 5000 circulars. If you have a good circular offering a popular seller, and the exchange mailer sent yours to are honest and dependable, you should receive 2% returns. This will bring you $50 profit. This is the complete plan. IT WORKS. It is working every day for many mailers. It can work for you.
TEN STEPS THAT PUT YOU IN COMMISSION MAILING BUSINESS
1)Order a rubber stamp with your name & address on it. 2) Send for some free imprints (commission circulars); you pay the postage for these. 3) Send for some free names that want big mail) 4) Buy 100 envelopes and 100 postage stamps. 5) Address the envelopes to the names wanting big mail. 6) When you receive your circulars, stamp your name and address in the blank space on the commission side of the imprint. 7) Put one circular in each envelope. 8) Mail them. 9) When you receive orders, take out your commission. 10) Forward everything else to the source (the individual or firm) that sent you the circulars--AND YOU ARE IN BUSINESS. If you are serious about commission mailing, you have to take tome to look over each offer you receive. All you need to do is follow the ten steps above. If you can follow instructions, be happy with $60 to $150 a week made in your spare time (from 2--to 4 hours each night and no less than 5 nights a week),then you too can make money mailing. There IS money in mailing--I know for I do it, but believe me, it is not as some advertise it. You will not get rich overnight. You won't make $50.000 and work only one hour each week. NO! It is not that way. You invest what you wish, you grow as big as you wish, but always stuff each envelope FULL.
Sunday, August 17, 2008
STRIKE IT RICH WITH GOVERNMENT ASSISTANCE
Did you know you can get the government to pay up to half of your cost of exploring for 35 different minerals (e.g. antimony, chromite, gold, iron ore, mercury, mica, silver and tin)? To get such help you do not have to be an experienced or expert miner, but all you have to do is show ownership, lease, or other sufficient interest in the property to be explored and the funds are not available from private sources. If you strike it rich, you will have to repay Uncle Sam with a 5% royalty on your production; if nothing is produced there is no obligation. For more information, send for the booklet "Exploration Assistance" available free from: OFFICE OF MINERALS EXPLORATION, U.S. DEPT OF INTERIOR, WASHINGTON, DC. 20240.
HOW TO EARN OVER $1500 ON SOMEONE ELSE'S MONEY.
Count your family members. Let's assume there are 6 of you. Check up on your bank credit, and let's say you can borrow $6000 for 6 months. On December 15 borrow the $6000 and deposit $1000 (the limit) for each of you in the FAMILY SECURITY FUND TAXPAYERS AID SOCIETY, 107 N. VANCE ST.,PEMBROKE, NC.28372. Details on how the fund works are FREE from the society. Your deposit is secured sight ways. The fund pays 12% for the use of your money from January 1 to May 30 at which time the money is returned to you with &720 interest. At that time you return the money to your bank. Since each member of your family is a first-time depositor in the fund, a bonus in each name of $150 will be left on deposit. Here is how you stand: Cost $6000 borrowed from you bank for 6 months=$270; interest from the fund=$720 NET cash to you=$450;Bonus money left in the fund in your names +$900; interest on bonus money left in the fund, May-December @ 8%, 12% from January-May=$155.98; equals a total gain to you of $1505.98. From January 1 to May 30 of the following year is 17 months. That figures out to be over $88 per month on someone else's money!
HOW AND WHERE TO GET FREE ADVERTISERS GUIDEBOOK.
This Guide Book presents in compact form, a comprehensive listing of all standard advertising media, such as: General magazines, trade publications, magazines covering specialized fields, newspapers, radio & TV stations. Circulation, closing dates, display line and classified advertising rates are shown in each magazine group listing. You get your free copy by writing to: MORLOCK ADVERTISING AGENCY, 188 W. RANDOLPH ST.,CHICAGO, IL. 60601.
Saturday, August 16, 2008
100 WAYS TO SAVE ENERGY AND MONEY IN THE HOME.
The title of this post is a book published by the Canadian dept of Energy, Mines and Resources, awhile back. It gives you tips on how you can stretch energy resources and put money in your pocket. This book explains the why's and the how's of conversation and can be read from cover to cover or consulted when specific questions arise. By following the ways to save energy and by adopting conservation practices, you can save MONEY in your home. For a free copy, write to 100 WAYS, Box 3500, Station C, Ottawa, Ontario, CN KIY 4GI.
HOW TO PUBLISH A CONTEST BULLETIN
Many people are now entering various contests to reap the benefits their jobs cannot provide them due to our growing inflation problem. These hopeful rationalize that "one day they will win". you can help these individuals discover a whole new world by providing CONTEST BULLETINS. One man in Florida publishes a monthly bulletin and accumulates many friends and large profits through his service. Using an inexpensive mimeograph machine he lists various contests, rules and addresses where entries are to be sent. He gets his information by reading the latest issues of many national magazines. His customers are obtained from ads he runs in local and national media. At 50 cents per copy, it can be said that his business in not only profitable, but successful as well. His present circulation is now in the thousands.
HOW TO COPYRIGHT A PUBLICATION WITHOUT COST
To establish a copyright you must simply print the following notice either on the cover or page immediately following the cover of your book, report, etc. Here it is :(c) 1981. John Doe, or Copyright 1981, Josh Doe. Most people do not know that you are NOT required to register the copyright with the copyright officer, but if you DO wish to register it, write to them for the necessary application form. You then submit two copies of the publication along with the application form for each copyright. For necessary forms and additional information, write Register of Copyrights, Library of Congress, Washington, DC.20059.
Friday, August 15, 2008
RICHES FROM YOUR RUBBER STAMP
A good income can be reality for anyone owning a rubber stamp. The only additional items needed are envelopes, postage stamps, and a few commission circulars. The rubber stamp is the only one of the above items you need to pay for. The envelopes, postage stamps and circulars can be obtained FREE. Many small operators are earning a comfortable living as commission mailers. The "tricks of the trade" are rather involved, but I'll give you all the basic information you'll need to start a profitable business. Hundreds of supply houses are constantly looking for people to mail their circulars for them. In most cases, these people will send you all the circulars you need--for FREE. However, they need to know that you are in business or they cannot send circulars to you. Start your commission mailing business by running this short, classified ad in as many ad sheets and magazines as your investment will allow; "COMMISSION CIRCULARS MAILED FREE. MUST PAY ME 50% OR MORE. SEND POSTAGE PAID (Your name and address)." The above ad will bring plenty of free imprint circulars to you. As they come in, insert one of the circulars from each batch into a notebook and list the source of the item and the address--to avoid confusion when filing future orders. While you are waiting for your first package of circulars to arrive, place the following small ad in as many ad sheets as you can afford, offering a big mail for free: "FREE BIG MAIL" RETURN THIS AD WITH A SELF-ADDRESSED, STAMPED ENVELOPE. (Your name and address)". The above ad will bring free stamps and envelopes to you. The people who answer this type of ad are interested in seeing what you have to offer and are usually excellent prospects. In the beginning you will probably mail no more than 100 envelopes per month. As your income grows, you can expand your monthly mailings. Some commission mailers mail thousands of pieces a month.
THE $50 PER 1000 ADDRESSING PLAN.
This is a woman's true story concerning the addressing of envelopes at home in her spare time for $50 per 1,000. Mrs. R. realizing that straight addressing work only produces $8 to $15 per 1,000, decided to work out an original plan and this is how she worked it. While searching for the idea, she noticed that local firms were tying in some of their special offers with birthdays and marriage (in other words, they were mailing their offers to customers or prospects in these two fields). This plan intrigued Mrs. R, and she interviewed one store manager about the subject and learned that an elaborate filing system was necessary in order to mail their special offer to folks having birthdays, or just married or having anniversaries, to say nothing of blessed events. She also learned that this particular store was quite willing to shift the filing and mailing burden onto someone else's shoulders. So here was a ready-made service for Mrs. R. She offered a service to this store and to others in which she would agree to furnish the names of such people, in fact keeping file cards on each name collected, to stuff the firm's envelopes with their circulars and to mail them out. She set a modest price of 5 cents per name, the store furnished envelopes with their circulars, envelopes and stamps for each mailing. Since these mailings were costing 12 cents to 16 cents per mail package, her services and fee seemed most attractive. By specializing in this one field, she could do it at a lower price than the store could do it themselves. Other stores were eager to take advantage of the service and she soon had a growing business.
Thursday, August 14, 2008
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT MULTI-LEVEL MARKETING
Just what are all those thousands of programs and solicitations spreading a swath across the country...called "Multi-Level Marketing"? Well a good portion of them are nothing but chain or pyramid schemes, some completely illegal.
A true Multi-Level plan is one in which there is an agreement between yourself and a manufacturer or distributor to purchase products at wholesale and sell them at retail, also with the right to sponsor others (your down line) thus multiplying your sales base and profits by receiving a percent of the sales made through your downline. Persons you sponsor show others the program and sign them up as members under themselves. In effect you are multiplying your efforts by selling the product through a network of distributors. The downline is usually set up at three to five levels deep although it seldom gets that far, especially if it is a multi-level program being circulated through the mail.
A small initial investment is all that is usually required to become a distributor. You should have a flexible schedule but little experience is necessary. For you and your distributors to have any kind of success, you must handle high quality items which can be sold at substantially below retail store prices.
Distributors are charged for the program packet which includes instructions, literature, samples, etc. To be legal, the investment must be only a nominal amount. Sale or consumption of the product must be the prime objective and no fees should be collected for recruiting endeavors.
A common problem in recruiting people is getting them to "Look at the Plan". If they have seen multi-level plans before they won't give anyone a chance to explain the program as they think they already know all about it. Some get around this by inserting an ad in the local paper, asking interested parties to call about "a good money-making plan". They use a telephone answering machine which advises the caller where and when to attend an "Income Meeting". The machine doesn't give them a chance to ask questions. If they are interested and not just curiosity seekers they may show up for the seminar.
Multi-level selling by large party plan firms are often successful because they keep their members productive through a series of coaxing, weekly meetings, phone calls and home visits. This stimulates activity and better results are obtained. These elements are missing in multi-level mailorder programs. There is no motivation, inspiration or force applied to downliners. The meetings and personal contacts that represent strength are missing when the business is conducted by mail. Therefore a good many of the multi-level mailorder programs can't work and are basically worthless, especially on a 4 or 5 level down line position.
A typical multi-level get rich scheme is where you are offered a book selling plan for $5.00. You are assigned a code number and mail out 500 brochures. When your name reaches the fifth level you are supposed to have collected something like $50,000 in commission for 100,000 books which sold for a total of $500,000. This is based on only 10 orders received by you and 10 orders received by each of your downliner's who also mailed 500 brochures.
If only 10 people in the entire United States initially worked this one plan with the same success you are supposed to have, there would be 5,000 brochures out the first level; 50,000 the second; 500,000 the third level; 5,000,000 the 4th level, and 50 million in the 5th level. That would amount to some $11,000,000 in postage with brochures delivered to over one-half of the 90,000,000 mailorder buyers in the U.S.
This type of program will collapse under its own weight. After one level there is usually a complete drop-out.
Most such plans get started because of exhorbitant, dishonest claims. Tell the truth in an ad on Multi-level marketing and there are very few takers. Change the ad to greatly exaggerated claims, such as "Earn $100,000 a year working from the home part time" and the inquiries pour in. The response on this kind of ad doesn't mean that anyone will make any money!
There are too many ways to make an honest living without telling lies so keep your Multi-level plans level!
As mentioned previously unless the organization you are dealing with offers top quality products at discount prices it is very difficult to make a living with the multi-level marketing concept. A person has to knock on a great number of doors, or send out a massive amount of literature through the mail in order to find qualified people who are interested in pursuing this kind of activity.
If multi-level programs worked as good as many of them advertise the nation would be flooded with solicitations thousands of times over for every plan on the books.
Being able to work a multi-level plan on a part time basis at your leisure, with no pressure from the company as to how much of the product you purchase or the amount of business you must bring in each month, is one of the attractions of this kind of activity but results are usually negative. It's too easy forget about the business, sit back in your easy chair, and watch TV.
After a hard day's work at another job it doesn't take long to forget that you have a part-time multi-level program going. That phone call or that meeting to show the plan is too easy to put off until "tomorrow". Yes; it takes a certain kind of individual to follow through and they are few and far between. You may make 200 calls and show the program 100 times before you get even one member who will take an active part in the program.
Most Multi-level plans state that you can make thousands of dollars by duplicating yourself a few times and your down line doing the same. It never works that way. You are fortunate if a small percent of your down line produces much of anything unless you are able to spend a great deal of time teaching and promoting their business as well as your own.
How are you supposed to get prospects and members? Most of the promotional materials suggest you solicit your friends, neighbors and relatives, at least as a starter. Many people are reluctant to "take advantage" of their friends. Of course, if you have the best bargains available "anywhere" you may be doing them a great favor.
Phone calls, word of mouth, direct mail pieces and follow-up, and local classified ads are other methods used to get members and sell the products.
Multi-level companies usually offer newsletters, catalogs, direct mail pieces, and Camera/Ready material which members can have copied or printed locally. They often have name lists available or advise members how to compile their own lists.
Mail Order multi-level organizations will usually drop-ship direct to your customers if you wish. They are also set up to do most of the paperwork and accounting, leaving members with little detail work.
If you decide to try a multi-level program you are usually required to pay a fee for which you will obtain all the materials and information pertaining to the organization, the products, and how the program works. You may also be asked to purchase some of the items you will be selling. You will contact friends and neighbors, explaining how the program works, try to sell them merchandise from the catalogs and sign them up as members if possible. You will compile lists of prospects and make direct mailings. As your business develops you will need to contact those in your downline periodically and offer sympathy, help and assistance in order to make the business grow.
Many other incentives, prizes and extra commissions are offered by some firms.
Make sure the organization you choose and the programs they offer are legal. If it is just a pyramid scheme whereby members are merely signing up others for a fee and little if any merchandise is being sold it could be illegal. In any event, this type of operation will produce little if any money-making opportunity. If in doubt it is advisable to check out the firm with the Better Business Bureau or with the postal authorities when it involves direct mail methods.
Remember also, there are some very fine multi-level firms offering good opportunities for success oriented people. Those who thoroughly enjoy meeting and working with others, who are not afraid of hard work, not easily discouraged and who can persevere in the face of many disappointments, have made their fortunes in Multi-level marketing. With such attributes and the right program together with proper training you can be a success in this kind of business.
ILLEGAL MULTI-LEVEL PLANS!
In certain states most Multi-Level Sales plans can be classified as illegal since it is unlawful to organize a "pyramid club" or to induce or attempt to induce membership in a "pyramid club".
In such states a "Pyramid Club" means a sales device whereby a person, upon condition that the person make an investment, is granted a license or right to solicit or recruit for economic gain one or more additional persons who are also granted such license or right upon condition of making an investment, and who further purpetrate the chain of persons who are granted such license or right upon such condition. Pyramid clubs also include any such sales device which does not involve the sale or distribution of any real estate, goods or services, including but not limited to a chain letter scheme.
Pyramids are illegal because they are inherently fraudulent. In order to achieve the profits that are promised, a never ending chain of participants must be recruited. A saturation point will be reached and no more recruits will be available. When this occurs the most recent recruits can't receive what has been held out to them to cause them to join, and they lose all or part of what they paid to join the scheme. After just a few levels there would have to be millions or billions of participants to keep the chain going.
Chain letters are not the only illegal pyramids. As noted above, Multi-level sales schemes can be illegal also. Many of them are nothing but chain letter schemes with the nominal addition of some goods or services to be distributed. Legal multi-level marketing systems are designed to distribute goods and services and are not disguised as endless chains. A pyramid club is present if participants make investments in return for the right to recruit, for economic gain, others who in turn recruit additional participants.
Both the "investment" and "recruiting" elements must be present to constitute an illegal pyramid scheme. "Recruiting for Economic Gain" means if anything is received directly or indirectly as a result of recruiting new participants. Even earnings based on sales made by new participants recruited, also constitutes economic gain.
Evaluating multi-level sales schemes is a difficult process and many considerations must be answered in order to determine the legality or illegality of each multi-level plan or program. Is there more stress toward recruitment than for the sale of the product? Are the claims, as to what the earnings are, based on actual experience of typical participants? (They better watch out for the entries made in the IRS computers pertaining to their fabulous income claims.)
Are there misleading representations? You would have to get your attorney to review specific circumstances of each plan or program in order to determine which ones are legal or illegal! Even then you can't be sure. I am certain however, that if you send any of them that are questionable to the Postal inspectors office you will generally get a negative report back, regardless of whether the plan may be legal or not.
The fact that the Federal Government, through the private, non-governmental agency known as the Federal reserve, can print and issue green paper out of thin air and cause usurious interest rates across the country, or that the States can hold lotteries that are considered illegal for private agencies or persons, has nothing to do with the way people are not allowed to play the multi-level or chain letter game
A true Multi-Level plan is one in which there is an agreement between yourself and a manufacturer or distributor to purchase products at wholesale and sell them at retail, also with the right to sponsor others (your down line) thus multiplying your sales base and profits by receiving a percent of the sales made through your downline. Persons you sponsor show others the program and sign them up as members under themselves. In effect you are multiplying your efforts by selling the product through a network of distributors. The downline is usually set up at three to five levels deep although it seldom gets that far, especially if it is a multi-level program being circulated through the mail.
A small initial investment is all that is usually required to become a distributor. You should have a flexible schedule but little experience is necessary. For you and your distributors to have any kind of success, you must handle high quality items which can be sold at substantially below retail store prices.
Distributors are charged for the program packet which includes instructions, literature, samples, etc. To be legal, the investment must be only a nominal amount. Sale or consumption of the product must be the prime objective and no fees should be collected for recruiting endeavors.
A common problem in recruiting people is getting them to "Look at the Plan". If they have seen multi-level plans before they won't give anyone a chance to explain the program as they think they already know all about it. Some get around this by inserting an ad in the local paper, asking interested parties to call about "a good money-making plan". They use a telephone answering machine which advises the caller where and when to attend an "Income Meeting". The machine doesn't give them a chance to ask questions. If they are interested and not just curiosity seekers they may show up for the seminar.
Multi-level selling by large party plan firms are often successful because they keep their members productive through a series of coaxing, weekly meetings, phone calls and home visits. This stimulates activity and better results are obtained. These elements are missing in multi-level mailorder programs. There is no motivation, inspiration or force applied to downliners. The meetings and personal contacts that represent strength are missing when the business is conducted by mail. Therefore a good many of the multi-level mailorder programs can't work and are basically worthless, especially on a 4 or 5 level down line position.
A typical multi-level get rich scheme is where you are offered a book selling plan for $5.00. You are assigned a code number and mail out 500 brochures. When your name reaches the fifth level you are supposed to have collected something like $50,000 in commission for 100,000 books which sold for a total of $500,000. This is based on only 10 orders received by you and 10 orders received by each of your downliner's who also mailed 500 brochures.
If only 10 people in the entire United States initially worked this one plan with the same success you are supposed to have, there would be 5,000 brochures out the first level; 50,000 the second; 500,000 the third level; 5,000,000 the 4th level, and 50 million in the 5th level. That would amount to some $11,000,000 in postage with brochures delivered to over one-half of the 90,000,000 mailorder buyers in the U.S.
This type of program will collapse under its own weight. After one level there is usually a complete drop-out.
Most such plans get started because of exhorbitant, dishonest claims. Tell the truth in an ad on Multi-level marketing and there are very few takers. Change the ad to greatly exaggerated claims, such as "Earn $100,000 a year working from the home part time" and the inquiries pour in. The response on this kind of ad doesn't mean that anyone will make any money!
There are too many ways to make an honest living without telling lies so keep your Multi-level plans level!
As mentioned previously unless the organization you are dealing with offers top quality products at discount prices it is very difficult to make a living with the multi-level marketing concept. A person has to knock on a great number of doors, or send out a massive amount of literature through the mail in order to find qualified people who are interested in pursuing this kind of activity.
If multi-level programs worked as good as many of them advertise the nation would be flooded with solicitations thousands of times over for every plan on the books.
Being able to work a multi-level plan on a part time basis at your leisure, with no pressure from the company as to how much of the product you purchase or the amount of business you must bring in each month, is one of the attractions of this kind of activity but results are usually negative. It's too easy forget about the business, sit back in your easy chair, and watch TV.
After a hard day's work at another job it doesn't take long to forget that you have a part-time multi-level program going. That phone call or that meeting to show the plan is too easy to put off until "tomorrow". Yes; it takes a certain kind of individual to follow through and they are few and far between. You may make 200 calls and show the program 100 times before you get even one member who will take an active part in the program.
Most Multi-level plans state that you can make thousands of dollars by duplicating yourself a few times and your down line doing the same. It never works that way. You are fortunate if a small percent of your down line produces much of anything unless you are able to spend a great deal of time teaching and promoting their business as well as your own.
How are you supposed to get prospects and members? Most of the promotional materials suggest you solicit your friends, neighbors and relatives, at least as a starter. Many people are reluctant to "take advantage" of their friends. Of course, if you have the best bargains available "anywhere" you may be doing them a great favor.
Phone calls, word of mouth, direct mail pieces and follow-up, and local classified ads are other methods used to get members and sell the products.
Multi-level companies usually offer newsletters, catalogs, direct mail pieces, and Camera/Ready material which members can have copied or printed locally. They often have name lists available or advise members how to compile their own lists.
Mail Order multi-level organizations will usually drop-ship direct to your customers if you wish. They are also set up to do most of the paperwork and accounting, leaving members with little detail work.
If you decide to try a multi-level program you are usually required to pay a fee for which you will obtain all the materials and information pertaining to the organization, the products, and how the program works. You may also be asked to purchase some of the items you will be selling. You will contact friends and neighbors, explaining how the program works, try to sell them merchandise from the catalogs and sign them up as members if possible. You will compile lists of prospects and make direct mailings. As your business develops you will need to contact those in your downline periodically and offer sympathy, help and assistance in order to make the business grow.
Many other incentives, prizes and extra commissions are offered by some firms.
Make sure the organization you choose and the programs they offer are legal. If it is just a pyramid scheme whereby members are merely signing up others for a fee and little if any merchandise is being sold it could be illegal. In any event, this type of operation will produce little if any money-making opportunity. If in doubt it is advisable to check out the firm with the Better Business Bureau or with the postal authorities when it involves direct mail methods.
Remember also, there are some very fine multi-level firms offering good opportunities for success oriented people. Those who thoroughly enjoy meeting and working with others, who are not afraid of hard work, not easily discouraged and who can persevere in the face of many disappointments, have made their fortunes in Multi-level marketing. With such attributes and the right program together with proper training you can be a success in this kind of business.
ILLEGAL MULTI-LEVEL PLANS!
In certain states most Multi-Level Sales plans can be classified as illegal since it is unlawful to organize a "pyramid club" or to induce or attempt to induce membership in a "pyramid club".
In such states a "Pyramid Club" means a sales device whereby a person, upon condition that the person make an investment, is granted a license or right to solicit or recruit for economic gain one or more additional persons who are also granted such license or right upon condition of making an investment, and who further purpetrate the chain of persons who are granted such license or right upon such condition. Pyramid clubs also include any such sales device which does not involve the sale or distribution of any real estate, goods or services, including but not limited to a chain letter scheme.
Pyramids are illegal because they are inherently fraudulent. In order to achieve the profits that are promised, a never ending chain of participants must be recruited. A saturation point will be reached and no more recruits will be available. When this occurs the most recent recruits can't receive what has been held out to them to cause them to join, and they lose all or part of what they paid to join the scheme. After just a few levels there would have to be millions or billions of participants to keep the chain going.
Chain letters are not the only illegal pyramids. As noted above, Multi-level sales schemes can be illegal also. Many of them are nothing but chain letter schemes with the nominal addition of some goods or services to be distributed. Legal multi-level marketing systems are designed to distribute goods and services and are not disguised as endless chains. A pyramid club is present if participants make investments in return for the right to recruit, for economic gain, others who in turn recruit additional participants.
Both the "investment" and "recruiting" elements must be present to constitute an illegal pyramid scheme. "Recruiting for Economic Gain" means if anything is received directly or indirectly as a result of recruiting new participants. Even earnings based on sales made by new participants recruited, also constitutes economic gain.
Evaluating multi-level sales schemes is a difficult process and many considerations must be answered in order to determine the legality or illegality of each multi-level plan or program. Is there more stress toward recruitment than for the sale of the product? Are the claims, as to what the earnings are, based on actual experience of typical participants? (They better watch out for the entries made in the IRS computers pertaining to their fabulous income claims.)
Are there misleading representations? You would have to get your attorney to review specific circumstances of each plan or program in order to determine which ones are legal or illegal! Even then you can't be sure. I am certain however, that if you send any of them that are questionable to the Postal inspectors office you will generally get a negative report back, regardless of whether the plan may be legal or not.
The fact that the Federal Government, through the private, non-governmental agency known as the Federal reserve, can print and issue green paper out of thin air and cause usurious interest rates across the country, or that the States can hold lotteries that are considered illegal for private agencies or persons, has nothing to do with the way people are not allowed to play the multi-level or chain letter game
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