More than ever, women are choosing to start their own online businesses. This is especially true right now during the tough economic times we’re living in. Do you have the recommended 6 months’ living expenses tucked away in savings in preparation for lay offs, rightsizing, downsizing, outsourcing and whatever else they’re calling it these days?
Statistics show many of us do not. This is all the more reason for women to look for ways to make money online before the disaster strikes. If you already are in business, make this the year you market it using the internet.
Starting an online business has a number of advantages. These include:
* Start-up costs can be kept low. Starting an online business is usually within reach with small adjustments to the budget. Setting up a website means acquiring a domain name and hosting space – and with tools like WordPress (the tool this blog is built on) available at no cost, you can literally be up and running for around $20. You will also want to invest in some education, such as through an online networking, education and mentoring group like Mom Masterminds. Learning the basics of how to market your website online are not difficult, but be careful where you get your information.
The Natural Mom Business Guide is one solid source of information on launching a website, specifically for anyone in the “natural living” niche. It includes an ebook with detailed information about researching your target market, the various ways to make money with a website, and how to get the traffic you need to earn income. It even has video and audio tutorials as well as printable “cheat sheets” you can keep by your computer to remind you of the essential steps you need to take in your business to build traffic and make more income.
* Doing business online doesn’t require one to keep certain hours. You can work early in the morning before your kids get up or before you go to a day job, or late at night when everyone is in bed. If you’re a mom, you can work while the kids are napping, with a babysitter or at school. And with the automation that the Internet has to offer, orders can be processed and virtual products delivered while you are doing other things.
* You can get some work done with family right by your side. Older children may even be able to help you with simple tasks. Did you know that the IRS allows you to deduct wages (up to a certain amount) paid to a child who is age seven or older to work in your home business from your taxes? I have even trained my oldest son to add articles to my websites. He earns a nice wage for doing so, far more than an allowance, and is providing a valuable service to me.
There are all sorts of online businesses that are great for women. You could sell your crafts or start a recipe website, or you could start a podcast. You might offer services such as writing, transcription, web design or virtual assistance to customers around the world. Or you could create and sell information products. Even blogging offers impressive money-making potential. The possibilities are many, and there’s sure to be something out there that’s just right for any mom.
Moms make up a large portion of the people who are making money online. This allows them to take a hands-on approach to raising their children while still making money to support the household. They don’t have to count on a sitter to take care of their children’s needs, and they don’t have to make a commute part of their daily routine. It’s no wonder that the number of moms starting online businesses is growing in leaps and bounds.
If you need some assistance choosing a niche, help with the technical aspects of getting your site up and running, or any other aspect of marketing yourself on the internet, get some coaching from an experienced online marketer.
Take the leap – you’ll be glad you did!
