By Lema Abeng Nsah

Most of us fall in the category where at some point we have desired to start up a business, but didn’t or couldn’t. Either because we felt overwhelmed by the very idea of it, felt unprepared, undeserving, not capable, not financially able, etc. If you are like most folks who don’t have thousands of dollars laying around to be invested in an idea that could eventually become a business, here are a few businesses you can start ‘small’.

The most solid component behind these ‘recommendations’ is to start a business around your gifts and develop this baby over time. The secret is to provide a product or service that most people consume. The ingredients of growth and longevity are consistency, patience and outstanding customer service … not necessarily in that order.

Here are a few ideas:

1. Child care

Do you love kids? Most of us know quite a few parents … most of whom need help with their kids. Offer to watch the kids while they are at work, traveling or just need some alone time. By offering your services to a good number of people, you increase your chances of getting ‘yes-s’. You must be flexible and prepared to not have a life – kids tend to take over our lives, whether they are yours or someone else’. Parents need to sense that you are trustworthy,  patient and loving. This is a sure way to make a steady income.

2. Cleaning services

Well, homes and offices normally can’t do without being cleaned. Unfortunately, these days, hardworking families don’t often have the time to give their living quarters the shine that they so desire. To attract residential customers, focus on those who really can afford your services – you might want to check out some gated communities in your city. The secret here is to be meticulous, reliable … and safe … may I add, humble?

Business facilities meanwhile can’t DO without these services, they just need to find the right ‘company’. Small businesses don’t often pay as much as larger corporations, but cleaning contracts are easier to get from them; think about local insurance companies, convenience stores, pawn shops, etc. Keep your offers simple and to the point.

3. Hair braiding

Well, not everyone has flexible fingers, but the art of braiding sure can be learned. The interesting thing about this skill is it’s potential to mushroom into bigger things. Women and young girls always need their hair done. Start with a few close friends and then ask for referrals; fill up your calender and stay busy; before you know it, your appointment book will be buzzing. The secret is to provide a personalized service based on what’s convenient for each client. As your client base grows, develop your skill and branch into other aspects like hair styling, cosmetology and maybe offer trainings. This requires individuals to be tenacious and to have great love for their trade – otherwise all those hours of standing over hair could become gruesome. May I add that good personal hygiene needs to be one of your greatest ‘fortes’?

4. Catering

Can you cook? Do you have a flair for good food? If well crafted and advertised, this business has the potential to quickly grow. With so many events taking place these days, all year round – from baptisms to weddings, graduations, cultural events, family get-togethers, professional dinners, etc, you might find yourself staying quite busy. Talk to people and tell them what you do. Do not shy away from offering your services. Most importantly, make sure the food you provide drives people into asking, “who’s the ‘chef?” Everyone loves some delicious, well prepared food, your phone will begin to ring. The key is to make yourself and your brand known.

5. Event planning

Probably the most interesting, this is one where you can’t afford to under-deliver. Most events are of sentimental value to the people involved. Event planners pick up the tab by stepping in to make life easier for clients, while helping them create special memories of important occasions.  Like most businesses where you deal directly with people, the key is to be tolerant and likable, but serious at the same time. Being classy is key (you just can’t do sloppy work here). Do your homework and add a special touch that is completely unique to you.  A well planned event leaves people talking long after. Start small, and watch your list of accomplishments grow as the word gets out.

Have a plan, stick to your goals and think big even as you start small!

Any more ideas? Leave a comment! Join us on Facebook.

Lema blogs at Face2Face.