101 Small Business Ideas for Under $5,000

101 Small Business Ideas for Under $5,000

CHAPTER 1
Business Insurance and Risk Management
Once you’ve let your mind run rampant with dreams of profits, fun, and more
profits, take a moment and ask yourself this question: What could possibly
go wrong?
Let us suggest a few moments of doom and gloom:
• One of your clients, or perhaps a delivery person, trips and falls over the
crack in the driveway you’ve been meaning to fix for the past three years.
• You somehow manage to lose the only copy of a precious family photograph
that was entrusted to you to restore.
• You fail to advise a client of a critical deadline in filing a college application,
causing her to be rejected for admission.
• A slip of a chisel cracks and destroys a priceless antique chair you’ve been
asked to refinish.
• When you clean a chimney you overlook a wobbly interior brick that falls
into the flue weeks later, resulting in a smoky blaze that destroys the house.
• A product that you sell, even if you did not make it yourself or perform any
alterations on it, fails and causes damage to a person or property.
There’s a lot more to say than “oops” when you run a business. An accident,
error, omission, or a negligent act by you or anyone in your employ could ruin
your business and even result in a claim against your personal assets. The severity
of the threat could depend on:
• The way your business is set up
• The amount (or lack) of insurance you have
• The care with which the contract with the customer is drawn
That’s why we recommend you consult at least two commercial insurance agents
for a risk assessment. Listen to the advice you are offered; ask lots of questions.
Don’t be shy about requesting time: If agents don’t offer you good service before
they’ve cashed your check, what makes you think they’ll be any better once
you’re a client?
We suggest you meet with more than one agent, at competitive companies.
You may find one easier to understand or work with than another, or you might
find a better deal.
Don’t hide the fact that you are shopping around. The smartest entrepreneurs
are those who buy goods and services instead of being sold goods and services.
And the best businesspeople are those who realize that they have to offer real
value to their customers in the form of price, service, or both.
Do the same when you seek a civil attorney who can help you protect yourself
with limits of liability in your contracts and the form of your business. Ask
for an introductory meeting with at least two lawyers. (In most instances, a short
preliminary session is offered without charge.) Ask for advice and for an estimate
of costs for specific services.
Business Insurance Basics
Everything we do involves some amount of risk. Some risks are relatively minor:
You could lose or break an inexpensive item; you could put a minor dent in the
bumper of your car by hitting the trash can in your own garage; you could trip
and fall in the driveway and skin a knee. In these minor accidents, you have no
one to blame but yourself, and you are willing to shrug them off as ordinary
events of life.
Now consider the following risks: You could lose or break an expensive
musical instrument entrusted to you for repairing; you could have an accident
2 BUSINESS INSURANCE AND RISK MANAGEMENT
with your car while driving someone to the airport as part of your car service
business; the FedEx delivery person could trip and fall in your driveway and
break a leg. In each of these incidents, you and your small business—no matter
how undersized—are liable to be sued for damages, sometimes for huge amounts
of money.
You also face the risk of loss due to theft of your equipment and supplies.
Your business could be damaged by fire, flood, loss of heating, and other unforeseen
events.
Liability does not stop with obvious things like accidents. If you are operating
a business, you face liability for injuries and losses caused by your services
and products and for errors and omissions or negligence in advisory and consultative
services.
How Small Is Too Small?
When we were kids, we gave no thought to lawsuits, liability, and insurance
when we took jobs babysitting for the neighbors, mowing lawns, clearing snow,
or selling cookies and bread at ball games.
We would be remiss if we did not warn any reader of this book that we live in
a litigious world. We’d like to think that any of the jobs we include in this book
can be performed without risk to our readers or their customers, but that’s simply
not true.
We’re not lawyers, and we’re not insurance agents. We recommend that at the
very least anyone planning to start a business find a capable and honest insurance
agent and have a meeting to discuss a reasonable level of coverage for a small
business. You may find that the job you have in mind—at least in its small, early
stages—is protected by personal coverage you already have for your home or
vehicle. Or you may find that the agent has serious concerns about your exposure
to risk and recommends purchase of a new policy to protect you. It becomes a
cost of doing business.
What is the price for a basic insurance policy? There is no simple answer to
that question, because insurance companies rate applicants based on the type of
business and their experience in paying claims. Rates also differ depending on
geographic region, and within regions on whether the work takes place in an
urban or a rural setting.
In the broadest terms, we estimate that a basic business owner’s policy for an
occupation that is not particularly hazardous would cost somewhere between
HOW SMALL IS TOO SMALL? 3
$250 and $1,000 per year. You may also need to obtain coverage for inventory
and for a vehicle used for commercial purposes.
In the worst case, you may find that the insurance costs will be so high that it
makes your business plan unrealistic. In that situation, you should look for ways
to reduce the risk and the cost, or find a different small business to start.
Who Goes There? Liability for
Home-Based Businesses
Let’s think about the types of people who might enter your home or place of business
(which may be in your home, or elsewhere).
Invitees are those who enter with your permission and for the purposes of
your business or otherwise for your benefit. Included in this group would be
those making deliveries, pickups, garbage collections, and providing service or
maintenance. You need to make a reasonable effort to be on the lookout for dangerous
conditions and post warnings about them.
Licensees are those who enter with your permission but for their own purposes.
For example, licensees include a government inspector, a member of the
police or fire department, or a utility worker permitted to gain access because of
an easement. In general, your obligation to a licensee is to make them aware of
any dangerous conditions: Post a sign warning of slippery floors; install a proper
railing on stairs; keep gates to hazardous areas closed.
Trespassers are those who enter without your permission. In general, you do
not have any legal responsibility to a trespasser, although there are situations,
including those called attractive nuisances, where you may have some liability
even to those who break into your property or otherwise enter without your consent.
For example, in most localities you have to take reasonable steps to prevent
easy break-in to a swimming pool, to keep a cute but ferocious dog fenced in, or
to protect unwanted visitors from getting close to dangerous power tools and
other equipment. Consult an attorney and your insurance agent to help assess
risks in this area.
Be sure to consult with your insurance agent and attorney about any state or
local laws or regulations that would affect your area, and ask about any particular
liabilities associated with your type of business. Your homeowner’s or business
insurance should protect against personal injuries. Your attorney can advise
you in setting up a form of business that shields your personal assets from most
lawsuits and liability, shifting responsibility to your business.
4 BUSINESS INSURANCE AND RISK MANAGEMENT
Assessing Your Risks
Advisors recommend that business owners include a careful assessment of risks
faced by an enterprise, no matter how small. Risk management starts with identifying
various exposures to risk and then deciding on the best way to deal with
each of them.
With each exposure to risk, determine how serious it would be, and whether
the loss is one that you could afford to bear or whether you need to find a way to
offset that risk in some way.
One of the first things you should do as you draw up your business plan is to
make contact with a capable and well-informed commercial insurance agent.
Shop around to find an agent who is able to communicate with you and (this is
hardest to find) willing to put your interests above all, even above his or her sales
commission. Ask friends, family, and business acquaintances for recommendations.
One way to deal with the possibility of risk is to mount an active campaign to
reduce exposure. For example, you might choose not to accept very valuable
items for repair unless the owner relieves you of liability or pays for special
insurance coverage. You might choose not to sell particular products because of
an increased likelihood of liability: for example, trampolines, diving boards, and
weapons.
You might choose to insist on replacing broken parts with new ones instead
of making repairs, because new parts have higher reliability. You might choose to
accept a babysitting job but refuse to transport children to or from school or other
activities.
Some insurance companies will provide free or low-cost consulting services
to their clients to help them reduce exposure to loss, something that benefits both
the policyholder and the issuer.
Another option is risk retention or self-insurance. A business might decide it
can accept occasional losses as part of the ordinary cost of doing business and
build the expense into prices. A garden nursery cannot expect to collect for the
loss of a few plants because of an unexpected freeze; the selling price for healthy
plants includes an allowance to cover previous or anticipated losses.
This is the sort of decision we might make for our personal automobile: If it
is more than a few years old and has declined in value, it might make sense to
eliminate collision coverage and reduce the value of the replacement cost. (At the
same time, you would not want to skimp on liability coverage to protect you from
claims for damage to others or to their property.
ASSESSING YOUR RISKS 5
The third option is to transfer the risk. This can be done by purchasing insurance
for your company, or you may be able to find ways to have others assume
risks as part of your business relationship with them.
One way you could transfer risk would be to hire an independent trucking
company to make pickups and deliveries for your company.
We discuss various types of insurance you can purchase later in this chapter.
Understanding Insurable Risks
What, exactly, are you protecting against when you purchase a business policy?
Typical named risks include the following.
Physical Damage
Losses due to fire, storm damage, vandalism, broken pipes, failed heating systems,
and other incidents may be insured against. You could lose finished goods,
raw materials, tools, and other elements of your business. The loss could also
occur to your clients’ property that has been deposited with you for repair, maintenance,
or processing.
If your business is operated in a room of your home, it may be possible to
add a rider or extension to your homeowner’s or renter’s policy to cover a small
business.
Criminal Activity
You could lose property, your own or items belonging to customers, due to theft
or robbery. If you will be working with valuable items such as jewelry or works
of art, make sure you are fully covered.
Liability
A business or its owner may be required to pay for bodily injury or destruction of
property suffered by others. The payment may be required as the result of a court
ruling in a legal case, an out-of-court settlement of a lawsuit, or as an element of
a contract that makes you or your company responsible for certain types of
losses.
Liability insurance usually includes the costs of defending you against a lawsuit
for a claim that is covered under the policy.
A company can also be required by law to assume liability for certain occurrences
such as injuries that fall under workers’ compensation coverage.
6 BUSINESS INSURANCE AND RISK MANAGEMENT
Public liability refers to injuries or losses by customers, visitors, and others
who are not employees. The liability is incurred as the result of provable negligence
or fault. The exposure here would include an injury due to broken pavement,
a slippery floor, improper installation or repair of a product provided to a
customer, or a new product that is defective.
If you rent a home, office, or place of business, your lease may transfer liability
for injury from the owner of the property to the renter; consult an attorney
to be sure of your responsibility.
Liability to employees generally falls under workers’ compensation laws,
which vary from state to state. In some states, not all types of businesses are
required to have such policies, and in some localities, the owner of a one-person
business is exempt from the requirement to have such a policy. Again, consult
with a capable insurance agent to find out the laws that apply in your area.
If you will be starting and running a small business that will take you into the
offices and workplaces of other companies, you may find that their insurance
carriers require that anyone doing business with them show evidence of a current
workers’ compensation policy.
Business Interruption
An element of business packages is coverage to help you get past a shutdown of
your business due to a direct loss (one that is covered by other elements of your
policy). For example, if your office or workshop is damaged by fire, you could
collect the current or replacement value of the items and receive some payment
for income you lose while the business is unable to operate. The money could
help pay for taxes, loans, utilities, and other fixed costs that don’t stop even when
your business does.
Disability or Death of Owner or Key Person
What if your business is entirely dependent on the health and involvement of a
single person: an expert, an artisan, or a salesperson? If that person were to die or
become incapacitated, the business might grind to a halt. Some policies in this
area amount to specialized life insurance, with the business or the business owner
listed as beneficiary.
Types of Insurance Coverage
The insurance industry packages named risks into classes of policies intended to
cover various forms of business or business activities.
TYPES OF INSURANCE COVERAGE 7
Commercial General Liability
The basic form of business liability coverage protects (up to policy limits)
against damage or loss to property, bodily injury, personal injury (including slander
or libel), and advertising injury and related claims.
A good policy also extends to other liabilities, including protection for damages
and legal expenses related to an injury caused by a product or service provided
by your company, other kinds of product liability, and liability for certain
risks you may assume under a contract.
Property Coverage
This sort of policy offers protection against loss or damage to your business
property as the result of fire, theft, and certain other situations. (Some policies
exclude or limit loss due to floods, windstorms, and other risks.)
Depending on the nature of your business, you may need to extend coverage
to protect against loss of property owned by customers and to insure against loss
of valuable papers, records, and data stored on computer media.
For most companies, the best type of coverage offers to pay for lost property
at replacement value rather than at its generally lower (depreciated) actual
value. With the assistance of your insurance agent, make a realistic appraisal
of the cost you would face if all of your business equipment, inventory, and
vehicles, or the structures that hold them, were lost. If you have $250,000 in
potential losses, you should have coverage that comes very close to that
amount; one way to reduce your insurance premium is to accept a small
amount of the risk yourself by choosing a policy with a higher deductible that
is still within your ability to absorb. There is, however, no reason to pay for a
coverage limit that is higher than the amount you could collect in the event of
a loss.
Business Owner’s Policy (BOP)
This insurance package brings together general liability and property coverage in
a single policy that usually costs less than individual plans; BOP is generally
offered to small and medium-sized businesses that do not have extraordinary
exposure to loss.
This sort of policy does not ordinarily protect against errors, omissions, or
negligence; a more inclusive professional liability policy should be considered if
your business is exposed to those sorts of risks.
8 BUSINESS INSURANCE AND RISK MANAGEMENT
Professional Liability Insurance for Errors and Omissions
For professional businesses, including consultancies, accounting, and advisory
services, this is somewhat like malpractice insurance. This coverage protects
against claims for errors or omissions in your work and for negligence.
Umbrella Coverage and Excess Liability
One way to save money on insurance costs is to extend your overall coverage
level by purchasing an umbrella policy. These policies are secondary to basic
coverage, adding more available funds after other policies have reached their
payout limit.
Business Auto Insurance
If your company owns, leases, or rents vehicles, or if any employees use their
own vehicles for business purposes, this sort of policy will protect against liability
claims for injury to others or damage to other vehicles and property. The policy
can also include collision and comprehensive coverage to pay for damage to
your own vehicles and for protection against theft of personal contents.
TYPES OF INSURANCE COVERAGE 9

CHAPTER 2
Legalities and Taxes
As we said in the introduction to this book, every business begins with an
idea. Once that business begins to spend and, more important, earn money,
it becomes an entity that is of interest to local, state, and federal authorities. Regulators
will want to regulate, inspectors will want to inspect, and tax agencies
will absolutely insist on collecting taxes.
Many of the jobs we write about in this book can begin on the most casual
basis, as a sole proprietorship or a general partnership. In these sorts of businesses,
the owners put their own money into the operation and pay taxes on their
personal income.
We can also hope that our little idea for a business will one day grow into a
larger enterprise with multiple employees, assets of its own, and a long and
profitable life. In this chapter, we examine the most common structures for
businesses.
Form of Business
If you hang up a shingle that says “Paul Revere, Silversmith” (and your name is
Paul Revere), you can set up a sole proprietorship and run your business out of
your personal checkbook. In some states and localities, you must register the
business name with the county where you will conduct business. In addition,
banking laws generally require a business certificate to enable you to deposit
checks made out to “Paul Revere, Silversmith” into an account, although checks
to “Paul Revere” would probably be accepted.
If your birth certificate actually reads “Paul Hickenlooper” (to pick a name at
random), and you want to call your company “Paul Revere, Silversmith,” you
will need to file a doing-business-as (DBA) or fictitious name form in most jurisdictions.
There are advantages to each of the various forms of business, including sole
proprietorships, partnerships, and corporations, that might argue for one or
another, depending on the nature of your enterprise.
State and federal laws differ with regard to certain requirements for various
business structures: for example, whether a business needs to have workers’
compensation insurance, the deductibility of certain expenses, and the filing of
tax and information returns.
Be sure to discuss available forms of business with an accountant and attorney.
Here is a general description of common options; please don’t confuse this
section with legal or tax accounting advice.
Sole Proprietorship
This is a business that is owned and controlled by an individual, with all of the
profits directed to the owner. In many localities the company must obtain a business
license from local government; additional licenses and permits may be
required for certain types of businesses.
This is the simplest and least expensive form of business to set up, and the
owner does not have to answer to anyone else about operations.
The most significant disadvantage of a sole proprietorship is that the company
and its owner are linked when it comes to financial responsibility, liability,
and taxes. If the business is unable to pay its bills, creditors can seek to collect
from the owner’s personal assets. When it comes to taxes, income from the business
is treated as personal income of the owner.
It may also be more difficult to obtain bank loans and other types of financing
for a sole proprietorship because of the limited resources of the single owner
and because the business’s success is entirely dependent on one person.
General Partnership
This is a business that is owned and controlled by two or more people, sharing
in the investment, management, and profits of the company. There should be a
12 LEGALITIES AND TAXES
written agreement signed by the partners, spelling out investment obligations,
management expectations, and the distribution of profits.
A general partnership has the advantage of additional sources of capital and
labor, but it does not relieve the partners of personal responsibility for debts and
other liabilities. Since the general partnership is not a separate business entity,
salaries, profits, and losses are reported as personal income by each partner.
Limited Partnership
This form of business is owned and controlled by two or more people, who share
in the investment and profits of the company, but who give operational control of
the business to a general partner or partners.
A limited partnership is a step toward a corporation. Though the partnership
is not a business entity of its own, the agreement among the owners can limit
responsibility for debts and liabilities to the general partner. The limited partners,
who do not exercise control over operations, are personally liable only up to the
amount of their investment in the company.
Setting up a limited partnership is more complex than forming a general partnership
and should involve a lawyer to draft the agreements.
Corporation
After receiving a charter from the state where it is headquartered, a corporation
becomes a legal entity that exists independently of the people who invest in it,
manage it, and share in its profits. The corporation, owned by its shareholders,
can raise funds through the sale of additional stock; depending on the type of
stock sold, shareholders may receive partial, majority, or total control over
operations.
Although it is possible to set up a corporation without the involvement of an
attorney using do-it-yourself kits and Internet sites, you may benefit from the
advice of an attorney, and you’ll want to coordinate your efforts with your
accountant, in any case.
The principal advantage of a corporation is that its owners (the shareholders)
are personally liable only up to the amount they have invested in the corporation.
When it comes to taxes, the corporation reports its own income, expenses,
and profits to state and federal authorities and pays its own taxes and fees.
Dividends paid to shareholders are generally not deductible from business
income, and therefore this income is subject to taxes at both the corporate and
personal levels.
FORM OF BUSINESS 13
Subchapter S Corporation
A Subchapter S corporation passes through the income or loss to the shareholders,
as a partnership would (the corporation does not pay taxes on the profit) and
provides the liability protection of a corporation.
As an employee of a corporation, you will report salary as personal income
on your personal tax forms.
Limited Liability Corporation
As a legal entity that is permitted in most states, an LLC combines some of the
tax benefits of a partnership with the limits on liability of a corporation. A
lawyer’s advice is generally needed for the drafting of agreements among the
owners.
On the tax front, shareholders report their portion of the company’s profit or
loss on their personal tax forms.
Business Licenses
Check with city or county clerks or your attorney to see if you require a local or
state business license. Some states require licenses for almost every form of business,
while others are more selective. Among businesses that often require
licenses are trades, such as electricians, plumbers, construction, mining, forestry,
and professions, including health care, financial services, entertainment, and
food preparation and sale.
In some states, businesses operated from a home do not require a license, or
they may face less stringent criteria.
Sales Tax on Services and Products
As of 2004, 45 states and the District of Columbia levied sales tax on most products
and some services. Some states exempt food and certain services and products
from tax. Contact your state department of revenue for details about
requirements for your business; your accountant should also be able to advise you.
If you are required to assess sales tax, you will have to register with the state
and set up an account for regular deposit of taxes you have collected. In many
states, you can obtain an exemption from having to pay or collect sales taxes if
14 LEGALITIES AND TAXES
you are buying products or raw materials and then reselling them to a retailer.
Again, your accountant should be able to help you set up your tax status.
Zoning Issues
In many parts of the country, zoning laws and regulations place limits on the
types of businesses that can be established and operated in particular areas. You
may be completely barred from opening a business in a residential area or other
noncommercial zone, or you may face regulations requiring off-street parking,
limits on hours of operation, or other strictures.
Consult an attorney for advice.
ZONING ISSUES 15

CHAPTER 3
Setting Your Price
For many businesses, the most difficult question of all is this: How do you set
a price for your goods or services?
At its simplest level, you need to set your prices at a level high enough to
allow you to make a profit. That means higher than the cost of materials, supplies,
rent, utilities, insurance, legal fees, and accounting costs. Include the cost
of breakage, spoilage, or loss. Then add in a margin high enough to pay yourself
(and your staff) a living wage.
On one hand, if you set your prices too high, you will receive a higher profit,
but your cash flow may be lower because you could lose some business to others.
On the other hand, as salespeople like to say, if you price your product or service
too low, you are leaving too much money on the table.
Let’s begin by differentiating between cost and price:
• Cost is the total amount of money you need to pay for manufacturing or
purchasing a product or service and offering it for sale. Included in the
expenses are fixed and variable costs.
• Price is the amount of money you ask a customer or client to pay for a
product or service.
Analyzing Your Costs for Product Sales
Begin by conducting a very detailed analysis of all of your fixed and variable costs.
A fixed cost is one that does not change no matter how many widgets you sell
or services you provide; this is often referred to as overhead. For example, if you
must rent an office, the monthly payment is a fixed cost of doing business. So,
too, is the cost of any basic tools and equipment you must purchase or rent, most
insurance, and basic utilities.
18 SETTING YOUR PRICE
Business Plan Pro; © 2004 Palo Alto Software, Inc. (www.paloalto.com), reproduced with permission.
Most businesses are born on the back of an envelope, or at
best on a yellow legal pad. There are, though, some very useful
computer tools you can use to help with your planning. One is
Business Plan Pro, from Palo Alto Software (www.paloalto.com)
and we have included a few sample screens in this chapter.
If you have any employees, they are a fixed cost if they are on salary and
being paid whether or not they sell or perform services successfully.
A variable cost is one that is directly related to sales; it can also be referred
to as the incremental cost per unit. For example, if you are handcrafting cuckoo
clocks, the amount of money you spend on parts and supplies varies based on the
number of clocks you put together each month. If you hire and pay workers on
an hourly basis, their cost varies with production or services. As an example, if
you must purchase $50 worth of materials and spend one hour of time that you
value at $50 to assemble a clock, the incremental cost of that clock is $100.
It is essential that you have a realistic accounting of your fixed costs (overhead)
and your variable costs (incremental cost per unit) before you can determine
your break-even point and build in a profit.
Let’s use a simple example with the following two assumptions:
1. The fixed costs of your business, including office rent, equipment, insurance,
and utilities, works out to a monthly expense of $1,000.
2. The variable cost for the one model of cuckoo clock you are building,
including materials and labor, is $100.
ANALYZING YOUR COSTS FOR PRODUCT SALES 19
Business Plan Pro; © 2004 Palo Alto Software, Inc. (www.paloalto.com), reproduced with permission.
Therefore, if you expect to sell only one clock per month, your break-even point
is $1,100. Put another way, you’ll need to sell that single clock for at least $1,100
or you will lose money on your business.
Let’s say you expect to sell 20 clocks per month. Your fixed costs are still
$1,000, but your variable costs now total $2,000 ($100 in materials times 20
units.) To break even, you’ll need to sell those 20 clocks for an average of $150
each to generate a total of $3,000 for fixed and variable costs.
If you can sell 200 clocks per month, fixed costs remain $1,000, and variable
costs reach $20,000; the break-even price for those 200 clocks would have to
average $105 each to generate $21,000.
Adding a Markup for Profit
The cuckoo clock example works well because it has the advantage of being
based on a single product sold at a specific price. Things become much more
complex if you are selling a range of products at varying prices.
20 SETTING YOUR PRICE
Business Plan Pro; © 2004 Palo Alto Software, Inc. (www.paloalto.com), reproduced with permission.
Here is a five-step method to go about determining prices in this situation:
1. Calculate your fixed costs, or overhead.
2. Determine the incremental cost per unit, or variable cost, for each of the
various items you expect to sell.
3. Come up with a realistic estimate of the number of each of the items you
expect to sell in a month.
4. Multiply the units times the incremental cost.
5. Add the total to fixed costs. The result is your break-even point.
Here is an example:
1. Your fixed costs are $1,000 per month.
2. Here’s the incremental cost per unit for the five products you expect to sell:
Product A $50
Product B $75
Product C $25
Product D $100
Product E $10
3. You expect to sell the following numbers of each product per month
(based on annual sales divided by 12):
Product A 5 units
Product B 4 units
Product C 10 units
Product D 2 units
Product E 10 units
4. Units sold times the incremental cost:
Product A $ 50 × 5 = $ 250
Product B $ 75 × 4 = $ 300
Product C $ 25 × 10 = $ 250
Product D $100 × 2 = $ 200
Product E $ 10 × 10 = $1,000
TOTAL: $2,000
5. Break-even cost:
Fixed costs $1,000
Variable costs 2,000
TOTAL: $3,000
ADDING A MARKUP FOR PROFIT 21
This tells you that you need to mark up your products by an average of 50 percent
to break even. (Products that cost you $2,000 to build or buy need to sell for
$3,000 to include the cost of overhead.)
One method of setting prices is to determine a standard markup, in the form
of a percentage, and apply it to the cost of an item. For example, you might determine
that your cost of goods for a cuckoo clock is $40 and your target markup
percentage is 50 percent. That means its selling price would be $60.
If you decide that you want your business to generate $500 in profit, you
would need to apply a markup of 75 percent ($2,000 in variable costs times 1.75
equals $3,500 in receipts).
To apply a markup, you can multiply the cost by the markup percentage and
then add in the cost, or you can add 100 percent to the markup percentage and
multiply it by the cost. The result is the same either way.
In some business models, different products or services may have different
markups. If one product or service costs much more to inventory, has higher
breakage or spoilage, or requires much more expenditure to advertise or sell, you
might apply a higher markup. On the other hand, if you are selling some highpriced
items you might be willing to accept a lower percentage of profit.
You may also be forced to lower the markup on certain products or services
if you face strong competition for sales, or if you are seeking to build market
share for a new company or a new offering.
In the end, what matters is that the money you receive for the products you
sell in a month, a quarter, or a year is at least equal to the total of the fixed and
variable costs.
Depending on your business plan, your personal resources, and your faith in
your idea, you may be willing to allow a few months or even a few years to reach
profitability.
Analyzing Your Costs for a Service Business
As a consultant or service provider, your primary commodity is your time. In
general, your fixed costs will represent much or all of your expenses.
Fixed costs, or overhead, for a service business include rent for an office, the
cost of any basic tools and equipment, most insurance, and basic utilities.
Variable costs for a service business are principally the value you place on
your own time, plus incidentals such as transportation.
There’s not really a markup per se for a service business. You will pay your
overhead and generate profits on the basis of the hourly rate you charge.
22 SETTING YOUR PRICE
Note that a service-only business, such as tutoring or college advising, will
have minimal operating expenses, although you must be careful not to overlook
the cost in time of preparation for a service, including research, education, and
sales of that service. For services-based companies, the markup amounts to the
hourly rate you will charge.
When you set your hourly rate, be sure to take into account any helpers you
may be paying separately. For example, if you have someone managing your office
or helping maintain equipment, that becomes an element of your cost of goods.
No formula can set the value of your time; you can, though, usually find the
hourly rate for others performing similar work in your area. You might choose to
underprice the competition to build your business, or you may believe that your
experience and skills warrant a higher hourly rate than other contenders charge.
You can easily adjust your hourly rate downward in slow periods or upward
when demand is high.
In some small businesses, labor is a major component of the job but operating
expenses and cost of goods are also a major component. For example, a lawn
mowing business has fixed expenses, such as the cost of machinery, a vehicle,
permits, licenses, and insurance, plus variable expenses, including gasoline,
maintenance, labor, and taxes.
ANALYZING YOUR COSTS FOR A SERVICE BUSINESS 23
Business Plan Pro; © 2004 Palo Alto Software, Inc. (www.paloalto.com), reproduced with permission.

CHAPTER 4
Financing a Small Business
It takes money to make money; that’s a basic truism of business school.
Some enterprises require a lot more cash than others: A car dealership may
need millions of dollars to build a showroom and fund an inventory of vehicles
to sell. Even a neighborhood snow removal service or lawn mowing
enterprise (two of the small businesses we discuss in this book) needs to spend
some cash to purchase equipment and supplies and transport them from client
to client.
Many of the jobs discussed in this book can be started with minimal investment.
However, if you hope to expand to include multiple locations, numerous
employees, and more ambitious services, it will be essential that you have
enough ready capital for investment. The sources and uses of that money have to
be as carefully managed as the rest of the business.
If you will be using your own resources, you should be sure your business
and its underlying plan is sound.
Computer partner. Depending on the complexity of your business, you may
want to enlist the assistance of a computer business planner. Among the
best is Business Plan Pro, from Palo Alto Software. You can learn about
that product at www.paloalto.com.
If you will be using someone else’s money—a bank, an investor, or a government
agency—you’ll need to be just as sure of your plan and fully understand the risks
of borrowing.
The two basic types of financing are equity and debt.
Equity versus Debt
Equity financing is an investment in the ownership of the company. Equity can
come from your own resources, from family, friends, employees, and customers,
or from outside investors, including venture capitalists who seek to buy into businesses
that have the potential for growth. Equity investors are generally given a
portion of ownership (and control) of the company; looking at it from the point
of view of the founder, accepting equity financing from others reduces the percentage
of the company that you own and control.
Debt financing is a loan, a liability to the company (and, depending on the
form of the business, also to the owner). Sources include banks, commercial
lenders, and government agencies, including the U.S. Small Business Administration.
Loans can be used for ongoing operations, for the purchase of equipment,
and for short-term uses such as inventory.
Outside investors will usually be very interested in determining and assessing
your company’s debt-to-equity ratio. That formula compares the money you
have borrowed, or plan to borrow, to the amount of your own money you have
invested in the business. The more money the owner and partners or shareholders
have put into the business, the more comfortable an outside lender is likely to
be with a request for a loan.
Think of the parallel in buying a home. Most lenders are much more willing
to issue a mortgage to a borrower who puts a substantial down payment into the
home. The theory is that an owner who is risking some of his or her own money
is a more dedicated and trustworthy borrower than someone who is working
entirely with other people’s money.
Types of Loans
A line of credit is somewhat like a personal credit card: The lender disburses
funds as they are requested, up to a preset limit. The borrower pays interest (and
26 FINANCING A SMALL BUSINESS
usually a portion of the outstanding balance) on the amount of funds outstanding
at the end of each borrowing period, usually monthly.
An installment loan gives the borrower a lump sum of money and sets a
schedule for regular payments over a set period of time for repayment.
A short-term loan is money advanced for a specific purpose: to pay for inventory,
to help a company get past a cash flow problem related to accounts receivable,
and so on. The loan is expected to be repaid once the immediate need has
been resolved.
A long-term loan is aimed at capital spending, including equipment and real
estate, and is intended to be repaid from the ongoing proceeds of the company.
Collateral for Loans
From the point of view of the lender, the riskiest type of loan is one that is unsecured:
The borrower merely promises to repay it. A personal credit card is an
unsecured loan, and it generally bears a higher interest rate than is charged for a
secured note.
Lenders would rather tie their loans to an interest in something tangible, a
secured note. For example, if you purchase an automobile, the lender technically
owns the vehicle until the loan is paid off; in the event of a default, the lender has
the right to repossess the car and sell it off to regain some or all of the money it
has loaned.
For commercial loans, banks or other lenders might require that an individual
or a company pledge or sign over title to assets to protect their interest
in a loan. For example, a company could offer as collateral that portion of any
real estate not encumbered by a mortgage, or it could pledge equipment,
accounts receivable, and other things of value. An individual could pledge
personal real estate, cash investments, and life insurance cash value or death
benefits.
For some personal loans, the lender may ask for another party to sign the
note. An endorser is someone who agrees to pay the loan if the borrower
defaults. A comaker is similar, with the distinction that the lender can collect
from either the maker or the comaker. A guarantor is a third party who guarantees
to repay the outstanding balance of a note if the maker defaults; the guarantor
could be an officer of the corporation or company. In some situations, a
government or private program may agree to guarantee the loan to assist a small
business in obtaining financing.
COLLATERAL FOR LOANS 27
Working with the Small Business
Administration
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is an independent agency of the
federal government. Its programs include education and direct and indirect programs
to help small businesses obtain financing. For information, consult
www.sba.gov, or call the district office for the agency: 800-827-5722.
The SBA offers some direct loans as well as loan guarantees that allow other
lenders to receive backing on some or all of the money they lend to businesses.
The SBA also licenses private lenders to participate in the small business investment
company (SBIC) program, a low-level form of venture capital.
Among the SBA’s programs are the following:
• 7 (a) loan guarantee. The SBA’s basic program offers guarantees to
lenders to entice them to make loans to small businesses that might not
otherwise qualify for a loan. Loans are extended for up to 10 years for
working capital and for longer periods to purchase equipment and other
fixed assets.
• Certified development company (CDC) 504 loans. Private lenders can
offer loans to acquire real estate or equipment for expansion or modernization;
the loans are funded by an SBA-guaranteed note.
• 7 (m) microloans. Short-term, small loans to small businesses for working
capital, equipment, or inventory; the SBA lends money or guarantees loans
to third parties that offer funds to enterprises.
• Surety bond guarantee (SBG). This program offers completion and contract
bonds for small and minority contractors. If a company is unable to
fulfill a contract, the surety bond is supposed to pay for completion of the
project by others.
28 FINANCING A SMALL BUSINESS
CHAPTER 5
Home Services (Exterior)
1 Lawn Mowing Service
2 Snow Removal
3 Garden Tilling
4 Window Cleaning
5 Deck Cleaning
6 Landscape Designer
7 Deck Construction
8 Storage Sheds, Playhouses, Doghouses
9 Children’s Outdoor Playset Installer
10 Low-Voltage Outdoor Electrical Wiring
11 Stonemason and Decorative Brick Worker
Lawn Mowing Service
Description of Job
• Perform basic lawn care, including lawn mowing, trimming around buildings
and lawn furniture, and edging.
• Conduct seasonal fertilizing and application of other lawn chemicals,
including weed killer.
The Need
Do you have a lawn? You need to keep it trimmed.
It’s not just a matter of keeping up with the Joneses; in most communities,
laws and regulations require that property owners keep their land reasonably
neat. Cutting the grass also helps reduce the incidence of ticks, fleas, and other
unwelcome visitors in residential neighborhoods.
That said, not everyone has the time, inclination, or ability to take care of
their own lawn. The market for lawn mowing services includes older homeowners,
persons with disabilities, and people who just don’t have the time to do it
themselves.
Challenges
In most parts of the country, lawn mowing is a seasonal job. (In northern climes,
lawns generally hibernate at least half the year, from about October through May.)
You’ll need to pay off the cost of equipment during the growing season . . . and
watch it gather dust over the winter. You will also likely have to pay for 12 months
of insurance and licenses even if your business runs only 6 months of the year.
Rain helps the grass grow, which is good news, but a particularly dismal summer
could result in long periods when lawns cannot be mowed. Similarly, a
drought could cause lawns to grow unusually slowly.
Know the Territory
Will you bring your own equipment, or use whatever you find at your client’s
premises?
30 HOME SERVICES (EXTERIOR)
Using your client’s equipment simplifies your operation in many ways: You
won’t have to buy a lawn mower and other devices; you will not be responsible
for maintaining it and providing gas; and you will not have to transport bulky and
heavy machines from your home to your customer’s lawn.
On the other hand, the equipment you find may be of poor quality or unreliable.
Some homeowners won’t have lawn mowers, costing you a job.
Using your own equipment should guarantee you’ll have machines you can rely
on; you will, though, have to properly maintain the devices. If you bring your own
equipment, you’ll need to transport the devices to your clients. If you’reworking on
your own street, you may be able to roll the mower down the sidewalk; anywhere
more distant will probably require that you use a truck or a trailer with a ramp.
Will you be responsible for removing grass clippings? Are there any local
regulations regarding disposal? (A mulching lawn mower may solve this problem,
if that’s okay with your client.)
Investigate other local ordinances. For example, some towns may limit the
hours when noisy power equipment may be used.
Educate yourself on lawn chemicals, including fertilizers, weed killers, and
pest control options. Take care to avoid exposure to dangerous substances. Remember,
although a manufacturer may claim that a chemical is not harmful when
its instructions are followed, you may be exposing yourself to repeated use of the
substance as you move from one job to the next.
Not all lawns are the same. If the property is hilly or irregularly shaped, it
will likely require more time and effort than a flat, square property.
Lawn mowing is the sort of job that can be done by one person or by a crew.
A lawn that takes one person two hours to cut could be done in one hour by a
crew of two. Although having a crew may allow you to cut many more lawns,
you’ll also have to pay additional salaries and benefits, and you’ll need more
equipment. The principal advantage to hiring a crew is that you may be able to
step back from actually cutting the grass yourself and instead earn your income
as the manager for your lawn mowing empire.
How to Get Started
Market your services before they are needed. In the best of all possible worlds,
you will be able to sign up enough clients ahead of the season to justify purchase
of equipment. Place ads on bulletin boards, at gardening supply stores, and in
community newspapers.
Ask friends and neighbors for referrals. Offer a discount or a free service for
any clients they bring to you.
LAWN MOWING SERVICE 31
Draw up a simple but complete agreement with clients listing exactly which
services you will be providing and the cost. Include in the agreement whether
lawn mowing services will be provided on a regular schedule (weekly, biweekly,
on a particular day of the month) or whether the client must call to schedule a
visit each time.
Get specific written instructions about any special conditions—a flower bed
to be avoided or a section that needs to be hand-trimmed.
Up-front Expenses
Commercial equipment can be quite expensive; you may need to amortize the
cost over an entire season, or even over more than one season. A heavy-duty
machine can easily cost $1,000, reaching to $3,000 for the most powerful,
widest, and most flexible devices.
Investigate buying used equipment from a reliable dealer who will offer a
warranty and provide service.
Additional services such as edging and trimming, fertilizing, weed killing,
and pest control will require purchasing additional equipment and chemicals.
How Much to Charge
Underlying the charge for lawn mowing services is the amount of time each job
requires, plus the cost of fertilizer or chemicals. You’ll also need to build into your
price the cost of equipment (amortized over its useful life) plus an allowance for
maintenance and repair.
You can establish an hourly rate and bill customers for actual time on-site, or
you can estimate the time a job will require and then charge a flat rate. Remember
that square footage alone is not an adequate indicator of the amount of time
required for a job: Take into account the shape of the land, whether it is level or
hilly, and any other special conditions. Lawns that are overgrown or wet will take
more time and effort to cut.
Offer a discount to clients who sign up for an entire season, which could be
in the form of a reduced rate or a bonus, such as a free end-of-season lawn mowing
or fertilizing.
Legal and Insurance Issues
Special notes: Check with local authorities about the possible need for a permit
to dump grass clippings.
32 HOME SERVICES (EXTERIOR)
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
Snow Removal
Description of Job
• Remove snow from sidewalks and driveways of private homes.
• Clear snow from parking lots and entranceways of commercial locations,
including retail stores and office complexes.
• Subcontract with local governments to plow public roads and parking lots.
The Need
Snow happens, more so in some parts of the country than others. Many people do
not have the time to clear snow, or they may not be physically able to do so.
In some parts of the country, including many rural areas, local governments
may hire subcontractors to clear snow on an as-needed basis. Owners of commercial
real estate also need to arrange for snow removal at stores and office
complexes.
Challenges
In most parts of the country, snow removal is a seasonal job. In the Midwest and
Northeast, the snow season generally runs from late November to early April,
although storms can come earlier and later; in high mountain areas and certain
other locations, including regions in the lee of the Great Lakes, snow can occur
almost daily in an extended season.
In any case, you will need to pay off the cost of equipment during the winter
season . . . and watch it gather dust over the summer. You will also likely have to
SNOW REMOVAL 33
pay for 12 months of insurance and licenses even if your business runs only 6
months of the year.
Snowfall, like rainfall, generally follows annual patterns that could result in
exceptionally large amounts of snow in one year and a virtual drought the next.
Don’t base your investment on last winter’s storms, which could be unusually
heavy or light. You can research typical snowfall amounts and number of storms
at area libraries and government agencies.
Know the Territory
Depending on the sort of jobs you seek, you will need equipment ranging from a
sturdy snow shovel to a mechanical snowblower to a substantial truck with a
heavy plow.
A snow shovel is quite portable, but a snowblower is much less so and will
probably have to be delivered by truck . . . which has to be able to get through the
snow on the streets.
Will you bring your own equipment, or use whatever you find at your client’s
premises?
Using your client’s equipment simplifies your operation in many ways: You
won’t have to buy a snowblower; you will not be responsible for maintaining it
and providing gas; and you will not have to transport it from your home to your
customer’s property.
On the other hand, the equipment you find may be of poor quality or unreliable,
and some homeowners won’t have a snowblower, costing you a job.
Bringing your own equipment should guarantee you’ll have machines you
can rely on; you will, though, have to properly maintain the devices.
Investigate local ordinances about snow removal. In some areas, snow cannot
be pushed into the street. Many areas also ban disposal of snow in catch basins,
rivers, or streams because of concerns about pollution from salt and other road
chemicals.
Be aware that you may need to make multiple visits to a property if a storm
lasts for many hours or if high winds blow snow back onto cleared pathways.
Not all pieces of property are the same. If the property is hilly or irregularly
shaped, it will likely require more time and effort than a flat, square property. Dry
and fluffy snow is easier to clear than heavy or rain-soaked snow.
Snow removal is the sort of job that can be done by one person or by a crew.
A property that takes two hours to be cleared by one person could be done in one
hour by a crew of two. Although having a crew may allow you to sign up many
34 HOME SERVICES (EXTERIOR)
more customers, you’ll also have to pay additional salaries and benefits, and
you’ll need more equipment. The principal advantage to hiring a crew is that you
may be able to step back from actually clearing the snow yourself and instead
make your income as the manager of a snow removal empire.
How to Get Started
Market your services before they are needed. Your goal should be to sign up
enough clients ahead of the season to justify purchase of equipment.
Place ads on bulletin boards, at hardware and home center stores, and in community
newspapers.
Ask friends and neighbors for referrals. Offer a discount or a free service for
any clients they bring to you.
Draw up a simple but complete agreement with clients listing exactly which
services you will be providing and the cost. Include in the agreement whether
snow removal services will automatically be provided after a certain amount of
snow falls, or whether the client must call to schedule a visit each time.
Get specific written instructions about any special conditions—a flower bed
to be avoided or a section that needs to be hand-shoveled. Although it will be
extremely difficult to promise exact times for snow removal—you can’t schedule
the storms—find out from clients whether they have particular needs to meet the
demands of their jobs or medical necessities.
If you want to run the business on a more casual basis, you can merely load
up a truck with a snowblower or plow and cruise the neighborhood looking for
desperate homeowners who need help. Be sure to get a firm agreement on the
price before you begin work.
Up-front Expenses
Commercial snowblowers can be quite expensive; you may need to amortize the
cost over an entire season, or even over more than one season. A heavy-duty
machine can easily cost $1,000, reaching to several thousand dollars for the most
powerful devices.
A commercial snowplow—just the plow, not the truck—can cost several
thousand dollars. Then you’ll need a sufficiently heavy truck, with four-wheel
drive and a power takeoff to control the movement of the plow.
Investigate buying used equipment from a reliable dealer who will offer a
warranty and provide service.
SNOW REMOVAL 35
How Much to Charge
Underlying the charge for snow removal services is the amount of time each job
requires. You’ll need to build into the rate the cost of equipment—amortized over
time—plus an allowance for maintenance and repair. If it is necessary to spread
salt or sand to deal with ice, you’ll need to bill the customer for the cost of those
materials and your time.
You can establish an hourly rate and bill customers for actual time on-site, or
you can estimate the time a job will require and then charge a flat rate. Remember
that square footage alone is not an adequate indicator of the amount of time
required for a job: Take into account the shape of the land, whether it is level or
hilly, and any other special conditions.
Commercial or governmental customers will likely agree to a contract that
includes an advance deposit and a regular billing cycle based on the actual number
of storms or billable hours.
For individual customers, some snow removal companies offer two options:
an automatic response anytime there is a snowfall of a particular depth (perhaps
three inches) or services on an on-call basis. For an automatic response, there is
generally an agreement that covers services to be provided and a requirement for
an advance deposit representing an amount equal to a typical season’s work;
refunds are given if there are fewer snowstorms than usual, and additional
charges are billable for a particularly difficult winter.
Most snow removal services offer a discount to clients who sign up for an
entire season.
Legal and Insurance Issues
Special notes: You may require a commercial license and plate to operate a
snowplow in business; some communities may also require a special permit.
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
36 HOME SERVICES (EXTERIOR)
Garden Tilling
–
Description of Job
• Using a power rototiller or similar equipment, turn over a garden patch at
the start of a season to prepare it for planting.
• Mix fertilizer, lime, or other garden chemicals into the soil.
• Cut down plants at the end of the season and compost the greens or haul
them away.
• Turn over the earth at the end of the growing season to prepare it for the
winter.
The Need
Have rototiller, will travel.
Many homeowners love to grow their own little patch of tomatoes, green
beans, onions, and flowers. They look great and taste better than anything they’ll
find in the supermarket. (So what if the tomatoes end up costing them several
dollars apiece or if the massive zucchini squash quickly outpace their ability to
eat them, give them away, or use them as doorstops?)
For many gardeners, the most difficult part of the process is tilling the earth:
breaking it up to a depth of six inches to a foot to allow easy planting and faster
growth. Doing it by hand is a major chore, and purchasing a power tiller does not
make sense for the casual gardener.
Your appeal is that you will bring a heavy, commercial rototiller or small
tractor to their property and make quick work of a job that is beyond their abilities,
interest, or equipment.
Challenges
This is a seasonal job, with most of the work coming in the spring; jobs in the fall
will be less common. You’ll need to amortize the cost of the machine and trailer
over a fairly short period of time.
GARDEN TILLING 37
Know the Territory
Tillers come in front-tine, mid-tine, and rear-tine designs; in general, rear-tine
machines are the most powerful, and front-tine devices are more maneuverable.
Mid-tine tillers claim to balance power and maneuverability. Spend the time to
research (and test, if possible) various designs to find the one that suits your
needs best.
The horsepower of the engine varies; the larger the engine, the more powerful
the churning of the earth and the movement of the wheels. Some designs use
the rotating tines themselves to move the machine forward; many commercial
designs apply power to a set of wheels that help pull the heavy device forward
while the tines concentrate on breaking the earth.
Many lawn tractors with a power takeoff can be adapted to add a tiller; they
may have sufficient horsepower to do the job, but may not be as maneuverable as
a special-purpose tiller.
How to Get Started
Post flyers and ads at garden centers and community centers. Place ads in newspapers
and shopping guides.
Ask satisfied customers to recommend your services to others; offer a bonus
or discount for new business they refer your way.
Up-front Expenses
Commercial-grade rototillers cost in the range of $500 to $1,000 or more.
Lighter-weight and less capable units intended for casual gardeners sell for as little
as $300.
You may be able to find a reconditioned used machine through a dealer or private
seller; either way, you will need a reliable source of parts and maintenance.
Other up-front costs include a trailer and hitch and a vehicle capable of
pulling the tiller from place to place; you may be able to use a ramp and openbed
of a pickup truck to transport the device.
You’ll also need to pay for advertising and promotion.
How Much to Charge
Charge an hourly rate, taking into account the cost of the equipment, wear and
tear, gasoline, and your travel time to the site. Add a surcharge for especially distant
travel and for especially difficult access to the property. Add the cost of fertilizer,
lime, or other garden chemicals tilled into the ground.
38 HOME SERVICES (EXTERIOR)
Legal and Insurance Issues
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
④ Accounting
➄ Insurance
Window Cleaning
–
Description of Job
• Clean windows for business and residential clients.
• Power-wash ground floor and hard-to-reach upper-floor windows.
• Squeegee and hand-finish windows.
• Remove screens, wash them, and replace them.
The Need
Windows get dirty.
Retail businesses and offices need to present a clean and neat appearance to
customers, but window washing is probably not in the CEO’s job description.
Homeowners also want their houses to appear attractive from the outside and
to be able to see the world without having to peer through a glass darkly. They
may not have ladders, or the inclination to climb one, and otherwise lack the
equipment to do a good job, especially on second-story windows.
Challenges
It can be difficult to gain access to some windows; challenges include narrow
alleys, uneven ground, and landscaping. One solution is to use power washers
and rotary brushes on lightweight aluminum or plastic poles.
In many situations it will be necessary to enter a house to remove screens
from the inside; some homeowners prefer to do that part of the job themselves.
WINDOW CLEANING 39
You’ll have to guard against causing damage to windows, siding, gutters, and
shingles on the house. You’ll also have to protect against harming landscaping,
pets, and people below. Don’t accept a job where the windows or the structure of
the house itself are obviously damaged, and skip any job you don’t feel you can
perform safely.
Watch out for unpleasant surprises, including hornet nests, unfriendly birds,
and uneven ground beneath your ladder.
Your insurance carrier—an important component of your business plan—
may not want to cover you for any work performed more than 10 feet off the
ground. State and federal occupational safety agencies may also have rules and
regulations. We recommend you begin your business by limiting your services to
ground-floor and second-story windows; once you are off and flying (metaphorically
speaking) you can consider expansion to upper levels.
One way to avoid the complications of tall ladders and insurance concerns is
to perform second-story cleaning from the ground using a rotary brush on an
extendible pole.
Know the Territory
You’ll need a ladder, a power washer, squeegees, sponges—and no fear of heights.
Although some homeowners may want to arrange for exterior window cleaning
just once a year as part of their spring cleaning, you may be able to build up
a clientele of residential and business customers who want to schedule regular
sessions throughout the year.
Power washers range from simple rotating brushes turned by water pressure
to systems that use compressors and pumps to boost pressure.
You’ll use detergents and sometimes special chemicals to remove bug and
bird residue. Once the windows have been washed with detergent, you’ll apply
an ammonia-based glass cleaner or something similar to finish the job without
leaving streaks.
How to Get Started
Ask satisfied customers to recommend your services to friends, acquaintances,
and businesses; offer them a bonus or a discount for any jobs they refer to you.
Up-front Expenses
A typical window-washing tool kit would include window brushes of several
widths and firmness, an aluminum or plastic telescoping water pipe and handle,
40 HOME SERVICES (EXTERIOR)
and a set of squeegees. You’ll also need buckets for mixing chemicals and detergents,
along with sponges, rags, and chamois. A simple straight-edge razor
scraper will help remove labels and crud from glass. For ground-floor jobs,
you’ll need a sturdy stepladder; for second floors, you can use the extendible
pole system from the ground or climb a 12-foot straight ladder or sturdy extension
ladder.
Spend the time to learn the safe ways to use a ladder. For example, don’t try
to use a stepladder as a straight ladder; don’t attempt to increase the height of a
ladder by standing it on boxes, blocks, or other objects. Place the base of a
straight ladder about one foot away from the sidewall of the house for every four
feet of its vertical height.
You’ll also need a vehicle large enough to carry your equipment. You may be
able to lash the ladders and poles to a rooftop carrier on a full-size car or station
wagon; once your business has grown, a small van would work better.
How Much to Charge
You can charge by the hour for your services, or give a flat rate per window or for
an entire house based on your estimate of the time required to complete the job.
Include in your rate your cost for detergents and other chemicals and a portion of
the cost of the equipment you must purchase.
Legal and Insurance Issues
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
WINDOW CLEANING 41
Deck Cleaning
–
Description of Job
• Clean dirt, stains, and mold from wooden decks and balconies.
• Make minor repairs to wood surfaces.
• Apply water sealer and tints.
The Need
Wooden decks, raised patios, and balconies are gracious extensions of the interior
of our homes. Yet as part of the outside, they are constantly exposed to rain,
snow, and extremes of temperature. They can accumulate dirt and grime and
mold.
Cleaning a deck is relatively simple with the proper tools and chemicals, but
it’s not a job that many homeowners relish.
Challenges
Deck cleaning is typically limited to the warm weather months, and demand may
be highest in late spring and early summer.
Some detergents are extremely caustic and may be dangerous to pets and
some plants; you may need to protect against overspray and take care in your
cleanup after the job is completed. There may be local regulations on the storage
and use of these chemicals.
Some decks may already have rot or other damage that should be repaired
before cleaning and coating is performed. You may want to have a relationship
with a carpenter who can perform such work.
Power washers do a good job of blasting out debris between the cracks and
cleaning the surface of the deck, but an overly strong spray can also damage the
wood.
Water-repellent coating chemicals need to be applied when temperatures lie
within a specific range, and the deck will need to be protected from humans and
pets while it is drying.
42 HOME SERVICES (EXTERIOR)
Know the Territory
Consult a home supply store for advice on the latest chemicals and tools.
A professional deck cleaner uses brushes, power sprayers, detergents, and
bleaches to clean wooden decks. Once the deck has been cleaned, the wooden
surface is then coated with a water repellent.
Some water-repellent chemicals include a tint to add a bit of color to the wood.
How to Get Started
Post flyers and ads about your services at home supply stores, in community centers,
and on neighborhood bulletin boards. You can also place ads in newspapers
and shopping guides.
Ask satisfied customers to refer others to you, and offer a bonus when they
bring in new business.
Up-front Expenses
You’ll need a water hose, stiff brushes, buckets, and chemicals for the cleaning,
and you’ll need soft brushes for the application of coatings. You should consider
the purchase of a power sprayer for cleaning large areas; the sprayer may also be
available as needed from a tool rental company.
You’ll also need a vehicle to transport your equipment.
Other costs include advertising and promotion.
How Much to Charge
You can charge by the hour, or calculate the cost for the job based on the square
footage of the deck. The typical job includes cleaning plus application of a sealant
or coating. Decks may require several applications of coating over multiple days.
In addition to the cost of labor, you should also charge for the cost of cleaning
chemicals and coating. As a professional, you should be able to purchase
supplies at a discounted or wholesale price and resell them to your client at
retail rates.
Legal and Insurance Issues
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
DECK CLEANING 43
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
Landscape Designer
Description of Job
• Change a landscape’s appearance using trees, shrubbery, and/or flowering
plants.
• Maintain a client’s garden and plantings.
The Need
Beautifully planted and maintained properties with flourishing shrubs, artfully
placed flowers in vibrant bloom, and handsome rolling lawns do not happen by
chance.
A great deal of work goes into designing, planting, and maintaining a standalone
garden or plantings around a house. Unless you were born with a green
thumb or have developed one through years of practice, it may make sense to hire
a professional landscape designer.
Challenges
You’ll need an artist’s eye and a gardener’s knowledge of plants, trees, and conditions.
What kind of plants grow best in your area? How long is the growing season,
and what are the extremes of heat and cold, drought and rain? Is the soil in
your area too sandy, or does it have a significant amount of clay or loam? How
much mulch do you need to use?
How much sunlight does a particular area receive, and what is the exposure
of the plot of land you will be working on?
Take the time to meet with your clients and make sure they understand your
proposal and its costs. Make certain you are aware of the boundaries of your
client’s property; if you put a tree on a neighbor’s property you may be opening
yourself to liability or a financial loss.
44 HOME SERVICES (EXTERIOR)
Know the Territory
You need unimproved or underimproved land and clients who are willing to pay
to have their property professionally landscaped. The best area for this sort of
work is likely to be suburbs.
Look for areas with new subdivisions and other recent construction.
Make use of books, magazines, and the Internet to research landscaping
schemes and learn as much as you can about plants that thrive in your area.
You will be selling your services to plan and implement changes to the landscape;
you can also sell your time to maintain the health and attractiveness of
plants you have put in place.
How to Get Started
You can gain hands-on experience by working as a helper for a gardener or landscaping
company. Some large home supply stores and garden centers offer
classes on planting and landscaping.
Post flyers and ads at community centers, in retail stores, and on bulletin
boards. Place ads in newspapers and shopping guides.
Make contact with area greenhouses and nurseries, contractors, and real
estate agents; ask them to refer business to you and offer them a bonus or commission
for doing so. Ask friends, acquaintances, and satisfied customers to recommend
your services, offering them a bonus or discount on future work.
This job can be operated in conjunction with a lawn mowing service (covered
earlier in this chapter) or separately. If you will not be offering lawn care, make
contact with a company that provides this service and seek a reciprocal agreement
whereby they will refer landscaping jobs to you and you will recommend
them for their services.
Up-front Expenses
You will need your own tools for planting and maintenance, including shovels,
trowels, shears, pruners, and weeders. You will be able to rent major pieces of
equipment such as earth movers and power shovels, or hire a subcontractor for
such work.
You will need a vehicle large enough to carry your equipment. Most nurseries
and plant suppliers will deliver trees and shrubs to your work site.
Some landscapers use computer programs to draw plans that show how
plants and shrubs will be placed on the property.
LANDSCAPE DESIGNER 45
How Much to Charge
Most of this sort of work is billed on an hourly basis, plus the cost of any plants
and other expenses. You can offer some fixed prices for simple jobs such as creating
a flower bed or planting a bush.
Legal and Insurance Issues
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
Deck Construction
Description of Job
• Consult with clients about design and materials for decks, and prepare
detailed plans and a price quote.
• Obtain all necessary permits for construction.
• Purchase materials and build decks.
• Arrange for any necessary inspections after completion and confirm
recording of approvals.
The Need
In days gone by, nearly every house had a large front porch where families would
sit after dinner and exchange small talk with neighbors and passersby. With the
advent of suburbs, the front porch moved to the backyard and became a comfortable
wooden deck.
In many parts of the country there is a strong market for new or expanded
46 HOME SERVICES (EXTERIOR)
decks. Construction of a ground-level or slightly raised deck is a relatively simple
construction project.
Challenges
Stay close to the ground, at least at the start of this business. Building a secondstory
or higher deck requires advanced design and the use of lengthy load-bearing
girders, beams, or supports, which will greatly increase your exposure to liability
claims.
In many localities you will need to obtain a building permit before construction
and seek approval from an inspector afterward. You may also have to conform
to local regulations about size and design of structures.
The most difficult jobs involve work on soft or sloping ground. You’ll also have
to deal with extremes of temperature and environment in some parts of the country.
Know the Territory
Learn the basics of deck construction from available books, web sites, and plans.
Among important concepts: proper installation of concrete footings or foundations;
specification and use of pressure-treated lumber; and proper protection
against rot, splitting, and insect infestation.
You’ll need to prepare a plan for construction so you can show the design to
your customers, seek building permits, and order materials. Pressure-treated and
manufactured deck boards come in standard lengths and widths that should be
adaptable to most jobs; the simplest and least expensive jobs are built using readily
available dimensions.
Advanced designs add railings, benches, and other wooden features. You
may also be called on to integrate lighting and electrical outlets into the deck; in
most localities you’ll need to work with a licensed electrician for such features.
If the plans call for creation of a new exit from the home to the deck, you may
want to partner with an experienced contractor or carpenter for that part of the job.
How to Get Started
Place flyers and ads in community centers and home supply stores. Place ads in
newspapers and shopping guides.
Make your services known to existing contractors who may refer small jobs
to you; you can offer them a commission. Ask satisfied customers to recommend
you to friends and acquaintances; offer a bonus or discount for business they
bring to you.
DECK CONSTRUCTION 47
Offer to teach a class about small construction projects at a community
school; this may yield some publicity and clients.
Up-front Expenses
You’ll need commercial-grade tools, including a circular saw, power drill, hammer,
levels, safety goggles, and mask. For construction of concrete footings or
foundations, you’ll need a wheelbarrow and hoses for making concrete.
Building supply companies should be able to deliver lumber to your construction
site; you will need a station wagon or small truck to haul your equipment
to and from jobs.
How Much to Charge
You should quote a price for the job that includes your time plus the cost of lumber
and hardware, including connectors, nails, and screws. Base your price on
your cost—if the customer asks for special lumber or other features you need to
take that into account.
Your price should include amortization of tools and your vehicle, plus a portion
of the cost of insurance.
Legal and Insurance Issues
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
Storage Sheds, Playhouses, Doghouses
–
Description of Job
• Specify, deliver, and install predesigned and prefabricated storage sheds,
children’s playhouses, doghouses, and other structures.
48 HOME SERVICES (EXTERIOR)
• Custom-build structures to client’s specifications, complementing the home
design.
The Need
Some stuff just doesn’t fit or belong inside your house: lawn mowers, bicycles,
outdoor toys, tools, hoses, lawn food, and fertilizer among them. No one wants
to go up and down the stairs to the basement (if you have one) carrying the lawn
furniture.
A storage shed can hold the stuff of summer and winter in a way that complements
your house and adds to the value of your property.
What child wouldn’t treasure a private playhouse? What dog wouldn’t like a
place to call his or her own?
Challenges
Designing and building a stand-alone shed or outbuilding involves most of
the same skills involved in constructing a house, albeit on a much smaller
scale. You’ll need carpentry skills and knowledge of building and engineering
practices.
A much simpler solution is to become an assembler and installer of predesigned
and cut wooden structures or high-quality metal buildings.
In most localities you need a building permit to erect a structure. In some
areas you also have to deal with zoning laws and regulations on design, materials,
and colors.
Depending on the soil and type of structure, you may need a concrete slab or
other type of foundation.
The contract should state that the client agrees to pay for any changes to the
project beyond what is included in the contract.
Know the Territory
Consult town and city authorities to learn about local regulations and practices.
Study the homes in your area to determine common architectural styles.
Make contact with suppliers of predesigned and cut wooden structures and
with makers of unassembled metal buildings. Establish a wholesale or commercial
account.
Find a source for off-the-shelf plans. Many companies offer blueprints and
plans that can be customized with trim, color, and other touches.
Make contact with local architects who would be available to draw custom
plans for small projects.
STORAGE SHEDS, PLAYHOUSES, DOGHOUSES 49
How to Get Started
Post flyers and ads at community centers. Some home supply outlets and lumberyards
may permit you to post your flyer if you are a commercial customer
there.
Place ads in newspapers and shopping guides.
Let other builders and contractors know of your new business; they may refer
jobs to you that are too small for their business. Offer a commission or bonus for
work they send your way.
Up-front Expenses
You’ll need woodworking and assembly tools and a vehicle large enough to
transport them. Wood and metal parts and kits can usually be delivered to the
construction site by suppliers.
Books and plans are available in bookstores, over the Internet, and through
catalogs. Other expenses include advertising and promotion.
How Much to Charge
Based on the specifications agreed to by the client, your contract will specify a
bottom-line price for design, delivery, assembly, and finishing of the job. Add
any extra charges for building permits, zoning clearance, and inspections.
An alternative way to price a job like this is to perform it on a cost-plus basis,
whereby the client agrees to pay the actual cost of all materials and other
expenses plus a fixed amount or percentage representing your profit. You’ll have
to build into the profit payment for your time in ordering and assembling the
structure.
Legal and Insurance Issues
Special notes: Some municipalities and local homeowners’ associations may
have regulations about the type and size of outbuildings, and they may also have
zoning limits on the percentage of a lot that can be covered by a structure and its
proximity to property lines.
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
50 HOME SERVICES (EXTERIOR)
Children’s Outdoor Playset Installer
–
Description of Job
• Working with a client, specify a design for a backyard playground or playset.
• Order a unit from a ready-made catalog, or commission a custom unit.
• Prepare the ground with anchors and concrete footings, as appropriate.
• Assemble and install playset.
• Cover ground with foam, rubber, sand, or other safety surface.
The Need
Backyard swing sets have come a long, long way from the days when you hung
a rope and a tire from a tree. Modern equipment offers multiple platforms, various
types of swings and slides, and design options to reduce the chances of
injury.
These complex constructions often require specialized tools and skills for
assembly; the ground must be properly prepared and adequate anchors installed.
The job may be beyond the skills and interest of the client.
Challenges
You must install equipment exactly to the specifications of the designer.
Some areas may require permits before installation or inspection afterward.
In some subdivisions there may be regulations that limit the type or size of backyard
equipment.
Some clients may have some very specific needs and wants for their playset
based on particular interests or health and safety concerns. Some pieces of land
may be uneven or hilly or require an unusual form of anchorage.
Consult an attorney so you understand proper procedures to limit your liability.
In theory, if the equipment is faulty, liability for injuries or damage goes to
the manufacturer. If owners make modifications or use the equipment improperly,
it is their responsibility. However, if you specify, assemble, or install equipment
improperly, the liability for injury or damages most likely will fall on you.
CHILDREN’S OUTDOOR PLAYSET INSTALLER 51
Don’t agree to a job you feel is unsafe. Don’t agree to modify equipment on
your own.
Know the Territory
Modern swing sets have the same basic idea as the steel tube and leather constructions
of our own childhood, but today, many playgrounds resemble luxury resorts,
built with handsome wood or attractive color-coordinated plastic and vinyl.
How to Get Started
Contact commercial vendors of equipment and become a reseller. Learn
about predesigned units as well as the availability of custom designs.
Post flyers and ads at community centers and schools. Place ads in newspapers
and shopping guides.
Make area landscapers and contractors aware of your availability; offer them
a bonus for any business they direct your way. Ask satisfied customers to recommend
you to friends and neighbors; offer a bonus or discount for work they refer.
Up-front Expenses
You’ll need a set of tools, shovels, and posthole diggers, a wheelbarrow, and
equipment to prepare concrete where necessary. Playsets can be delivered to the
site by the manufacturer or a trucking company; you may not need a truck of
your own.
Other expenses will include advertising and promotion.
How Much to Charge
Charge a fee that is inclusive of purchase, delivery, assembly, and installation.
Add costs for ground preparation before and after installation. You can include
additional charges for custom work, and add freight and delivery charges.
Legal and Insurance Issues
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
52 HOME SERVICES (EXTERIOR)
Low-Voltage Outdoor Electrical Wiring
Description of Job
• Install low-voltage landscaping and driveway lighting.
• Install specialized low-voltage illuminated street numbers, poolside lighting,
and deck lighting.
The Need
Nighttime lighting can serve security, safety, and decorative interests. Many
homeowners like to show off their landscaping by night with subtle lighting. In
other areas, a bit of light helps demarcate driveway edges or winding pathways.
Challenges
The biggest challenge to installers of outdoor lighting is avoiding excess.
Poor design wastes energy and creates “lighting trespass” that bothers neighbors,
dangerous glare that can affect pedestrians and drivers, and “lighting pollution”
that washes out the view of the dark night sky.
As an installer, you need to work closely with your client and tour the property
to design the best system.
You may need to work with a licensed electrician in some localities, especially
if you are asked to include high-voltage outdoor area lighting and motion
detectors for security.
Know the Territory
This is a job that can be accomplished by anyone with a small amount of landscaping
and simple home improvement skills.
In most jurisdictions, use of low-voltage systems does not require the
involvement of a licensed electrician; if your client’s home does not have a
proper exterior outlet or access to an indoor outlet, you will have to engage an
electrician to have one installed.
Plug-in lighting systems attach to an outdoor grounded outlet with faultinterruption
protection or to an indoor outlet. A transformer reduces line voltage
to safer 12-volt power.
LOW-VOLTAGE OUTDOOR ELECTRICAL WIRING 53
Another alternative is the use of solar-powered lamps that use batteries that
are recharged by sunlight each day and require no wires to interconnect them.
Consult web sites, catalogs, and home supply stores to learn about available
systems and techniques. Contact manufacturers or distributors for samples, catalogs,
and photographs of lamps and accessories.
How to Get Started
Advertise in community centers and garden centers. Some hardware stores or
home centers may permit you to advertise your installation services in return for
an agreement to purchase lights and supplies there.
Send brochures and letters to landscapers, pool installers, and contractors
asking them to recommend your services to their clients; you may want to offer
a bonus or commission for business they refer your way. Ask satisfied customers
to advise their friends, offering them a bonus or discount.
Up-front Expenses
For most jobs, you’ll need a power trenching tool; this device can be a singlepurpose
unit or one that attaches to other equipment, such as a rototiller or a tractor.
Short runs may be possible with hand digging.
You’ll also need some basic hand tools, shovels, and hole diggers.
Other expenses include creation of a portfolio of samples of available systems
and advertising and promotion.
How Much to Charge
You can charge a flat rate for your services based on the number of lamps and the
length and complexity of the wiring involved, or you can quote an hourly rate.
Add the cost of any lights, wire, transformers, and accessories; you should be
able to purchase equipment at wholesale or discounted rates and resell them to
your client at retail prices.
Legal and Insurance Issues
Special notes: Some municipalities have ordinances aimed at reducing light
pollution, and some subdivisions may have regulations that limit outdoor lighting.
Some localities may require a licensed electrician’s involvement or an electrical
inspection.
54 HOME SERVICES (EXTERIOR)
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
Stonemason and Decorative Brick Worker
–
Description of Job
• Design and install decorative stone and brick walkways, patios, walls, and
garden features.
• Build brick and stone custom barbecues.
• Repair and maintain existing exterior stonework.
The Need
Outdoor stonework in the form of walkways, patios, walls, and barbecues can
beautify a property and increase its value. Stonemasonry is one of the oldest construction
skills, little changed in thousands of years; in modern days it is a craft
not often practiced.
Challenges
This is outdoor work, with heavy lifting.
You’ll need to lift and place heavy stones, bricks, and tiles and use tools to
shape them. You’ll also be working with heavy mortar and cement.
In some parts of the country, this is a seasonal job that is available from late
spring through late fall.
You may be called upon to design a decorative element or wall or to follow
the plans drawn by an architect or contractor.
STONEMASON AND DECORATIVE BRICK WORKER 55
Know the Territory
Stonework is in demand nearly everywhere, but with different purposes or styles
in various settings. In a big city, jobs might include walkways, steps, and small
patios. In rural and suburban settings, jobs might include larger patios, outdoor
fireplaces and barbecues, and stone walls.
The traditional method of training for stonemasonry is to work as a helper or
apprentice to a skilled craftsperson. In some areas, unions offer training and formal
apprenticeship programs. You can also learn many of the skills from books,
web sites, and educational programs. The International Union of Bricklayers and
Allied Craftsworkers has programs around the country and a national training
and education center in Maryland to teach basic job skills for brick, stone, tile,
terrazzo, and restoration work.
How to Get Started
If you are already trained as a stonemason, advertise your services with flyers at
home and garden centers, retail outlets, and community centers. Place ads in
newspapers and shopping guides.
Make yourself known to architects, contractors, and landscapers who might
recommend your services to their clients; offer a commission or bonus for work
they send to you. Ask satisfied customers to recommend you to others; in return,
offer them a bonus or discount on further work.
Up-front Expenses
You’ll need stoneworking tools, cement and mortar mixing equipment, and landscaping
equipment.
You will need a truck or van to transport your tools and equipment. You may
be able to have stone, brick, and other materials delivered directly to the site by
your suppliers; if not, you’ll need a heavy truck with a lift gate or ramp.
Other expenses include advertising and promotion.
How Much to Charge
For a simple job like a barbecue or a brick patio, you can charge an all-inclusive
set fee that covers the cost of materials and your time. Another option is to charge
an hourly rate plus the cost of materials and supplies.
Skilled stonemasons typically charge $25 to $40 per hour for their labor;
unionized workers generally receive a higher rate.
56 HOME SERVICES (EXTERIOR)
Legal and Insurance Issues
Special notes: Some municipalities and local homeowners’ associations may
have regulations about the type and size of ornamentation, walls, and fences.
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
STONEMASON AND DECORATIVE BRICK WORKER 57

CHAPTER 6
Home Services (Interior)
12 Housecleaning
13 Rug Cleaner
14 Interior Decorator
15 Upholstery and Slipcover Maker
16 Wallpaper Hanger
17 Specialty Indoor Painting
18 Furniture Stripping
19 Furniture Repair
20 Closet Organizer
21 Bookcase and Shelf Builder
22 Indoor Plant Care
23 Custom Silk and Dried Flower Arrangements
Housecleaning
Description of Job
• Clean, vacuum, and neaten homes or apartments.
• Carry out other services as requested by the client.
• Perform turnover cleaning of rental properties.
The Need
Most of us, unless we live in a hotel (or in a dorm room and don’t care), are
responsible for cleaning our house or apartment. At one time, the idea of hiring
household staff was something reserved for the wealthiest among us; today, it
may be much less of a luxury and much more of a necessity.
In a two-job family, who has the time to clean the house? For a stay-at-home
mother or father with young kids, who has time for anything but the most basic
cleanup tasks?
Scheduled or on-demand housecleaning services are very popular in residential
areas where one or more family members have jobs outside the home. Additional
opportunities exist in tourist areas, where houses and apartments must be
cleaned after each rental.
Challenges
Not all houses are the same; not everyone’s idea of minimal orderliness is identical;
and few people have exactly the same definition of cleanliness.
The biggest challenge is to have a written agreement that specifies exactly
what services you will perform, as well as your expectations from the client.
Standard services include vacuuming all carpeted areas, washing kitchen and
bathroom floors, dusting, cleaning of kitchen cooking surfaces, sanitizing of
bathrooms, and general neatening.
The sort of work that is ordinarily beyond basic services includes jobs such
as polishing silver, washing window exteriors, and cleanup after parties.
In most cases, you will be working within an occupied home or apartment
and trusted not to steal or damage valuable items. You may be given a set of keys
or the code for a burglar alarm and must safeguard them. You will need legal
60 HOME SERVICES (INTERIOR)
protection against liability and may want to seek bonding. You may be asked to
provide references.
You may have to work while your client is in the home or apartment; think
carefully before accepting a job where you do not feel personally safe.
If you build your company to include additional employees, you should seek
references from them and check for criminal records; any problems they cause
will become your problems. Your attorney or insurance agent may recommend
that you have your employees bonded as a reassurance to your clients.
Know the Territory
Some people have the “clean gene” and some seem constitutionally unable to
keep their homes in shape. You know which type you are; be sure you are willing
to become a cleaning genie for a stranger.
There are many web sites and books that give special tips and tricks for
cleaning.
How to Get Started
Advertise in the local newspaper and in shopping guides. Put a business card at
the supermarket, and, if you have access to the bulletin boards at any companies,
leave your card there as well.
In tourist areas leave your business card and references with real estate or
rental agencies.
Up-front Expenses
You’ll need to purchase an arsenal of cleaners, sanitizers, deodorizers, polishes,
and other products. Then there are mops, dusters, and the biggest investment: an
industrial-strength vacuum cleaner.
You’ll also need a traveling case for your products and equipment and a vehicle
to transport the whole kit and caboodle.
As a commercial cleaning contractor, you should be able to purchase supplies
at a discount or from a wholesaler. Warehouse stores also offer good deals
on extra-large containers.
Other costs include advertising and promotion.
How Much to Charge
Housecleaners generally charge by the hour, with the rate including the cost of
the supplies you use and a portion of the cost of the vacuum cleaner and other
capital expenditures.
HOUSECLEANING 61
For regular clients, you could work out an arrangement whereby they provide
all of the cleaning supplies to meet your needs; in that case, you would charge a
lower hourly rate.
You can expect to be asked to give an estimate of how long it will take you to
complete the job. Make sure you take into consideration unusually large homes or
apartments and unusually messy abodes. The frequency of cleaning will also
make a difference; dust and dirt accumulate over time and make for more work.
You could offer a discounted rate to clients who agree to schedule frequent visits.
Legal and Insurance Issues
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
Rug Cleaner
–
Description of Job
• Clean carpets using professional equipment.
• Use specialized tools and chemicals for expert attention to problematic
stains.
The Need
Even with frequent vacuuming, rugs and carpets get dirty. If you have children
and pets, they get even dirtier.
Although some home centers rent out portable rug cleaners, they are generally
the equivalent of a snow shovel in a world of high-powered plows and snowblowers.
The best way to get a seriously dirty carpet clean is with professional
cleaning equipment and solutions.
62 HOME SERVICES (INTERIOR)
Challenges
You must learn to master the use of professional extraction systems and gain a
realistic understanding of their capabilities and limitations. Before committing to
a job, make sure you carefully inspect the carpet; make note of any existing stains
or damage, and make certain your contract agreement with the client does not
promise more than you can reasonably expect to deliver.
Take extra care with especially valuable rugs. Oriental, Persian, or antique
carpets may need to be hand-cleaned, or they may need to be processed by specialists.
You may be able to act as an agent for another company for that sort of
job, collecting a commission.
Make sure that your contract agreement limits your liability for damage to
valuable rugs.
You will probably have to move furniture as part of the cleaning process;
again, take care not to accept liability for expensive antiques and collectibles—
ask the client to remove them from the room.
Know the Territory
Many professional equipment vendors offer assistance to their customers in recommending
tools and techniques for tricky problems. Some of the most common
stains, such as coffee, tea, blood, and urine, are also the most difficult to remove.
You can also offer special services such as carpet protector and carpet
deodorizer for an extra charge.
How to Get Started
Place flyers and business cards at home centers, hardware stores, and community
centers. Make your services known to area interior decorators and housecleaning
services. Contact real estate agents who might be in a position to recommend
your services to someone who is selling or buying a house and to clients who rent
their house to others.
You should also place ads in newspapers and shopping guides.
Up-front Expenses
Professional carpet cleaning machines start at about $2,000 and go up from there.
A typical package includes a power-cleaning wand or head, a powered extractor,
at least 25 feet of hose, and various manual wands, rakes, and detailing tools.
The most powerful units are usually mounted in a truck or van, with hoses
that run from the truck into the home or apartment; these machines have their
RUG CLEANER 63
own gas-powered engines, run off the vehicle’s motor, or attach to an electrical
outlet. Expect to pay about $4,000 to $5,000 for truck-mounted equipment. (That
sort of device is quicker to set up and more powerful, but may not be appropriate
for jobs on upper floors of homes or apartment houses.)
You’ll need a supply of detergents and other solutions, including pretreating
sprays, spotting kits, rinses, defoamers, deodorizers, and disinfectants.
You’ll require a van or small truck to transport your equipment and supplies;
if you use a truck-mounted system, you’ll need special equipment and hoses plus
a power source or connection to the vehicle’s engine.
How Much to Charge
You can charge by the hour or by the square footage of the carpet to be cleaned.
Be sure to take into account any especially difficult stains or unusual circumstances
when giving a price or estimate.
Legal and Insurance Issues
Special notes: In dealing with your client’s property, seek to limit your liability
for damage or loss to the actual replacement value of items in your possession.
You should protect yourself against claims for sentimental value or loss of use.
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
➅ Insurance
Interior Decorator
Description of Job
• Draw plans to decorate a client’s home or office with attention to style,
quality, and budget.
64 HOME SERVICES (INTERIOR)
• Meet with designers, contractors, and suppliers to draw up specifications.
• Oversee purchases, renovations, and installation.
The Need
Somewhere in the mind’s eye of most of us is a vision of the house beautiful and
the office spectacular. Yet relatively few of us have the background, the training,
or the time to create a handsome environment all at once.
An interior decorator can redo an entire house or a single room. A new baby
may be on the way, or a spare bedroom may be due to make the transition to a
home office.
Companies need to have attractive spaces for conferences, meetings with
customers, and showrooms for products.
Challenges
There is no license required to hang out a shingle as an interior decorator.
Instead, you’ll have to demonstrate your abilities through examples of plans you
have drawn or work you have accomplished.
In addition to a good sense of design and color, you’ll need to be knowledgeable
about construction, fabrics, styles of furniture, lighting systems, and
flooring.
In most cases you will be called on to interpret your client’s needs and wants;
you’ll rarely be given a blank sheet of paper and an unlimited budget. You’ll have
to be able to work in a variety of styles, from antiques and reproductions to commercial
and industrial to ultramodern.
Know the Territory
You can take courses on interior design at community colleges and major universities.
There is also a tremendous amount of information about design and
decorating in books and on web sites. Consult the sites for furniture makers to
learn about their products; many manufacturers offer impressive catalogs to decorators,
and some have sales conferences and demonstrations of products.
Become an expert, or attach yourself to a knowledgeable associate who knows
about upholstery, carpeting and other flooring, wallpaper and paneling, and other
furnishings. Make contact with manufacturers of lighting systems, audiovisual
and computer furniture and fixtures, and office presentation equipment.
Plan on attending national or regional interior decorating shows and conventions
where manufacturers display their products and conduct seminars.
INTERIOR DECORATOR 65
How to Get Started
Post flyers and ads at community centers and retail stores. Furniture and home
supply centers may allow you to advertise your services in their stores if you
promise to direct some of your customers to them.
Contact area contractors. They may want to have a model home decorated
and in return would allow you to promote your service there, and they may be
willing to give your name to any client who asks for a designer. Offer a commission
or bonus for work they send your way.
Ask friends and acquaintances to recommend your services; offer a bonus or
discount on future jobs for any business they direct to you. Do the same with satisfied
customers.
Create a portfolio of jobs you have completed; obtain permission from clients
to take photos for the portfolio or for a web site. (You don’t have to identify the
names and addresses of clients if they prefer anonymity.)
Up-front Expenses
You may have some expenses in educating yourself about furniture and equipment.
Other costs include advertising and promotion.
How Much to Charge
Most interior decorators make their income in the form of commissions from
wholesale or retail outlets. Depending on the complexity and size of the job, you
might also charge the client an hourly or fixed fee for consultation and drawing
up a plan.
Legal and Insurance Issues
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
66 HOME SERVICES (INTERIOR)
Upholstery and Slipcover Maker
–
Description of Job
• Reupholster sofas, chairs, ottomans, and pillows.
• Make slipcovers for upholstered furniture.
• Recover pillows.
• Design and create custom draperies.
The Need
Furniture is big, bulky, and expensive . . . and sometimes it gets cut, scratched, or
stained. Then there are times when we fall in love with an expensive sofa for the
living room and fall out of love with its color and fabric long before it’s paid for.
Normal wear and tear take their toll on furniture, accelerated by the presence
of children and pets. Tastes change; perhaps you’ve gone through your green
period and now you find yourself preferring more neutral colors.
The good news is that good-quality furniture does not have to be thrown away.
A reupholsterer removes the existing fabric and decorations to rebuild the
piece from the frame up.
Another option is to create custom slipcovers that fit over the original
upholstery.
Pillows can be recovered in new fabric to brighten up the furniture and deal
with damage and stains.
Upholsterers can also be called on to create custom draperies, working with
the same material used in remaking the furniture or in a contrasting or complementary
shade.
Challenges
This job requires a sense of design and some specialized expertise, including
skills in minor carpentry and working with fabrics. You need to be able to recognize
a hidden gem and reject a makeover project when you can see that the end
result will please no one.
UPHOLSTERY AND SLIPCOVER MAKER 67
Consider carefully before working on a valuable antique or collectible; be
sure you are not taking on a huge liability in the event of damage or loss.
Know the Territory
You’ll find a tremendous amount of resources in books, magazines, videos, and
on the Internet. Read decorating magazines and special-interest publications
about furniture repair, restoration, and reupholstering.
Local craft stores may offer seminars or classes; area experts may teach
classes at community schools.
Make contact with suppliers of fabric and supplies for upholstering. They
will offer samples and consultation, and some may provide training for their
clients.
How to Get Started
Place flyers and ads at home supply stores, in community centers, at tag sales, in
used furniture stores, and on bulletin boards. Place ads in newspapers and shopping
guides.
Contact area interior decorators and used furniture stores and make them
aware of your services; offer them a bonus or commission for business they bring
your way.
Consider teaching a class at a community school for publicity and perhaps to
gain clients.
Up-front Expenses
You will need woodworking and heavy-duty sewing and fabric-working tools.
Some of the specialty tools you will need as an upholsterer include tack hammer,
shears, webbing stretcher, ripping chisel, staple lifter, upholstery needle card,
and upholstery pins. To make slipcovers, and for some upholstery projects, you
will need a heavy-duty sewing machine. Some jobs may require a serging
machine to bind the ends of fabrics.
You may be able to farm out some specialty sewing jobs to others as part of
the overall project. You can choose to purchase a truck for pickup and delivery of
furniture, or you can contract with a local shipping or moving company for such
service.
Other expenses include advertising and promotion.
68 HOME SERVICES (INTERIOR)
How Much to Charge
Give the client a bottom-line price that includes the purchase of fabric, stuffing,
notions, and other expenses as well as compensation for your time; be sure to
carefully consider the amount of time involved in a job.
Another pricing scheme is a cost-plus contract, whereby the client pays retail
prices for all material and you add a charge for your labor.
You can also add charges for pickup and delivery of the furniture, if necessary.
Legal and Insurance Issues
Special notes: In dealing with your client’s property, seek to limit your liability
for damage or loss to the actual replacement value of items in your possession.
You should protect yourself against claims for sentimental value or loss of use.
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
➅ Insurance
Wallpaper Hanger
–
Description of Job
• Consult with homeowners on wallpaper projects.
• Measure walls and order paper.
• Hang wallpaper and special treatments, including trim and borders.
The Need
Wallpaper is an attractive way to decorate a home, but most homeowners lack the
time or the expertise to do a professional job by themselves.
WALLPAPER HANGER 69
Here’s a secret: It’s not that hard to do and does not require great feats of
strength. You can learn to hang wallpaper in your own home or by working with
someone else on a project, and then you can use your skills to start a profitable
small business.
Challenges
No two jobs are the same. The shape of walls and their condition will vary
greatly. Some wallpaper patterns are much more difficult to match panel by
panel. Some wallpapers are heavier or in other ways more difficult to work with
than others.
You need to know how to accurately measure walls and how to apply those
measurements to standard widths and lengths of paper.
You should also become an expert on wallpaper itself, able to make recommendations
to your clients on the best products and to warn them off of a selection
that will not work well in their home or that is extremely difficult and
expensive to install.
Sometimes the most difficult part of the job is in preparing the walls for the
paper. There may be layers of old wallpaper to be removed, rough paint surfaces
that need to be smoothed, holes to be filled, and any number of past sins to be
covered up.
Any liability you accept should be limited to the value of the paper itself. In
general, you should have the homeowner remove any paintings or other wall
hangings and move furniture out of the way before you arrive to do the job.
Know the Territory
Visit home supply stores and wallpaper specialists to become familiar with all
the different types of coverings. Contact some of the manufacturers and ask for
samples and technical advice. You’ll find a wealth of information on web sites
from stores and manufacturers.
You need to learn which types of paper work best in particular rooms. For
example, wallpaper in a bathroom is subjected to a great deal of humidity, and
paper in a kitchen needs to resist food and grease splatters. You should learn
about different hanging techniques for various types of paper.
An important skill is learning how to match patterns from panel to panel;
some wallpaper allows for easier matching than others, and some room designs
may make installation much more difficult.
Make contact with wallpaper wholesalers and find out about programs they
offer to small businesses. You may be able to direct-order wallpaper on behalf of
70 HOME SERVICES (INTERIOR)
your clients, offering them a discount from retail prices or building some additional
profit into your business by reselling the wallpaper at retail price.
When you purchase wallpaper for a job, make sure the store or wholesaler is
willing to take back unopened rolls of paper; you should generally order more
paper than you think you will need to account for errors and problems you may
encounter.
You may also be able to work out a deal to receive a discount or a commission
from a retail store on wallpaper and supplies you purchase on behalf of a
client.
Look for information about wallpaper companies on the Internet and in ads
(many of which you’ll find in women’s and home improvement magazines).
How to Get Started
Post ads and flyers at home supply stores, in community centers, and elsewhere.
Place ads in neighborhood newspapers.
Make yourself known to area contractors who may need to hire wallpaper
subcontractors for new construction or renovations.
Ask friends and relatives to spread the word, and offer discounts or referral
fees to satisfied customers who recommend you to new clients.
Up-front Expenses
In addition to advertising and promotion expenses, you will need ladders, buckets,
drop cloths, and brushes. You will also need measuring equipment.
Depending on your level of experience, you may want to practice on walls
and rooms in your home before seeking outside work.
How Much to Charge
Jobs can be priced on an hourly or square-foot basis; if you charge per square
foot, adjust the rate upward if the walls require extra preparation or if there are
any extraordinary demands on your time.
In addition to the cost of time, the customer should pay for the wallpaper
and supplies, including paste. If you order the wallpaper from a wholesale
source on behalf of your client, you can mark up the price to retail prices or
slightly below.
Be realistic in any estimate you make on the number of hours the job will
require, and don’t promise completion of a job by a particular date unless you are
certain you will have all of the supplies and the job entails no special effort.
WALLPAPER HANGER 71
Legal and Insurance Issues
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
Specialty Indoor Painting
–
Description of Job
• Design and specify specialty interior painting.
• Apply special effects.
• Finish and clean up interior work.
The Need
There is no law that says interior walls need to be coated with flat, boring
eggshell paint.
An interesting alternative for many homeowners is to decorate using techniques
such as marbling, stenciling, sponging, strié (dragging), ragging, rag
rolling, stippling, distressing, and faux finishing. In most cases, amateurs are not
trained or equipped to perform such work.
This sort of job is usually limited to one or two rooms in a house and therefore
may be less attractive to a commercial painter; the skills involved are also
different from those required to paint a living room off-white.
Challenges
You need to understand and master a range of special techniques and tools. Make
sure your clients understand exactly what effect they are requesting.
You can practice many of the techniques in your own home; you might want
to create a room—perhaps a den, a section of the basement, or even the interior
72 HOME SERVICES (INTERIOR)
of your garage—and create examples of the sort of work you are available to
perform.
Know the Territory
There are many web sites and books that describe various techniques and tools
for specialty painting. Many large home supply and craft stores offer classes on
specialty painting. Here are some interesting techniques:
• Glazing or color washing. Dilute paints or varnishes to thin them so they
can be used to apply a transparent or translucent film of color.
• Stippling, or pouncing. This process delivers a sandy or lightly patterned
effect using a specialized stippling brush to modify the surface of
a glaze.
• Ragging, or rag rolling. A second glaze color, of a different hue, is wiped
into place with a rag to create a purposely uneven effect.
• Strié, or dragging. A glaze is applied to a base color, then a dry brush is
dragged over the glaze in a vertical or horizontal direction to create fine
lines.
• Sponging. A rough sponge is used to apply an uneven finish to a base coat
or to a second coat of paint in a contrasting color.
• Stenciling. You may hand-paint stenciled designs to a painted wall.
How to Get Started
Post flyers and ads at community centers, in home outlet stores, and on bulletin
boards. Place ads in newspapers and shopping guides.
Offer to conduct a class at a community school to get some publicity and perhaps
some clients. Buy a table at home decorating and crafts shows to display
samples of some of your work.
Make contact with interior decorators and contractors in your area; do the
same with commercial painting companies that do not compete with you for specialty
jobs. Offer a bonus or commission for business they refer to you.
Up-front Expenses
You will need specialty brushes, sponges, stencils, and other equipment, as well
as basic painting tools such as ladders, trays, rollers, tarpaulins, plastic sheeting,
and masking tape.
SPECIALTY INDOOR PAINTING 73
You will have to bear the cost of experiments and practice sessions you conduct
as well as preparation of a display room or a photo album or web site to
show examples of your work.
You’ll need a vehicle large enough to transport your equipment. Other
expenses include research books, classes, advertising, and promotion.
How Much to Charge
Most painters quote a fixed price for a job, based on a careful estimate of the
number of hours it will require plus the cost of paint and other materials. Many
specialty paint jobs require multiple applications of wall covering. Some jobs are
quoted on a cost-plus basis: a charge for hours of work plus the actual cost of
paint and other supplies.
Prices for specialty painting are usually higher than those for standard indoor
work because of the extra time, materials, and skill required.
Legal and Insurance Issues
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
Furniture Stripping
–
Description of Job
• Clean valuable old furniture.
• Use chemicals to strip furniture of one or more old coats of paint, varnish,
or other finishes.
• Prepare furniture for application of new finish.
74 HOME SERVICES (INTERIOR)
The Need
Family heirlooms, an old favorite chair, or just a change in decor—sometimes it
makes eminent sense to strip an old varnish, shellac, or paint finish from a stillusable
piece of wooden furniture. Once the piece has been brought as close as
possible to its original raw wood state, it can be restained and refinished.
The process can result in a rejuvenation of a valuable old piece at much less
cost than buying a new piece.
Challenges
This is not rocket science, but furniture stripping involves a great deal of handson
dirty work and the use of caustic and toxic chemicals. You have to work within
local, state, and federal regulations on the use and disposal of chemicals and
waste materials.
Communicate clearly with your clients to make sure that they have reasonable
expectations about the final product. Some finishes can be completely removed,
and others cannot. Some modern finishes, including certain polyurethane and
acrylic products, are difficult if not impossible to strip.
There are also some environmentally safe stripping solutions that don’t
require special handling or disposal; depending on the finish being removed, they
may be as effective as harsh chemicals.
Use chemically impervious gloves, eye protection, and protective clothing in
your shop; make sure there is adequate ventilation to remove fumes.
Make sure your contract with the customer limits your liability for damage or
loss of the furniture; don’t accept a very valuable antique or an irreplaceable heirloom
if your financial exposure is too high.
Know the Territory
The most common methods for stripping furniture are hand stripping, cold tank
dipping, and hot tank dipping.
Hand stripping is the slowest, most labor-intensive, most expensive, and generally
the safest way to remove a finish. A chemical stripper is applied to the furniture
with a brush, and after a specified period of time the solution is removed
with rags and brushes; multiple applications may be necessary. Residue is
cleaned off with lacquer thinner or other solvents.
For the cold tank method, the furniture is immersed in a tank filled with a
chemical stripping solution. After a period of time, the chemical is scrubbed off
and residue is washed off with water or a solvent. This method is generally the
FURNITURE STRIPPING 75
quickest and least expensive option for commercial users and works best on
pieces with just a single coat of finish; homeowners working on just one piece
would end up wasting a great deal of costly stripping solution.
The most intense commercial stripping method uses a heated tank of caustic
lye which removes many types of finish but may be too harsh for delicate pieces.
The lye is washed off using water. A side effect of the use of lye is that it may
darken some types of wood. For that reason, most pieces must then undergo a
second dipping, usually in a tank of oxalic acid or a similar chemical to lighten
the wood and neutralize any leftover lye. Hot dipping is well suited to removing
layers of paint from architectural elements of a home, including doors, moldings,
and banisters. It can also be used on painted furniture.
Modern chemicals are much easier to work with and less likely to cause any
damage to furniture than older methods, but any stripping process has the potential
of causing some discoloration or other stress.
The most difficult finish to remove is paint, especially on pieces that have a
lot of detail. For example, the paint on flat surfaces of a dresser may come off
relatively easily, but it requires a lot of handwork to get the coating off of carved
decorations, spindles, joined edges, and interior angles. Some practitioners use
sprayers to get a stripping solution into tight spaces and objects as fine and small
as jeweler’s or surgeon’s tools.
The final step may be to return the near-raw wooden piece to the customer for
application of a new finish, or you may offer that service yourself. Some furniture
strippers partner with expert furniture finishers.
How to Get Started
Advertise your availability at home centers, community centers, and retail stores.
Make your services known to interior decorators, auction houses, and used furniture
dealers. Place ads in newspapers and shoppers.
Ask satisfied customers to recommend you to friends and acquaintances;
offer a bonus or discount for new business they send your way.
Up-front Expenses
The amount of up-front expenses for a furniture stripping business depends on
the level of service you plan to provide to your customers. The least expensive
setup (and the most expensive service to sell) is hand stripping; considerably
more expensive are operations that offer cold and hot dipping.
For hand stripping, you’ll need tarps and level work surfaces, a selection of
stripping chemicals, a set of brushes of various sizes and firmness, wooden
76 HOME SERVICES (INTERIOR)
scrapers, disposable rags, and steel wool. You’ll also need containers for the safe
disposal of flammable rags and other debris, and for disposal of used chemicals.
To protect yourself, you’ll need heavy rubber gloves, safety glasses or a face
shield, and a strong ventilation system.
For dipping, you’ll need several tubs large enough to fully accommodate a
piece of furniture and hold caustic chemicals and acids. You’ll also need to arrange
for safe disposal of large quantities of the solutions.
How Much to Charge
Charge an hourly rate for your time and the use of chemicals, tanks, and tools.
You can offer the client an estimate of hours, but be careful not to lowball the
price for intricate pieces. Plan on at least 50 percent more time for removal of
paint than for shellac or varnish, and add more time for pieces with intricate carvings
and inside angles.
If the customer has not already removed hardware such as knobs, hinges, and
badges add time or a fee for that service. Add a freight charge for pickup and
delivery.
Many companies also add a charge for disposal of hazardous wastes, either
as a percentage of the total price or as a flat fee.
Legal and Insurance Issues
Special notes: In dealing with your client’s property, seek to limit your liability
for damage or loss to the actual replacement value of items in your possession.
You should protect yourself against claims for sentimental value or loss of use.
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
➅ Insurance
FURNITURE STRIPPING 77
Furniture Repair
–
Description of Job
• Repair broken pieces of furniture.
• Make minor fixes to torn upholstery.
The Need
Things break, and upholstery tears, but a major piece of furniture, a valued heirloom,
or merely a favorite couch may be worth repairing to save the cost of buying
a new piece.
Challenges
The two principal challenges are deciding whether a broken piece of furniture
can be repaired and whether the repair makes economic sense. If the total cost of
removal of the item, labor, parts, and return of the piece is appreciably less than
the price of a new one, you have business to perform.
Be especially careful if you are working on an heirloom or antique; don’t
accept a job you are not capable of doing properly, and don’t accept liability for
an item of extraordinary value.
Know the Territory
You’ll need to have basic repair skills and access to dependable specialists for jobs
such as welding broken frames, cutting a custom piece of wood or metal, and
reupholstering. In a way, this job could be compared to being a contractor on a
house: Much of the work consists of assembling a team of capable subcontractors.
Some jobs can be done in the homes of clients; assemble a mobile workshop
for house calls. Otherwise, you will need a truck or require that the client arrange
for pickup and delivery.
How to Get Started
Advertise your availability at community centers, home and houseware stores,
and antique stores.
78 HOME SERVICES (INTERIOR)
Up-front Expenses
You’ll need a set of basic tools. You can rent many specialized devices or subcontract
out unusual tasks. Other expenses include promotion and advertising.
How Much to Charge
Charge an hourly rate plus the cost of materials; give your clients an estimate of
the number of hours a job should require and notify them if the price will change
markedly.
Legal and Insurance Issues
Special notes: In dealing with your client’s property, seek to limit your liability
for damage or loss to the actual replacement value of items in your possession.
You should protect yourself against claims for sentimental value or loss of use.
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
➅ Insurance
Closet Organizer
Description of Job
• Clean up and organize the chaos and clutter of clients’ closets.
• Design closet and storage systems to make the most of available space.
The Need
There has to be a special place in heaven for the well organized. Everybody else
has to get in a messy line.
CLOSET ORGANIZER 79
Most people are relatively careful about what they put on display in the places
visitors can see, but their private spaces behind closet doors may be disasters; or
they may be quite disposed to perfect organization but limited by available space.
A professional closet organizer uses planning, furniture, and hardware to
come to a home and convert the clutter and disarray of a closet or storage space
in the bedroom, kitchen, or bathroom into an efficient, workable area.
Challenges
Your job is to organize your client’s possessions—not to pass judgment on what
you find. Unless your client specifically asks you to make recommendations on
items to be thrown out (or donated to charity), sometimes your job is to fit 12
pounds of stuff into a 10-pound box.
Take special care if you are asked to organize collectibles or other items of
great value; your agreement should limit any liability if you are asked to handle
such items.
Know the Territory
Professional organizers should spend a lot of time at hardware stores, home furnishing
stores, and stores that specialize in equipment for the closet and storeroom.
A great deal of information is also available online at the web sites of these
companies.
You’ll need some basic skills in assembling hardware and some commonsense
understanding of the laws of physics: Put the heaviest items on lower
shelves and make certain shelves are anchored properly to studs.
The first step involves a thorough inspection of the closet or space you are
asked to organize. Take measurements and draw a schematic; a digital camera is
a good tool that allows you to study the closet when you are back home.
Determine whether any specialty equipment must be ordered: shoe, tie, or
belt organizers, jewelry storage, over-the-door pocket organizers.
Make certain the floors and walls are sturdy enough to support the weight of
a shelving system.
Determine your client’s budget. Systems can range in price from under $100
to more than $1,000, plus the cost of your time in designing the installation,
ordering it, installing it, and placing items in their new homes.
How to Get Started
Place flyers and business cards in community centers, supermarkets, and large
home supply stores. Paid ads can be placed in shopping guides and newspapers.
80 HOME SERVICES (INTERIOR)
Ask friends, relatives, and satisfied customers to spread the word about your
availability.
Up-front Expenses
The principal expenses are advertising and research trips to stores to learn about
available systems. You can create a picture album of some of your installations,
or load digital pictures onto a laptop computer to show at the initial consultation.
How Much to Charge
This job will generally be billed at an hourly rate; no two jobs will take the same
amount of time because of different conditions in the home and closet. You
should be able, though, to give the client an estimate of the amount of time the
job will require.
The initial consultation can be done for free, but the clock should start ticking
as soon as you actually begin the measuring and planning of the job. Other
billable time includes the installation and finishing of the job.
The client should pay you up front for each piece of hardware as it is ordered.
Legal and Insurance Issues
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
Bookcase and Shelf Builder
–
Description of Job
• Produce customized bookcases and shelving units to meet the needs of
your client.
BOOKCASE AND SHELF BUILDER 81
• Adapt published plans for bookcases and shelving using a client’s specifications
and choices of wood and stain.
The Need
Few interior architectural touches are more impressive than built-in or customized
bookcases or shelving in a personal library, den, or family room. There’s
a big and obvious difference between a store-bought bookshelf and one that has
been built exactly to the specifications of a particular space.
Challenges
A customized piece of furniture requires the ability to perform finishing work,
several steps beyond a stack of boards separated by cinder blocks. You’ll need to
be able to work with bevels, curves, and joints and add a high-quality stain and
finish or paint job.
Some jobs will require working with unusual and expensive types of wood,
which may call for unusual woodworking methods and can eat up profits very
quickly in the event of an error during construction.
Know the Territory
Make sure you understand the needs and wants of your customer. Show photos
of work you have completed, or use books of plans as examples.
Avoid taking the job based on the customer’s measurements; visit the home
or office to make certain that jobs you prepare in your workshop will fit properly
in the intended space.
There are many sources for plans and designs for woodworking, including
books and web sites. For large (and well-paid) jobs you can design your own
pieces or work with an architect.
If you will be working with unusual species of wood, get some samples from
a supplier and test assembly methods, stains, and finishes before you work on the
actual job.
Some woodworkers prefer to leave the application of stain or paint to an
expert on those tasks; in that case, they can subcontract the completion of the job.
How to Get Started
Post flyers and ads at community centers, retail stores, and home decorating
stores. Place ads in newspapers and shopping guides.
82 HOME SERVICES (INTERIOR)
Make your services known to contractors and architects; you can pay them a
commission for work they refer your way, or they may hire you to do the work
and bill their clients directly.
Create a portfolio of work you have produced; it can also be displayed on a
web site.
You can also promote your services at craft and holiday fairs. Offer to teach
a class at a community school—to garner publicity and perhaps some clients.
Up-front Expenses
You’ll need a full woodworking shop and enough space to work on large pieces.
You may be able to subcontract some of the work on components of the bookshelves
to shops with specialized tools.
Other expenses include advertising and promotion.
You will need a truck to deliver completed items, or work with a trucking
company, as needed.
How Much to Charge
Charge a flat rate for completed bookcases and shelving based on your estimate
of the amount of time required and the cost of the materials. You can add fees for
painting or staining, plus the cost of delivery and installation.
Legal and Insurance Issues
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
BOOKCASE AND SHELF BUILDER 83
Indoor Plant Care
Description of Job
• Water, feed, and tend to live plants in offices, stores, malls, lobbies, and
private homes.
• Inspect a client’s premises and make recommendations for the purchase of
greenery.
• Install new plants, or change plants or flowers for seasonal or holiday displays.
The Need
Indoor plants can beautify almost any space in offices, stores, lobbies, and public
areas; they’re also a graceful addition to homes and apartments. Yet relatively
few of us have a green thumb . . . or the time and inclination to tend to plants in
our places of business or homes.
The basic services of an indoor plant specialist include care, feeding, and maintenance
of plants on a regularly scheduled basis. You can also offer to design new
plantings, providing installation only or making seasonal and holiday changes.
Challenges
You’ll need to be, or become, an expert on all sorts of indoor plants; there are
many books and web sites that can help you. Although you may be quite able to
tend to a plant that lives in a greenhouse or a protected corner of your home, your
clients (or more precisely, the plants of your clients) will exist in a threatening
world: They may not receive proper light or temperature conditions, and they
likely will be subject to accidental or intentional abuse from visitors.
Among the challenges you’ll be called on to deal with are these:
• Matching plants to the available lighting in an office, public place, or home
• Managing proper watering and fertilizing schedules
• Dealing with plant diseases and insect infestations
• Repairing damage caused by visitors who touch or cut plants
84 HOME SERVICES (INTERIOR)
You should also be aware of which plants are poisonous if eaten by children
or pets. For installations in a doctor’s office, you might want to submit a list of
plants unlikely to activate allergies for approval by the medical staff.
Know the Territory
You can perform much of your research over the Internet at web sites about
plants; there are also many excellent reference books about selection and care of
greenery.
Visit area greenhouses and garden specialists to learn about available plants,
fertilizers, cleaners, and tools. One or more of these stores may be the place you
shop for plants and supplies, and they should be glad to partner with you.
How to Get Started
Post ads and flyers at greenhouses, garden supply stores, and home supply stores.
Place ads in area newspapers and shopping guides.
Ask friends and relatives to spread the word about your availability; offer a
bonus to clients who refer new business to you.
Contact the reception desk, office manager, and maintenance departments of
large businesses in your area and offer your services. Send letters to the office
managers of doctors, lawyers, and other professionals in your area. Do the same
with managers of area restaurants.
Up-front Expenses
Your expenses include advertising and promotion, reference books, and appropriate
gardening, watering, and fertilizing supplies.
How Much to Charge
You can charge by the hour or use a flat rate per plant after you calculate the
amount of time required for each. In addition to hourly charges, you bill for fertilizer,
cleaners, and replacement of plants that are dead or dying.
If you design and install new plantings, you should charge by the hour, plus
the cost of new plants.
Legal and Insurance Issues
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
INDOOR PLANT CARE 85
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
Custom Silk and Dried
Flower Arrangements
Description of Job
• Prepare and assemble flower arrangements to clients’ specifications.
• Create custom wreaths and decorations.
The Need
Flowers, flowering plants, and lush foliage will beautify any room. But expensive
long-stemmed roses will last only a week; Christmas poinsettias may struggle
to make it to the new year, and even a hardy zebra plant will wither and die if
not cared for properly.
Unless you have unlimited resources and time, one solution—done properly—
is to use high-quality artificial plants made of silk and other material. (Strike from
your mind’s eye any thought of cheap plastic carnations; a well-made artificial
plant sometimes requires lengthy, closeup examination to confirm it is not the real
thing.)
Another answer is the use of well-prepared and properly arranged dried flowers.
Faux foliage can generally be placed in any light and temperature variation,
and can be created or ordered in almost any hue. A client may want a centerpiece
to match the color scheme in the dining room; a bride may want a bouquet that
will last longer than the ceremony.
A wreath of dried sunflowers offers a welcome addition to the front door all
summer and fall, and an attractive artificial or dried flower wreath brightens any
indoor holiday setting.
86 HOME SERVICES (INTERIOR)
Challenges
Even artificial plants need a bit of care; they’ll need to be dusted and occasionally
wiped with a damp rag. Dried plants may fade over time and become more
brittle, but if not abused will probably last longer than other decorations.
You’ll need an artistic eye, good judgment of quality, and a sense of style. It’s
important to understand how to harmonize and avoid clashes and to have an
appreciation of size and proportions.
Make sure you fully understand your client’s hopes and wishes before you
commission any custom pieces or place orders.
Know the Territory
Become familiar with suppliers of artificial and dried flowers. Area decorating
companies may sell silk and other artificial flowers at wholesale prices to professionals;
you’ll also find many sources on the Internet.
Dried flowers can also be ordered online or from catalogs and are generally
available from local sources, including hobbyists and professional flower
growers.
Many large cities have a wholesale flower district where you can find both
artificial and dried arrangements.
You’ll also need to suggest appropriate containers for the arrangements;
among popular materials are wood, ceramic, brass, and silver. Some designs benefit
from accent pieces such as ferns, feathers, ribbon, and other types of fabric.
How to Get Started
Advertise your availability through flyers and ads at community centers, schools,
home supply stores, and other retail outlets. Take out ads in newspapers, shopping
guides, and local decorating and women’s magazines.
Teach a class at a community school or college. You will get some publicity
and maybe a few clients.
Consider renting a table at local craft or holiday shows.
This type of business also works well as a virtual company, taking orders
through a web site and through catalogs.
Up-front Expenses
Principal expenses include advertising and promotion. You should also prepare a
portfolio with photos of actual and suggested arrangements.
CUSTOM SILK AND DRIED FLOWER ARRANGEMENTS 87
You’ll need some basic hobbyist tools, including shears and blades, and a
supply of floral foam to serve as the base for the display.
How Much to Charge
Price your work at a flat rate per piece, taking into consideration the cost of materials,
shipping, and the amount of time required to complete it.
Legal and Insurance Issues
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
88 HOME SERVICES (INTERIOR)
CHAPTER 7
Home Services (Specialty)
24 Handy Person
25 Errand Runner
26 Vacation Home Caretaker
27 Vacation House Watcher
28 House Painting
29 Chimney Cleaning
30 Pool Service
31 Firewood Delivery
32 On-Demand Trash Removal
33 Christmas Tree Service
34 Small Engine Repair
Handyperson
–
Description of Job
• Perform almost any minor repair or maintenance chore for homeowners.
• Be available on short notice for urgent jobs.
• Supervise subcontractors and licensed plumbers and electricians.
The Need
Have you heard the old joke about the definition of homeowners? They’re people
who sleep in their own bed at night but live at the hardware store!
Every house needs care. Older houses need repairs to essential systems, from
leaky sinks to broken light switches. New homes need to have curtains and
shades hung and minor landscaping; some homeowners need help in assembling
gas grills or putting bicycles together. Houses in between new and old need all
sorts of touch-ups, refurbishments, and installations.
Even the most handy of homeowners may not have time to work around the
house—or may just need help from time to time. Examples of jobs include
changing smoke detectors, caulking windows and bathtubs, touch-up painting or
staining, changing locks, replacing light fixtures, installing garage door openers,
driveway sealing, repairing screens, and installing weather stripping.
Challenges
A handyperson is capable enough to do almost any job around the house and
smart enough to know when to call in an expert. It is important to know when to
draw the line; unless you have the qualifications, you should not perform substantial
work on electrical, plumbing, heating, or cooling systems. (That doesn’t
mean you can’t change a light switch, hang a chandelier, fix a leaky faucet,
change the filters on a heating system, or make simple adjustments to an air conditioner.)
You also have to know your own abilities; don’t promise something you are
not capable of completing in a professional manner.
90 HOME SERVICES (SPECIALTY)
You should be able to assist your client with your own list of plumbers and
electricians and other professionals for more complex jobs, and you should be
willing to take on the role of contractor to supervise their work.
You’ll have to learn how to keep more than one client at a time happy. One
customer may think that his or her blocked rain gutter is more important than
someone else’s broken storm door.
Know the Territory
You’ll need some natural skill as a handyperson, augmented by experience. Read
books on home repair, visit hardware and home centers, and consult Internet web
sites for information about projects. (Some home centers offer free classes on
projects.)
Get to know area tradespeople.
How to Get Started
Make people aware of your services through ads and flyers placed in home centers,
hardware stores, and community centers. Include postings at area senior
centers, as older homeowners are a large market for handyperson services.
Place an ad in local newspapers and shopping guides. Church and club bulletins
are also helpful.
Contact area licensed professionals to find out about their services and to let
them know about your availability. They may be able to steer some simple jobs
your way in return for calls from your client for their services.
Up-front Expenses
You’ll need a basic set of tools. Complex and/or expensive tools can often be
rented for particular jobs. A good collection of home repair books and access to
the Internet will be of great value.
Up-front expenses include advertising and promotion.
How Much to Charge
Bill for jobs on an hourly basis; add charges for any hardware or supplies you
must purchase, plus the cost of any rented equipment.
If you will be on call for a number of jobs, it’s good business practice to ask
for an advance payment equal to several days’ worth of work; your actual hours
will be subtracted from this retainer.
HANDYPERSON 91
Legal and Insurance Issues
Special notes: In dealing with your client’s property, seek to limit your liability
for damage or loss to the actual replacement value of items in your possession.
You should protect yourself against claims for sentimental value or loss of use.
Discuss with the attorney any prior legal problems you may have encountered
and seek advice about whether they need to be disclosed to clients.
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
➅ Insurance
Errand Runner
Description of Job
• Stand in for clients to perform any reasonable assignment on their behalf
when they cannot do it for themselves.
• Perform other tasks within the home, as appropriate.
The Need
Robinson Crusoe had his servant, Friday. Batman had Robin. Sherlock Holmes
had his sometimes-confused but always well-meaning stalwart Dr. Watson.
For most of us, it’s not feasible to hire a household staff to attend to our every
need, but there are certainly many instances when it would be absolutely wonderful
to have a man Friday or a gal Friday to help us do the things we don’t have
time for, or that must be taken care of in places we can’t be.
One of the reasons our lives have become so complicated is that there are
fewer stay-at-home moms and greater distances from extended family that
served as supports in the past.
92 HOME SERVICES (SPECIALTY)
A man or gal Friday can be hired to perform just about any task. A typical set
of jobs includes:
• Accepting deliveries
• Delivering packages to the post office
• Supervising service calls on appliances or meeting a plumber in the home
• Meeting the cable guy or the telephone repair person
• Answering correspondence and returning phone calls
• Picking up dry cleaning and laundry
• Taking a vehicle for service
• Assisting in the organization and conduct of a party
• Organizing closets, basements, and attics
• Organizing book and music collections
• Setting up and maintaining a personal filing system for important papers
Challenges
You’ll need a flexible schedule and a willingness to take on just about any reasonable
request. Don’t agree to perform a task that is beyond your skills or experience,
and be careful about accepting liability beyond your agreement and
insurance coverage.
This sort of job is appropriate for someone who is highly organized and
dependable, someone who enjoys solving problems.
Ask your clients to tell neighbors that you will be in their home while they
are away; this should prevent neighbors from calling the police to report a burglar.
(It may also help you recruit new clients.)
Know the Territory
This sort of job is in greatest demand in areas where homeowners and renters
commute to work or are otherwise out of their homes for much of the day. You
might also be able to find assignments from seniors and others who may be
housebound or who cannot easily get about.
You should have a good knowledge of the map of your region and be able to
make pickups and deliveries. You should feel comfortable dealing with tradespeople
and repair specialists. You will be representing the client and should not
sign off on a repair or maintenance job if it has not been done properly.
ERRAND RUNNER 93
How to Get Started
Post flyers and business cards on bulletin boards at community centers, supermarkets,
and schools. Place ads in local newspapers and shopping guides. Ask
satisfied customers to recommend your services to others.
You should collect references and letters of recommendation from previous
customers.
Up-front Expenses
The principal expenses are for advertising and promotion. If you are called on to
use your own vehicle for pickups and deliveries, you may need to purchase additional
insurance for that purpose.
How Much to Charge
Charge an hourly rate for your services, plus a mileage fee for driving. If you are
asked to pay for any services on behalf of your client, you should be immediately
repaid.
If you will be working on a regular basis for a client, ask to be put on a
retainer; subtract actual hours worked from the balance and give your client a
regular accounting.
Legal and Insurance Issues
Special notes: Discuss with your attorney any prior legal problems you may have
encountered and seek advice about whether they need to be disclosed to clients.
If you will be transporting clients or their children—not something to be
taken lightly—you will need additional insurance.
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
94 HOME SERVICES (SPECIALTY)
Vacation Home Caretaker
Description of Job
• Watch over a summer or vacation home when the owner is not there.
• Supervise maintenance, including lawn mowing, snow removal, winterizing.
• Check for storm damage and represent the homeowner in any emergency
repairs.
• Prepare the home for the arrival of the owner.
The Need
The wonderful thing about owning a vacation home at the beach, by the lake, or
near a ski resort is the warm spot it occupies in your mind even when you are
many miles away.
The difficult thing about owning a vacation home is the load of worries that
will afflict you because you are not there to attend to them. Vacation property is
often very expensive, and homes are often in isolated locations or in areas where
there are few if any year-round residents.
Homes are subject to break-ins, vandalism, storm damage, and power outages
(which could cut off heating in the winter).
The job of the caretaker is to be the owner’s representative and watchdog.
This job does not include overseeing the rental of vacation property, which is
a much more complex operation usually undertaken by management companies
that handle advertising, booking, billing, maintenance, cleaning, postrental
inspections, and other functions.
The job includes making regular visits to the home to check for unexpected
incidents, including storm damage and problems with heating systems.
The owner may ask you to supervise scheduled maintenance of the house,
including servicing of the furnace, air conditioner, electrical, and plumbing systems.
You may also be asked to act as the owner’s representative in overseeing
painting, remodeling, or expansion of the home, reporting on progress and problems.
(Some caretakers send digital photographs over the Internet to their clients.)
You’ll be responsible for lawn mowing and snow removal, either as tasks you
perform yourself or hire others to do.
VACATION HOME CARETAKER 95
Finally, a caretaker may be asked to prepare the house before the season
begins, which may include a thorough cleaning.
Challenges
A competent caretaker accepts responsibility for the house as if it were his or her
own. The caretaker will have possession of keys to the property, which must be
safeguarded from loss or theft.
You must demonstrate dependability; if you will be unable to personally
supervise the homes of your clients for any extended period of time, you will
need to have a trustworthy substitute fill in for you. If you are contracted to oversee
a property on Cape Cod, you can’t spend the winter on the beach in Florida
without making arrangements that satisfy the needs of your client.
It is also very important that you have a good relationship with your clients,
a strong understanding of their needs, and an explicit contract that spells out your
responsibilities and the authority granted to you by the owner. If a pipe freezes in
the winter, you should be able to hire a plumber and a cleanup crew without having
to wait to speak with your client.
Your client or you should notify neighbors that you will be acting as caretaker
for the property so that they do not mistake you for an unauthorized visitor.
Leave your card with the neighbors; they may be able to serve as an extra pair of
eyes, and they may end up hiring you to watch their homes.
Know the Territory
One of the best tools of a caretaker is an up-to-date Rolodex of dependable electricians,
plumbers, carpenters, landscapers, snow removal companies, and cleaning
services who will respond to your call on behalf of your client.
You should have a working knowledge of home systems and repairs.
How to Get Started
Contact area electricians, plumbers, landscapers, contractors, and rental agents
to let them know of your services. Ask them to let their own clients know about
you; in return, you can promise to engage them for any necessary work.
Place ads on community bulletin boards, in stores, and in newspapers. Ask
friends and acquaintances to spread the word about your availability.
Up-front Expenses
Expenses are principally for advertising and promotion. Any travel and services
provided are billed to your client.
96 HOME SERVICES (SPECIALTY)
How Much to Charge
Most caretakers charge a fixed rate for devoting a minimum number of hours
each month to scheduled visits to the home, inspections, and supervision of
scheduled services such as landscaping. Additional charges are levied (by the
hour) for supervising emergency repairs, renovations, and construction.
The contract with the client should include payment of a month or two in
advance as a retainer, with regular monthly billing.
Legal and Insurance Issues
Special notes: Discuss with your attorney any prior legal problems you may
have encountered and seek advice about whether they need to be disclosed to
clients.
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
Vacation House Watcher
Description of Job
• Make regular visits to a vacant home to check on doors, windows, heating
and plumbing systems, collect mail or packages, and make the home
appear occupied.
• Contact the homeowner in the event of an emergency, or arrange for emergency
service without further authorization, if necessary.
The Need
Some people are comfortable going away from home for weeks at a time and
simply locking the front door, holding their mail at the post office, and stopping
the newspaper. Others want—or need—more protection and security.
VACATION HOUSE WATCHER 97
In many neighborhoods it may be common practice to ask a neighbor to look
in on your home when you are away. Unfortunately, not everyone knows their
neighbors well enough to ask for this sort of help, or it may be a situation where
homes are too far away from each other for a neighbor to be of much assistance.
The job of the vacation house watcher includes regular visits to the home to
look for obvious signs of problems—broken windows, open doors, frost or
humidity on the windows, and exterior damage. The client may also give you a
key to the house and ask you to check the interior.
Other tasks include taking steps to make the house appear occupied. These
would include turning on different lights in the house, or adjusting timers within.
You could move garbage cans or lawn furniture from one place to another each
time you visit.
Challenges
By charging for your services you will be accepting a great deal of responsibility;
make sure you have a written contract that lists specific tasks and gives you
permission to enter the home. You will likely be given a set of keys and possibly
the entrance code for a burglar alarm. (Ask your client for a temporary code, or
ask that the code be changed after you have completed your assignment.)
You need to be flexible enough to increase the number of visits you make to
a home in the event of a severe cold snap or storm.
Make sure you know where your client is going. Obtain a telephone number,
cell phone number, and e-mail address. You should also obtain the name of
another family member or a friend of the client who is specifically authorized to
give permission for repairs or special services in case of an emergency. The agreement
should also list the name of your client’s insurance company and local agent.
Be sure to limit your activities at the client’s property and within the house to
those that are appropriate and approved. As tempting as it might be to host a pool
party or watch the Super Bowl with some buddies on the big-screen TV, you
could be opening yourself to an expensive liability lawsuit.
You should not take a job that endangers your safety or requires you to travel
at times or to locations that make you uncomfortable. Your agreement should
also include language stating that in case of a general evacuation in the area
because of a storm, fire, or other reason, you will follow the instructions of
officials.
Know the Territory
You should get to know your client, and allow the client to get to know you, in
order to establish a level of trust. Ask for a full tour of the house and point out
98 HOME SERVICES (SPECIALTY)
anything that bothers you, such as unlocked windows or doors, unlocked safes,
or guns.
Ask to be introduced to neighbors so that they know you will be visiting the
property; you can use the opportunity to advertise your services to them at the
same time.
How to Get Started
Post ads and business cards in community centers, stores, and newspapers. Ask
friends and family to let others know of your availability. Ask for referrals from
satisfied clients.
Collect references from satisfied customers.
Up-front Expenses
The principal up-front expense is advertising. You will be reimbursed by your
client for any out-of-pocket expenses.
How Much to Charge
House watchers would likely charge an hourly rate for visits to the house. If the
location is at some distance from your own home, you can ask for reimbursement
for mileage, or request payment for your time in driving to the client’s property.
The best arrangement is advance payment for expected time, plus an agreement
for payment for unanticipated time and expense in case of an emergency.
Your agreement should specifically state that the client will directly pay any
outside contractors, such as plumbers, electricians, or carpenters, who come to
the house for emergency services.
Legal and Insurance Issues
Special notes: Discuss with the attorney any prior legal problems you may
have encountered, and seek advice about whether they need to be disclosed to
clients.
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
VACATION HOUSE WATCHER 99
House Painting
–
Description of Job
• Work with client to choose appropriate paint and method of application.
• Prepare interior or exterior surfaces for painting or repainting.
• Make minor repairs to wall surfaces, as needed, or arrange for repairs by a
contractor.
• Apply paint with brush, rollers, or spray.
• Clean up the home.
The Need
Painting is a dirty job, but someone has to do it. Some homeowners will tackle a
small job like slapping a fresh coat of paint on their bathroom walls, but repainting
the entire interior of a house or its exterior siding, trim, and decks may
require the time, expertise, and equipment of a professional.
Challenges
Some jobs are much more complicated than others. Among difficulties requiring
extra time, materials, and equipment are cathedral ceilings, multicolor rooms,
textured applicators, and fancy trim.
You will need to be able to recognize the type of surface to be painted and
match it to the appropriate type of paint and method of application.
For a bathroom or kitchen, you may need to use mildew-resistant glossy paint
that cleans easily; bedrooms and common rooms may call for more subtle shades
in a flat or nongloss finish. Do interior walls already have one or more coats of
paint, or are some covered with wallpaper? Is the underlying surface drywall,
plaster, or wood?
Is the home empty, with no carpeting or hardwood floor in place, or will you
need to move and cover furniture and protect floors and rugs?
In some areas, many painters belong to a union. You may have to apprentice
with the union or join as a full member to be considered for many business
100 HOME SERVICES (SPECIALTY)
jobs—and perhaps some house-painting assignments if a contractor or government
agency is involved.
Know the Territory
The best way to obtain experience in this sort of work is to work as a helper for
a professional painter or assist a knowledgeable do-it-yourselfer on a major job.
In other words, don’t start a business as a housepainter and expect to learn on the
job; the risk of damage to the home or its contents, or inefficient use of time and
materials, is too great.
There is a great deal of information available on the web sites of paint manufacturers
and in books. Manufacturers of paint sprayers and other equipment
may offer training sessions.
In most jobs, the homeowner is asked to remove paintings, drapes, and other
wall decorations; the painter is responsible for moving and covering furniture and
protecting carpeting and other flooring. Other tasks include taping trim and windows
to protect them from overpainting and removal of outlet and switch covers.
Modern water-based paints are much easier to clean up for interior jobs; for
exterior work, the choice is either latex (water) or oil (alkyd) base. Floor enamel,
available in acrylic latex and polyurethane formulas, is often used in areas that
receive a great deal of traffic or are exposed to extremes of weather; floor enamel
can be used on wood, concrete, and metal.
How to Get Started
Post flyers and ads in community centers, retail outlets, and bulletin boards.
Place ads in newspapers and shopping guides.
Make contact with contractors, real estate agents, and cleaning services; offer
a bonus or commission on work they bring your way.
Up-front Expenses
You will need ladders, high-quality brushes, roller applicators, paint trays, tarpaulins,
plastic sheeting, painter’s masking tape, mixers, and other tools. For
some jobs, especially interior painting of new or otherwise empty homes, you
may need a commercial paint sprayer. (It may be possible to rent a sprayer, as
needed.)
Some painters work with high-powered portable lighting rigs to help them in
their work. If you use a paint sprayer, you may need a breathing mask and eye
shield.
HOUSE PAINTING 101
You will need a vehicle large enough to carry your necessary equipment and
supplies.
Other costs include advertising and promotion.
How Much to Charge
Most painters quote a fixed price for a job, based on a careful estimate of the
number of hours it will require, plus the cost of paint and other materials. Some
jobs are quoted on a cost-plus basis: a charge for hours of work plus the actual
cost of paint and other supplies.
Legal and Insurance Issues
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
Chimney Cleaning
Description of Job
• Inspect fireplace chimney, firebox, smoke shelf, and damper for blockages,
cracks, and buildup of hazardous substances.
• Mechanically clean interior of the flue.
• Remove ash, creosote, and other substances dislodged during cleaning.
• Assist the homeowner in obtaining necessary repairs from a qualified mason.
The Need
A crackling blaze in a fireplace warms the soul and the body. Yet over time, the
interior of a chimney can become inefficient and dangerous due to the buildup of
102 HOME SERVICES (SPECIALTY)
creosote and other substances or because of blockages caused by leaves and
nests. Cracks and other damage to the flue can divert carbon monoxide, smoke,
or flames to the house itself.
The less frequently you use your fireplace, or the shorter the period of time a
fire is permitted to burn at full heat, the more often the flue should be inspected
and cleaned. A cold chimney causes more of the smoke to condense on the flue.
People who damp down a fire by closing fireplace doors or shutting off the flow
of oxygen from a vent usually send more partially burnt solids up the chimney,
which results in a more rapid buildup within the flue.
Experts recommend that homeowners who light fires three or more times a
week during the winter season should have a chimney cleaning and inspection
once a year; if homeowners burn unseasoned wood in a fireplace, twice-yearly
cleaning may be necessary.
Challenges
Some jobs are much more complex than others: exceptionally steep and high
roofs; chimney designs with twists and turns; adverse environmental conditions,
including severe weather, bird and rodent nests, and insect infestations.
You’ll be working at heights and in a dirty environment. You’ll also be entering
the clean homes of clients and be responsible for keeping dirt away from carpeting
and furniture.
The bulk of work may be seasonal, as homeowners prepare to use fireplaces
in the fall of each year.
Make sure your insurance coverage offers protection against claims for liability
in the event of a subsequent fire or structural problem.
Know the Territory
The basic work of the chimney sweep is to clean the flue, but the job also
involves inspection and careful protection of the interior of the home from the
ash and dirt. Here are the steps in a typical job:
• Climb ladders to the roof and gain access to the chimney.
• Inspect the fireplace, firebox, smoke shelf, damper, and flue for blockage,
buildup, cracks, and other damage.
• Seal the front of the fireplace with plastic to prevent soot and dirt from
entering the house. Put protective drop cloths on the floor to prevent damage
to carpeting and flooring.
• Brush the interior of the flue and other components from above. After
CHIMNEY CLEANING 103
sweeping, shovel out large debris and then vacuum the firebox, damper,
and smoke shelf.
• Give the homeowner a written report on the condition of the chimney with
recommendations for repair.
How to Get Started
Chimney cleaning is not regulated in most states and localities. In some areas,
though, licensing may be required. Several national groups offer certification to
members who complete specified education and training. A credential from one
of these groups, such as the Chimney Safety Institute of America, may help you
in selling your services and in obtaining insurance.
Place flyers and ads in home supply stores and community centers. Make
your services known to firewood suppliers, contractors, housecleaning companies,
and real estate agencies. Ask them to recommend you to their clients; offer
a commission for business they refer to you. Ask satisfied customers to recommend
you to friends and acquaintances, and offer a bonus or discount for new
business that results.
Make contact with masons and chimney repair specialists. You should be
able to refer your clients to them for necessary repairs and maintenance; they
may be willing to recommend your services to customers whose chimneys need
cleaning.
Up-front Expenses
You’ll need a basic chimney sweep’s kit, including at least one extension ladder
to reach the roof, a set of chimney rods and brushes, short-handled brushes, a
powerful shop vacuum with crevice tools and extension hoses, and buckets and
cans to haul away ashes and debris. You’ll also need drop cloths to cover carpeting
and plastic sheeting to seal the front of fireplaces while the flue is being
brushed.
You’ll need a station wagon or small van to transport your tools and equipment.
Other expenses include advertising and promotion.
How Much to Charge
Depending on local costs and the difficulty involved in gaining access to the
roof and the interior of the flue, chimney cleaning rates are generally in the
104 HOME SERVICES (SPECIALTY)
range of about $60 to $150. Inspections are usually billed in the range of $40
to $60.
Legal and Insurance Issues
Special note: Make sure your insurance coverage offers adequate protection
against liability claims that result from damage that may occur after you have
completed your inspection and cleaning.
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
Pool Service
–
Description of Job
• Prepare private swimming pools for seasonal openings.
• Clean the surface of pools and filter traps on a regular basis.
• Test water quality and make adjustments to chlorine and other chemicals in
the system.
• Coordinate with pump and filter service companies for necessary repairs.
• Prepare pools for winter closing.
The Need
A backyard swimming pool is a great comfort and (for some) a huge chore. The
cleanliness and chemical balance of the water in the pool has to be regularly
maintained, and the surface of the water and its filter traps have to be cleared of
leaves and debris.
Many homeowners hire a service to make scheduled visits to keep their pools
POOL SERVICE 105
in good health during the season and to close them down for the winter and
reopen them in the spring.
Challenges
Although the basics of treatment and filtration systems are very similar from
pool to pool, you will have to deal with variations in machinery and conditions at
each client’s home. You will also be responsible for keeping a close eye on health
conditions in the water, taking into account such factors as number of children
using the pool, trees and plants in the immediate vicinity, and the average ambient
temperature, which also affects the temperature of the water (except in the
case of heated pools, which maintain water temperature above the average ambient
temperature). Pollutants that affect water quality may include anything from
cosmetics to runoff to rainfall.
Know the Territory
Among the assignments for a pool service are:
• Checking the chlorine (or other sanitizer) level to ensure that it’s at a level
sufficient to keep unhealthy bacteria at bay
• Determining the water balance for proper levels of pH (acidity or alkalinity)
and hardness, adding chemicals to adjust the balance
• Checking total dissolved solids and adjusting filtration settings
• Cleaning both the surface of the pool and the filter traps
• Delivering a preseason treatment to sanitize the water, adding winterizing
chemicals at the end of the season
Most pools use chlorine as their principal chemical to sanitize the water.
When chlorine is added to water, it reacts to form a weak form of hydrochloric
acid and hypochlorous acid that kills microorganisms. The acids eventually
break down to harmless compounds.
While chlorine in the pool water is harmless to most swimmers, pool attendants
face a hazard when they are adding the full-strength chemical. Be sure to
read and follow the directions carefully, and especially avoid mixing the chemical
with other solutions. Avoid breathing in chlorine gas, which can be fatal; wear
protective gloves and eye coverings.
From time to time, it may be necessary to add other chemicals to deal with
algae, cloudy water, and other conditions that might arise.
106 HOME SERVICES (SPECIALTY)
How to Get Started
Place flyers and ads in community centers and home supply stores. Place ads in
newspapers and shopping guides.
Ask satisfied customers to recommend you to friends and acquaintances;
offer a bonus or discount for any business they bring your way.
Up-front Expenses
You will need a basic set of nets and scoops to clean the surface of the pool,
as well as traps and a simple tool kit to work with some compartments and
valves of the filtration system. To test the quality of the water, you’ll need a
test kit that uses special chemicals and reagents; some advanced testers are
electronic.
Your client will need to provide chlorine and other chemicals or pay you for
supplying them as needed. You will need a station wagon or small van to carry
your tools.
How Much to Charge
You can set a fixed fee for regular service, based on an estimate of the amount of
time required. If you provide any chemicals, bill for them at retail rates; you
should be able to purchase supplies at wholesale or discounted prices.
Add a fee for winterizing a pool; this usually involves adding special chemicals
and installing a pool cover. Similarly, at the start of the season you can
charge a separate fee for removing the cover and giving the pool a preseason
treatment.
Legal and Insurance Issues
Special notes: Some insurance carriers have very stringent underwriting conditions
before they will issue policies for people who work with dangerous
chemicals.
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
POOL SERVICE 107
Firewood Delivery
Description of Job
• Pick up and deliver seasoned firewood to clients in rural and urban settings.
• Consult with clients about specialty woods for particular effects.
• Stack wood and protect it from rain and insects.
The Need
If you have a fireplace or a woodstove, you need a reliable source of good-quality
firewood. Especially if you live in a city, it may be very difficult to find and store
wood.
City dwellers may need frequent deliveries of small quantities of wood, and
they may need to store it inside. Quality wood for inside storage is dry and free
of insects.
Rural and urban dwellers may be able to accept deliveries large enough to
last a full season; they may not have a truck for pickup of the wood and may not
have the time or inclination to properly stack and store the wood.
Some buyers may have needs or wants for wood of a particular species. Owners
of woodstoves may need logs that are shorter and thinner than those used for
a large fireplace.
Challenges
You will need to obtain a reliable source of quality wood in large quantities. The
wood should be insect- and disease-free, and should be seasoned about one year
after cutting to reduce the water content.
The wood will need to be cut into usable lengths and split to allow easy
lighting and efficient burning; in the best situation, this work will be done by
the wood wholesaler you deal with, leaving you to concentrate on resale and
delivery.
Know the Territory
The preferred products for fireplaces and woodstoves are hardwoods and specialty
fruitwoods.
108 HOME SERVICES (SPECIALTY)
Hardwoods, such as oak, maple, and elm, catch fire easier, burn more efficiently,
and produce more heat than most other species. Specialty fruitwoods
have properties similar to hardwoods and can add aroma to the room; used in a
cooking stove or a wood oven, they add flavor to foods. Fruitwoods include
apple, birch, cherry, and peach.
Typically, a full cord of hardwood yields about the same heat as 200 gallons
of heating oil or 4,000 kilowatts of electricity. The heat from wood depends on
its density, resin, and moisture content.
Softwoods give a fast-burning, crackling blaze but deliver much less heat and
may produce resins and creosote that could cause a dangerous condition in chimneys
and stovepipes.
Freshly cut trees have as much as 60 percent moisture content by weight; logs
containing that much water will not burn well—if they light at all. After a year of
seasoning, the moisture content of wood generally falls to 25 percent or less.
Wood seasons faster if it has been split and then stacked off the ground in a manner
that allows flow of air in and around the logs.
A full cord of wood is defined as 128 cubic feet, which typically measures
four feet high, four feet deep, and eight feet long when stacked. In two-foot
lengths, a full cord typically includes about 600 logs and weighs about two tons.
In some areas, wood sellers offer face cords, which are only two feet deep
and amount to 64 cubic feet; basically, this is a half cord.
Wood is best stored outside where fresh air can help it continue to season;
it should be covered only when it is raining. If wood is stored indoors, it should
be cleaned of insects and stored in a rack or shelving that allows circulation
of air.
There are four ways to sell wood, at increasing levels of difficulty; the price
to the customer climbs accordingly:
• Self-serve pickup at a wood lot
• Delivery of orders to a client’s property
• Delivery and proper stacking of wood outdoors on a client’s property
• Delivery and stacking of wood inside in apartments and condos, including
carrying wood up stairs, where necessary
How to Get Started
Post ads in community centers. Place ads in newspapers and shopping guides.
Ask satisfied customers to recommend your services; offer a bonus or discount
for any business they refer to you.
FIREWOOD DELIVERY 109
Up-front Expenses
You will need to purchase or lease a heavy-duty truck and pay for licensing,
maintenance, and repair. You may need a ramp and hand truck or cart to transport
wood.
Other expenses include advertising and promotion.
How Much to Charge
Many states regulate commercial wood sellers by defining quantities of wood
(this to protect consumers); most use a standard cord size or cubic footage. In
some places dealers are prohibited from selling by undefined “rack,” “pile,” or
“truckload” sizes.
Prices for firewood vary by location and by difficulty of pickup and delivery.
A typical price for a full cord of hardwood delivered and stacked in a rural or
suburban area would be in the range of $200 to $250; a half cord might range in
price from about $125 to $150. Special-order fruitwood can be as much as 50 to
100 percent more costly.
To determine your price, start with your wholesale cost of wood. Add to it the
expense of owning or leasing a truck, travel to the woodlot, time to measure and
load an order, travel to the customer, and time for unloading and stacking the
wood properly. You should increase your price to cover extra time when you are
required to carry wood into a home or apartment.
Legal and Insurance Issues
➀ Legal [1]
➁ Legal [2]
➂ Legal [3]
➃ Accounting [4]
➄ Insurance [5]
110 HOME SERVICES (SPECIALTY)
On-demand Trash Removal
Description of Job
• Pick up appliances, furniture, boxes, and other large items and deliver them
to the town dump or trash collection center.
• Assist homeowners and renters in clearing basements, attics, and closets of
unwanted items.
The Need
As comedian George Carlin once said, a house is just a place to keep your stuff.
If you didn’t have so much stuff, you wouldn’t need a house.
If you’ve lived in a house for any length of time, you know that, over time, it
increasingly fills up with extra furniture, old appliances, boxes of magazines, and
other stuff. The basement may also become cluttered with cans of paint, solvents,
insecticides, and other dangerous chemicals.
The job of the on-demand trash pickup service is to help people move bulky
or restricted items from their homes or apartments to dumps or trash collection
centers.
Challenges
Among the requirements for this sort of job: a strong back, a truck or van, and
observance of local ordinances.
Some municipalities are very strict in regulating use of their facilities and
require local residents to obtain a sticker. Others may not require identification
from individuals, but may have separate regulations for commercial dumpers. If
you are bringing items to the dump, recycling center, or trash collection center on
behalf of someone else, you may need to obtain a commercial license from your
local government.
The municipality may charge a fee for the disposal of large items such as
appliances, tires, and furniture.
Most municipalities have strict regulations about the disposal of hazardous
substances, including paint and chemicals; in some areas, there are designated
days when such material is accepted, and there may be a fee for disposal.
ON-DEMAND TRASH REMOVAL 111
Be specific about what sort of jobs you are willing to accept. Will you carry
items up or down stairs?
Know the Territory
You’ll need to know the hours of operation for dumps and understand local regulations
on disposal of large items, appliances, and hazardous chemicals.
How to Get Started
Advertise your availability in local newspapers, at community centers, and by
word of mouth. Your vehicle will become a portable advertisement for your services;
keep business cards and flyers handy as you load and unload.
Up-front Expenses
You’ll need a vehicle. Other expenses include advertising and promotions.
How Much to Charge
This job is usually billed by the hour, plus a mileage charge to and from the
dump. The hourly rate should reflect the cost of any necessary permits. The
mileage rate should be high enough to pay for a portion of repair and maintenance
for the vehicle plus gasoline and licenses. The client is also responsible
for payment of any special fees for disposal of large items and hazardous
chemicals.
Legal and Insurance Issues
Special notes: You may need a special commercial permit or license from a
municipality. Discuss with your attorney any prior legal problems you may
have encountered and seek advice about whether they need to be disclosed to
clients.
● Legal [1]
● Legal [2]
● Legal [3]
● Accounting [4]
● Insurance [5]
112 HOME SERVICES (SPECIALTY)
Christmas Tree Service
Description of Job
• Select a Christmas tree to the exact specifications of the client.
• Deliver and set up the tree in client’s home.
• Remove the tree from client’s home on request and dispose of it properly.
The Need
A fresh, perfectly shaped, fragrant pine tree is at the heart of some of our best
Christmas memories. Yet most of us also have horror stories of the scrawny one
that wouldn’t fit into the tree stand and immediately began shedding needles.
Even before that stage, there is the problem of finding the time to go out and
choose the perfect tree, strap it to the top of the car, and lug it up the stairs and
into the house or apartment.
The job of the Christmas tree specialist is to locate, purchase, and deliver a
tree that exactly meets the specifications of the client; this may involve trimming
and shaping it. After Christmas, the specialist comes back to remove the tree and
dispose of it properly.
This sort of service may be especially popular in cities where residents don’t
have easy access to a vehicle to transport a tree.
Challenges
It is very important to establish a good relationship with a nursery or tree supplier.
You want first choice of the best trees of various species and shapes, and
you want cooperation in trimming branches and cutting it to an exact height.
Your arrangement with the supplier will be built on your ability to buy in
volume.
It is also critical to have good communication with your client. You can post
pictures of various types of trees on a web site, or include photos in brochures.
Make sure your client measures the height of the room properly.
CHRISTMAS TREE SERVICE 113
Know the Territory
Learn all you can about the types of trees available in your area. For example,
Scotch pines hold their needles longer than most varieties, and Virginia pines
have a very strong scent.
How to Get Started
Post flyers and ads at community bulletin boards and in stores. Place advertisements
in local newspapers, shopping guides, and church bulletins.
Up-front Expenses
You will need to own or rent a vehicle large enough to pick up trees from the supplier
before Christmas and retrieve them at the end of the holiday season.
Other expenses include advertising and promotion.
How Much to Charge
The simplest way to charge for this sort of service is to set a fee based on the size
and variety of the tree; in addition to marking up your wholesale or discounted
cost for the tree, add in your time plus mileage for pickup and delivery and
retrieval after the holiday. Depending on the neighborhood and the level of service
you provide, you should be able to mark up the price of a tree by $50 to
$100.
Increase the price of the tree if you need to travel a great distance for pickup
or delivery or if the tree must be carried up stairs.
You can add the cost of a tree stand if you will be supplying one.
Legal and Insurance Issues
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
114 HOME SERVICES (SPECIALTY)
Small Engine Repair
–
Description of Job
• Repair small engines on lawn mowers, all-terrain vehicles, chainsaws, and
generators.
• Provide scheduled maintenance including installation of filters, oil changes,
and tune-ups on small engines.
The Need
We love our power tools and toys: lawn mowers, riding tractors, weed whackers,
chainsaws, snowblowers, go-carts, and many other devices that use small gasoline
engines. Though these engines are essentially similar to highly reliable automobile
engines, they are by necessity much smaller, lighter, and constructed of
much less expensive components.
The compromises that come from small size and low cost usually mean that
these engines require regular attention and adjustment, and parts may wear out
quickly.
A small engine repair business can be done at your workshop, which allows
you to keep all of your tools and spare parts right at hand. However, another
attractive opportunity exists for mobile repair service, where the workshop travels
to the customer and work is done on-site. The advantage to the client is that a
cumbersome lawn mower or snowblower does not have to be carted away to a
shop for repair.
Challenges
Set the boundaries for the types and sizes of engines you will work on. The simplest
and most common are air-cooled, one-cylinder, two- or four-cycle gasoline
engines. More complex engines are (like most automobile engines) multicylinder,
water-cooled plants.
Complexity of repair and inventory of parts goes up dramatically when you
come to engines with belts, generators, and power takeoffs. You’ll need some
SMALL ENGINE REPAIR 115
special expertise to take on outboard motors and mission-critical systems such as
emergency electrical generators.
Be aware of local ordinances that might limit your ability to work in residential
neighborhoods, and many jurisdictions have strict regulations regarding the
disposal of engine oil and other chemicals.
Know the Territory
You’ll need a strong background in engine repair and the ability to quickly
research techniques and parts for unusual jobs.
When a customer calls for repair or maintenance, obtain full information
about the device: manufacturer, model number, and serial number. Note that half
a dozen or so companies manufacture the majority of small engines, and those
engines are used to power dozens of other brand-name devices. For example,
power units from companies like Tecumseh engines and Briggs & Stratton are
used in a wide variety of equipment.
You should be able to stock a basic collection of engine parts and lubricants
for a wide variety of engines; have a list of sources from whom you can specialorder
unusual components, as needed.
Some jobs are more complex than others, and in some cases you may need to
order replacement parts from a supplier before work can be completed.
How to Get Started
Advertise your availability through sporting goods, home and garden, and other
retail stores. Post ads and flyers on community bulletin boards and in schools.
Your mobile van, if you have one, will become a portable billboard for your
services. Be sure to keep a supply of flyers and business cards at hand while doing
repairs in someone’s driveway or garage; the neighbors may come knocking.
Ask satisfied customers to recommend your services to friends and neighbors,
and offer them a discount or bonus for new business they bring you.
Up-front Expenses
You’ll need to invest in a library of technical manuals for the most common
engines. You’ll need a set of small engine tools and you’ll need basic parts and
supplies, including spark plugs, engine oil, filters, and gaskets. Based on your
customer’s description of the type of engine and its model number, you may be
able to purchase parts as needed.
If you will be operating a mobile repair service, you’ll need a vehicle large
116 HOME SERVICES (SPECIALTY)
enough to carry your tools and supplies. You should be able to work with a small
van or a station wagon; you can add a trailer hitch and a small trailer if you need
to transport an engine or an entire machine back to your workshop.
Other expenses include advertising and promotion.
How Much to Charge
Charge by the hour, plus the cost of parts (marked up from wholesale) for standard
repairs. For basic maintenance, you can set a flat fee for particular classes
of engines—for example, for a tuneup of a lawn mower or chainsaw.
Legal and Insurance Issues
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
SMALL ENGINE REPAIR 117

CHAPTER 8
Parties, Entertainment,
and Special Events
35 Party Planner
36 Children’s Event Organizer
37 Party and Special-Event Rentals
38 Catering
39 Visiting Chef
40 Specialty Cake Baker
41 Prepared Custom-Meal Service
42 Freelance Bartender
43 Entertainer
44 Holiday Decoration Service
Party Planner
Description of Job
• Plan and manage personal events such as a child’s birthday party, a special
occasion such as an anniversary, graduation celebration, adult’s birthday,
retirement party, or reunion.
• Plan and manage business events such as cocktail parties, product introductions,
fund-raisers, open houses, retirement parties, and holiday parties.
• Design an event that meets your client’s needs, wishes, and budget.
• Develop a network of reliable and professional service providers such as
caterers, servers, bartenders, entertainers, and setup and cleanup crews
• Stay abreast of appropriate locations for events that will be held outside of
your client’s residence or place of business.
• Write an inclusive contract for your services that properly spells out all that
you will provide.
• Budget accurately and maintain records for proper billing.
The Need
A truly successful social event doesn’t happen by accident. We’re not talking
about inviting a few of your best friends over for pizza and beer to watch the Red
Sox break the curse of the Bambino. A party planner has the creativity, the sense
of organization, and the contacts to put together dozens of details, from location
to theme to food and drink to entertainment . . . and even the morning after the
night before.
Here are just three of many reasons party planners are needed:
1. Putting on a good party requires creativity, and many people are willing
to pay for good help.
2. Planning and putting on a party requires a great deal of time and effort,
and individuals and companies may not be able to do it themselves.
120 PARTIES, ENTERTAINMENT, AND SPECIAL EVENTS
3. Many people are not comfortable with all of the details that may go into
mounting a successful event.
You’ll probably know that this is the job for you if you’ve put on more than a
few successful parties of your own, but remember that as a professional party
planner you’ll have to deal with someone else’s expectations, needs, budget,
friends, and business associates.
The biggest difference between a party or event you set up for yourself and
one that you do for a client is this:You are not the host and not a guest. It is your
job to exceed your client’s expectations and spare your client from all of the
headaches.
Challenges
This is not your party, and you can’t cry if you want to. The headaches are all
yours. The client is always right, even when he or she is wrong.
You are there to interpret and suggest, but not to impose your sense of style
on an event if the client disagrees. Don’t take on a job that you can’t do well. If
the job is too complex or too large or not possible, walk away from the contract.
It’s much worse to have a failure—and a bad reference—than to forgo a job.
Expect to be asked to put on a champagne-and-caviar reception on a beerand-
pizza budget; you’ll need to know costs and be able to steer your clients to
realistic expectations.
If a caterer delivers a bad meal, the entertainer fails to show, or the tent company
provides a leaky covering, it’s your headache.
Spend the time to learn about available caterers, locations, entertainers, setup
crews, furniture and equipment rentals, and other services you may need.
Read your local newspaper carefully to learn about social events and parties
in your area. Consider the newspaper coverage as part of your research about
what kind of events are put on and how they are set up.
Visit the locations for events you might manage. Tour facilities when they are
empty and ask if you can return during—or just before—scheduled events they
may be putting on. Obtain price lists and advance calendars that let you know
when facilities may already be booked.
Ask for references from any service provider you may want to make part of
your team. Talk to more than one company in each of the categories you will be
working with.
Gather a database of prices for all of the available services from service
providers. Collect menus from caterers and restaurants you will be working with.
PARTY PLANNER 121
Establish and maintain a list of names, phone numbers, cell phone numbers,
e-mail addresses, and other information for all of the service providers you may
need to work with. Your black book will become the heart of your operation.
Get to know some of the other party planners in your area; you may find it
valuable to partner with them on a particularly large or complex event, and they
may do the same with you someday.
How to Get Started
Start spreading the news. Let your friends and acquaintances know you are in the
business. For parties for individuals, post flyers on bulletin boards in markets, at
sports clubs, and in schools to let people know your availability. Include your
phone number and web page address.
For parties for businesses, start by asking your friends and acquaintances
about the sorts of events they see at work, and ask for the names of the people in
charge. Create a professional letter, including your qualifications, and send it out.
Advertise in shopping guides and newspapers. Set up a web page to advertise
your availability. Ask clients for permission to list them as references or to
include pictures or descriptions from events you’ve staged for them.
Maintain a portfolio of photos and details of all of your parties and events to
show to prospective clients.
Carefully prepare a questionnaire and checklist for your client. Send it on
ahead of your first planning meeting, or go over it line by line with the client.
This will help you determine exactly what the client wants to have at the party
and will be the basis of your bid for the job. Make a professional appearance
when you consult with your client. Wear business clothing; bring business cards
and supporting material.
Follow up after your initial contact. Some people take a long time to make
a decision, and your continued expression of interest may get you the job. If
you are not selected for the job, be polite and ask the reason. Was it price? Was
it a service you did not offer? Ask the client to keep you in mind for a future
event.
Don’t go out of your way to lose money, but you might want to take on a job
or two on a break-even basis or at a minimal profit when you’re getting started to
help you build a reputation and some references.
Up-front Expenses
Initial expenses include advertising and promotion. You may also have to bear
the costs of research trips to visit locations and service providers.
122 PARTIES, ENTERTAINMENT, AND SPECIAL EVENTS
How Much to Charge
There are three ways to set your prices for this sort of business: (1) Charge a flat
fee for your services; (2) offer a cost-plus contract in which the client agrees to
pay all agreed-upon expenses plus a specified percentage; or (3) provide an allinclusive
contract in which the client sees only the bottom line.
Whichever way you choose to establish your rates, it should be based on an
estimation of how much time you will need to devote to the job. If an event is
going to require 40 hours of work by you, and you determine that you need to
receive $25 per hour to pay the costs of running your business and generating a
profit, then your contract should either (in this example) consist of a flat fee of
$1,000, a cost-plus figure that produces about $1,000 for you, or an all-inclusive
amount that is marked up by $1,000.
Make certain your contract is properly drawn. If the client makes a change to
the requirements that results in a higher cost, the contract should be written in a
way that allows you to increase your charge accordingly. Similarly, you should
seek written contracts or bids from your suppliers with full details about their
responsibilities and products.
Legal and Insurance Issues
Special notes: Consult your insurance agent about specialized insurance to protect
you once you begin putting on large events. You’ll want to especially watch
for liability issues. In addition, your client might want to know about insurance
that protects against such things as cancellations and unanticipated expenses
because of rain, snow, extremes of temperature, or other acts of God.
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
PARTY PLANNER 123
Children’s Event Organizer
Description of Job
• Be the organizer and majordomo of a party or special event for children.
• Meet with parents (and child where appropriate) to discuss activities, entertainment,
and food.
• Develop a budget and a plan for the event, including contingencies for
weather.
• Supervise the event.
The Need
If you think that putting on a wedding reception for a hundred guests or planning
a formal cocktail party for the boss and the board of directors is stressful,
you obviously have never been in charge of a birthday party for 12 six-yearolds.
Adults look for the quality of conversation, food, and drink. The younger set
wants to be entertained constantly, fed often, and generally allowed to run wild.
(Well, yes, so do the adults, but sometimes they can be reasoned with, and their
temper tantrums are usually easier to head off.)
Events for children can be held at the home of their parents, which may be the
most comfortable and least expensive but also brings problems of breakage,
bathrooms, pets, and neighbors; or they can be held at parks, amusement areas,
sporting arenas, theaters, restaurants, and other venues.
The job of the children’s event organizer is to know the territory, understand
children, and be willing to take on the challenge of throwing a party for the pintsized.
Challenges
You should be able to see things from a child’s point of view. The party has to be
fun, and the guest of honor is going to expect to earn bragging rights that will last
at least until the next friend’s party.
124 PARTIES, ENTERTAINMENT, AND SPECIAL EVENTS
Many parties for youngsters are based on a theme, and you have to keep current.
Harry Potter may be just so yesterday by the time of your event.
Among the challenges: goodie bags, piñatas, lawn games. Do you need to
rent a clown or a pony? Is the client’s backyard an appropriate and safe location?
How far into the house can the children venture? What happens if it rains?
Meet with the parents first to understand their expectations and limitations;
then include the child to hear his or her expectations. (If the party is to be a surprise,
the parents will have to be able to speak on behalf of their child.)
Be sure that the parents have a realistic idea of the number of guests they
intend to invite. Twenty kids in a three-room apartment with one bathroom is not
going to be pleasant; six kids in a formal dining room may meet a kid’s definition
of boring. Make a presentation that includes area amusement parks, museums,
restaurants, and theaters that will host a party.
Explore themes for home parties. If the child is a fan of TheWizard of Oz, suggest
decorating the client’s home with a yellow-brick road into the Emerald City.
Avoid unnecessary exposure to liability. We’d suggest staying away from
trampolines, bounce houses, and anything else that increases the risk of children
being hurt. Even a pool party involves potential danger unless it’s heavily supervised.
Your contract should limit your exposure to liability, especially for any
danger that already exists at the home or party location.
Know the Territory
Contact area theme parks, museums, arenas, theaters, and restaurants that cater
to children, and find out about their programs for parties. You’ll also need to meet
and check out clowns, magicians, balloon artists, singers, and other entertainers
you may engage.
You have to know what’s hot and what’s not in the fickle world of children
and match the age group of the party to the right theme.
How to Get Started
Post flyers and ads at community centers, schools, and retail outlets, including
party supply stores. Retailers may be willing to allow you to advertise at their
stores if you promise to shop for supplies there. Place ads in newspapers and
shopping guides.
Ask friends and acquaintances to spread the word about your services; offer
a bonus or a discount on future services for business they send your way. Do the
same with satisfied customers.
CHILDREN’S EVENT ORGANIZER 125
You can also contact companies in your area that plan holiday events (Fourth
of July, Christmas, and the like) for their employees; offer your services to organize
separate entertainment for the children.
Up-front Expenses
The principal up-front expenses are for advertising and promotion.
How Much to Charge
Charge by the hour for your planning and supervision of the event, and add the
cost of any supplies you must purchase or rent; you should be able to buy at
wholesale or discount prices and resell at retail prices.
Your client can pay entertainers and food providers directly, or those services
can bill you, in which case you can use a cost-plus basis for billing for your
hours, adding a markup to other costs.
Legal and Insurance Issues
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
Party and Special-Event Rentals
–
Description of Job
• Set up an inventory of party furniture and entertainment equipment for
rental to individual and business clients.
• Act as a broker to use the equipment of other companies, as needed.
126 PARTIES, ENTERTAINMENT, AND SPECIAL EVENTS
• Establish contacts with other suppliers of unusual equipment for rent.
• Deliver and set up equipment at client’s location.
• Pick up and clean equipment after the party.
The Need
Most of us put on a big bash only a handful of times in our lives: weddings, major
anniversaries and birthdays, graduations, and the like. Very few of us have a
garage full of folding chairs, banquet tables, umbrellas, audio equipment, and
other elements of a successful party.
A business may want to throw a party to celebrate a product introduction or
a holiday, but is not likely to have tables and chairs and other equipment for
guests.
The job of the party and special-event rental company is to maintain an
inventory of portable furniture and equipment, or establish and maintain relationships
with other companies who can supply necessary equipment as needed.
Most of the jobs for this sort of business will occur in places other than
hotels, banquet halls, or church basements. Those locations will likely have their
own chairs, tables, and equipment, or they may have master contracts with major
companies.
As a start-up company, you will be looking for jobs in nontraditional locations:
perhaps a wedding on the beach at sunset or a graduation party in someone’s
own backyard.
Challenges
If you will be offering your own equipment for rent, this sort of business can
involve a large investment. You will also have to clean and maintain the furniture
and equipment.
The peak periods for special events and parties include summertime and holidays.
At other times of the year there may be much less business, and competition
with other suppliers may reduce prices and profits.
However, if you will be working as a broker, you can let others make the
investment and earn your profit as a percentage of the rental charges plus any
other fees you might assess the client directly.
Know the Territory
Learn as much as you can about the party and special-event calendar in your
area; read the social pages of the newspaper as though they were a scouting
PARTY AND SPECIAL-EVENT RENTALS 127
report. Check the prices for rentals from competitors to help you draw up your
business plan.
Check wholesale supply companies for chairs and tables and other items you
will be buying in quantity. Be on the lookout for restaurants or hotels going out
of business or disposing of surplus equipment.
Contact major rental companies and seek an arrangement as a broker. In
doing so, you will be similar to party planners who offer their services in return
for a percentage of the rental fee or the markup. Bill yourself as a specialist who
can provide just about any piece of furniture and equipment—or an entire lawnful
of them—from your various sources.
How to Get Started
Post flyers and ads at community centers, on church bulletin boards, and in
stores. Place ads in local newspapers and shopping guides, including special
wedding and holiday sections.
Make your services known to party planners and caterers; offer to share commissions
or a finder’s fee for business they direct to you. Ask satisfied customers
to recommend you to friends and acquaintances; offer a bonus or discount for
new business. Send letters to corporate event planners.
Up-front Expenses
If you will be establishing your own inventory, there will be a substantial upfront
investment. Among the items you’ll need are chairs, chair covers, tables,
umbrellas, a dance floor, and a portable bar. You’ll also need linens.
For meals, you’ll need to provide utensils and china service. You may be able
to partner with a caterer who will bring serving trays and equipment for the food
preparation.
If you will be operating as a broker, you will need to create a catalog of available
items.
Other expenses include advertising and promotion.
How Much to Charge
Rental companies generally charge a flat rate for each piece of furniture or equipment,
taking into account the cost of equipment and depreciation. You can offer
packages of blocks of tables, chairs, and other furniture at a discounted rate. Add
a fee for delivery and pickup.
If you will be functioning as a broker, seek a discount from the owner of the
furniture or equipment and mark the prices up to the retail rate.
128 PARTIES, ENTERTAINMENT, AND SPECIAL EVENTS
Legal and Insurance Issues
Special notes: You’ll want insurance on your equipment; don’t expect to collect
if a single umbrella is stolen or if a table breaks, but you should be covered in
case the tent burns down or the beach floods, resulting in the tragic loss of hundreds
of folding chairs.
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
Catering
–
Description of Job
• Prepare meals to a client’s specifications.
• Offer a range of theme and gourmet menus for special occasions.
The Need
A good caterer brings excitement, elegance, and professionalism to any gathering,
large or small.
In a business setting, there is often no choice but to bring in a caterer for a
meeting or social event. Offices and halls may not have a kitchen on-site, and in
any case, cooking for the CEO and important customers is not generally part of
the job description for the head of marketing.
For private parties and gatherings in a home, hiring a caterer relieves the
hosts of the responsibility for shopping, preparing, serving, and cleaning up.
Although the host may be quite capable when it comes to preparing a family dinner,
producing a full spread of appetizers, entrées, salads, and desserts for a
roomful of people may be well beyond a reasonable assignment.
Other social settings where catering is appropriate include fund-raising
events, cocktail parties, and after-theater gatherings.
CATERING 129
Challenges
You have to know your way around your own kitchen and be able to work in a
client’s facility if needed. You’ll also need to be very well versed in the rules of
proper food handling, including the storage and transportation of raw ingredients,
the handling of cooked food, and the proper temperatures to protect prepared
dishes on the buffet line.
In most jurisdictions you’ll also have to obtain a license or otherwise work
closely with health departments.
If you will be providing food within hotels or convention halls, you may
need to work with some of their unionized employees. If you will be delivering
food to offices or other businesses, you will have to meet their professional
standards.
Caterers generally offer both preselected combinations of dishes and customized
menus to meet the requests of their clients. You must be able to adapt
your recipes to fit the number of guests at the event.
In some cases, the caterer is involved in the actual serving of the food. In
other instances, the caterer delivers the food—completely cooked or one or more
steps short of completion—to a serving crew provided by the client, a party planner,
or a meeting hall.
Know the Territory
Build a library of your specialties. Take photos and collect testimonials from satisfied
customers. For very large gatherings you may be called on to provide some
samples of your cooking for evaluation.
A vast collection of recipes and cooking techniques available is on the Internet,
as well as in newspapers and cookbooks.
Get to know area businesses, hotels, and convention centers. Read the social
pages of local newspapers to learn about major events held on an annual basis,
and make contact with the sponsors.
How to Get Started
Advertise in newspapers and shopping guides. Post flyers and ads on community
bulletin boards.
Offer to teach a course at local schools or colleges as a way to get some publicity
and perhaps some clients.
130 PARTIES, ENTERTAINMENT, AND SPECIAL EVENTS
Up-front Expenses
You’ll need a kitchen with large, commercial-grade preparation and cooking
equipment. Depending on local regulations, you may have to purchase and use
special equipment to measure temperature of raw and cooked food and to maintain
it within a safe range.
You’ll also need appropriate containers to transport finished food from your
kitchen to the client; depending on the formality of the event, the same containers
might also be used for serving.
You’ll need a vehicle to transport your prepared food to your client and pick
up any equipment you leave behind; when you first start your business, you may
be able to rent a van on an as-needed basis for jobs.
You’ll need to stock your kitchen with basic ingredients, spices, and flavorings.
You’ll also want a library of cookbooks and reference books.
Additional costs include advertising and promotion.
How Much to Charge
Most caterers have a standard selection of offerings, with prices based on the
number of guests at the event. The cost of a dish should take into account the
price of ingredients and the amount of time required to prepare it. Simple baked
or steamed lobster is relatively easy to prepare but expensive to purchase; a fancy
dessert may use some very basic ingredients but require a great deal of time and
attention in the kitchen.
If the client asks for dishes not on your standard list of offerings, you’ll need
to research the cost carefully.
Add charges for delivery and for the cost of containers that are not reusable.
If you will be working during the party itself to assist in serving and cleanup,
add an hourly charge for your time.
Legal and Insurance Issues
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
CATERING 131
Visiting Chef
Description of Job
• Plan and prepare a gourmet or theme dinner at a client’s home.
• Select and serve appropriate wines.
• Serve meal to guests.
• Clean up kitchen.
The Need
For a formal dinner party or an extraordinary gathering of friends and family, one
very special option is to hire a professional cook to come to your home to prepare
and serve a meal. A visiting chef delivers a customized gourmet or theme dinner
to your exact order, leaving you free to be a guest at your own party.
Challenges
You will need the skills and background of a professional chef, with some additional
flexibility to be able to work in unfamiliar kitchens and with sometimes
unusual requests. You may have to work with less-than-optimal ovens, with utensils
and pots that are less than commercial quality, and in limited space.
You’ll need to be able to put together an entire meal, including appetizers,
entrées, and dessert. In most situations, you’ll also need to have some knowledge
about the selection and serving of wine.
Depending on the size of the job and your own experience, you may need to
experiment with unusual dishes in your own kitchen before cooking them for
your client.
Know the Territory
Spend the time to meet with clients to discuss menu and ingredient choices. Tour
the kitchen you’ll be working in to learn about your working area.
You can offer menus of available, tested recipes or ask for requests and suggestions
from your clients. Be sure to discuss any special ingredients they may
want, and ask about allergies and special diets.
132 PARTIES, ENTERTAINMENT, AND SPECIAL EVENTS
Plan on shopping for ingredients on your own, from suppliers you know and
trust. You should be able to perform some of the prep work on dishes in your own
kitchen and finish them on-site. In some cases, you may want to subcontract
desserts to a professional pastry chef and arrange for just-in-time delivery to the
home.
You should work with a knowledgeable wine merchant to match libations to
menu items (and to your client’s budget). Do the same with suppliers of gourmet
cheese, meat, and other specialty items.
You may need a helper for food preparation, serving, and/or cleanup.
How to Get Started
Post flyers and ads in community centers, schools, and retail outlets. Place ads in
newspapers and shopping guides.
You may be able to advertise your services at area gourmet food stores,
butcher shops, and liquor stores; offer a commission or bonus for business they
refer to you, and do some of your own shopping there. Ask friends, acquaintances,
and satisfied customers to recommend your services; offer them a bonus
or discount on future services in return for business they send your way.
Make contact with area party planners, chambers of commerce, and other
groups whose members might be active in the local social scene.
You could teach a cooking course at a local community school for publicity
and perhaps some clients.
Up-front Expenses
You’ll need specialty pots, pans, and cooking utensils. For unusual dishes you
may need specialty oven pans and serving platters. You may also need to purchase
and maintain some basic and unusual ingredients.
You should build a library of cookbooks and reference books; a great deal of
information is also available on the Internet.
Other costs include advertising and promotion.
How Much to Charge
There are two common ways to bill for your service for this sort of a job:
1. A set charge for each dish prepared, taking into account the amount of
time required and the cost of ingredients. You’ll need to adjust the price
based on the number of guests you will be feeding.
VISITING CHEF 133
2. An hourly rate for planning, preparing, cooking, serving, and cleaning
up, plus an additional charge for the cost of ingredients and supplies. You
should be able to purchase wine, gourmet ingredients, and other supplies
at wholesale or discount prices and bill your customers at retail rates.
Additional expenses include delivery charges for special ingredients or
equipment and an hourly charge for a helper for food preparation or serving.
Legal and Insurance Issues
Special notes: Your attorney should be able to advise you about any local health
codes that might be involved and about any regulations on the resale of alcoholic
beverages (it might be necessary to have the client deal directly with a liquor
store).
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
Specialty Cake Baker
–
Description of Job
• Create custom edible works of dessert art for celebrations and special occasions.
• Produce unusual image cakes and theme designs.
The Need
We are almost all blessed or cursed with a sweet tooth, and there are few better
ways to mark a special occasion than with a cake. However, there are cakes . . .
and then there are very special cakes.
134 PARTIES, ENTERTAINMENT, AND SPECIAL EVENTS
The specialty cake baker produces extraordinary cakes to the exact needs and
wants of the client, customizing flavors, fillings, styles, shapes, and decoration.
A child may want a cake in the shape of his favorite superhero or her beloved
pop star. You could score points with a serious sports fan by making a cake in the
shape of a football stadium or a baseball diamond.
A corporate gathering could celebrate a sales meeting with a cake formed and
decorated to look like its latest product launch.
A custom wedding cake could include decorations and elements that make
reference to the story of the bride and groom.
One of the newest touches in cake decorating is the image cake, which uses
a computer-scanned photo or a digital image to control a special printer that
applies food coloring to icing to re-create a picture on a cake. Similar effects can
be created freehand by a capable painter using edible inks.
Challenges
The primary skill is the ability to bake a cake and decorate it with an artistic
touch. You’ll need to fully communicate with clients about how much chocolate
is needed to satisfy a chocoholic, how much carrot goes into a proper carrot cake,
and the exact specifications for frosting and decorations.
You’ll also need to become an expert on state and local health codes related
to the preparation, sale, and delivery of food. In some localities you need a
license for commercial sale of food and may have to follow strict regulations
about cleanliness, supplies, and storage of finished goods.
Depending on the regulations, you may be able to perform baking in your
own home or you may have to create a separate area; you may be able to use your
personal utensils and other equipment or you may need to segregate them from
items used for commercial work.
You’ll also need to know about food allergies (peanuts are a somewhat common
problem, and some clients may insist on food prepared without whole eggs,
wheat, or certain other ingredients); and you’ll need to understand state and federal
definitions of low fat and other terms that may impact your business.
Be very specific about the size and dimensions of your cake, and give precise
and reasonable estimates of serving portions. If you say your cake will serve 20,
it is not your problem if 40 show up with plate in hand.
Know the Territory
You can’t become a specialty baker without having spent more than a little time
in front of an oven. Develop a collection of tried-and-proven recipes (and know
how to scale them up or down for different sizes of groups).
SPECIALTY CAKE BAKER 135
Special shapes for cakes can be accomplished by using shaped baking tins or
by carefully sculpting sheet cakes.
Image cakes can be created using freehand artistic skills or with the aid of
some high-tech equipment. For freehand work, you can use an overhead projector
or a slide projector to display a photo or drawing on a plain frosted background;
special airbrush equipment can spray food coloring onto the surface.
The high-tech solution is to use a computer scanner to copy a photo or image
into a digital file, or to directly import a digital photograph. The resulting file can
be edited using a digital image program such as Adobe Photoshop. Once the file
has been prepared and sized to fit the cake, you can use special edible inks and
an ink-jet printer to apply the image to a thin, edible carrier sheet that can then be
put on an iced surface.
Finished cakes can be picked up by a customer or frozen and packed with dry
ice for shipment anywhere in the country. (Again, you’ll have to follow regulations
about preparation and shipping of foodstuffs.) Frozen cakes are usually
shipped in insulated coolers for overnight delivery; products shipped in this way
can be sent to homes or businesses, but some carriers do not deliver to post office
boxes or overseas locations.
How to Get Started
Start locally by advertising your services on bulletin boards at community centers
and schools. Place ads in newspapers and shopping guides.
Make contact with area party planners and caterers. Offer a commission for
jobs they send your way.
Ask satisfied customers to recommend you to their friends and acquaintances;
offer a discount or bonus for business they refer to you.
Rent a table at wedding and holiday shows to display photos and actual
examples of some of your work. Consider offering a “sample day” where, by
appointment, customers can try some of your cakes.
Up-front Expenses
To begin, you’ll need a commercial or high-quality consumer oven plus mixing
bowls, baking pans, pastry bags for filling, icing tools, and other utensils. You’ll
need to invest in basic ingredients and store them properly.
For formal cakes, you’ll need elegant presentation platters and cake plates.
To create image cakes, you can choose to draw pictures freehand using a
food-grade airbrush system with food coloring. The high-tech solution requires a
136 PARTIES, ENTERTAINMENT, AND SPECIAL EVENTS
computer and scanner to create digital files from photographs or an Internet connection
capable of accepting digital images sent directly by customers; you’ll
also need image-editing software such as Adobe Photoshop. Finally, you’ll need
an ink-jet printer, a supply of edible food color ink, and special edible transfer
sheets that can be laid on top of an iced cake.
Ink-jet printers range in price from about $150 to $350; ink and edible frosting
sheets cost about $2 to $4 per cake.
You will also need delivery boxes for local customers and shipping containers
and access to packaged dry ice for cakes that will be sent by air freight.
How Much to Charge
In most situations you can set a fixed price for creating specific types of cakes at
particular sizes. Add a fee for special icing or decorations and/or for special
ingredients such as costly marzipan, fudge, or liqueur.
For local customers you can include charges for slicing the cake and renting
display dishes and utensils. For customers out of your area, add to the price
charges for packaging, dry ice, and shipping.
Prices for custom cakes deserve to be somewhat higher than for off-the-shelf
offerings from commercial bakeries or out-of-the-box cakes from supermarkets.
However, keep in mind all these competing prices your customers will find if
they shop around.
Typical prices for customized sheet cakes start at about $20 to $25; image
cakes typically cost about twice as much. Fancy multilayer cakes can rise in price
to hundreds of dollars.
Legal and Insurance Issues
Special notes: Make sure you are aware of any legal requirements in your area
regarding the preparation of food.
An insurance agent can offer counsel about commercial insurance or riders to
your homeowner’s policies to cover business use of your kitchen (providing such
use is permitted in your locality).
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
SPECIALTY CAKE BAKER 137
Prepared Custom-Meal Service
–
Description of Job
• Prepare custom meals for clients, either refrigerated or frozen for future
use.
• Provide meals to meet specific medical or dietary needs.
The Need
We all like to eat, but not all of us have the time or the talent to cook full meals
every night. Many solve this dilemma by purchasing expensive restaurant meals,
fatty and otherwise unhealthy fast food, or pricey and less-than-satisfactory
mass-produced frozen food.
Another solution, though, is for busy people to hire a custom chef to stock
their freezer with a week’s worth of meals created to meet their tastes and needs.
A custom chef may also be asked to produce meals that meet specific medical or
dietary needs, including low-fat, low-calorie, low-carbohydrate, low-sodium,
high-protein, gluten-free, and vegetarian menus.
Here’s the enticing pitch: Every day when you come home from work, or
when older kids come home from school, there’s a delicious meal—chosen from
a menu of offerings—waiting in the freezer or the refrigerator. If you’re on a diet,
it will be that much easier to keep on the straight and narrow because the meal
has been prepared to your specifications by a professional chef.
In most cases, the custom meal service delivers several days’ or a week’s
worth of food at one time. The food is labeled and instructions are provided for
reheating.
Challenges
You’ll need to be a good cook and to be able to work within the bounds set by
your client. It will be important to take note of allergies and strong preferences.
For example, people who are allergic to peanuts can react to food prepared anywhere
near nuts or with peanut-based oils; vegetarians won’t want meat products
used in the preparation of their food and may not want you to use pots and pans
that have contained meat products for other clients.
138 PARTIES, ENTERTAINMENT, AND SPECIAL EVENTS
In some areas, you may have to follow local or state health codes and food
preparation and storage regulations.
Don’t take on jobs to provide highly specialized foods, such as kosher dishes,
unless you fully understand the strict conditions involved.
You will likely need to deliver food to your customers (or arrange for others
to do so) and must meet their schedules. In some arrangements, food preparers
may be given a key to the house to stock the freezer; another arrangement is to
place a large freezer in a garage or basement and give access just to that area.
Know the Territory
You’ll need to be a good cook, but equally important is the ability to cook to the
exact needs of your client. You are, in effect, cooking for an audience of one or
two or a small family.
You will also need to fully understand the intricacies of diets. If a client is on
a strict medical diet, ask to meet with a dietitian or nurse to discuss needs. For
other diets, ask the client to provide books and information about its requirements.
Meet with your clients initially to go over their diet and preferences; they
may provide specific recipes or leave that up to you. Once you’ve delivered a few
meals, you can check with clients to adjust the style or ingredients to meet their
preferences.
How to Get Started
Meet with area dieticians, nurse’s aides, and other health care providers and
make them aware of your availability. Be prepared to offer references.
Post flyers and ads at community centers, schools, and supermarkets. Place
ads in newspapers and shopping guides.
Ask friends and acquaintances to spread the word about your business; offer
a commission or bonus for business they bring your way. Do the same with satisfied
customers, giving them a discount or a free meal for new business.
Up-front Expenses
You will need a suitable, reliable oven; proper utensils, pots, and pans for food
preparation; and appropriate storage and delivery containers.You can purchase onetime-
use containers that can be reheated in a conventional oven or a microwave.
A great deal of information is available on the Internet, and you should build
up a library of cookbooks and reference books. You’ll also need a supply of basic
ingredients, spices, and flavorings.
Other expenses include advertising and promotion.
PREPARED CUSTOM-MEAL SERVICE 139
How Much to Charge
One way to charge for this sort of service is to create price bands (ranges) based
on the cost of ingredients and the amount of time required to prepare a particular
dish. Within each band, adjust the price based on the number of portions ordered.
For example, band A might include basic, relatively inexpensive meals like
lasagna, casseroles, and stews. Band B meals might feature meatloaf, steak tips,
turkey, and chicken dishes. Luxury band C would include roasts, fresh fish,
shrimp, and expensive cuts of meat.
You can add a charge for delivery, or work it into the price. Consider offering
a discount for steady customers.
Legal and Insurance Issues
Special notes: Make sure you are aware of any legal requirements in your area
regarding the preparation of food.
An insurance agent can offer counsel about commercial insurance or riders to
your homeowner’s policies to cover business use of your kitchen (if such use is
permitted in your locality).
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
Freelance Bartender
Description of Job
• Tend bar at private parties and functions.
• Work with setup and cleanup crews at large parties.
140 PARTIES, ENTERTAINMENT, AND SPECIAL EVENTS
The Need
At a simple gathering of half a dozen close friends, you can go into the kitchen
and take a beer from the refrigerator or pour your own drink from a setup on the
countertop. For larger parties or more formal affairs, hiring a professional bartender
is a nice touch.
Here’s one compelling sales pitch: Let the hosts be guests at their own party.
Challenges
You mix a mean margarita, and your Singapore sling is practically world famous.
That’s half the job. Are you also able to play the role of the sociable bartender
among strangers?
Know the Territory
This job requires some specific knowledge; there are numerous books of recipes
for mixed drinks that can help you prepare. If you are going to be asked to pour
wine, learn enough about the varieties and vintages the host will be offering to be
able to describe them to guests.
Not everybody throws large parties, and not every neighborhood supports
formal gatherings in the home. This sort of job is more likely to be needed in
affluent or professional communities.
When you meet with clients, you need to be absolutely clear about the services
you will provide—and those you will not. You should be firm in your intent
to follow liquor laws; refuse service to underage guests; limit service to guests
who drink too much.
Your contract agreement should be specific about hours and services and
include a release from liability for incidents related to alcohol served at the party.
The host should supply the beer, wine, and alcohol for the bar, and there
should not be a charge to guests for service; state and local laws may require a
license if you are involved in the resale of alcohol. (Consult your state alcohol
licensing agency or a civil attorney for details about necessary permits or licenses
if you want to get involved in resale.)
Your agreement should also specify the supplies you’ll need for the party:
glasses, utensils, ice buckets, ice, sodas and mixers, napkins, and cleanup necessities.
You may want to work with a party supply company to rent glassware;
make certain that responsibility for any breakage passes through you to the host.
Your role may be limited to working at the bar, or you may be asked to be a
member of a setup or cleanup crew.
FREELANCE BARTENDER 141
Determine the host’s expectations for your attire; should you wear your
brightest Hawaiian shirt, or rent a tuxedo?
During the party, remember that you are working; you are not a guest. Don’t
sample the alcohol at the bar, and keep your involvement with guests on a professional
level.
How to Get Started
Advertise your availability to professional party planners and caterers.
Post flyers at liquor stores and on community bulletin boards.
Ask friends and acquaintances for referrals.
Up-front Expenses
You’ll need a few basic recipe books for exotic drinks, and perhaps a reference
guide to wine.
You should keep on hand a neat outfit of black pants or skirt and a white shirt
as a basic wardrobe for the job; if the contract specifies a tuxedo or special uniform,
you can purchase or rent the outfit.
How Much to Charge
This sort of job is paid on an hourly basis; be sure to include setup and breakdown
time in your price. If you are asked to wear a special uniform or a tuxedo,
you can add a charge to cover your costs, including cleaning expenses.
If you are asked to contract with a party supply company for glassware or to
provide a cleanup or serving crew, you should add a charge for your time spent
to obtain these outside services.
Offer references from hosts who have employed you in the past.
Legal and Insurance Issues
Special notes: The host should release you from responsibility or indemnify
you in the case of lawsuit if a guest is injured or causes injury or damage as a
result of intoxication.
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
142 PARTIES, ENTERTAINMENT, AND SPECIAL EVENTS
Entertainer
Description of Job
• Put on shows at nightclubs, coffeehouses, and other public venues.
• Perform at parties and private functions.
The Need
Here’s your chance to showcase your talent—and earn some money—as a singer,
comedian, juggler, musician, magician, or dancer.
Although performing at the halftime of the Super Bowl or exhibiting your
talents as the latest television idol are worthy goals, there are a lot more jobs for
entertainers at private parties, conventions, fund-raisers, weddings, municipal
celebrations, and business functions.
Challenges
The biggest challenge for a performer is to keep it professional.
Present yourself honestly to prospective clients, and be sure you understand
their expectations, even as they appreciate your demonstrated abilities.
Be very specific about your act, including length of the show and its content;
you don’t want to talk dirty at a church function and you don’t want to sing children’s
songs at a retirement party.
For musical acts, define the specifics, including the number of sets and break
times. Indicate the need for any special equipment, including amplifiers, microphones,
and spotlights, and spell out who is to provide them. In general, musicians
acts are responsible for bringing their own instruments. If a piano is
available on location, make certain it is of acceptable quality and has been properly
maintained.
In some circumstances, you may find that unionized workers at hotels, convention
centers, and businesses are guaranteed certain jobs, including setup,
operations, and cleanup. Your client should handle all of the negotiations and
costs for such workers, specifying that in your contract.
ENTERTAINER 143
Know the Territory
Private parties can be held anywhere; the best way to get jobs is to spread the
word before, during, and after any gigs you land. We have been to parties where
the hired band passed out flyers and business cards to guests.
To get a corporate job, of course, you’ll have to have big businesses in your
area. The same goes for convention centers and hotel functions.
Does your town have an annual celebration or an upcoming historical celebration?
How to Get Started
For private parties, post flyers in community centers, churches, and recreational
centers. Place ads in community newspapers. Ask friends and relatives to spread
the word.
For professional gigs, contact bars, nightclubs, and lounges in your area and
ask if they book talent.
Seek out facility and booking managers at convention centers and banquet
halls; many large hotels also have convention facilities. Send letters and proposals
to the marketing and human resources departments of large employers, offering
entertainment for office parties, holiday celebrations, and sales campaigns.
Prepare videotapes, audiotapes, and other supporting materials as a portfolio
of your work. Offer copies of references and testimonials from previous clients.
Be prepared to audition for jobs. You can also invite prospective employers to
attend a show you give elsewhere; be sure to obtain permission to bring a visitor.
Up-front Expenses
Costs include advertising and promotion.
Your contract should specify any setup you expect the client to provide—a
stage, a stool or chair, spotlights, and the like. In most cases, you will have to provide
your own musical equipment; some locations have amplifiers and speakers,
but you can’t count on that—and if the client promises to provide them, you
should check out the quality beforehand to make sure it is acceptable.
You will probably have to transport equipment to the location.
How Much to Charge
Most entertainment jobs are paid a flat rate, taking into account the number of
entertainers and the hours they will be performing.
144 PARTIES, ENTERTAINMENT, AND SPECIAL EVENTS
Some gigs at lounges and bars may promise payment as a percentage of the
house’s receipts—as a portion of admission charges, bar sales, or both. You may
want to include in your contract the right to examine the books or to have a representative
do so.
Legal and Insurance Issues
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
Holiday Decoration Service
Description of Job
• Plan outdoor holiday decorations in consultation with clients.
• Set up lights and displays; purchase and repair elements as needed.
• Remove holiday decorations and store them according to client’s instructions.
The Need
For some people, the year revolves around Christmas. These people light their
houses brighter than O’Hare Airport, install more plastic elves and reindeer than
Macy’s, and buy garlands by the truckload.
Anyone responsible for the setup of a spectacular, complex outdoor display
knows that it takes a tremendous amount of time and effort to do it right. Then
come January, it all has to be taken down and put away until the next season.
A holiday decoration service offers the expertise, time, and equipment to
help busy people create, set up, and maintain a holiday display.
HOLIDAY DECORATION SERVICE 145
Challenges
You’ll need to know more than a little about architecture, engineering, woodworking,
and electrical devices. Not that you’ll have to build a house, design systems,
or make changes to the wiring layout, but you will be standing on
stepladders, stringing wires, and plugging electrical components into mains.
Outdoor wiring needs to be of better construction than cheaper indoor sets,
and you’ll need to be aware of wattage loads and ground fault interrupters. You
may need to construct frames for lighting and displays, or hang them from elements
of the home.
This job is obviously tied to the holiday season. Setup may begin around
Thanksgiving, and dismantling may be requested just after New Year’s Day. In
addition to the economic impact of a short season, you may have to deal with
cold weather and snow in many parts of the country.
Know the Territory
Spend the time to become familiar with electrical circuits. You’ll also need to
learn about ways to protect outdoor wiring from the effects of rain, snow, and
cold weather; outdoor outlets need to be properly grounded, and wiring must be
protected from the elements.
The laws of physics limit acceptable loads on electrical circuits; extension
cords are rated for a specified wattage that decreases as their length increases.
In most cases you will be responsible for maintaining the display while it is
in service.
Some localities may have laws or regulations limiting the brightness of outdoor
displays or prohibiting sound systems. Some neighborhoods may have regulations
limiting displays to cut down on traffic.
How to Get Started
Post flyers and ads in community centers, home supply stores, and retail stores.
Place ads in newspapers and shopping guides, especially in special preholiday
advertising sections.
Contact stores that specialize in sales of Christmas decorations; they may be
willing to post flyers for your services or recommend you to customers seeking
this sort of assistance. Do the same with specialty Christmas shops; offer to purchase
supplies there, to pay a bonus or commission, or both.
Contact area businesses that hang holiday decorations and offer your services.
146 PARTIES, ENTERTAINMENT, AND SPECIAL EVENTS
Ask friends and acquaintances to recommend you; in exchange, offer a bonus
or discount on future services. Do the same with satisfied customers.
Up-front Expenses
You’ll need a basic tool kit with a hammer, screwdrivers, and various hangers.
For electrical devices, a continuity tester and ground fault tester will be valuable.
You’ll also need one or more ladders and a vehicle to carry your equipment.
Create a portfolio of pictures, digital images, and videos of work you have
performed for other clients.
Other expenses include advertising and promotion.
How Much to Charge
Charge by the hour for your labor, plus the cost of lights and any other devices
you purchase; you should be able to buy materials at wholesale or discounted
prices and resell them at retail prices.
Another way to bill is on a cost-plus basis. Compute the hours of work, the
actual cost of materials purchased, and a preagreed percentage of profit.
Legal and Insurance Issues
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
HOLIDAY DECORATION SERVICE 147

CHAPTER 9
Personal Services
45 Personal Shopper
46 Personalized Gift Basket Maker
47 Travel Planner
48 Historical Tours
49 Personal Fitness Trainer
50 Sports Trainer
Personal Shopper
Description of Job
• Provide special expertise in shopping for unusual items.
• Assist clients who are not able to shop for themselves because of disability
or illness.
• Research and purchase gifts for business clients to present on special occasions.
The Need
There are only 24 hours in each day. Subtract a full day of work, getting the kids
off to school and back home, making dinner, and, if you’re lucky, eight hours of
sleep, and there’s not much time left over for shopping.
Senior citizens and people with physical infirmities may not be able to get
out of their homes to shop for food, necessities, and gifts.
Businesses purchase gifts for clients and to honor employees for significant
personal milestones.
Then there are those people whose vision of the levels of hell include one
specifically devoted to being trapped in a shopping mall.
The personal shopper gets to know the client and the market, and efficiently
shops for (and often delivers) items ranging from groceries to furniture, appliances,
and supplies.
Challenges
The personal shopper puts the emphasis on the personal, promising a sharp focus
on the client’s needs and careful shopping to fulfill them. You will not succeed if
you deliver the wrong items at the wrong price.
Make sure you fully understand the needs and wants of your client. If you are
asked to go to The Gap and buy a pair of size 8 cropped jeans, you can’t substitute
relaxed-fit khakis from Wal-Mart.
On the other hand, if you are asked to research and find the highest-quality
set of kitchen knives, your client may ask you to present a list of recommendations
with prices.
150 PERSONAL SERVICES
A third option would be for a client to give you a general description of a type
of product and ask you to use your judgment in finding it and buying it without
further consultation.
Wear appropriate clothing for the stores in which you shop, and act professionally
in all of your dealings, since you are representing someone else.
In some situations, you may be given a key to a house and asked to deliver
groceries and place them appropriately in the refrigerator, freezer, or cupboard.
You will be in competition with shopping sites on the Internet, although not
everyone feels comfortable (or has the time) for that exercise, and again, your
pitch should emphasize the personal attention you will deliver.
Know the Territory
You’re probably interested in this sort of job because you consider yourself to be
a good shopper for yourself. However, make sure you don’t limit yourself solely
to stores that meet your needs; you should spend the time to learn about retail
outlets, grocery stores, and specialty shops in your area. You should also become
familiar with shopping on the Internet and by mail order.
This sort of assistance is most likely to be popular in areas with professionals
who do not have the time to shop for themselves or in localities with many
senior citizens who are unable to get out on their own.
How to Get Started
Advertise your availability in community and senior citizen centers. Place ads in
area newspapers and shopping guides.
Ask friends and relatives to spread the word, and offer satisfied customers a
bonus if they refer new clients to you.
Send letters of introduction to the human resources departments of major
employers in your area, offering to shop for gifts for employees and customers of
the company.
Up-front Expenses
The primary expenses here are for advertising and promotion. You should have
access to the Internet for research, shopping, and promotion.
How Much to Charge
The simplest and most transparent way to charge for this sort of service is to levy
an hourly charge plus the actual cost of purchases; keep copies of all receipts and
PERSONAL SHOPPER 151
maintain accurate records of your time. If you use your vehicle for shopping, add
a mileage charge to the bill.
Legal and Insurance Issues
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
Personalized Gift Basket Maker
Description of Job
• Create customized gifts for friends and family of your clients.
• Work with corporate marketing departments to produce and deliver customized
gifts and promotional items for their customers.
The Need
We give gifts for many reasons—out of love, appreciation, thanks, and selfpromotion,
and just as no two people are exactly the same, it is extremely difficult
to find the perfect gift on the shelf of a store.
Personal gift baskets can be assembled for many occasions:
• Holiday greetings
• Birthday, wedding, anniversary, childbirth
• Thanks for a favor
• Welcome, housewarming
• Congratulations on graduation, engagement, promotion
152 PERSONAL SERVICES
Businesses, too, may want gift baskets for a variety of reasons:
• To promote a new product or service
• To congratulate an employee on a business accomplishment
• To congratulate an employee on a personal event
The professional gift basket maker sells knowledge of the market, expertise
in assembling a customized collection of items, and packaging and delivery
skills.
Challenges
The keys to success in this job are a combination of creativity, detective work,
and knowledge of the market.
Most basket makers start by developing a set of generic baskets that can be
customized, then move on from there to totally custom jobs that involve extra
time and expense.
You’ll need to find a reliable source of products to include in the basket and
establish a wholesale or discount relationship with the supplier. This will allow
you to resell your baskets for a price that includes a markup to retail prices.
Know the Territory
For generic baskets, spend the time to think about local products, local traditions,
and local sensibilities. In New England, most people are infatuated with the
Boston Red Sox, and a baseball-themed basket is sure to be a hit. In the South, a
NASCAR basket would likely have more appeal.
Other common offerings include chocoholic collections, barbecue fixings,
coffee or tea, packaged cheeses, desktop doodads and toys, stuffed animals, and
holiday-themed assemblages. Dog lovers may be thrilled with a basket of toys
and treats for their best friend; puzzle fans will be happy to receive crossword
books, logic games, and the like.
Clients are generally invited to request small adjustments to the contents of
generic baskets—substituting dark chocolate for milk chocolate, for example, or
picking a particular sports team.
Most gift basket makers also offer customized consultation at a higher price.
Here you will meet with the client or consult on the telephone to find out details
about the interests of the recipient and the reasons for the gift.
Is the recipient a sports fan? A lover of opera or rock and roll? Is the person
PERSONALIZED GIFT BASKET MAKER 153
deeply involved in community affairs or historical projects? Any details should
lead a creative mind to the proper collection of gifts.
For corporate gifts, make sure you are aware of any company guidelines that
might steer you away from baskets with religious, political, or overly personal
themes. If you are being asked to assemble baskets to support a new product or
service, learn as much as you can about the introduction and see if it is possible to
include a sample of the product or a clever gift that ties into the new offering. (For
example, we received a gift basket from a theme park announcing a new water
ride. Included was a beach towel, a tube of sunscreen, a pair of sunglasses . . . and
a media kit.)
Make certain you know the client’s budget for gifts and the deadline for
delivery.
How to Get Started
Place flyers in community centers; advertise in shopping guides and newspapers.
Establish a relationship with gift shops, gourmet food stores, and other locations
where you might shop for supplies, and ask them to post your flyer or business
card; in return you could promise to buy some of their products when appropriate.
Ask friends and relatives to spread the word.
This sort of business does not necessarily have to be limited to your local
area. It would work well in conjunction with a web site. Visitors could send you
e-mails or call you to discuss jobs, or you could request that they send you a
phone number where you could call them. For web site sales, you would probably
need to establish a credit card merchant account.
Up-front Expenses
The principal up-front expenses are (1) researching stores and web sites for available
products and (2) the cost of advertising. If you choose to set up a web site,
you’ll need to arrange for hosting and a credit card merchant account.
Very little in the way of inventory would be needed, although you may want
to set up some sample baskets and photograph them to display on your web site
or in an album you show to customers.
How Much to Charge
Generic baskets would be sold at a fixed price plus the cost of shipping or delivery.
You should make arrangements to purchase products at wholesale or discounted
prices whenever possible, marking them up to retail price as part of your profit.
154 PERSONAL SERVICES
If you are called on to custom-design a basket for an individual or a corporate
client, you can charge on a cost-plus basis (the cost of the elements in the basket
plus an agreed-on fee or percentage), or you can bill at an hourly rate.
Legal and Insurance Issues
Special notes: Shipping alcohol, including beer, wine, and hard liquor, can be
very complex and may require state licenses and observance of federal laws. For
simplicity’s sake, we’d recommend starting with other products. If you feel it
necessary to offer alcohol, consult an attorney for advice.
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
Travel Planner
Description of Job
• Research and design a vacation trip based on the wants and needs of a
client.
• Work with travel suppliers to put together the best-priced package for your
client.
The Need
A good travel agent—someone who gets to know you and your interests and is
an expert on travel and destinations—is hard to find. Always keep in mind how
traditional travel agents earn a living: They are paid commissions by travel
providers. The higher the price tag on the package they sell, the more they
receive in commissions and perks (such as free trips for themselves).
We’re not saying that travel agents are dishonest, that they don’t provide a
TRAVEL PLANNER 155
valuable service, or that they don’t deserve to earn a living for their investment of
time. It’s just that they may not always deliver the best deals.
By contrast, a travel planner works directly for the customer and is paid by
the hour for research and expertise. One reason this sort of business is viable is
the tremendous amount of information available over the Internet. Travel planners
can shop for the best airfare, car rental, hotel or cruise accommodations, and
every other element of a trip through Internet web sites, easily comparing offerings
of different providers.
The travel planner can also produce customized itineraries with information
about museums, attractions, and restaurants for each day of a trip.
Challenges
This is a job tailor-made for someone who is capable of focusing on the hundreds
of little details involved in a trip. You must also be comfortable using Internet
search engines and travel portals.
You’ll also need to spend the time to get to know your clients well. Find out
their interests and experience in travel. Determine if they require five-star hotels
or would be perfectly happy with clean, safe, inexpensive bed-and-breakfasts.
Find out your client’s budget for the trip. As a travel planner, you have no
incentive to boost the cost of the trip to increase your commission; however, you
might want to present your client with several alternatives at different price
points.
Know the Territory
It certainly helps if you are an experienced traveler yourself. You’ll need to keep
current by reading travel guidebooks and magazines and searching Internet web
sites regularly.
Learn how to use travel portals like Expedia.com, Travelocity.com, and
Priceline.com. You can conduct research without actually booking tickets on any
of these sites.
You should also keep current on terrorism and health warnings posted for
certain parts of the world.
How to Get Started
Announce your services on bulletin boards in community centers and schools.
Advertise in newspapers and shopping guides. Ask your friends and relatives
to spread the word; offer a bonus to satisfied customers who refer new clients
to you.
156 PERSONAL SERVICES
Up-front Expenses
The principal expenses are for advertising and promotion, plus setting up a computer
with access to the Internet. You should also purchase a library of guidebooks
and maps.
Investigate purchasing computer software that allows you to print out
detailed driving instructions and maps for day-to-day itineraries.
How Much to Charge
Charge by the hour, and add in the documented cost of related phone calls and
guidebooks or maps.
Planning a trip may require 6 to 10 hours and include a visit to your client’s
home for an initial session plus a final visit to present the options.
Legal and Insurance Issues
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
Historical Tours
Description of Job
• Research historical, cultural, or entertainment history of a district or town
and design a tour.
• Write an informative and entertaining spiel.
• Promote and conduct excursions highlighting history and significant events.
The Need
Hundreds of locations in the United States and elsewhere have the magic combination
of an interesting past . . . and a steady supply of tourists.
HISTORICAL TOURS 157
Historical tours on foot are very easy to set up and run; tours by van or bus
require greater up-front expenditures and complexity. The tours can be lectures
about local history, or they can be attached to a theme: Haunted Graveyards of
Tarrytown; Federal Architecture in Washington, or Walking in the Steps of Herman
Melville in New Bedford.
Tourist magnets like Boston, Philadelphia, New York, and Washington, D.C.,
are obvious markets for this sort of enterprise, although many well-established
tours already exist in those areas. (If you have an especially creative idea, you
still may be able to find a niche.)
Many other markets that draw lots of visitors remain relatively untouched,
such as Nantucket, Miami Beach, Richmond, Atlanta, Cincinnati, Los Angeles,
and San Francisco.
Your audience will primarily consist of visitors, including people who have
traveled from distant corners of the United States and from other countries, but a
well-done tour can also draw local residents who want to know more about their
own backyard.
Challenges
In urban settings, the most intimate way to bring your story to life is a walking
tour. Make sure the people in your group are aware of what is expected of them
physically. Your advertising should indicate the approximate length of the tour in
time and distance, the existence of significant hills, and other details such as
uneven pavement. Can someone negotiate the entire trip in a wheelchair?
Another way to conduct a tour is to use a small van or a tour bus. Be aware
that this adds a great deal of expense and complexity to your operation; you’ll
need to buy or lease a vehicle, obtain a commercial license, and sign up for commercial
liability insurance. You’ll also need a place to park the vehicle before,
during, and after the tour. (One way to reduce the complexity is to work with an
existing bus or limousine company that can provide equipment and driver.)
Know the Territory
Any tour begins with thorough research. Consult local historical societies,
libraries, and knowledgeable old-timers for information. Seek second and third
sources for any stories or facts you might seek.
Don’t embellish stories to make them more dramatic, and make sure you have
your facts straight; you don’t want to be tripped up by a client who knows the
story better than you do. If your account includes elements that may be legends or
otherwise unprovable, say so; that might make your tour even more interesting.
Take special care to avoid plagiarizing someone else’s work; no one can own
158 PERSONAL SERVICES
a copyright on facts and events, but they can protect their own expression of story
in print, a movie or video, or other form of publication. You might be able to
receive permission to use material researched by others; if so, be sure to obtain
written permission.
Any good teacher also has to have some acting ability. Some tour guides
dress up as someone from the past or assume some of that person’s characteristics.
You might conduct nighttime tours by lantern. Some guides arrange for
accomplices to appear at particular locations along the way.
Look for ways to expand your offerings and times to allow you to conduct
several tours a day, or prepare a full week’s lineup. You may be able to sell packages
that include several tours.
Part of your research will include information about seasonal trends among
visitors. Is your locality most popular in the summer, with few visitors in the
winter? Does the mix of visitors change with the season? Are senior citizens
(who may be good customers, albeit with special needs) more common in the
spring and fall? Are families with young children more plentiful in the summer?
How to Get Started
Advertise your tours at convention centers, visitor’s bureaus, tourist offices, and
hotels and guesthouses. Distribute special discount cards and flyers around town,
with numeric codes for different locations, which will allow you to pay commissions
to business owners or hotel concierges who steer visitors your way.
Place ads in local newspapers aimed at tourists.
In addition, don’t forget that your tours advertise themselves; if people who
are not part of the tour seem interested in what you’re saying, give them a card
inviting them to come along another time.
Up-front Expenses
Expenses include research books and materials, costumes, and props. You might
want to purchase a small battery-operated amplifier to increase the volume of
your voice.
Other expenses include advertising.
How Much to Charge
Price tours at a fixed rate, and offer discounts for children and senior citizens. (If
the tour is not appropriate for youngsters, make sure that is clear ahead of time.)
You might offer a discount to visitors who sign up for more than one tour and a
reduced rate for organized groups that book more than 8 or 10 tickets at a time.
HISTORICAL TOURS 159
Decide on your policy if just a couple of people show up for a tour instead of
the usual 15 or 20; in general, it is best to go ahead with the tour rather than risk
endangering your reputation. You will also need to set refund policies regarding
cancellations or abbreviated tours due to rain, snow, or extremes of temperature.
Legal and Insurance Issues
Special notes: If you will be using a van or bus on the tour, consult an insurance
agent to make sure you are properly covered for liability. The vehicle will most
likely require commercial plates, and you may need a special driver’s license and
insurance policy to transport people in a commercial operation.
In some localities, tour guides must apply for a license.
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
Personal Fitness Trainer
Description of Job
• Develop a customized workout schedule for your client to improve cardiovascular
health and strength.
• Help clients improve technical skills for golf, tennis, and other sports.
• Assist a client in an exercise-based weight loss program.
The Need
Why would people hire a stranger to stand over them with a verbal whip, pushing
them to get into shape and stay that way?
First of all, because many of us need a whole lot of motivation to work out
regularly. A personal trainer provides structure and a schedule; the workouts
themselves will follow a plan based on efficiency of time and effectiveness.
160 PERSONAL SERVICES
Second, a well-prepared trainer will personalize a training program to take
into account a client’s specific needs as well as any health conditions and injuries.
Perhaps most important, a properly educated personal trainer is capable of
monitoring clients’ medical conditions as they perform their workouts.
Challenges
Your success as a personal trainer may depend more on your personality and
communication skills than on your technical skills and background. Clients will
want to feel comfortable with you in the somewhat intimate setting of a workout.
If you will be working with clients in their homes, you should offer suggestions
on equipment, but be prepared to work with whatever they have available.
You will be in competition with health clubs, gyms, television workouts, and
videotapes. Your response should be to emphasize your highly customized service.
Although trainers should not offer medical advice or take on any of the roles
that should be done by a nurse or doctor, you should be able to offer certain limited
emergency assistance and be ready to contact a doctor or ambulance if necessary.
Know the Territory
A personal trainer is a bit of a luxury, perhaps not as much as a personal cook or
chauffeur but nevertheless a service more likely to be in demand among people
with above-average discretionary income.
Make a survey of available health clubs, gyms, and community centers to
find out about their programs. Look for ways to present custom programs that are
complementary to their offerings.
Some health clubs may allow you to work with a client at their facility; they
may charge you a fee or ask for a percentage of your earnings. The advantage of
such an arrangement includes access to a wider range of equipment than you
might find at the home of your client or at your own studio.
An appropriate background for a trainer includes education or experience in
physiology, athletic training, health sciences, or similar fields. Although there is
no requirement that a personal trainer have a license or any professional certification,
you should explore possible affiliation with one of a number of national
organizations.
How to Get Started
Advertise your availability in community centers, stores, and schools. Some
health and athletics clubs may allow you to post flyers or business cards in their
facilities. Place ads in newspapers and shopping guides.
PERSONAL FITNESS TRAINER 161
Ask satisfied clients to refer you to others; offer a discount or bonus for new
business they bring you.
Up-front Expenses
Most personal fitness trainers do their work in the homes or health clubs of their
clients and do not need to set up a studio of their own.
Start-up costs include books and research materials about general training
and specific sports, plus the expenses of advertising and promotion.
How Much to Charge
Trainers charge by the hour. If there is more than one person in the group, you
should adjust your rates to take that into account.
Legal and Insurance Issues
Special notes: An attorney may recommend that you have clients disclose any
health conditions and remove liability for those problems. Some trainers may
ask clients to provide a letter from a physician clearing them for fitness training.
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
Sports Trainer
Description of Job
• Provide personal coaching and instruction to a youngster with majorleague
dreams.
• Serve as a personal pro to an adult who wants to take his or her game to the
next level.
162 PERSONAL SERVICES
The Need
Sports and athletic competition are an intrinsic part of our society, and few of us
will deny the wish to reduce our handicap, improve our average, or step up our
skiing skills from blue square to black diamond.
In addition, youngsters may be able to cash in on a high school sports career
with a college scholarship by elevating their game skills a notch or two.
Enter the personal trainer, who provides instruction and coaching on specific
sports and skills and helps you avoid injuries or work through them.
Challenges
The main qualification is not necessarily the ability to hit a major-league fastball,
to drive a golf ball like Tiger Woods, or to smash a serve like Venus Williams.
Instead it is the ability to teach people how to make the most of their talent.
It is also important to understand the mental side of the games we play. Your
students have to be able to withstand the pressures and challenges of big games.
You’ll need to understand the demands put on our bodies by sports and athletics
and to work with doctors and physical therapists to help your clients get the
most out of themselves while staying healthy.
Sports trainers must be careful not to offer medical care or therapies beyond
their experience and background. However, they should be able to work with
doctors and therapists; they should be prepared to provide emergency CPR and
stabilization of injuries and to work with ambulance crews when necessary.
Know the Territory
Necessary proficiencies include the specific skills of sports such as baseball, soccer,
football, tennis, golf, swimming, diving, skiing, and track and field. You’ll
also need training in the prevention of sports injuries and management of warmups,
stretching, cooldowns, and general cardiovascular exercise. Most sports
trainers also provide massage and manipulation as part of physical therapy
regimes, or work in conjunction with therapists.
You may want to—or need to—show credentials such as certification from a
national or regional accrediting group (such as the Professional Golf Association).
You should also offer your qualifications and references for other sports.
Depending on the sport, you may work with clients at their homes or at athletic
facilities, including gyms, health clubs, batting cages, swimming pools,
skating rinks, golf courses and driving ranges, tennis courts, and ski hills. If you
will be instructing or coaching a client at a commercial facility, you may need to
SPORTS TRAINER 163
make arrangements with the management, which may levy charges or require a
percentage of your fees.
How to Get Started
Advertise your availability through community bulletin boards, at high schools
and grade schools, and in newsletters. Make yourself known to coaches and organizers
of sports leagues and facilities, and contact summer day camp directors.
Place ads in school newspapers, community newspapers, and shopping guides.
Post flyers and ads at sporting goods stores.
You can also promote yourself by offering clinics for groups of players.
Up-front Expenses
Build up a library of reference books about sports and athletic training. You’ll
need your own sports equipment if you will be accompanying your clients to golf
courses, tennis courts, ski hills, and the like.
Other expenses include advertising and promotion.
How Much to Charge
Bill for your services on an hourly basis, plus the cost of any greens fees, lift tickets,
or admission tickets for sports or athletic facilities.
Legal and Insurance Issues
Special notes: An attorney may recommend that you have clients disclose any
health conditions and remove liability for those problems. Some trainers may ask
clients to provide a letter from a physician clearing them for fitness training.
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
164 PERSONAL SERVICES
CHAPTER 10
Children, Family,
and Pet Services
51 Babysitting
52 Babysitting Agency
53 Children’s Night Out
54 Vacation Child Care
55 Dog Walking and Vacation Pet Visits
56 Pet Sitter and Doggie Day Care
57 Elder Companion
58 Elder Care Consultant
59 Genealogical Research
60 Family Biographer
Babysitting
Description of Job
• Provide scheduled care for a child, or a small number of children, for a set
period of time in the home of the client.
• Accept limited responsibility for feeding and other services within the home
of the client.
The Need
If you are a parent, you understand the need for adults to get away from their
children every once in a while. It may be for only a few hours to go out to dinner
and a movie; it may be short-term scheduled care when the mother or father has
a medical appointment or other needs.
Other situations include emergency babysitting for a working parent when a
sick child is unable to go to school. Some babysitters are also called on to take
care of children at the end of the school day before the parents return from work.
In this modern day, many parents no longer live near family members who
might be available to watch children when needed, and suburban neighborhoods
don’t offer the same sort of support system that used to be found in the higherdensity
cities.
This job is not the same as working in a day care center, which is intended for
large numbers of children on a regularly scheduled basis and located away from
the children’s homes.
Challenges
On some levels, babysitting is the most basic of temporary jobs, something that has
been the entry-level job for millions of high school girls and the occasional boy.
Today, though, even this simple job has taken on new challenges, including
exposure to legal liability for the care of the child and caretaking of the home.
(We discuss this again in the section about legal and insurance issues.)
To reduce your exposure to liability, avoid situations where you will be asked
to pick up or deliver a child by car, and don’t accept children into your own home.
166 CHILDREN, FAMILY, AND PET SERVICES
You must, of course, be good with children. It is also essential that you can
be depended on to arrive when promised and flexible enough to be available on
reasonably short notice.
Let your clients know if you will be available only for nights and weekends
or if they can reach you on weekdays for emergency coverage.
Obtain from your clients full information about where they will be and how
you can reach them if needed. You should also get the names and phone numbers
of other relatives or guardians in case of emergency. Finally, you should have a
signed form authorizing you to grant permission for emergency medical treatment
if the need arises.
Parents should also provide full information about allergies and special medical
conditions. They should fully explain rules of the house regarding television
time, food, bedtime, and so on.
Know the Territory
Although most babysitting is still performed on a very casual basis, if you’re
going to be performing this service as a business you should protect yourself
from liability.
Your best qualification is your reputation in the community. A young person
should be able to offer references from teachers as well as parents they have
helped previously; older people should offer references from happy clients.
If possible, visit the home and meet with the parents and the child before you
take your first job as a babysitter; this will reduce the surprises for the child . . .
and for you.
Make sure you know the rules for yourself, as well. Are you welcome to raid
the refrigerator, or are you expected to bring your own meal? Do the parents
expect you to clean up after the children eat?
How to Get Started
Post flyers in schools, community centers, and supermarkets. Place ads in local
newspapers and shopping guides.
Ask family and friends to spread the word about your availability. Send letters
to the human resources departments of major employers in your area. Do the
same with school nurses.
Up-front Expenses
The principal up-front expense is for advertising and promotion.
BABYSITTING 167
How Much to Charge
There is usually a standard rate for babysitting in your area. You can add a premium
for emergency calls and for jobs that continue late into the night.
Legal and Insurance Issues
Special notes: Your contract should identify any safety and security responsibilities
of the client and limit your liability for accidents, errors, and omissions.
You should also obtain a signature on a document granting you permission to
authorize emergency medical treatment for the child if necessary.
If you are making yourself available to care for a sick child, make sure it is
clear who is to pick that child up from school. Most schools will not release a
child to anyone but a parent unless they have written authorization.
Be very cautious about accepting a job that requires you to pick up or deliver
a child by car; if you do, make sure your insurance agent is aware of it and that
your insurance covers you for this kind of responsibility.
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
Babysitting Agency
–
Description of Job
• Manage a team of responsible, carefully checked babysitters who are available
on call.
• Work with area hotels, resorts, and convention centers to provide babysitting
services to visitors.
168 CHILDREN, FAMILY, AND PET SERVICES
The Need
Every parent knows the feeling: trapped at home with a child night after night.
Yet good babysitters are hard to find, especially on an irregular basis.
Even parents on vacation with their children yearn for the chance to go out
for dinner at a place where the butter is not shaped like mouse ears and the waitress
does not arrive with crayons as well as a menu.
A babysitting agency provides sitters who go to the homes of clients or to
hotel rooms. This is not a day care situation where parents bring children to a
home or a commercial setting involved in a wide range of complexities and risks.
Challenges
Two very specific sets of skills required are these: First of all, you need to be able
to recruit, investigate, and manage a team of babysitters and oversee their scheduling,
billing, and payment. The babysitters themselves need an abundance of
patience, resourcefulness, and responsibility.
For this sort of job, do not agree to accept children into your own home or a
commercial setting, and do not agree to pick up or deliver children by car.
Set up a very specific contract that lists the responsibilities you accept and
those you do not; seek an attorney’s assistance. The agreement should include
full information about the child and his or her parents or legal guardians. Here is
some of the information you should seek:
• Name, home address, and phone number of either parents or guardians. If
they are not known to you, ask to see a driver’s license or other form of
government identification and make a record of the ID number.
• Cell phone numbers if available.
• Names and phone numbers for other family members or guardians you can
call if the parents are not reachable.
• Full information on where the parents or guardians will be while you are in
charge of the child. Obtain the phone number of the restaurant or other
location where they will be.
• Any details about special medical concerns or allergies of the child.
• You should also obtain a signature on a legal form granting you or your
representatives the right to obtain emergency medical treatment for the
child if needed.
• Any special rules of behavior for the child.
BABYSITTING AGENCY 169
Know the Territory
This sort of job works well in areas with a large number of professional and
white-collar families and in locations that are home to hotels and resorts catering
to families.
You’ll also need to know the backgrounds of sitters you add to your team.
Ask for references and resumes. Ask whether they have a criminal record.
If you want to be even more professional—or if your local market demands
this—you can insist that job applicants consent to be checked for possible criminal
records through an agency or through a cooperative area police agency. Seek
the assistance of an attorney in drawing up a consent form for such an investigation,
and be sure you understand the privacy rights of applicants.
A medical permission form also establishes you as a professional. The form
should grant to the temporary guardian permission to authorize medical and
dental care as recommended by a qualified doctor, dentist, or other medical
practitioner.
In some areas, this sort of business may require a special permit or license.
How to Get Started
You’ll need a reliable supply of babysitters. For this sort of clientele, you should
set your sights higher than high school kids. Instead, recruit college students by
placing ads on bulletin boards at student unions and in dorms; tap senior citizens
by posting ads at senior centers; and enlist teachers by posting ads in administrative
offices and lounges of schools.
Place ads for clients in neighborhood newspapers. Post notices in community
centers and at cooperative area retailers, restaurants, and theaters. Make contact
with area hotels and speak with concierges and managers to make sure they are
aware of your services; you may want to offer a commission to the hotel in return
for a listing in the information guide placed in rooms.
If there is a convention center in your area, contact management and ask to
be included in information provided to visitors. Again, you may want to—or be
asked to—offer a commission.
Up-front Expenses
Most of the expenses for a babysitting agency involve recruiting and managing
your team of sitters and advertising for clients.
You’ll also need to set up a scheduling system and perform basic accounting
functions.
170 CHILDREN, FAMILY, AND PET SERVICES
How Much to Charge
Babysitting is priced on an hourly basis. Be clear in your contract how many children
are included in the basic rate; a sitter who is being paid to watch two children
cannot be expected to have their friends over to the house for the same rate.
The agreement should also specify whether the babysitter is to serve any
meals and, if so, whether there is an additional charge for that function.
Legal and Insurance Issues
Special notes: Consult an attorney for advice on criminal background checks,
medical permission forms, liability, and other pertinent issues.
Many clients are likely to pay cash for services rendered, which means you will
have to collect funds from the babysitters in your service. Consider signing up with
a bank or other service provider to accept credit cards for payment; this will allow
you to bill clients immediately after services are rendered and help you in maintaining
tax records. If you accept credit cards, you will also be in the stronger position
of owing payment to your representatives instead of the other way around.
Since the babysitters in your agency are not likely to be full-time employees,
you might want to treat them as independent contractors (workers for hire) in
which case they are responsible for their own tax payments and benefits.
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
Children’s Night Out
–
Description of Job
• Organize care and entertainment for children for a specific period of time.
• Provide temporary care for parents on vacation or traveling for business.
CHILDREN’S NIGHT OUT 171
• Offer a regular program of activities for parents seeking a night off from
their youngsters.
The Need
Even parents have rights and needs.
How does this sound for a typical family vacation for a mother, father, and two
young children? Rise at 7 A.M. for a frenetic breakfast, then spend all day at the
beach, the ballpark, or at a theme park. Lunch comes in a cardboard box and the
paper napkins double as coloring pages for the kids. By dinnertime the kids are
running on 220 volts while the parents would do just about anything for an hour
or so of quiet and a dinner where the butter pats are not shaped like mouse ears.
Alternatively, it may be a matter of business necessity: Mom and dad are on
the road for a business convention and both are expected to be at a formal reception
that night . . . and the kids are not invited or expected.
Even in the comfortable environs of home, a little bit of safe separation
between parents and children is almost certainly good for both.
A children’s-night-out program is short-term care for children, usually for a
specified period of time and often with a particular theme: a movie night, a costume
ball, a pizza party, video games, or live entertainment by a magician, clown,
or small theater group. The program can be presented to tourists on a one-time
basis or to locals on a regular schedule.
Challenges
The biggest challenge—one that takes precedence over anything else—is provision
of a safe location and adequate supervision for young children.
Unless you are running a regularly scheduled program, you will not know
most of the children in your care, and few will have friends with them.
You should set very specific age limits and stick to them; if you will be accepting
very young children, set a policy about whether you will welcome only toilettrained
clients. You will also want to avoid mixing very young children with
young teens; neither group is likely to be happy to be included with the other.
The simplest plan would also exclude any transportation of the children; have
the parents bring the youngsters to your location and pick them up at the specified
time. Providing pickup and delivery or planning to take your charges to
another location would require a van or bus approved for the transport of children,
a licensed driver, and appropriate insurance.
Parents should be asked to fill out a form with full details of where they will
be, as well as cell phone numbers and other contact information. Obtain the name
172 CHILDREN, FAMILY, AND PET SERVICES
of another close family member or a trusted friend of the parents as an additional
contact. Your contract should include language that permits you to secure emergency
medical treatment for the child if necessary. The parents should be asked
to provide information about any medical condition or allergies the child has.
Most child care operations also reserve the right to refuse a child who is obviously
sick.
Know the Territory
If your area has schools, resorts, convention centers, or theme parks, you should
have a good market of clients.
You’ll need to find a location for the program, preferably near parents’ homes
or their hotels. The facility will have to be childproofed and will likely have to
pass inspection from local or state regulators.
One possible solution: Run the program in a ballroom or convention room at
a hotel, in cooperation with the management there. The hotel will likely ask for a
rental payment for the use of the room or a percentage of your take; you should
encourage the hotel to think of your program as a guest service that may encourage
adults to use their restaurants and other facilities while their children are
properly cared for.
How to Get Started
Spend the time to get to know about convention centers, resorts, hotels, and other
attractions in your area that may bring in visitors. Get to know hotel concierges
and convention planners who might refer business your way.
Place flyers and business cards on bulletin boards at community centers.
Some restaurants and theaters may be willing to allow you to post your flyer at
their establishment.
Contact some of the day camps in the area and ask them to recommend your
services to parents looking for child care in the evening.
Place ads in community newspapers.
Up-front Expenses
Expenses will include advertising and promotion as well as any licenses and
inspections required for child care facilities. You will have to obtain special business
liability insurance—not all carriers will write policies for child care operations.
If you are running your center at a hotel or on someone else’s property you
will likely require worker’s compensation coverage.
CHILDREN’S NIGHT OUT 173
You will probably have to hire assistants; consult with an accountant about
whether they need to be salaried or can be engaged on a work-for-hire basis.
They may also be required to have worker’s compensation coverage.
You may have to invest in some toys, games, TVs, and VCRs.
How Much to Charge
You can charge a flat rate for a specified period of time or an hourly rate with a
minimum charge. The rate should include snacks or a meal.
Make it clear to clients that your facility is licensed and insured.
Parents must be advised beforehand of late fees if they pick up their children
later than promised or if you are forced to keep the center open later than its official
hours.
You should ask for payment by credit card or cash; there is some risk in
accepting a check from someone not known to you.
Legal and Insurance Issues
Special notes: Your contract should cover other issues, including legal guardianship
of the children. (You should not release a child to anyone other than the
parent or legal guardian without advanced written permission.)
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
Vacation Child Care
Description of Job
• Take up temporary residence in a client’s home and accept responsibility to
care for children while the parent or parents are traveling.
174 CHILDREN, FAMILY, AND PET SERVICES
• Prepare meals, perform ordinary housecleaning, and maintain the security
of the home.
• Get children to school and other scheduled appointments.
• Be ready to arrange for emergency medical services and home repairs,
based on permissions and instructions given by parents.
The Need
Working parents are sometimes called on to travel for business. Even loving parents
sometimes need a break from their children for a long weekend or an out-oftown
trip. On occasion, a husband or wife may be able to take along a spouse on
an extraordinary business trip.
If they are lucky, some parents can count on family or close friends to take
care of their children when they travel, but it is increasingly common for young
families to be hundreds or thousands of miles away from the extended family. The
worst case of all is a single parent with young children and no family or friends
available to help out.
Challenges
Taking responsibility for young children is not an easy job. If you have children
of your own, you already know that. If you don’t have kids, sit down and talk
with someone who does. Make sure you are emotionally, physically, and mentally
up to the task.
Decide whether you are willing to accept the additional responsibilities and
demands of taking care of an infant or whether you prefer to accept only children
who are old enough to attend school. Some children may require special
medical care or have physical disabilities or other special needs; be sure you
understand the situation and decide whether you are capable of caring for them.
You’re not discriminating against them if you feel you are not able to give them
the help they need.
It may be possible to take this sort of job while maintaining a full-time or
part-time job elsewhere, although you will need the same sort of flexibility that
any parent requires, including being on call for emergencies for your surrogate
family. One good career mix: a school teacher who will work more or less the
same hours as his or her young charges.
Will you be expected to use your own car, or will the owner provide permission
to use a family car? If so, you should obtain written permission to use the
vehicle. Ask about insurance coverage and the registration.
VACATION CHILD CARE 175
Know the Territory
The job description for parent, and surrogate parent, includes a sense of structure
tempered with a great deal of flexibility; also required is the willingness to accept
responsibility for supervision and care—and a nearly bottomless well of patience.
You’ll begin with the basics: getting the kids up in the morning, getting them
dressed, fed, off to school, met after school, fed again, focused on homework,
and back to bed. Mix in after-school activities, sports, playgroups, and pets.
Then come the weekends and holidays, when the kids may be home all day
or may need to be shuttled about to sports, to clubs, and to play with friends.
Finally, there are unexpected responsibilities that cannot be planned: illnesses,
accidents, and problems with the house.
The key to success in this sort of job is to spend enough time with the parents
and the children to learn all the rules and responsibilities before you take over.
Among the questions you need to have answered:
• Are you expected to be at home all of the time when the children are there,
or are they old enough and responsible enough so you can take a few hours
to do some personal business?
• What is the schedule for wake-up calls, meals, and bedtime?
• Are there any foods the kids are not allowed to eat? Any significant allergies?
• What sort of food will be stocked in the house? Will there be prepared
meals in the freezer? Will you need to shop for food? What sort of a budget
will you be given for food?
• Are there any significant medical conditions or special needs you will have
to deal with? Will you be expected to administer medication or deal with
doctors or other providers?
• Are the children allowed to spend time at the houses of friends? Are friends
allowed to come over to the child’s house?
• What is the schedule for the traveling parents? What are their cell phone
numbers? How can they be reached at hotels or conferences?
• Who are the available next of kin and relatives, and how can they be
reached? What are the names of responsible friends and neighbors, and
how can they be reached?
• What sort of housekeeping tasks will you be asked to perform?
• Are there any pets? What responsibilities will the children have for their
care?
176 CHILDREN, FAMILY, AND PET SERVICES
Before you accept a job, you should ask the parents to do the following:
• Give you a letter granting you permission to authorize necessary emergency
medical care, and providing full details on health insurance (including
an insurance card or a photocopy of the card) and the names of family
doctors, dentists, and other health care providers
• Provide a to-whom-it-may-concern letter granting you permission to enter
their home and reside there
• If it’s part of the deal, give you written permission to use the family car,
along with its registration and insurance information
• Notify neighbors, schoolteachers, and others that you will be in the home
while the parents are away
How to Get Started
Post flyers at schools, community centers, and retail stores. Place ads in newspapers,
school newspapers, and shopping guides.
Contact the principals of area schools and ask if they would keep your name
on file as a child care resource. They may not be willing—or able—to make recommendations,
but they might pass along your card. Ask friends and neighbors
to recommend your services; offer a bonus or commission for work they send
your way. Do the same for satisfied customers.
Up-front Expenses
The principal up-front costs are for advertising and promotion.
How Much to Charge
Charge by the day for each day you are in the house; typical rates range from
about $100 to $200 per day.
The client is responsible for stocking the refrigerator and kitchen and providing
a pool of cash for additional food, if needed, and for school lunches,
allowances, and the like. If you use your own vehicle for shopping or transportation,
you should charge a reasonable mileage rate.
Legal and Insurance Issues
Special notes: Your contract should identify any safety and security responsibilities
of the client and limit your liability for accidents, errors, and omissions.
VACATION CHILD CARE 177
If you are making yourself available to care for a sick child, make sure it is
clear who is to pick that child up from school. Most schools will not release a
child to anyone but a parent unless they have written authorization.
Your attorney can give you blank forms that grant permission for you to obtain
emergency medical care, drive the family car, and identify you to police and other
authorities as having permission to live in people’s home while they are away.
An insurance agent can advise about necessary liability coverage and offer
suggestions about proper coverage if you will be driving children in your own car
or in the family vehicle.
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
Dog Walking and Vacation Pet Visits
Description of Job
• Help pet owners care for their significant others when they can’t be there
themselves.
• Take dogs for exercise and bathroom breaks.
• Provide a bit of human companionship for lonely pets.
• Maintain fresh food and water for indoor pets.
• Change litter boxes and clean up pet “accidents.”
The Need
Three out of ten households include a pet—with cats slightly outnumbering
dogs—and those that do greatly benefit from the companionship and fun provided
by their animals. Yet most of us lead increasingly complex lives, and we
can’t always be there to take proper care of our pet’s needs.
178 CHILDREN, FAMILY, AND PET SERVICES
Dogs must be taken for walks several times a day. Cats need fresh food and
water and someone to play with for a while, even if they don’t want to admit to
needing a human around the house. Goldfish, birds, hamsters—and other critters
that qualify as pets—need a bit of help on a regular basis.
The job of a pet service provider is to help keep furry, scaly, or feathery
friends healthy and happy when their owners are unable to be there.
Here are some ways this job can be set up:
• You come to a client’s home or apartment on a regularly scheduled basis to
attend to the pet. This sort of arrangement might be for someone who has a
full-time job outside the home or someone who is going away on an
extended trip.
Owners or a caretaker may be there to let you into the house, or they
may make other arrangements whereby you can gain access. What does
that mean? They might give you a key, leave a key in a hidden location, or
give you the combination to a lock or alarm system.
• You could arrange to be on call for a client and respond as needed. For
example, someone might call you to say that he or she is going to have to
work late tonight, or has been called out of town unexpectedly. You have
previously agreed to be available within whatever reasonable advance
notice time you have set.
Challenges
You have to be able to get along with animals. In our experience, some people
make animals feel quite secure, and others set off growls and hisses from the
most docile puppies and kittens. You know which type you are.
You have to be flexible and dependable. Your clients and their pets are going
to rely on you; one missed appointment may cost you a client.
You have to demonstrate your trustworthiness. If you are given the keys to
someone’s house, that person can’t accuse you of breaking in; however, if something
goes missing, you will automatically become a prime suspect.
Make certain you understand the ground rules; if you’re going into the refrigerator
for Fido’s food, that doesn’t mean you’re entitled to make your own dinner.
It means you’re not entitled to use the swimming pool or the big-screen TV
unless the owner specifically agrees to that.
Agree to a price list for services and a billing schedule. If possible, obtain an
advance payment that covers the first week’s or month’s services, and always bill
in advance. As a businessperson, it is preferable for you to owe money or services
DOG WALKING AND VACATION PET VISITS 179
to your client than to sweat out receipt of payment after you’ve done your job (or
the pet has done his).
Know the Territory
Research, understand, and obey all local ordinances that affect your business.
Many areas have pooper-scooper laws that require dog owners and their representatives
to clean up after their animals. There may be regulations against walking
multiple dogs as a pack, and there are usually laws against excessive barking.
Consult with your insurance broker to make certain you have proper coverage
to protect you from liability claims. Are you covered if a dog you are walking
bites someone? Does your auto insurance protect you if you are driving to a
client to conduct business?
Maintain a locked cabinet or safe for customers’ keys. Avoid putting names
or addresses on the keys in case they are lost or stolen; use the pet’s name or a
code that makes sense to you, and store your clients’ names and addresses in a
separate, secure location.
Ask your clients to advise friends and neighbors that they have employed you
and given you permission to enter their house.
Make an appointment to meet with prospective clients before you make your
first solo visit. Meet the pets and spend some time with them to make sure you
are comfortable with each other.
Make certain you understand the animal’s feeding schedule and allowable
treats. The owner should always provide the food. Ask for the name and phone
number of the animal’s veterinarian, and obtain written permission from the
owner to call for medical help if you feel it is needed. If the animal is receiving
medication, make sure you understand the schedule and any special instructions.
For dog-walking services, determine if this animal plays well with others.
Some pet service providers walk several dogs at the same time, which allows for
a bit of socialization and maximizes your profit. But it may not be possible if the
dog will not cooperate or is much larger or more aggressive than the others in
your pack. Some dog owners may prefer that their dog socialize with others,
while others may not want their pet exposed to diseases.
How to Get Started
Add any special circumstances, services, and concerns to your business plan.
Determine the going rate for these services in your area. Among the ways to do
this: Ask friends if they have ever engaged someone for this sort of job and the
price they paid. You could also ask what they think such services are worth. Call
180 CHILDREN, FAMILY, AND PET SERVICES
the local animal shelter or veterinarian and ask whether they know of others
doing this sort of work; they may even offer suggestions on the price of services
they don’t perform.
Draw up a simple agreement that lays out the services you propose to provide,
the responsibilities you are willing to accept and those for which you do not
accept liability, a price schedule, and the terms for payment. This may not fully
stand up in court, but at least you will have something in writing that covers any
verbal agreement you make with a client.
Start spreading the news. Put up posters and flyers on apartment building
bulletin boards, in supermarkets, and near parks and other areas where owners
exercise their pets. Ask your friends and neighbors. Ask animal shelters or veterinarians
to put a notice in their waiting room. Some pet stores will also allow
you to put up a small poster. Purchase a small ad in a neighborhood newspaper;
the best place to buy an ad is in a publication that has similar ads.
Up-front Expenses
The principal expenses are for advertising and promotion.
How Much to Charge
Rates vary by location, with higher prices in major metropolitan areas, although
you should also factor in your costs if you need to drive a great distance to meet
a pet in a rural setting. A typical price for a 15-minute quick check on a pet or a
short walk ranges from $10 to $15; a 30-minute walk is generally priced from
$15 to $20, and a full hour of exercise is priced from about $20 to $30 in most
areas.
If you intend to walk packs of dogs as a standard service, you may want to
list a higher price for solo walks.
Some pet service providers give volume discounts; for example, they might
offer a 10 to 20 percent reduction for a prepaid punch card that entitles the pet
owner to 15 visits. Other providers offer lower rates for visits more than once
per day.
You might also offer a bonus if customers refer new business to you, especially
if the clients live nearby, which will save you time and money.
Legal and Insurance Issues
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
DOG WALKING AND VACATION PET VISITS 181
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
Pet Sitter and Doggie Day Care
Description of Job
• Care for dogs, cats, and certain other housetrained pets in your home while
their owners are away on vacation.
• Maintain a doggy day care center for animals unable to be left at home alone
while their owners are at work.
• Take responsibility for emergency medical care as well as basic needs for
animals.
The Need
Sometimes you’ve just got to get away, and you can’t always bring your furry
best friend with you. Pet sitters can care for animals for extended periods of time,
or they can operate a day care that allows owners to drop off a pet in the morning
and pick it up at the end of the day.
Some animals may become neurotic or dangerous to themselves or others if
they are left alone in a home, and many animals are terrified of animal shelters, a
place that may be filled with the odors of other animals that are ill or frightened.
A pet sitter offers a comfortable and personalized alternative to boarding a dog or
cat at an animal shelter and removes the worry and liability that would come with
asking someone to come into your home to visit and care for your pet.
Challenges
You’ll begin with a high comfort level with dogs and cats, of course. You’ll also
need a living space that is large enough to safely handle multiple animals, and a
nearby location to give them exercise is a must, too.
Be sure to obtain full information on where the owners will be while you
182 CHILDREN, FAMILY, AND PET SERVICES
have their animal in your charge, and obtain written permission from them to
obtain emergency medical service if required.
You should not accept an animal you feel is dangerous to you or others, and
you should not accept an animal that is ill.
Know the Territory
Big cities are more likely to have small dogs that are comfortable with life in
apartments. Rural settings may have large dogs that expect to have acres of land
to roam.
If you are in a rented home or apartment you’ll need the permission of your
landlord to house pets. Even if you own your own home you’ll need to be observant
of local zoning and health laws that might limit the number of animals permitted
in a home, even on a temporary basis.
Your neighbors may object, especially if some of the animals are noisy or
messy.
How to Get Started
Advertise at pet supply stores, supermarkets, and community centers and in
shopping guides and newspapers. Ask friends and family to spread the word, and
offer a bonus to clients who refer new business to you.
Up-front Expenses
The principal expenses will be for advertising and promotion. You may have to
install fencing on your property and internal gates to keep pets separated or away
from places they should not venture. You’ll also need some feeding and water
bowls.
How Much to Charge
Charge a fixed rate per day or half day. Owners should supply food and any special
treats.
Set your prices with awareness of what the area’s animal shelter charges; you
may want to underprice its rates, or set a higher price for a higher level of service.
Legal and Insurance Issues
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
PET SITTER AND DOGGIE DAY CARE 183
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
Elder Companion
Description of Job
• Provide companionship and security for elderly people in their homes.
• Communicate with family about health and welfare conditions.
The Need
With the benefit of advanced medical care, people are living longer. It is also less
common these days for their children to spend their adult lives in the same community
where they were born; in fact, many of us end up living hundreds or thousands
of miles from our birthplace. In addition, many couples are having children
later in life. Among the effects: the “sandwich generation” of adults who are raising
their own children and worrying about the welfare of their aging parents at
the same time.
The role of the elder care companion is to provide company for senior citizens
living alone and to help the family know about the living conditions and
health of their elderly loved ones. Some clients might ask the companion to call
them during or after each visit to report on the situation.
Challenges
The elder care companion might bring lunch, play cards, or help explain a television
show or movie. The companion might provide some light housekeeping,
such as vacuuming and dishwashing.
The job stops short of providing medical care, dispensing medications, offering
physical therapy, bathing, or other jobs for which training or licensure is
required. In some localities, you may require a license or permit.
This sort of job requires a great deal of patience and understanding, and you
184 CHILDREN, FAMILY, AND PET SERVICES
must have the ability to observe your older charges and to report on their condition
to their children or other relatives. In some circumstances, you may need to call
doctors or other medical professionals to report on new or ongoing conditions.
Know the Territory
There is a need for this sort of work just about everywhere, but the parents and
their children may be living in completely different areas.
How to Get Started
Spread the word about your availability in community centers, in senior centers,
in church newsletters, and in area newspapers and shopping guides. Seek to post
flyers and business cards at health care stores and pharmacies, including those
that sell and rent medical equipment for the home.
Contact area doctors and let them know of your services; they may be willing
to recommend you to their patients or their families.
Be prepared to give personal references.
Up-front Expenses
Your principal expenses will be for advertising and promotion.
How Much to Charge
Charge an hourly rate for your time. If the client lives some distance from your
home, you can charge a reasonable mileage rate for your drive.
With permission, you can purchase and bill for the cost of games, books,
CDs, and other things you feel are valuable for your client.
Some of these jobs are filled by agencies that specialize in services to the
elderly. You may be able to work for the agency and be paid by that group instead
of directly by the client.
Legal and Insurance Issues
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
ELDER COMPANION 185
Elder Care Consultant
Description of Job
• Consult with elderly clients and their immediate families about available
options for health care, long-term care, and in-home services.
• Review client’s eligibility for benefits under Medicaid, Medicare, private
health insurance, and other sources of public and private assistance.
• Coordinate with attorneys, accountants, insurance agencies, medical providers,
and others involved in the establishment of a plan for care and the
means to pay for it.
The Need
Old age is relatively easy to bear for two economic classes of people: the very
wealthy and the very poor.
The richest among us can afford to pay the huge cost of medical care, longterm
care, and special services from their own resources; they don’t need to ask
for permission or meet government criteria for programs.
The poorest qualify for federal and state programs that provide a safety net.
They have few if any investments and no property of any value that the government
might take.
It is the vast group in the middle who must face the most difficult of choices,
including the need to spend down their assets to pay for much of their own care and
perhaps to reach near-poverty levels before they qualify for government programs.
The role of the elder care consultant is to offer expert advice on decisions,
then to work with the client and other members of the family support team to
implement the plan. Together with the family, you may work with elder care
attorneys, accountants, and insurance agents to help implement a plan.
Among the areas you’ll need to address:
• Assessing Social Security and Medicare benefits
• Coordinating private health insurance and long-term care insurance with
Medicare
186 CHILDREN, FAMILY, AND PET SERVICES
• Understanding the services available to veterans
• Reviewing Medigap insurance to fill in for areas not covered by existing
policies
• Assisting with prescription drug strategies, including Medicare prescription
cards, private programs, Veterans Administration pharmacies, and
importation of drugs from Canada or Mexico, where legal
• Knowing the eligibility requirements for Medicaid
• Protecting investments and assets by transferring them to other family
members well ahead of the point where government programs will consider
them of interest
You’ll also need to be aware of programs offered by local governments and
offices for the aging and by area religious institutions, foundations, and charities.
Challenges
This job requires a tremendous amount of research and organization, and a commitment
to keeping up-to-date on changes in laws, programs, and economics.
You’ll often be dealing with people in times of personal stress because of illness,
finances, or just the escalating concerns of old age. The elderly may have
difficulty hearing or understanding complex concepts. Every client will have different
needs.
Don’t play lawyer, doctor, or insurance agent yourself. Your job is to be an
impartial advisor to your client and an independent representative in dealings
with professionals.
Know the Territory
The federal Medicare program is essentially the same across the country. Medicaid,
which is funded jointly by state and federal governments, varies greatly from
state to state. Private Medigap insurance fills in some of the gaps in government
programs, and private health insurance and long-term-care policies can replace
or supplement government plans.
Begin by learning everything you can about the local situation. Make contact
with the county and state offices for the aging and learn about programs they
offer; read web sites and brochures produced by state and federal agencies.
Meet with area insurance agents who sell Medigap, health insurance, and
long-term-care policies to learn about available offerings. Any agent who is
ELDER CARE CONSULTANT 187
especially cooperative should be at the top of your list of recommended resources
for your clients.
Check with the local bar association to find out about area lawyers who specialize
in elder law. Contact some or all of them and ask about the services they
provide; some may offer to meet with you to discuss their practice. Again, you
can include their names among your recommendations.
Visit area nursing homes and long-term-care facilities. A helpful administrator
may be able to help you learn more about the economics of long-term care.
You should be able to offer an independent assessment of the atmosphere and
conditions you find; state regulators are in charge of rating the quality of medical
care and supervision.
How to Get Started
Post your services in senior centers, community centers, and religious institutions.
Place ads in newspapers and shoppers.
Send notices of your services to area doctors and gerontologists, elder law
attorneys, and senior centers.
Offer to give a talk at senior centers and make it known that you are available
for hire for personal consultations.
Up-front Expenses
You’ll need a collection of current research and reference materials. A computer
with a connection to the Internet is also very important.
Other up-front expenses are principally for advertising and promotion.
How Much to Charge
Charge by the hour for your consultations and research. If you are asked to visit
facilities, lawyers, accountants, or other specialists on behalf of your client, you
can include a reasonable mileage charge.
Legal and Insurance Issues
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
188 CHILDREN, FAMILY, AND PET SERVICES
Genealogical Research
Description of Job
• Research the ancestry and family history for a client.
• Present a report with information and analysis based on your research.
The Need
Who are we, and where did we come from? For most of us, what we know of our
family history dates back only a generation or two. Our roots were lost when
ancestors emigrated from foreign lands, moved around the country, or were
buried with poorly maintained governmental, military, and religious records.
The urge to trace personal history often begins with the innocent interest of
youngsters and progresses to the more urgent inquiry of adults who see the glimmers
of mortality.
The professional genealogist uses traditional tools of library research, probate
records, birth and death certificates, records of religious ceremonies, and
marriage licenses. Some of the information exists in dusty paper records, but
increasingly the bits and pieces of our lives are floating in cyberspace and accessible
through the Internet. Even so, it requires some decent investigative skills
and dogged determination to do the job properly.
Challenges
You’ll need to understand the processes of genealogical research, have the determination
and drive of a detective, and know how to work equally well with computer
databases and old record books in musty vaults.
You’ll also have to maintain a professional skepticism in pursuit of the truth.
Your client may start out by telling you that he is descended from the royal family
of Denmark, or that she is the great-great-grandaughter of a Civil War general. Your
response, whether said aloud or kept to yourself, has to be: “We’ll see about that.”
Though nearly all current personal information is available in electronic
form, many modern laws are intended to protect the privacy of individuals. You
may need to obtain permission from your clients to examine records, or it may be
necessary for them to directly request the records and pass them along to you.
GENEALOGICAL RESEARCH 189
Know the Territory
Some searches will go back several generations in the same town or area; many
others skip around from town to town, state to state, and reach back across borders
to family members who emigrated from Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas.
Begin by learning about available local and regional resources. Does your
town or state offer online access to records? What sort of identification or permission
is required?
Learn about the most common family histories for the people in your area.
For example, some parts of the country have a large proportion of second- or
third-generation immigrants from Ireland, Italy, or Scandinavia. Other places
have more recent immigrants from the Caribbean, Latin America, Russia, and
eastern Europe.
Become an expert on the sort of information you can expect to obtain from
foreign sources. In some countries, most of the records are likely to come from
church sources. In some former Communist states, records may be very detailed,
although access over the Internet may be limited.
United States and Canadian officials kept reasonably good records of new
arrivals during periods of major immigration, including the early part of the
twentieth century, and much of that information is available through government
and private web sites. Many of these sites have museums or visitor centers that
can provide information on those who entered through the port. Most Europeans
entered the United States through major ports in New York, Alexandria, Baltimore,
Boston, Galveston, Miami, and Savannah; in Canada, major ports included
those in Halifax and Quebec City.
The National Archives & Records Administration (NARA), a federal agency,
publishes guidebooks and offers publications and leaflets that may help you get
started in searching government records.
How to Get Started
Polish your skills by tracing your own ancestors before you start with paying
customers.
Develop a checklist of questions to ask your clients in the initial interview,
and a list of documents you would like to review. These include birth and death
certificates, wedding licenses, divorce decrees, adoption papers, and anything
else that might include details of your clients’ lives and those of their ancestors.
Ask for the details of any unsubstantiated family stories; even if they are
completely incorrect, there may be some kernels of information you could use in
your research.
190 CHILDREN, FAMILY, AND PET SERVICES
Post your availability on bulletin boards at community centers, senior centers,
religious institutions, and elsewhere. Place ads in family- and communityoriented
newspapers and shopping guides.
Up-front Expenses
Invest in some good guides to genealogical research. You should also have access
to a computer with an Internet account, plus a good-quality printer.
Other expenses include advertising and promotion.
How Much to Charge
Charge an hourly rate for research; you may want to offer a basic search that is
limited to no more than 8 or 10 hours, or promise to check in with your clients
after each block of 10 hours to advise them of your progress and to get the okay
to keep the clock running for further research.
Legal and Insurance Issues
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
Family Biographer
Description of Job
• Research, write, and publish a personal biography or family history for a
client.
• Prepare a personal story on videotape, DVD, or CD for presentation at a
family celebration or commemoration.
FAMILY BIOGRAPHER 191
The Need
For eons, family history has been something handed down by word of mouth
from one generation to the next. In more recent times, records of who we were
have progressed from formal oil portraits of the rich and wealthy to studio photography
to modern snapshots and videos.
Today, we have available incredibly powerful, easy-to-use, and easy-to-store
media, including videotapes, CDs, and DVDs, as well as computer tools that
allow anyone to create a near-professional-quality book with a press run of as few
as one. The tools can be used to produce biographies for family reunions, weddings,
anniversaries, birthdays, and memorial services.
The job of the family biographer is to facilitate the creation of a biography or
history using modern tools and research methods. The result can be published
using computer word processors and high-quality printers, or transferred from
computer to videotape or DVD to be played on a television set.
Challenges
You will need to be an accomplished researcher and able to work with a wide variety
of clients of varying ages and backgrounds.You will ask family members to give
you photos, films, and precious documents to serve as the backbone for your work.
You’ll need to be able to verify details, work with government agencies, religious
institutions, and other record keepers. There is a great wealth of information
available on the Internet, and you’ll need to be able to search and retrieve data.
If you will be writing a biography, you will need to be able to express yourself
in a clear voice. If you will be producing a DVD or videotape, you will need
to master the technology of digital editing, videotape capture, and preparation of
a PowerPoint (or similar) presentation.
The more advance time you have and the more the client is willing to pay for,
the better the job you will be able to do. You may have to deal with situations
where a client approaches you on Friday for a presentation to be made on Sunday.
In some situations, you may be asked to embellish stories or even report
information you suspect or know to be wrong; you will have to come up with
your own rules about how far you are willing to stray away from journalism and
toward fiction.
Know the Territory
No two life stories are the same, and no two biographies or family histories will
be alike, either.
192 CHILDREN, FAMILY, AND PET SERVICES
You will begin by meeting with your client to discuss the process and to hear
the oral history of the family, which will help you plan your research and writing.
Collect as many photos, films, videos, and documents as possible. Bring a sturdy,
dry case to transport material to your office; make copies as quickly as possible
and return the originals to your client.
As a writer or producer for hire, you should make certain that you fully
understand your clients’wants and needs. They may want to emphasize a particular
accomplishment or event, and they may want you to ignore or downplay a
skeleton in the closet.
It will be up to you to decide whether you are willing to report information
you cannot verify.
The process for creating a book or an electronic presentation includes:
• Researching the story based on a verbal history given by the family
• Checking with independent sources to verify information
• Scanning documents, photos, films, and videos to convert them to digital
form
• Using a digital editor, such as Adobe Photoshop, to repair and improve the
quality of documents and images
• Using publishing software, such as Quark or Adobe InDesign, to produce
printed versions
• Using digital publishing software, such as Adobe Acrobat, Microsoft
PowerPoint, or other programs to produce a version on-screen, and then
using a CD or DVD-burning program to create a CD or DVD, or outputting
the version from a graphics adapter to a VCR to make a videotape
How to Get Started
Post flyers on bulletin boards at community centers, schools, churches, and other
places. Place ads in newspapers and shopping guides.
You may be able to get bookstores, photo shops, and other retail outlets to
allow you to post flyers and recommend you to their clients; offer a bonus or
commission. Ask friends, acquaintances, and satisfied customers to tell others of
your services; offer them a bonus or discount on future work.
Seek publicity about your work through the lifestyle editor of your newspaper,
who may find it interesting enough to run a story.
FAMILY BIOGRAPHER 193
Up-front Expenses
You will need a computer with access to the Internet and a professional-quality
printer. The computer should include word processing software and a publishing
program to produce printed output.
To convert photos and documents to digital images for printed materials and
electronic presentations, you’ll need a scanner. If you will be working to capture
images from a videotape, you’ll need a video-capture adapter.
To create a CD or DVD, you’ll need presentation software and a CD or DVD
burner and software. To create a videotape, you’ll need a video adapter with a TV
output and a video recorder.
Other costs include advertising and promotion.
How Much to Charge
Charge an hourly rate for research and production, plus the cost of materials such
as CDs, DVDs, and videotape. You might want to offer a package price for a set
number of hours.
Legal and Insurance Issues
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
194 CHILDREN, FAMILY, AND PET SERVICES
CHAPTER 11
Educational Services
61 Tutoring
62 Language Instructor
63 Music Teacher
64 Computer Instructor
65 SAT or ACT College Test Preparation
66 College Selection Advisor
67 College Application Consultant
68 Instructor at Community School
Tutoring
Description of Job
• Help a student—of any age—achieve success in school.
• Provide training in a specialized subject to meet business or professional
needs.
The Need
Sometimes we—or our children—need some extra help or one-on-one instruction
to achieve success in school or in our jobs.
Your child may be a whiz when called on to produce written reports, but may
struggle mightily in algebra and geometry. Your young student may be a math
prodigy, but may be unable to master a foreign language.
As a parent, we all want our children to do well and succeed in school. However,
any parent will quickly learn that it is somewhere between extremely difficult
and impossible to teach your own child without a descent into screams and
tears . . . and we’re not just referring to the kids.
As an adult, you may want the assistance of a professional to help you learn
how to operate a computer, master the art of knitting, or brush up on your 20-
year-old French skills before taking a trip to Europe.
Challenges
It is not enough to know the subject; you also have to be capable of teaching. You
have to be a good communicator, and you have to be patient.
You’ll also have to work with school teachers where appropriate, and you’ll
have to get along with parents and guardians who may be a help or a hindrance
in the process.
If you are offering tutoring to adults seeking to improve their skills in a professional
area, you should work to coordinate your efforts with human resources
and training departments where appropriate.
196 EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
Know the Territory
Parents learn quickly that success in school, especially high school, is critical in
getting into a good college and may play a role in obtaining financial aid and
scholarships. It may not be sufficient to point to a child’s extreme success in language
skills and ask that poor results in math be ignored.
Another modern issue is the increased use of standardized testing in schools.
If you are working with a student in school, ask to see the textbooks the student
is using and become familiar with the subject matter you will be covering.
If you are coaching the student for a particular test, seek copies of past tests and
work with them as a base.
How to Get Started
The best qualification for this sort of job is an advanced teaching degree or certificate
and experience as a teacher. That doesn’t mean you can’t offer your
services based on other experiences and background; for example, your own
background as a computer user may be more than enough to qualify you to teach
others how to navigate the Internet.
Whether you are currently a schoolteacher or are coming from industry, you
should be up-to-date on current information, specialized language, and teaching
methods.
In some school districts you may be able towork closely—though informally—
with guidance counselors, teachers, and administrators. Make them aware of your
resume and references and ask them to recommend you to parents who seek help
for their children, as appropriate.
Place flyers and business cards on community bulletin boards, at schools, and
in libraries. Place ads in the school newspaper, community shopping guides, and
local newspapers.
Up-front Expenses
The principal up-front costs for this job are for advertising and promotional
expenses. You could set up a web site, which would also involve costs.
You may need to purchase some textbooks and research materials to help you
in your preparation and teaching.
How Much to Charge
Tutors usually charge by the hour. You might consider offering a discounted rate
for a package of hours; for example, sell 10 hours of tutoring for the cost of 9. If
TUTORING 197
the student lives a great distance from your home, you can ask for a reasonable
reimbursement for the cost of travel.
Legal and Insurance Issues
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
Language Instructor
Description of Job
• Teach basic foreign language skills to students or business professionals.
• Offer brushup training to students with previous instruction in a foreign
language.
• Provide advanced training in a foreign language beyond high school or college
courses.
The Need
English may be the predominant language of business and tourism, but it is by no
means the only way to communicate when you travel to, or deal with people in,
foreign countries.
Understanding at least the basics of a foreign language will increase your
chances for success in business. As a tourist, the ability to communicate in the
local language and understand street signs and advertising will greatly enhance
your experience. You are much more likely to enjoy your meals in Paris if you
understand exactly what you are ordering and are able to communicate with your
waiter.
198 EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
Challenges
To be able to teach a foreign language, you need a strong command of the language,
a good ear for pronunciation, and the ability to teach people who have a
tin ear and a thick tongue.
You should also understand regional differences in accent and colloquialisms.
For example, the French language of Quebec has some significant variations
from the accent and idioms of Paris. The Spanish of the Caribbean and
Latin America varies in some important ways from the Castilian dialect of Spain.
You may be called on to help business clients communicate about specialized
topics such as finance and computer terms.
Know the Territory
One way to sharpen your language skill is to listen to foreign language broadcasts;
many cable and satellite television providers offer news and entertainment
channels from other countries. Many foreign language movies are available on
videotape or DVD. You can also read daily newspapers and newsmagazines on
the Internet.
How to Get Started
Advertise your availability through community bulletin boards and at schools.
Place ads in area business newspapers and community shopping guides. Send letters
about your services to training and human resources officers at area companies.
Teaching a course at a community school or college can get you some recognition
and some clients who want private lessons. An advertisement in a student
newspaper may win some clients who need extra tutoring.
Up-front Expenses
Purchase a library of reference books and dictionaries; subscribe to foreign language
newspapers and magazines and view television shows and movies in the
language.
Other expenses include advertising and promotion.
How Much to Charge
Charge by the hour for private instruction. Add the cost of any books or course
material you require. (Take care not to violate copyright law by making unauthorized
copies of published materials.)
LANGUAGE INSTRUCTOR 199
Legal and Insurance Issues
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
Music Teacher
Description of Job
• Teach people—young and old—to play a musical instrument.
• Offer refresher courses and advanced instruction.
The Need
Learning to play an instrument is somewhat like learning to play a sport. A handful
of people are born with an innate musical sense; the vast majority of us need
instruction, at least at the start.
A music teacher begins with the fundamentals—how to handle an instrument,
how to read music, and how to listen to your own playing.
Challenges
It’s not enough to be able to play an instrument well; you have to be able to teach
others to play. You have to be patient enough to withstand the screeches and wails
of untalented—or at least untutored—students.
An important decision is whether you will go to students in their homes or
teach them at a studio.
If you teach in the homes of students, you can save the expense and complication
of setting up a studio. You will, though, have to spend the time to travel,
and you will have to deal with whatever distractions exist in the home.
Setting up a studio allows you to control the environment. But you have to
make provisions for students—and perhaps family members—to wait while
200 EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
other lessons are conducted. If you are teaching piano, organ, or drums you’ll
have to provide an instrument for students to play at the studio.
A third option is to work with an area piano or musical instrument store;
many offer instruction and hire subcontractors to teach at studios in the store.
This option saves you the expense of setting up a studio and gives you a professional
setting.
Know the Territory
The heart of the market for musical instruction is likely to be elementary through
high school students, although some people will want to pick up an instrument—
or renew a decades-old acquaintance—in their adulthood. Spend the time to
learn about musical programs offered at area schools, and don’t forget that your
services can complement school bands.
Make contact with area piano and musical instrument stores and offer your
services for instruction in the home.
How to Get Started
Advertise on school bulletin boards, in shopping guides, and in music stores.
Seek referrals from friends and relatives.
Up-front Expenses
You’ll need teacher’s copies of musical instruction books. (Some publishers will
offer free or discounted copies to teachers who agree to specify the books as
required purchases for students.)
If you set up your own studio, you’ll need to create a private space with sufficient
room for you, a student, and the instruments you’ll be teaching. If you’re
going to teach piano, organ, drums, harp, or other instruments not easily transported,
you’ll need to provide equipment in the studio.
How Much to Charge
Charge by the hour. Remember to factor in the cost of travel to distant clients. If
you’re going to be teaching in a studio, include a portion of the setup costs in
your hourly rate.
If you will be teaching as a subcontractor in a music store, you will likely be
paid by the store and not the student.
You may be able to make some additional money by selling instruction books
and music to students. If you are running your own business, you may be able to
receive a commission from the rental of musical instruments by an outside company
or store.
MUSIC TEACHER 201
Your contract with the student should be specific regarding hourly rate and
any special conditions. The agreement should include a charge for any student
who fails to cancel an appointment with sufficient notice.
Legal and Insurance Issues
Special notes: Investigate a business owner’s policy for any studio you set up in
your home or for any work you perform in the homes of students or at a music
store. If you perform work in a studio operated by a music store or other third
party, you may need to obtain a workers’ compensation policy.
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
Computer Instructor
Description of Job
• Teach neophytes how to perform basic tasks on a personal computer.
• Give personal lessons on advanced software applications and operating
systems.
• Provide telephone support for software tasks and problems.
The Need
Computers can be wondrous assistants in almost everything we do in our business
and personal lives. Computers can also be maddeningly stubborn and difficult
impediments that speak a language of their own.
Some people seem to be born with an instant connection to the ways of a
computer, while others are baffled, bewildered, and sometimes terrified of the
machine.
202 EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
The job of the personal computer instructor is to help users learn the language
of computer operations and make use of software in their daily lives.
Challenges
By now, personal computers have become very close to commodities. Think in
terms of cars: Though a Ferrari is quite different in features, speed, and price
from a Ford Focus, the two vehicles nevertheless are quite similar; both have four
wheels, an engine, a steering wheel, and a set of brakes.
Although one computer may have different hardware components than
another (microprocessor, memory, disk drives, and the like) the operating system
unifies them all. The vast majority of personal computers use a version of
Microsoft’s Windows to control the hardware and work with standardized software
applications; a small but loyal cadre of users run Apple’s Macintosh operating
system.
The challenge for the personal computer instructor is to help nontechnical
users understand how their PC is configured and to learn how to use the software
that is appropriate for the work they want to perform: For the new user, the basic
trio of applications is a word processor for writing and editing, a browser to gain
access to the Internet, and an e-mail program to send and receive messages.
As with any tutoring job, you have to not only have a strong understanding of
the subject, you have to be able to teach, as well.
It’s also very important to have firm boundaries on the tasks you are taking
on:
• Unless you are qualified to make repairs or install new hardware, you
should insist that the student’s computer be functioning properly before
lessons begin.
• Don’t offer to sell, give away, or install unauthorized copies of computer
software.
• Insist that clients install and keep current an antivirus program to help protect
their data from damage by infected e-mail and other programs.
Know the Territory
You should be fully comfortable with the use of common software applications
and able to teach yourself about advanced facilities and techniques as needed.
The nearly ubiquitous Windows operating system exists in a number of versions,
but at the user level all are quite similar, and mastery of the most current
COMPUTER INSTRUCTOR 203
edition allows easy use of any of the earlier versions. A similar story applies to
Apple’s Macintosh operating system.
Some computer instructors and consultants are quite capable of moving back
and forth between Windows and Apple clients, while others prefer to specialize.
(Keep in mind that the Windows market is much larger.) Microsoft has the lion’s
share of software for both operating systems; Microsoft Office (which includes
Microsoft Word and the Microsoft Excel spreadsheet) operates much the same in
both systems.
Get to know the facilities of area school districts. Students working on a
Macintosh during the day may want to use the same sort of system when they get
home at night; adults taking a community school course on Windows equipment
are likely to want to use the same operating system and software at home.
Sessions will generally be conducted in the homes or offices of your students,
using their computer and software. You can also offer telephone support from
your office or home; a developing trend involves use of special software installed
on both the student’s and the teacher’s machine that allows the instructor to
demonstrate tasks and make adjustments to settings by remote control over the
Internet.
Some computer retail stores offer classes and tutoring for customers; contact
area managers to see if there are openings for new instructors.
You should establish liaisons with computer consultants who perform repairs
and upgrades so that you can make recommendations to your clients when necessary;
in return, you should expect these consults to refer clients who are seeking
instruction.
How to Get Started
Post flyers and ads in community schools, community centers, and senior centers.
Computer stores that don’t offer their own classes may allow you to advertise
your availability on their bulletin boards.
Place ads in student newspapers, community newspapers, and shopping
guides.
Up-front Expenses
You’ll need a capable computer of your own, connected to the Internet for
research and communication with manufacturers and students. You should also
be running the latest version of operating systems and software applications.
Other expenses include advertising and promotion.
204 EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
How Much to Charge
You should set an hourly rate for instruction; some teachers sell a block of hours
or lessons at a discounted rate. Add a mileage charge for the cost of driving to
clients.
Legal and Insurance Issues
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
SAT or ACT College Test Preparation
Description of Job
• Help a high school student prepare to take PSAT, SAT, or ACT college aptitude
tests.
• Offer coaching on test strategies.
• Give tutoring in math and verbal skills.
• Administer practice tests.
• Grade tests and interpret results to aid in further practice.
The Need
For the majority of college-bound high school students, the first official step
toward the doors of academia is taking one or more national assessment tests.
The most common exam is the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) and its practice
test, the Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test (PSAT).
Some students choose to take the ACT Assessment, which is more closely
linked to high school curriculum than to raw aptitude.
SAT OR ACT COLLEGE TEST PREPARATION 205
Colleges and universities use the student’s score as a major component—
along with class rank, GPA, teacher recommendations, and extracurricular activities—
in their decisions to admit students and in doling out academic and merit
scholarships.
Studies have shown that students who study skills and subject matter in
advance of the test generally score 20 to 50 points higher (on a scale of 0 to 800)
than those who do not prepare. For some students with particular strengths or
weaknesses, preparation can add even more to their score and could make the
difference in getting into the school of their choice or making it possible to afford
going there.
In 2004, academic tutoring was a $4.5 billion business in the United States,
according to Eduventures Inc., a Boston-based education market research and
consultant.
Challenges
You have to know the subject matter and the tips and tricks to boost scores, and
you have to be able to communicate that information to bored, terrified, needy, or
uncooperative 16- and 17-year-olds. You may also have to deal with high and
sometimes unrealistic expectations of parents. In other words, you’ll need a great
deal of patience and understanding.
Some of the work can be spread out across the entire year; students can begin
preparation as much as a year before taking preliminary or actual tests and may
take the exams several times (colleges generally look at the highest scores
achieved in each section across all test sessions). However, the bulk of tutoring is
likely to be done in the spring of the student’s junior year and the summer before
the senior year begins.
Don’t make promises about specific test results, and don’t raise unreasonable
expectations for improvement. You can fairly say that almost every student
receives higher scores as the result of coaching. Some tutors and commercial
programs offer a money-back guarantee if the student does not receive a score at
least 20 to 25 points higher than a previous reference test, which is not the same
as a guarantee of improvement.
You will be competing against several major national college preparation
companies that offer classroom lectures and testing; there are also a number of
web sites that administer sample tests and analyze results. Your competitive pitch
should emphasize personal attention and one-on-one tutoring.
Do not make unauthorized copies of copyrighted materials for your students.
206 EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
Know the Territory
The SAT is a three-hour test that measures verbal and mathematical aptitude. In
2005, the test was expanded to include a written essay component; a perfect
score on the now three-part exam is 2,400. The revised test eliminated analogies
and quantitative comparisons and added a short essay and grammar questions to
the writing section.
The ACT consists of tests in English, math reading problems, and science,
and it also includes an optional essay section.
Some students get better results on one test or the other, and an advisor may
assess a student’s performance and make a recommendation.
Preparation usually begins with administration of a practice test that discloses
strengths and weaknesses and provides a baseline to measure improvement.
Most students and their tutors prepare by using actual tests administered in
previous years.
Typical tutoring classes include a review of math and verbal skills and vocabulary,
tips and strategies for reading and writing passages, and several actual SAT
or ACT tests administered on a schedule and in an environment that closely
matches the actual test setting.
This job may be most appropriate as a second job for a current or retired
teacher or guidance counselor.
Begin with your own preparation; get to know the tests inside and out. Many
books and web sites offer practice tests and strategies. You can track your own
improvement over time as an indication of the effect of practice and planning.
How to Get Started
Place flyers and ads on bulletin boards in community centers and schools.
Place ads in the high school newspaper, in local newspapers, and in shopping
guides.
Meet with the high school guidance counselor. Present your references and
resume and ask to be kept in mind if a student or parent requests a private
tutor.
Up-front Expenses
Build up a library of SAT and ACT preparation books. A capable PC with Internet
access allows use of many online resources for testing and research. Other
costs include advertising and promotion.
SAT OR ACT COLLEGE TEST PREPARATION 207
How Much to Charge
Charge by the hour for tutoring and consultation. You can add the cost of any
books or sample tests you provide to the student; you may be able to purchase
materials at wholesale or discounted prices and resell them at retail prices.
The well-known SAT and ACT preparation companies typically charge from
a few hundred dollars to as much as $1,000. A personal tutor is likely to bill
somewhere between 20 and 100 hours.
Legal and Insurance Issues
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
College Selection Advisor
Description of Job
• Help high school students and parents make informed decisions about college.
• Keep current on college offerings, admission criteria, scholarships, and
financial aid.
The Need
Each year nearly 4 million American students head off to one of more than 4,000
accredited colleges and universities. Of course, before they pack their bags they
have to get past a significant headache: choosing the school that offers the best
combination of academic excellence, college life, and affordability . . . and
where the student stands a good chance of being accepted.
In theory, this is the job of a high school guidance counselor, and many do a
fine job in advising students. However, in many systems, the guidance counselor
208 EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
is stretched way too thin, overseeing the academic decisions and job choices of
hundreds or even thousands of students each year.
The College Selection Advisor works as a personal guidance counselor, augmenting
or substituting for counselors within the school system.
If you think of college as an investment of as much as $125,000 for a fouryear
program at a private university, the idea of spending a few hundred dollars
for some professional shopping advice makes a great deal of sense.
This is a good job for a retired guidance counselor, teacher, or college administrator.
The process begins by meeting with the student and parents, gathering
information about academic standing, extracurricular activities, and college aspirations.
If the parents request it, you may also gather general information about
family income and investments to help advise about financial aid.
Based on what you learn in the interview, you will make recommendations
on colleges, taking into consideration location, city or rural setting, size of student
body, and courses of study. The list will include an assessment of the student’s
chances of acceptance, based on academic record, SAT scores, and other
criteria.
Challenges
The biggest challenge accepted by the college selection advisor is to help students
and parents make realistic decisions. Almost any serious student might list
Harvard as a preferred school, but only 1,500 or so freshmen are admitted each
fall. And competition for many larger colleges is just as intense.
Another challenge involves the ability to make a dispassionate recommendation
about the type or size of school based on your appraisal of the student. A shy,
sheltered child who has spent her entire life in a small rural community might not
fare well in a huge, big-city college; a brash city kid might be a fish out of water
at a small school in the Midwest. Advisors need to help the parent and students
examine this element of the college decision.
Though they may have been preparing to send their children to college for
more than a decade, few parents have a real understanding of the exact costs of
college: tuition, room, board, fees, books, and travel. The advisor can offer information
on lesser-known schools that offer a good education at a relatively low
price.
In many cases, it is also very important for students to apply to more than one
college in case they are not accepted by their first choice. The advisor assists in
categorizing schools as best choices, acceptable backups, and “safety” schools,
where the student is all but certain to be accepted.
COLLEGE SELECTION ADVISOR 209
In general, the job of the college selection advisor ends once the list of appropriate
schools has been drawn up; later in this chapter you can read about a related
job, the college application consultant, who assists students and parents in
filling out applications and other forms.
Know the Territory
Spend the time to keep current on colleges and universities. Nearly every school
has a detailed web site with information about academic offerings and requirements.
You can also visit public and high school libraries to examine brochures
on file there.
Find out from area high schools which colleges have enrolled recent graduates
and request application materials for your own collection. Several guidebooks
to colleges are published annually, including offerings from U.S. News &
World Report, Princeton Review, and Peterson’s (e.g., Four-Year Colleges).
Learn how to categorize schools based on information about acceptance levels
in recent years. What is the average range of scores on the SAT or ACT?
Where did the typical student place in high school class standing?
To appraise the school itself, look for information about the size of the student
body, the cost of tuition, room, and board, and the average size of financial
aid grants.
How to Get Started
Meet with area high school guidance counselors and ask whether they would be
willing to work with you and recommend your services. Some counselors may
welcome your involvement; others may feel you are intruding on their turf. Be
diplomatic in all of your dealings.
Place ads and flyers in community centers and stores. Advertise in local
newspapers, shopping guides, and the high school newspaper. Ask friends and
relatives to spread the word, and ask satisfied clients to refer friends to you.
Up-front Expenses
Minimal expenses include advertising and promotion and purchase of college
guidebooks.
How Much to Charge
Charge by the hour, or charge a flat fee for a standard assessment covering five
to six hours of work. A typical schedule might include an initial consultation of
210 EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
one to two hours, office research of two hours, and a presentation to the student
and family of one hour.
If you are called back for additional advice, charge an hourly rate.
Legal and Insurance Issues
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
College Application Consultant
Description of Job
• Help students—and their parents—navigate through the confusing maze of
college application forms.
• Assist in gathering required letters of recommendation and transcripts.
• Aid in preparation of financial aid forms.
The Need
Few processes are more stressful, less predictable, and more important than
applying to colleges. A typical application packet for a private college includes
dozens of pages of forms, several booklets of instructions, and requests for additional
information.
If that were not enough, most college applicants today apply to more than one
school—perhaps as many as six or eight—including “safety” schools, where
they believe they have a near certainty of acceptance; schools where they believe
they have a good chance; and schools that are worth reaching for even though the
odds of acceptance are low.
COLLEGE APPLICATION CONSULTANT 211
Challenges
A college application consultant assists with the completion and filing of forms
and other information, but does not offer advice on selection of colleges; that is
a job for a high school guidance counselor or a specialized college selection
advisor.
Similarly, an application consultant should not become involved in coaching
a student on essays or in obtaining recommendations; again, a high school guidance
counselor may be of assistance here. The application consultant should be
concerned with making certain that the essay and recommendations are submitted
properly as part of the process.
People taking on this sort of job need to be highly organized, detail-oriented,
and capable of meeting deadlines.
Consultants also have to demonstrate confidentiality as they work with applicants
and their families to fill out financial aid forms, including the Free Application
for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) which is used as the basic request for aid
at most colleges. Some schools also ask for supplemental information on forms
of their own and may ask applicants to mail in copies of current federal tax
forms.
Consultants may also offer assistance in applying for scholarships from community
organizations, national service groups, unions, and corporations.
Be sure you make no promises about acceptance to any school; your job is to
present the student’s information in an accurate and timely fashion. Do not
become involved in falsification of credentials, scores, recommendations, or other
elements of the application; it’s not just the student’s reputation that could be
damaged.
Know the Territory
Applications for college are generally filed by high school students in the fall of
their senior year. Early-admission deadlines are generally in November, and final
deadlines are usually in January.
A well-prepared and motivated student may be ready to work on applications
months ahead of the deadline. However, many students—perhaps a majority of
those who seek assistance from a college application consultant—may delay
until almost the last possible moment.
Your work may well be squeezed into the period between Labor Day and
New Year’s Day, which includes the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays.
You’ll need a steady supply of high school seniors. Your chances of getting
assignments is also related to the percentage of students who apply to college and
212 EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
the proportion who seek admission to private colleges, which generally have
more complex application processes than do state or community colleges.
Research the most common college choices made by students in your area.
Many schools publish this information in year-end newsletters; you may also be
able to obtain a list of schools from a cooperative guidance counselor.
Most important, spend the time to become an expert on college applications.
Establish a collection of them, noting those with unusual or nonstandard requests
or confusing questions.
How to Get Started
Most major colleges now post their applications and supporting information
online. Visit the web sites and download copies of the forms, or request that
application packets be sent to you.
At most web sites you can practice filling out the forms without actually submitting
them.
Feel free to call college admissions offices and ask questions about the application
process.
Up-front Expenses
You’ll need to set up and maintain a computer system to help you research colleges
and obtain applications; many schools also permit filing of applications online.
Advertise for clients in school newspapers, on bulletin boards in schools,
libraries, and community centers, and in shopping guides and community newspapers.
How Much to Charge
Jobs can be priced on an hourly basis or as a flat fee for the first application and
a slightly reduced charge for multiple colleges. It will be easier to gather information
for subsequent colleges once the first application is completed, but it still
takes time to go through each application line by line to enter data.
Note, too, that the amount of work you have to do is related to how organized
the student and his or her parents are in gathering information. If you work on an
application only to find that the essay has not been completed or that details of
the student’s resume have not been prepared, you will have to have your clients
put in more of their own time and then revisit the paperwork.
Charging on an hourly basis allows you to make a reasonable profit even if
the tasks multiply and you must make more than one visit to a student.
COLLEGE APPLICATION CONSULTANT 213
If the work is done at your students’ homes, using their computer, printer, and
telephone, there should be no extra charges involved. If you work on the forms
partly or completely at your home or office, you may incur costs for Internet use,
printing, and telephone; your agreement should allow you to add these charges to
your bill.
Legal and Insurance Issues
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
Instructor at Community School
Description of Job
• Teach a specialty course at a community school.
• Facilitate a regular gathering of like-minded hobbyists.
The Need
Do you have a special skill or interest? Why not earn some money sharing what
you know?
Community schools offer classes on subjects as diverse as literacy and foreign
languages to knitting, cooking, baking, money management, retirement
planning, creative writing, and dog obedience training. Popular classes include
explanations of modern technologies such as computer training, digital photography,
and auto repair and maintenance.
Informal groups also explore hobbies such as sports memorabilia, stamp and
coin collecting, and directed reading groups.
214 EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
Challenges
You need knowledge and skills in a specialized area, and you need the ability to
teach. You also need the ability to establish and maintain a professional atmosphere
for learning.
The good news is that in most cases the students who sign up for a community
school course are doing so because of a strong interest in the subject or the
need to master a skill; they are likely to be highly motivated to succeed.
Know the Territory
Many area educational institutions seek to extend themselves to all residents,
including taxpaying adults who otherwise have no connection to the school district.
Most of the classes are taught at night or on weekends.
Once you are established, you may be able to use your experience and skills
as an instructor to provide personal tutelage to students outside of the community
school. The class may also help you gauge whether there is sufficient interest in
a subject or service to allow you to start your own business.
How to Get Started
Begin by studying the list of course offerings at local community schools and
colleges. If you see courses similar to the one you want to teach, that is probably
good news; you’re on the right track. Instructors may come and go, opening up
new opportunities, or you may be able to offer a complementary or advanced version
of the same course.
Write up a description of the course you want to teach, emphasizing your credentials
on the subject and your communication skills. Develop a basic curriculum
that extends across the typical length of a term—it might be 10 or 12 weeks
or longer. Include information about any required books or materials students
would be asked to purchase.
Submit your letter of interest to the director of your local community school
or the dean of a community college that offers a night program.
Up-front Expenses
You may need to purchase books and other reference materials to assist in
drawing up a curriculum. Other research can be done over the Internet and in
libraries.
INSTRUCTOR AT COMMUNITY SCHOOL 215
Take care not to make unauthorized copies of copyrighted material or to plagiarize
published material.
You may want to spend some of your own money to publicize your course.
How Much to Charge
Instructors may be paid a flat fee, an hourly rate, or a percentage of the fees collected
from students.
If you do additional private instruction, you can charge an hourly fee directly
to students.
Legal and Insurance Issues
➀ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
216 EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
CHAPTER 12
Arts, Crafts, Jewelry, Clothing,
and Musical Instruments
69 Alterations
70 Custom Tailoring
71 Custom Knitting, Sweater, and Afghan Design
72 Custom Quiltmaker
73 Jewelry Making
74 Portraiture from Photographs
75 Custom-Built Dollhouses
76 Musical Instrument Tuning and Repair
Alterations
–
Description of Job
• Adjust sizes and fit of new or old clothing.
• Add hems to dresses and pants.
• Make minor repairs to fix costume malfunctions.
The Need
One size does not fit all . . . and we all change size over time.
Those two facts of life support the need for clothing alterations. Although
you may think of yourself as a perfect size 8 or a 40 regular, your new dress or
sport coat may not be quite ready to wear. The gown or the pants that fit you so
nicely a year ago may have mysteriously shrunk . . . or, more likely, you may
have added a few pounds.
Sometimes a minor costume malfunction—a missing button, an open seam,
a broken zipper—can be repaired to rescue a favorite or valuable piece of
clothing.
Another fact of life is that relatively few people in modern society have the
time, skills, or equipment to make clothing alterations or repairs.
Challenges
Don’t experiment on jobs that are beyond your skills or experience.
As a business, you will be liable for any damage you cause; your agreement
with customers should limit the liability to the cost of replacement, excluding
claims for sentimental value or loss of use. Even so, you should be very careful
about accepting a job to hem a $2,000 wedding dress for a $20 fee; the risk is
much greater than the reward.
Know the Territory
Your principal advantages:You have skills that are no longer common and equipment
that is not generally possessed.
218 ARTS, CRAFTS, JEWELRY, CLOTHING, AND MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS
Another advantage is the fact that almost all of us purchase clothing off the
rack and are forced to deal with the fact that even though an item may be labeled
a particular size, modeling forms of different manufacturers vary widely.
Spend the time to get to know as much as you can about fabrics, designs, and
methods to let out or take in clothing.
How to Get Started
Contact area clothing stores—for both new and used apparel—and make them
aware of your services. They may be willing to let you perform work as a subcontractor
at the store, or they may refer customers to you for alterations.
Local bridal stores may be willing to contract with you to perform alterations;
these jobs may involve an entire wedding party, including bridal gowns
and bridesmaids’ outfits.
Community theaters may need help adjusting costumes to fit their actors.
Small restaurants that provide uniforms to their waitstaff may need alteration and
repair services. (Larger restaurants, hotels, and factories generally use uniform
rental companies that probably have their own tailoring services.)
To reach individuals, place ads on bulletin boards at malls, in retail clothing
stores, and in fabric stores. You can place an ad in community newspapers.
Up-front Expenses
You’ll need basic tailoring equipment, including a sewing machine with some
professional features such as buttonhole serging. You should have an iron for
touch-up; you can also send oversized or specialty clothing to a dry cleaner for
pressing.
Necessary supplies including thread and buttons.
How Much to Charge
Charge a flat rate for simple mending. Add a charge for buttons, zippers, lining,
and special threads you must purchase.
Your agreement should list additional charges for more difficult jobs, such as
hemming a lined dress.
If the clothing must be cleaned or pressed, add a charge for services you perform
or for services you subcontract to a dry cleaner. (As a professional, you
should seek a discount or a commission from outside companies. You can mark
up these costs when you bill your customer.)
ALTERATIONS 219
Legal and Insurance Issues
Special notes: In dealing with your client’s property, seek to limit your liability
for damage or loss to the actual replacement value of items in your possession.
You should protect yourself against claims for sentimental value or loss of use.
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
➅ Insurance
Custom Tailoring
–
Description of Job
• Choose fabric and custom-fit clothing for special occasions.
• Adapt and custom-fit patterns to create clothing for plus-size clients.
• Custom fit and adapt clothing for children.
• Create doll clothing.
The Need
Not every woman is a perfect size 8 or 16. Not every woman fits properly into
a plus-size garment. Women and their clothing come in an infinite number of
variations.
Any woman who has searched for a mother-of-the-bride dress or has had her
teenage daughter drag her along on the hunt for a once-in-a-lifetime senior-prom
gown knows how frustrating and exhausting shopping can be.
At any age, custom clothing is an opportunity to choose fabric and notions
and obtain a perfect fit in the process. In some situations—for example, bridesmaids’
outfits—it may be less expensive to choose fabric and commission a tailor
than to purchase an article of clothing off the rack and have it altered.
220 ARTS, CRAFTS, JEWELRY, CLOTHING, AND MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS
While we’re on the subject of custom clothing: Apparently, there are times
when even a doll needs that extra-special, perfectly fitted outfit.
Challenges
You must be able to take precise measurements and know how to adapt patterns
or take in garments to be a capable tailor. Even if you are working from a pattern,
your client is paying for a custom fit.
If you are making clothing for a special occasion, you must be able to meet
deadlines; don’t accept the job of outfitting a bride and her three bridesmaids if
you know the date of the wedding is too close at hand.
Know the Territory
The process begins with careful measurements. Then you will adapt a pattern to
create a perfect fit for your client, taking into account the fabric and notions chosen.
Finally, you will conduct a series of fittings to adjust the finished garment.
In addition to being an expert at the sewing machine, you must know about
fabrics and how they work with various patterns, sizes, and styles. You need to
understand how silk and satin wear, clean, and stretch differently than cotton or
synthetic fabrics.
Clients may come to you soliciting your advice on fabric, style, trim, and
what patterns work best with their measurement; or they may have done their
homework and have a specific outfit and pattern number in mind.
How to Get Started
Place flyers and ads at community centers, in schools, and in stores. Place ads in
newspapers, shopping guides, and school and church publications.
Ask friends and acquaintances to recommend your services; offer to give
them a bonus or discount for business they steer your way.
Rent space at crafts shows, holiday fairs, and bridal shows. Teach a class in
sewing at a local community school for publicity and perhaps to gain new clients.
Up-front Expenses
You’ll need a professional-quality sewing machine and other clothes-making
equipment. You may be able to farm out some specialized work such as embroidery
and decorative stitching.
Other up-front costs include advertising and promotion.
CUSTOM TAILORING 221
How Much to Charge
Most jobs will be done at a flat rate based on your estimate of the number of
hours involved plus the cost of material and notions. It could also be quoted as a
cost-plus job, with the client paying the actual cost of all materials plus a set
charge for your time as a tailor.
Adjust your flat rate, or change to an hourly rate, for jobs where the
garment—or the client—will require a great deal of extra effort. Your price
should take into account extra work for special features such as sequins, pearls,
or lace, and the extra time required to work with certain fabrics.
Legal and Insurance Issues
Special notes: In dealing with your client’s property, seek to limit your liability
for damage or loss to the actual replacement value of the items in your possession.
You should protect yourself against claims for sentimental value or loss of use.
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
➅ Insurance
Custom Knitting, Sweater, and Afghan Design
Description of Job
• Custom-knit clothing to specifications.
• Personalize knitted clothing prepared from patterns.
The Need
Almost everyone can appreciate the beauty of a hand-knit sweater or afghan. But
relatively few have the skills or time necessary to produce one.
222 ARTS, CRAFTS, JEWELRY, CLOTHING, AND MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS
A custom-knitted sweater or other article of clothing is a great gift for the
hard-to-please or the hard-to-fit. It is a way to obtain clothing made of machinewashable
or hypoallergenic yarns.
You can supply keepsakes to celebrate special occasions including holidays,
reunions, and births.
Challenges
You’ll need the skill to produce work of professional quality in a reasonable
period of time. You may be called on to take measurements and create clothing to
fit, or you may need to follow someone else’s instructions.
Make sure you have a written agreement about the work to be done, including
full specifications and sizes. Give details about the type of yarn and other
components, and make reference to a specific design if one exists.
Know the Territory
Keep current on available yarns, materials, and designs. Visit fabric and knittingsupply
stores for ideas, and consult web sites and magazines.
You may be able to purchase supplies locally, or you may have to order yarn,
needles, and components by mail or over the Internet.
How to Get Started
Post flyers and business cards at knitting stores, community centers, and supermarkets.
Place ads in shopping guides, newspapers, and church bulletins.
Consider setting up a web site to promote and sell your work, posting photos
of completed work. Customers can call you by telephone or send specifications
by e-mail.
Up-front Expenses
The primary expenses are for advertising and promotion. If you set up a web site,
you will have to pay for design and hosting.
Consider setting up a merchant account to accept credit cards.
How Much to Charge
This sort of work is generally done on a flat-rate basis, although you will set your
rate based on your estimation of the number of hours required to complete the
job. You can include the cost of materials in your overall price, or break them out
as a separate element.
CUSTOM KNITTING, SWEATER, AND AFGHAN DESIGN 223
Legal and Insurance Issues
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
Custom Quiltmaker
Description of Job
• Design and produce custom handmade quilts to the specifications of a
client.
• Sell handmade quilts directly to customers or offer them over the Internet.
The Need
A handmade quilt is an instant family heirloom. It’s a great way to commemorate
special occasions such as the birth of a baby, a wedding, a graduation, an anniversary,
and anytime it’s important to give a quality, personalized gift.
Challenges
Making a quilt is a combination of skill and artistry. You should be very familiar
with different methods, styles, and patterns.
If you are producing a custom design, make sure you understand the needs
and wants of your customer. Show sketches, samples, and work in progress.
The quality of your product should be on a professional level, well above that
of amateur work. You should be working with superior materials, sewing
machines, and other supplies.
You have to be able to meet deadlines. If a quilt is intended to be presented at
an anniversary or a christening, it has to be finished before the date.
224 ARTS, CRAFTS, JEWELRY, CLOTHING, AND MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS
Know the Territory
Become an expert on available fabrics and techniques. Establish a relationship
with the proprietor of area fabric and craft stores for advice on products; you
should be able to purchase products at wholesale or discounted prices.
Many books and patterns are available, and you’ll find a wealth of information
on web sites. You can order materials and accessories online as well.
How to Get Started
Post flyers and business cards in community centers, schools, and retail stores.
Place ads in newspapers and shopping guides.
Make yourself known to managers of craft and hobby stores, interior decorators,
and managers of home decorating stores. They may be willing to display
some of your work or recommend your services to their customers; offer a commission
or bonus for business they send your way. Ask friends, acquaintances,
and satisfied customers to recommend your services; you can give them a bonus
or discount on future business.
Rent a table at craft fairs or holiday shows to promote your products. Offer to
teach a class at a community school—this will give you publicity and perhaps
some clients. You can create and maintain a web site to showcase some of your
creations and offer your services.
Up-front Expenses
Prepare some samples of your work to show would-be clients. Display photographs
in a scrapbook or online.
You’ll need a reliable, heavy-duty sewing machine and other sewing supplies
and a collection of books and reference materials. Other costs include advertising
and promotion.
How Much to Charge
Sell your quilts for a fixed price based on your well-learned estimate of the
amount of time involved in creating the item plus the cost of materials.
Another option is to sell work on a cost-plus basis, charging one fee for your
labor and a second fee for the cost of materials and supplies.
Legal and Insurance Issues
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
CUSTOM QUILTMAKER 225
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
Jewelry Making
–
Description of Job
• Design and produce handcrafted necklaces, rings, bracelets, earrings, and
beaded or jeweled purses.
• Customize off-the-shelf jewelry and purses to the specifications of customers.
The Need
All of us can appreciate a beautiful piece of jewelry. Even more impressive is a
one-of-a-kind or customized piece.
The market for this sort of work is someone who wants something different
from the standard offerings of retail stores.
Challenges
The difference between simple and ornate jewelry is a great deal of experience,
time, and expense. Start out with simple, high-quality work and build your skills
and business.
You must deliver what you promise. If you contract to provide a necklace of
sterling silver or beads, Murano glass, or Swarovski crystal, you are legally bound
to deliver that product.
Working with diamonds, platinum, gold, and other expensive materials
requires a large investment and exposes you to liability for loss. Most jewelry
makers start with simpler and less costly projects.
Know the Territory
Learn as much as you can about jewelry making from books, the Internet, and
classes or workshops offered at craft and bead stores or community schools.
Some suppliers offer training in the use of their tools or materials.
226 ARTS, CRAFTS, JEWELRY, CLOTHING, AND MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS
You may be able to gain experience by working as a helper or apprentice to
an artisan.
Simple, handcrafted bead jewelry—using precious or semiprecious stones,
crystal, gold, sterling silver, or clay—can be made from commercial and handmade
beads available from a variety of sources and strung on wire or beading
thread. Some makers visit antique stores, flea markets, and craft shops in
search of unusual components. Advanced work includes use of tiny seed
beads.
Precious metal clay (PMC) jewelry is a clay substance that becomes a metallike
silver or gold material when fired in a kiln.
Working in gold, silver, copper, and other metals requires experience with
jeweler’s saws, solder, pliers, and other tools.
How to Get Started
Show off some of your handiwork at craft shows and flea markets. Find out
whether some specialty stores will stock your products for resale to their customers;
you can sell your items to the dealer or place them there on consignment
until they are sold and then pay the dealer a commission.
Post ads and flyers at community centers, at schools, at senior centers, and in
retail stores. Place ads in newspapers and shopping guides, especially around
holidays, including Christmas, Valentine’s Day, and Mother’s Day. You can also
create and maintain a web site to sell your products.
Ask satisfied customers to recommend your products; offer a bonus or discount
for work they send your way.
Up-front Expenses
You will need a jeweler’s tool kit that includes pliers, clamps, vises, hammers,
cutters, saws, wire, clasps, soldering tools, torches, and thread. You may need
a kiln to fire clay; you may be able to obtain access to a kiln at someone else’s
studio.
Other costs include advertising and promotion. If you choose to sell over the
Internet, you will need to pay for a web site and the capability to accept credit
card transactions.
How Much to Charge
Price your products based on the cost of the materials plus the amount of time
involved in completing each project. Add extra charges for more customization
and for shipping if necessary.
JEWELRY MAKING 227
Legal and Insurance Issues
Special notes: If your client gives you something of value to be customized,
seek to limit your liability for damage or loss to the actual replacement value of
items in your possession. You should protect yourself against claims for sentimental
value or loss of use.
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
➅ Insurance
Portraiture from Photographs
–
Description of Job
• Paint custom oil or watercolor portraits of individuals, families, and pets.
• Create custom portraits of homes, boats, and cars.
The Need
A custom portrait is a want, not a need. For many people, a hand-painted oil or
watercolor portrait is a step up in class from a framed snapshot or one of those
all-too-familiar gauzy portrait studio photographs.
Capable artists can create painted versions of photographs of individuals,
husband and wife, a family scene, or a favorite pet. Some people will pay handsomely
for an art rendition of their yacht, sailboat, hot rod, sports car, or summer
home.
One of the great advantages of a painted portrait is that the painter can take
artistic liberties: peeling years off a face, adding a handsome or famous landscape,
turning a young pistol into a cherub, or removing an out-of-favor friend or
family member from a picture.
228 ARTS, CRAFTS, JEWELRY, CLOTHING, AND MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS
Challenges
You’ll need strong artistic skills, including the ability to copy likenesses from
photos.
Make sure you fully understand your clients’ hopes and expectations. Do
they want photo-realism, or do they want you to add some embellishments and
improvements?
Know the Territory
Since the birth of photography nearly two centuries ago, artists have used photos
as the basis for paintings and watercolors. Four common procedures are used,
from old and basic to state-of-the-art and advanced:
1. Hanging the photo alongside the blank canvas or high-quality watercolor
paper and re-creating it freehand
2. Projecting the photo onto the canvas or paper using an overhead projector
or slide projector and painting it with watercolors or oils
3. Scanning the photo into a computer and using digital editing software to
create a version of the photo that can be projected onto a blank canvas or
paper and painted using watercolors or oils
4. Printing out a digitally edited version of the photo, mounting the print on
a backboard, and applying oil paint to create a portrait
This job can easily be done from your home or studio without ever having to
meet clients directly. You can post a portfolio of your work on a web site, and you
can accept photos sent by regular mail or by by e-mail (as a digital file).
You can ship completed oil canvases or watercolors to the client either
framed or unframed.
How to Get Started
Post flyers and business cards at community centers, at senior centers, and in
schools. Place ads in newspapers and shopping guides.
Create a web site to show examples of your work. (Obtain permission from
clients before posting their commissioned portraits online or in any other advertising
medium.)
Ask satisfied customers to recommend your services to friends and acquaintances;
offer a bonus or discount for any business they send you. Make contact
PORTRAITURE FROM PHOTOGRAPHS 229
with area photographers and ask them to suggest oil or watercolor versions to
clients; offer a commission for referrals.
Up-front Expenses
You’ll need an artist’s kit: brushes, paints, palettes, and other supplies. If you will
be promoting your work over the Internet or accepting submission of e-mailed
photos, you’ll need a capable computer with Web access.
How Much to Charge
Offer your clients a bottom-line price based on the size and complexity of the
portrait. For example, a small 12- by 16-inch portrait of one person might be
priced at $200 for a head-to-toe painting; it would be slightly less for an upperbody-
only painting. Each additional person in the portrait might cost another
$125.
A 48- by 60-inch portrait (15 times more space to cover) might be priced at
$900 to $1,000 for one person.
Some artists quote a basic price for a portrait set against a plain background
and charge a higher rate for more complex backdrops.
Oil paintings are generally priced about $50 to $100 higher than watercolors
because of the higher cost of canvas and paints.
Add to the price the cost of framing and shipping the completed piece. A
framed work requires a more robust container and higher shipping costs than a
bare piece of work.
Legal and Insurance Issues
Special notes: In dealing with your client’s property, seek to limit your liability
for damage or loss to the actual replacement value of items in your possession.
You should protect yourself against claims for sentimental value or loss of use.
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
➅ Insurance
230 ARTS, CRAFTS, JEWELRY, CLOTHING, AND MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS
Custom-Built Dollhouses
–
Description of Job
• Build dollhouses to order, with custom colors and flourishes, based on
plans and precut kits.
• Create one-of-a-kind dollhouses based on the dreams and wishes of clients.
The Need
Little dollhouses are big business for some youngsters (and their doting parents).
In many cultures, dollhouses are an important part of a young girl’s childhood.
Many adults look on them as a family heirloom or collector’s item that can
be passed on from one generation to the next.
For a child who is serious about finding a proper home for a family of dolls,
a cheaply made, mass-produced plastic dollhouse from a toy store may be completely
unacceptable.
Challenges
A custom-made or specially adapted dollhouse can cost hundreds of dollars.
Although dollhouses don’t quite follow the building code of a real home, some
of the same construction skills and techniques are necessary. Because they are
viewed close-up, the attention to finishing details must be meticulous.
Know the Territory
The simplest way to operate this sort of business is to assemble and customfinish
precut kits that are sold by a number of national and regional companies.
Your customers can choose any home and specify colors, wall and floor coverings,
and other elements.
More demanding of your skills is building dollhouses based on plans selected
by your client. You will be responsible for obtaining wood and other materials,
cutting them to size, and assembling them. You’ll find many sources for plans,
including books, catalogs, and web sites.
CUSTOM-BUILT DOLLHOUSES 231
Experienced woodworkers can offer to draw plans, specify materials, and
build a home from scratch. The ultimate in customization is also the most expensive
process.
You can sell your products at craft fairs, through direct sales generated by ads
and web sites, and in cooperation with high-end toy stores and home decor stores
that want to offer custom products to their customers.
How to Get Started
Build some sample homes to show to clients; take extensive photographs of all
jobs you complete to include in an album or to display online.
Post flyers and business cards in community centers, schools, and shopping
centers. Place ads in newspapers, shopping guides, and specialized newsletters
aimed at collectors.
Make contact with high-end toy stores, hobbyist shops, and home decor
stores and seek places to display samples of your work. Offer to pay a commission
or bonus to stores for business they refer to you.
Rent a table at craft shows and holiday fairs to display some of your work and
to show catalogs of possible projects.
Offer to teach a course at a community school; you will receive some publicity
and perhaps some clients. Offer to give demonstrations at community and senior
centers—grandparents may commission your work for that special grandchild.
Up-front Expenses
You’ll need a woodworking tool kit, plus supplies for painting, staining, and
decorating. You should also plan on building a few samples of your work to show
to customers and to display at craft fairs and in retail stores that agree to refer
clients to you.
Materials for a relatively simple custom dollhouse can cost in the range of
$150 to $300; more complex jobs use more expensive materials. Prefabricated
kits can require just a few hours to assemble and a few more hours for painting
and finishing. Working from plans requires additional hours for purchasing and
cutting materials and for assembly. The most time-consuming projects involve
custom design, specification, cutting, and assembly; these jobs may require 20 to
40 hours of work plus the cost of materials.
How Much to Charge
Most dollhouse builders quote a bottom-line price that includes the cost of materials
and time spent in assembly and finishing. Add an extra fee for designing the
232 ARTS, CRAFTS, JEWELRY, CLOTHING, AND MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS
house from scratch, taking into account that assembly will require considerably
more time than working from a kit.
The cost of prefabricated kits—before labor, paint, and finish—ranges from
as little as $50 for a simple plywood-faced shed to several hundred dollars or
more.
Legal and Insurance Issues
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
Musical Instrument Tuning and Repair
–
Description of Job
• Inspect musical instruments to determine maintenance needs or assess
damage.
• Repair or replace defective parts; work with a specialist to repair major
damage.
• Restring instruments as required.
• Tune instruments to improve the sound.
The Need
Musical instruments need to be maintained and repaired, and most require a professional’s
touch and equipment to stay in tune.
The heart of the market is piano tuning. Other jobs include restringing and
adjustment of stringed instruments and correction of problems with keys and
other controls on woodwinds.
MUSICAL INSTRUMENT TUNING AND REPAIR 233
Challenges
The biggest challenge is to find a steady source of new and repeat customers.
You’ll need a good ear for music as well as some basic mechanical skills.
Most people who perform this sort of work specialize in one area, such as
pianos, stringed instruments, woodwinds, band instruments, or percussion
instruments.
Modern electronic organs and amplifiers for electric guitars and other instruments
require special training and background in electrical and computer circuits.
Work on large instruments such as pianos is usually performed on location in
private homes, schools, and places of entertainment. Smaller instruments are
often given over to the technician to be adjusted in a workshop.
Make sure you have limited your liability before working on an antique or
especially valuable instrument.
Know the Territory
The traditional method of tuning an instrument was a well-trained ear and a set
of tuning forks: The technician would strike or pluck a string, for example, and
compare it to the reference pitch of the fork. That method still works, although
many technicians today use electronic devices that give precise readouts on the
frequency of an instrument’s sound.
To adjust a piano, for example, a tuner strikes a key and compares the sound
to the matching tuning fork; using a special lever or wrench, the tuner tightens or
loosens the strings. A standard piano has 88 keys and 230 strings; a typical tuning
session requires about 90 minutes.
Piano repair begins with checking the action of the mechanical linkages
between the keys and the hammers. Minor repairs can be accomplished by cleaning
or replacing worn parts; major repairs usually require removal of the piano to
a workshop and a complete or partial disassembly.
Guitar technicians repair and replace tuning pegs, saddle, and bridge. They
may also repair minor damage to the body and restring the instrument. The final
step is to precisely tune the strings.
Repairs and tuning techniques for violins are similar to those for guitars; the
technician may also fill in scratches and apply a fresh coat of appropriate varnish.
For brass and woodwind instruments, the technician checks the condition of
keys, pistons, and other parts; if they cannot be repaired, they can usually be
replaced.
Repairs to percussion instruments, including drum sets, require woodworking
and metalworking skills in addition to musical training.
234 ARTS, CRAFTS, JEWELRY, CLOTHING, AND MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS
How to Get Started
You don’t need to be able to play a piano or a guitar in order to tune or repair the
instrument, although you may have to fend off requests for demonstrations by
clients. The necessary skills are mechanical and auditory.
Some technical schools offer classes in tuning and repairing instruments.
Check for classes offered at community schools or colleges. You may be able to
train as an apprentice or assistant to a professional.
There are also many self-teaching books and some web sites that offer
instruction on repair and maintenance of musical instruments. Read magazines
aimed at musicians for leads.
Post flyers and ads in music stores, theaters, schools, and community centers.
Place ads in newspapers and shopping guides.
Make yourself known to music teachers at local schools. If there are any
orchestras or musical theaters in your area, meet the director.
Ask friends and acquaintances to recommend your services; offer a bonus or
discount for business they direct to you. Ask satisfied customers to do the same,
and offer them a discount on future services for new customers they refer.
Up-front Expenses
For ordinary tune-ups you’ll need a small tool kit of wrenches, small pliers, and
special-purpose tools. For piano tuning, as an example, you’ll need tuning hammers,
mutes, capstan tools, and tuning forks. Prepackaged tool kits range in price
from about $50 to $200.
Most tuners use an electronic tuning meter as their primary or backup method
for adjusting the pitch of strings; meters range in price from about $50 to $250.
Other costs include those for training, reference manuals, and an inventory of
replacement parts. You’ll also need to pay for advertising and promotion.
How Much to Charge
Basic tuning is usually charged at a flat rate. Repairs are charged at an hourly rate
plus the cost of parts and materials; you should be able to purchase parts at
wholesale or discount prices and resell them to your customers at retail prices.
Legal and Insurance Issues
Special notes: In dealing with your client’s property, seek to limit your liability
for damage or loss to the actual replacement value of items in your possession.
You should protect yourself against claims for sentimental value or loss of use.
MUSICAL INSTRUMENT TUNING AND REPAIR 235
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
➅ Insurance
236 ARTS, CRAFTS, JEWELRY, CLOTHING, AND MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS
CHAPTER 13
Transportation, Delivery,
and Auto Services
77 Car Service
78 Independent Delivery Contractor
79 Auto Detailing
Car Service
Description of Job
• Provide scheduled pickup and transportation for clients.
• Meet clients at airports and cruise terminals.
• Provide scheduled service for nonemergency medical transportation, weddings,
proms, and special events.
• Requires rental, lease, or purchase of appropriate vehicle.
The Need
Sometimes it makes a lot of sense to leave the driving to others.
If you’re heading for the airport, you might prefer to leave your personal car
home in the garage instead of at an airport lot; it might be less expensive, too. You
can also save some time on early morning departures, and there is the comforting
luxury of knowing someone is waiting to meet you at baggage claim when you
arrive back home.
Older people without their own transportation can rely on a car service to
deliver them and pick them up from doctor’s appointments. Parents can relax (a
bit) on prom night and other special occasions knowing that a professional driver
and safe car is on call to transport their children.
Challenges
A car service is not a taxi service; in most jurisdictions, you need a special permit
to pick up customers who flag you down on the street. You will need to limit
your business to responding to reserved appointments and to telephoned requests
for service.
In most states, you will need a chauffeur’s license or endorsement to your
personal driver’s license. The vehicle may need to be registered as a limousine or
commercial vehicle. Your insurance company will require full coverage of your
vehicle for commercial use.
Depending on your clientele—and by extension the price range you plan to
charge—you will need a clean, well-maintained, and spacious vehicle. You don’t
need a Cadillac limousine for ordinary car service jobs, but your 1994 Ford
238 TRANSPORTATION, DELIVERY, AND AUTO SERVICES
Escort with fuzzy dice hanging from the windshield and dents in the passengerside
front door just won’t do.
You will need to have a flexible schedule, especially if you will be accepting
jobs picking up clients at airports; if a plane is several hours late, you will have
to wait around for your incoming customer or arrange for another service to take
your job. (For that reason, some car services do not accept airport pickups or
limit the amount of time they will wait for a delayed flight.)
If you will be operating the car service on a part-time basis, you may be able
to use the vehicle for other purposes. Be sure to consult your accountant about
proper record keeping for mixed use of a business asset.
Know the Territory
Assess the market by working backward: Where do people need to travel? Is
there much traffic from your area to an airport or a bus terminal? Is there steady
business to area hospitals and doctors? Are there businesses in the area that might
dispatch employees for air travel regularly?
Before you purchase a vehicle, research its cost of operation (gas mileage,
maintenance, and depreciation) and determine its capital cost. Your business plan
should be based on reasonable estimates of the number of jobs you can expect
and cash flow you will receive.
How to Get Started
Place flyers and ads in community centers, schools, and retail stores. Advertise
your service in newspapers and shopping guides.
Make contact with the travel planner for companies in your area. List your
services with business associations and in newsletters.
Establish contacts at local senior citizen centers, hospitals, and doctors’
offices who may recommend your services to clients.
Up-front Expenses
You will need a clean, reliable sedan or small van. Other expenses include a commercial
or limousine driver’s license, appropriate vehicle plates, and commercial
insurance.
Some localities require car services to obtain a permit, and you may need to
pay for the right to pick up or drop off passengers at airports, convention centers,
and other government-owned or -licensed facilities.
You will also need a cell phone to accept bookings while you are on the road,
to call airlines to check on schedules, and to keep in touch with clients who may
call to advise you of delays.
CAR SERVICE 239
How Much to Charge
Most car services charge an hourly rate for transportation around town, generally
in the range of $35 to $50 per hour for a sedan or minivan; limousines may
charge $80 to $100 per hour. Calculate your hourly rate on the basis of the operating
cost for the vehicle plus fixed expenses such as licenses, insurance, and a
profit for your time.
Services also commonly offer fixed rates from a particular region to an airport,
bus terminal, or other popular destination.
Some services charge for time spent waiting for delayed flights, lengthy doctors’
office appointments, and so on.
Customers must pay any tolls and entrance fees. It is also customary for customers
to give a gratuity, usually about 15 percent.
Regular accounts are usually given a discount on hourly rates or a percentage
off the monthly bill for service above a certain level.
Legal and Insurance Issues
Special notes: An insurance agent can counsel you about commercial vehicle
insurance and liability coverage.
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
Independent Delivery Contractor
Description of Job
• Deliver packages, supplies, small appliances, and other items on demand
for local retailers.
240 TRANSPORTATION, DELIVERY, AND AUTO SERVICES
• Pick up and deliver packages and boxes as an independent representative of
a national or regional carrier.
• Rent, lease, or purchase an appropriate vehicle.
The Need
It does not always make economic sense for retail outlets to buy or lease trucks
and pay drivers for occasional deliveries.
Major national shipping companies, including FedEx, often hire independent
delivery contractors for their on-demand pickup and ground delivery
services.
When a company makes a deal with an independent contractor, it typically
does not have to pay federal payroll taxes, Social Security taxes, federal unemployment
insurance tax, state unemployment insurance premiums, and workers’
compensation insurance premiums. It also is excused from most employee benefits,
such as health insurance, vacation time, sick leave, retirement benefits, and
life or disability insurance. In addition, the contractor has to provide the truck,
the office, and a telephone.
Furthermore, the company can hire a contractor for a short period of time or
for a special project without worrying about capital expenditures.
Challenges
You will bear the expense of purchasing or leasing a van or truck, plus the cost of
licensing and insurance. This business will succeed only if you can bring in a
steady stream of jobs at prices that cover your expenses and time.
Work may be seasonal, with spikes of business around holiday periods. In
tourist or vacation areas, companies may need extra help in the summer or winter
seasons.
By signing up as a contractor for a national shipping company, your job flow
may be more regular, but such companies are very strict about driving records,
court records, and insurance requirements.
Consult an attorney before setting up a trucking company with scheduled
deliveries that cross state lines. Although the Interstate Commerce Commission
no longer has a stranglehold on trucking, there are still many state and federal
agencies, including the U.S. Department of Transportation, that will take an
interest in your operations.
INDEPENDENT DELIVERY CONTRACTOR 241
Know the Territory
Spend time with an accountant or consultant to go over your business plan to
ensure that you can be economically successful as an independent contractor.
The margin for error is slim.
Study the contracts offered by major carriers and make sure they will work
for your situation. For example, FedEx’s published rules for independent contractors
dictate that drivers can have no more than three moving violations within
the previous three years and no more than one in the previous 12 months. Drivers
must have a commercial driver’s license with a hazardous materials endorsement
and must pass a U.S. Department of Transportation–defined physical exam
and drug test.
How to Get Started
Contact area office supply stores, appliance stores, and other merchants and offer
your services for on-demand deliveries.
Check with major national carriers about availability of independent contractor
deals in your area.
Up-front Expenses
You’ll need a van or truck large enough to meet the needs of your clients, but not
so large that its purchase or lease and the cost of operation would eat up all of
your profits.
You will also be required to have a commercial driver’s license and tags, plus
adequate collision and liability insurance coverage.
How Much to Charge
Contracts with major carriers usually pay by the mile, plus a stipend to cover
some of the costs of the vehicle itself.
Deals with smaller local retailers may be priced by the hour or the mile, with
extra payments for overweight items, night or weekend deliveries, and inside
deliveries (versus those left outside the door).
Legal and Insurance Issues
Special notes: An insurance agent can offer counsel about commercial vehicle
insurance and liability coverage.
242 TRANSPORTATION, DELIVERY, AND AUTO SERVICES
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
Auto Detailing
–
Description of Job
• Clean cars inch by inch to return them to factory-new condition . . . or better
than that.
• Perform some jobs on a regular basis, others on a one-time basis for resale
to a new buyer.
• Work closely with your client to understand expectations; every job is unique.
The Need
Some people’s cars are like a teenager’s room, carpeted with six months of newspapers
and fast-food wrappers and possessed of an exotic but nonspecific odor.
Other people like to maintain their cars in better-than-factory-fresh condition.
The auto detailer uses hoses, sponges, vacuum cleaners, toothbrushes, toothpicks,
and magnifying glasses to pick up every crumb, polish every surface, and
renew every cosmetic feature of a car.
Challenges
Your job is to run a beauty salon, not a plastic surgeon’s operating room. An auto
detailer’s job description does not include removing dents or significant interior
or exterior work; clients should be referred to an auto body shop or an automotive
paint shop for that sort of preparatory work before the vehicle is brought in
for detailing.
Do you go to the car, or does it come to you? You’ll need the same equipment
either way, but if you travel to the job, you’ll need a vehicle—perhaps a truck or
AUTO DETAILING 243
van—to carry supplies. (Your vehicle should become an example of your work;
it should sparkle like a showroom demonstrator.)
If the cars come to you, your setup and cleanup will be easier, but you may
bear some liability for the vehicle while it is on your property.
Record existing damage to the car and the odometer reading on the contract,
and have the client initial that section to protect you against certain claims.
Know the Territory
Detailing is, for most car owners, a luxury. Take a look around a neighborhood
and appraise the value—and condition—of the cars you see.
Before you accept a vehicle for detailing, make a close inspection in the presence
of the owner and note any damage or special conditions. Look for tears in
the upholstery, scratches or dents in the sheet metal, and missing parts.
Think twice before accepting antique or collectible vehicles. You don’t want to
be responsible for replacing African burl wood in a Rolls-Royce if you scratch it.
How to Get Started
Post flyers in auto supply stores. Place ads in auto club and collector newsletters.
Ask friends and relatives for referrals.
Up-front Expenses
You’ll need a few hundred dollars worth of detergents, vinyl and leather renewers,
tire and wheel cleaners, polishes, and waxes.
Necessary equipment includes clean, soft towels—many detailers use cloth
diapers—for polishing and cleaning. Sponges and washing mitts are useful to
clean the exterior. To apply wax and polish, many detailers use real or synthetic
chamois cloths; final buffing can be done with a power orbital buffer, although
purists prefer hand finishing.
You’ll need stiff-bristled brushes to clean tires and wheels; you’ll need small,
soft brushes, including toothbrushes, to clean inside small enclosures.
Spray bottles and cans are needed for glass cleaners, vinyl and leather renewers,
and other chemicals.
Interior cleaning begins with a powerful vacuum. Carpets can be cleaned
with a steam cleaner or shampoo machine.
Cleaning the engine compartment is usually a job for a power washer, carefully
applied to avoid damage to sensitive components of modern motors. Detailers
use a degreasing solution and a brush to remove oil and grease, taking care to
244 TRANSPORTATION, DELIVERY, AND AUTO SERVICES
avoid getting the chemical on the paint surface. Rubber belts, hoses, and door
gaskets can be renewed with a silicone dressing.
How Much to Charge
Proper detailing of a car that is already in reasonably good shape will take from
several hours to a full day; a car that has major cleanliness issues may demand as
much as two days.
You can charge on an hourly basis or set a flat rate based on an underlying
hourly rate. Plan on additional charges for difficult cases; conversely, offer discounts
for repeat customers who bring cars to you regularly.
Add extra charges for special polishes, cleaners, or paints.
Estimated charges: $50 to $100 for ordinary jobs, $100 to $200 for difficult
cases.
Legal and Insurance Issues
Special notes: In dealing with your client’s property, seek to limit your liability
for damage or loss to the actual replacement value of items in your possession.
You should protect yourself against claims for sentimental value or loss of use.
An insurance agent can offer counsel about commercial vehicle insurance
and liability coverage.
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
➅ Insurance
AUTO DETAILING 245

CHAPTER 14
Computers, Graphics,
and Photography
80 Computer Buying Consultant
81 Computer Repair and Upgrade
82 Web Design and Maintenance
83 Graphic Designer
84 Freelance Photographer
85 Film to Digital Scanning
86 Photo and Document Restorer
87 Videographer
Computer Buying Consultant
Description of Job
• Advise individuals and small companies in making computer purchases.
• Assist with setup of hardware and installation of software.
• Help install telephone, DSL, or cable modem connection to the Internet.
The Need
For some people, buying and installing a computer is a terrifying prospect. They
fear buying the wrong equipment, paying way too much for it, and then being
totally unable to figure out where to plug in which end of the cable.
Other people may throw up their hands at the prospect of figuring out how to
connect to the Internet or how to set up a small wireless network in a home or
office to share printers, modems, and other devices.
The computer buying consultant is like a contractor for the construction of a
house: someone who arranges for delivery of all of the pieces and services and
makes sure everything is working properly. Then he or she fades away (heading
for the bank), leaving the operation and maintenance of the house to others.
The job of the computer buying consultant ends once the computer system is
up and running properly. If a client runs into problems with software or if a piece
of hardware fails six months or a year later, the client should be referred to a
computer repair or software consultant.
We recommend separating the jobs of a computer buying consultant and a
repair service because the level of complexity is vastly different. Once the computer
is up and running, you will have no control over what the user does to it.
Challenges
Make sure you understand the needs, wants, and technical abilities of your
clients. You don’t want to specify a machine that is beyond the needs (and budget)
of your client, yet you don’t want to recommend a cheap and underpowered
or poorly assembled machine just because the price tag is low.
248 COMPUTERS, GRAPHICS, AND PHOTOGRAPHY
The vast majority of computers in homes and business are based on the PC
design and are intended to work with the Microsoft Windows operating system.
A small portion of the computer industry is devoted to the Apple Macintosh
design and its operating system. The two universes are relatively similar to each
other, but you will need to be well educated about the differences.
Learn the various Internet connection options available in your area. Telephone
dial-up service is the most mature and usually the easiest to set up, but it
is the slowest system available. Cable modem service, where available, is usually
the fastest for residential and small-business use. In between is DSL service via
telephone cable; setup can sometimes be very complex and problematic, and
connection speeds are faster than dial-up but generally slower than cable.
Be sure the client understands the brick wall you will erect between consulting
on the purchase of a system and its later operation. Establish relationships
with computer repair services and software consultants who will be available to
your client if needed.
Know the Territory
You need to be the sort of person who can quote prices and specifications from
memory, someone who reads computer ads and web sites for enjoyment. You
should be familiar with the offerings of the major online vendors of computers
(including Dell, Hewlett-Packard, and IBM) and the web sites and catalogs of
direct sellers of other machines.
Make regular visits to area computer retail stores to see the range of offerings
and understand their sales and support procedures.
How to Get Started
Place flyers and ads in community centers, schools, and retail stores. Advertise
in community newspapers, shopping guides, and school newspapers.
Ask satisfied customers to recommend your services to friends and acquaintances;
offer a bonus or discount for business they refer.
Up-front Expenses
Build up a library of technical manuals and computer magazines to keep current
on the latest technologies and products. Consult web sites of manufacturers of
hardware and software and be a regular visitor to Internet homes for companies
that sell computers, peripherals, and services.
COMPUTER BUYING CONSULTANT 249
You’ll also need a basic tool kit containing screwdrivers and nut drivers for
installation of systems.
Other expenses include advertising and promotion.
How Much to Charge
Charge by the hour for your services, or offer a package rate for a set number of
hours for buying consultation and installation of equipment. To offer the most
independent and unbiased service to your client, you should not ask for or accept
commissions or other payments from the sellers of hardware.
Legal and Insurance Issues
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
Computer Repair and Upgrade
–
Description of Job
• Fix or replace failed components of personal computers.
• Perform upgrades of memory, microprocessor, and drives.
• Salvage data from functioning hard drives in failed computers.
• Work with data recovery companies to salvage data from failed hard drives.
The Need
There are very few of us whose lives and businesses are not inextricably bound
up with computers. We balance our checkbooks, research our homework, send
e-mail, play games, and work on our Great American Novel on our PCs at home.
250 COMPUTERS, GRAPHICS, AND PHOTOGRAPHY
In businesses, sometimes the entire enterprise exists within the memory banks of
the computer; companies also depend on their machines for communication,
accounting, human resources, inventory, sales, and research.
Here’s something that every computer owner should know: Hard drives, CDROMs,
fans, memory, and just about every other part of a computer will eventually
fail. It’s not a question of if, just when.
The bottom line: When something breaks, it needs to be fixed. Sometimes,
when the computer itself fails, a capable technician needs to perform a transplant
of vital data from one machine to another.
The other element here is the need to keep up-to-date with improvements in
hardware: faster and larger hard drives, faster and larger memory, and new and
improved CD and DVD drives. In most cases, it is not necessary to throw away
an otherwise functioning PC. Instead, it can be upgraded piece by piece.
Challenges
We recommend that you avoid mixing hardware apples and software oranges.
Your clients should have support agreements with the providers of their software
or with a consultant.
When you are called in to make a repair, your first diagnosis should be to
determine whether you are dealing with a corruption of the software, an improper
setting for the application, a problem with the operating system, or a failure
of the hardware. You should be able to make basic adjustments to the
operating system, but be very careful about offering to make fixes to application
software unless you are fully capable of doing so.
Know the Territory
The good news about modern computers is that they are highly modular. Think
of them as a series of independent components linked together by an electronic
superhighway called a bus. Within various classes of machines, sealed boxes
holding hard drives, CD-ROMs, DVD players, and memory can be plugged in or
taken out to replace failed units or upgrade them.
You can move a functioning hard drive from one machine to another to keep
the data, or arrange for a transfer of the data over a network or by direct connection
by a cable that links the new and old machine.
If a hard drive fails, though, there is the issue of finding a way to retrieve
the information that has been stored on it. You can remove the drive and send it
to a company that specializes in emergency recovery of data; sometimes the
COMPUTER REPAIR AND UPGRADE 251
experts have to physically disassemble the drive in an operating room–like
sterile environment, remove the magnetic platters, and install them in special
readers.
The vast majority of personal computers are based on the PC design pioneered
by IBM; a small percentage use the Apple Macintosh design. The two
systems have more in common than they have differences, but you should make
certain you understand their peculiarities if you plan to offer repairs on both
designs.
How to Get Started
Post flyers and ads in community centers, business supply stores, and schools.
Place ads in newspapers and shopping guides.
Ask satisfied customers to recommend your services, and offer them a bonus
or a discount for business they refer to you.
Up-front Expenses
You should build up a library of technical reference books about PCs and their
components. There is a great deal of information available on the Internet from
support groups and from manufacturers.
You’ll need a basic tool kit, including screwdrivers of various sizes. Other
valuable tools include a simple voltage tester and an antistatic strap.
How Much to Charge
Charge by the hour for your time, plus the cost of any parts you install. As a professional,
you should be able to buy components at discounted or wholesale
prices and resell them to your clients at a marked-up retail rate.
For regular customers you might offer to sell a block of hours at a discounted
rate. You can add a premium to your rates for after-hours and weekend work.
Legal and Insurance Issues
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
252 COMPUTERS, GRAPHICS, AND PHOTOGRAPHY
Web Design and Maintenance
–
Description of Job
• Create a business or personal web site to meet the needs of your client.
• Add commerce features such as a shopping cart, catalog, and forms.
• Add communication features such as chat rooms, e-mail, and blogs.
• Create photo albums, online samples and demonstrations, and FTP transfer
facilities.
• Arrange for registration and hosting of a domain.
• Maintain the site as contracted.
The Need
For most modern businesses, a web site has become at least as important as a
storefront, a listing in the Yellow Pages, or a full-page ad in the Sunday newspaper.
Customers expect the stores they deal with to have information about
hours, sales, and products readily available online.
Today, many companies make a large portion of their sales directly over the
Internet; some enterprises exist only as virtual businesses, with no brick-andmortar
stores for people to visit.
The job of the web site designer is to work with a company’s marketing
department to extend the firm’s offerings onto the Internet.
Major companies are likely to work with large advertising agencies or major
web site design companies; don’t expect to design the next Amazon.com or
eBay.com as your first customer. Much more likely are assignments to create the
first web presence for a local store or professional service (lawyer, accountant,
consultant, and the like).
You may also be asked to assist individuals in creating a web site to share
their thoughts, pictures, and presence with the world.
Challenges
If you don’t recognize the details of the job description, you’ve got a whole lot of
preparation ahead of you before you can consider performing this sort of work.
WEB DESIGN AND MAINTENANCE 253
Creating and maintaining a web site is not rocket science, but it does demand a
great deal of attention to detail . . . and there are hundreds of details.
Web sites can begin as very simple home pages that list hours of operation,
telephone numbers, driving directions, and basic products or services offered. At
the other end are web sites based on huge databases of products and information,
including animation, video, music, shopping carts, shipping information, and
direct chats with technical support or customer service agents.
Even a simple web site may be beyond the skills and interest of a small company
or an individual, and a complex site is an extremely labor-intensive undertaking.
When you meet with clients, make sure you understand exactly their needs
and desires. Don’t spend hours of billable time on something they don’t like and
won’t want to pay for.
Take great care to avoid copyright infringement and plagiarism. If the clients
provide photos or other types of art, determine whether they own those items or
have purchased the right to reproduce them on the Internet. Don’t “borrow”
images from other sites or sources; don’t think for a moment that the lawyers for
Mickey Mouse won’t be legal tigers if you use his picture without permission.
Know the Territory
Study the Internet and watch for new trends and tricks. Read computer and marketing
magazines and consult the web sites of software makers for information
about their products. Some software companies offer demo versions of their tools
that allow you to learn how to use them and to create (but not save and use) some
sample pages.
Your clients should supply the text to support the pages, and they may supply
images as well, or you might be called on to work with an outside artist or service
bureau to create images to the specifications of the client.
You may also be able to purchase collections of royalty-free images and
music that have been cleared for use on web sites.
Use the filmmaker’s tools of storyboarding to plan a web site and show it to
your client before major work is under way.
Spend the time to learn the offerings of various web-hosting companies. The
market is extremely competitive; look for a reasonable price for your client, but
keep in mind that the most important thing these companies have to offer may be
their reliability (uptime) and the availability of technical assistance.
Selling products online requires a shopping cart that manages inventory and
the ordering process and interfaces with a merchant account sponsored by one
or more credit card companies or with an electronic check-acceptance service.
254 COMPUTERS, GRAPHICS, AND PHOTOGRAPHY
Some web-host companies offer packages that include hosting, e-mail, and shopping
cart services.
How to Get Started
Start by becoming an expert on web site creation and maintenance. There are
many books on the subject, and you can take courses online or through colleges
and training companies.
Create a portfolio that you can demonstrate online or on a laptop computer
you bring with you to presentations.
Promote your availability through flyers and business cards placed in office
supply stores, computer stores, community centers, and schools. Ask satisfied
clients to spread the word about your services, and offer a discount or bonus to
them for new business they refer to you.
Up-front Expenses
You’ll need a capable computer with a high-speed Internet connection, plus software
for web site creation, illustration, and photo editing. Expect to pay about
$1,500 to $2,000 for the computer, plus $300 to $1,500 for software.
Additional expenses include the cost of advertising and promotion.
How Much to Charge
You can charge by the hour (with an estimate of total cost) or offer a flat rate
based on the size of the job. Add to the bill charges for any images or music you
must purchase and any specialized service bureaus you must use. Be sure to
advise clients before you make any significant commissions on their behalf.
Web hosting is usually billed on a monthly or annual basis. In most cases,
you will want to set up an account for your clients, but have them provide credit
card or bank information so that they pay the hosting company directly.
Legal and Insurance Issues
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
WEB DESIGN AND MAINTENANCE 255
Graphic Designer
–
Description of Job
• Design logos, letterheads, business cards, and other graphics for businesses.
• Produce electronic files for brochures, catalogs, and forms.
• Specify and coordinate printing.
The Need
The “paperless” office is a myth. We still live in a clutter of forms, business
cards, and written correspondence. Even though the Internet has taken over a significant
slice of wholesale and retail sales, electronic commerce, too, uses logos
and graphics.
The job of the graphic designer is to translate the corporate identity of a business
into a readily recognizable logo and to help create order and logic in printed
materials, including brochures, catalogs, and forms.
Once the design has been made, the graphic designer works with a professional
printer to specify colors, paper, and process.
Challenges
Graphic beauty is in the eyes of the beholder; make sure you work closely with
your client and obtain approval for work in progress before it is committed to
print.
Your agreement with the client should be very specific regarding the ownership
of any designs you make. In most cases you will be selling all rights to your
work, but anything is open to negotiation; consider the case of Harvey Ball, who
designed the original bright yellow happy face button as a promotion for State
Mutual Life Assurance Company in 1964. He was paid $45 for the design, and
neither he nor the insurance company trademarked the image, which has gone on
to uncounted millions of uses and has made millions of dollars for others.
In some cases, the graphic designer may be called on to produce newspaper
advertisements or flyers; unless you choose to accept the additional assignment
256 COMPUTERS, GRAPHICS, AND PHOTOGRAPHY
of writing and editing advertising copy, you should ask the client to involve a
professional copywriter.
Know the Territory
Although many artists and designers begin with a blank piece of paper and a pencil
(with eraser), nearly all production work is completed on a computer using a drawing
program such as Adobe Illustrator or a digital editor like Adobe Photoshop.
Page production for books, magazines, brochures, and catalogs as well as smaller
jobs like business cards are typically produced using software like Quark XPress.
The digital files can be reviewed on-screen or as printouts, then edited before
being transmitted to a printer.
How to Get Started
Post flyers and ads showcasing your work in community centers, retail stores,
and schools. Place ads in newspapers, shopping guides, and newsletters to the
business community.
Send samples of your work to area businesses. Ask friends and relatives to
recommend your services; offer a bonus or discount on future work for business
they send your way. Do the same with satisfied customers.
Create a portfolio of your work to show potential clients; the work can also
be made available over the Internet or on a CD you can produce by yourself.
Contact area advertising agencies and printing companies; they may recommend
you to their clients if you use their services for the project.
Up-front Expenses
You’ll need an artist’s tools for sketches. For production you’ll need a capable
computer, plus digital drawing and editing software and a high-speed Internet
connection to communicate with clients and printing companies. Artists can
work with either PC or Apple Macintosh computers, although over the years the
art community has been one of Apple’s mainstays.
Other expenses include advertising and promotion.
How Much to Charge
Basic work is charged on an hourly basis plus the cost of any materials and supplies.
Some artists charge a flat fee for designing a logo, with the understanding
that the client can then use that logo for any future purpose. (Remember the
happy face.)
GRAPHIC DESIGNER 257

Legal and Insurance Issues
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
Freelance Photographer
Description of Job
• Take photos of social events and celebrations, as commissioned by a client.
• Produce photos of products and projects for business catalogs and advertising.
• Take passport and ID photos.
• Document real estate and automobiles for insurance companies.
The Need
Anyone can click a shutter on an automatic camera, but there is often a wide gap
between an amateur snapshot and the work of a professional.
The freelance photographer has the skills, artistic eye, and advanced equipment
needed to produce work of professional quality for individuals, companies,
and official documents.
Among the clients for a freelance photographer are:
• Families seeking high-quality photos of social events and milestones,
including parties, prom night, graduations, new babies, and the like
• Individuals in need of passport photos or other simple ID photos
• Home contractors or their customers seeking to document the progress of a
renovation or new construction
258 COMPUTERS, GRAPHICS, AND PHOTOGRAPHY
• Insurance agencies or companies, real estate agencies, or appraisers needing
documentation of automobiles, homes, and businesses
• Businesses in need of basic product or project photos for reports, catalogs,
and simple advertising
Challenges
Unless you have years of experience and training, don’t expect to compete
against professional studio photographers for fashionable, high-end advertising
and formal portraiture jobs. Although the pay for these sorts of assignments can
be quite high, so, too, is the investment in equipment and the time needed to
establish relationships with clients.
As you start your business, you should be careful about accepting major
assignments such as wedding photography. These jobs are often in chaotic settings,
with uncertain lighting and sometimes unreasonable expectations. Build
your experience with simpler, less stressful jobs.
Passport photos are easy to produce, but most follow some very specific
guidelines regarding size, background, and printing method, as published by the
U.S. Department of State’s passport services agency.
You will need to become completely proficient in the use of your equipment.
Many if not all of your photos will be of events or moments that cannot be duplicated.
You will need to continually demonstrate your ability to produce work of
professional quality every time you are engaged. Each time you take a job you
will be competing against amateurs who believe they are perfectly capable of
taking snapshots.
Know the Territory
Since the development of photography nearly two centuries ago, we have used
the camera to document important personal milestones, public events, and art. In
business, we have grown into a highly visual society that uses photographic
images to sell products, services, and political messages.
Traditional photography uses light-sensitive film to produce negatives or
slides that can be used to make prints. Increasingly, professional and commercial
photographers are switching to digital cameras. These devices allow for nearinstant
availability of high-resolution images in electronic form for use on web
sites and in printed advertisements and catalogs. An image file can be transmitted
over the Internet to a client just moments after it has been taken.
FREELANCE PHOTOGRAPHER 259
As a digital photographer you’ll need to become proficient in the use of photographic
editing software and Internet transmittal of files to clients or to service
bureaus for printing.
How to Get Started
Post flyers and ads in community centers, schools, and retail stores. Place ads in
local newspapers, school publications, and organizational newsletters.
Make your services known to party planners, caterers, entertainers, and others
who might recommend you to their clients; offer a commission or bonus for any
business they refer to you. Ask satisfied customers to recommend you to friends
and acquaintances; pay a bonus or offer a discount to customers who help you
expand your business.
Contact other professional photographers and offer to take on jobs that are
too small for them or where they have a time conflict; offer to share your fees for
work you receive through them.
Contact insurance and real estate agencies to let them know you are available
to take photos to document insurance applications, insurance claims, real estate
ads, and other business uses of photography.
Up-front Expenses
You’ll need a capable camera with interchangeable lenses or a high-quality zoom
lens. For conventional photography you’ll need to work with a professional
photo lab to produce negatives, slides, and prints.
For digital photography you’ll need a high-resolution digital camera, sufficient
memory cards for storage, and access to a computer that has photo editing
software such as Adobe Photoshop. If you will be supplying prints, you’ll need
access to a high-quality printer, or you’ll need to work with a service bureau that
can convert electronic files to prints.
How Much to Charge
You can charge an hourly rate plus the cost of film, prints, and other expenses;
you should be able to purchase supplies and photo darkroom or printing services
at wholesale or discounted prices and resell them at retail rates.
Another business plan is to offer a package price for a set number of hours
and services, and then charge for each print or for use of your electronic files.
260 COMPUTERS, GRAPHICS, AND PHOTOGRAPHY
Legal and Insurance Issues
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
Film to Digital Scanning
–
Description of Job
• Convert old photos, negatives, and slides to digital files that can be displayed
on computers and televisions and reprinted using modern digital
printers.
• Enhance the quality of and remove flaws from old negatives or videotapes.
• Transfer videotape to CD or DVD for display on computers and televisions.
The Need
For many of us, our photos and videotapes are our most precious possessions,
but time and technology march on . . . and closets fill with old photos and outdated
media. Remember Betamax tapes, Super 8 movies, and Instamatic
slides?
Photographic prints have a limited life; they deteriorate over time. Slides
fade. Negatives become brittle and are subject to scratching.
Videotapes have a shelf life, and they are dependent on the availability of a
working playback device. A closetful of old Betamax tapes is useless if all you
have is a modern VHS player.
Super 8 and other film-based movie systems require the appropriate projector
and a screen.
FILM TO DIGITAL SCANNING 261
Today, the headlong rush is into digital media. Digital cameras outsell film
cameras, and nearly all of us have become used to looking at images on computers
(from our own collection or downloaded from the Internet) or on television
using CDs or DVDs as the source.
A single DVD can hold hundreds of high-resolution photos or several hours of
video. DVDs are easier to store and handle and offer a much longer life expectancy.
In addition, images stored in digital format have another very important advantage
over older analogmedia (including photos, slides, film, and negatives): Pictures can
be copied and moved an endless number of times without degrading the quality.
The job of the film-to-digital-scanning professional is to gather the technology
and the expertise to convert media from analog to digital.
Challenges
The principal complexity of this job is managing all of the various combinations
of before-and-after media. You’ll need to purchase scanner equipment and a
powerful and capacious PC and become expert at using them.
Another challenge is the fact that you will be entrusted with irreplaceable
family treasures. You’ll have to take special care to avoid loss or damage to
media you are working with.
Know the Territory
Among the most popular types of conversion:
• Film slides in 35mm, 110, 126, and 127 formats to CD or DVD. Older
cameras might use larger 120 or 220 film.
• Negatives in any of the same formats, reversed to positive images and
recorded to CD or DVD.
• Color or black-and-white prints scanned to digital files and recorded to CD
or DVD.
• Movies in 8mm, Super 8, and 16mm formats, converted to CD or DVD.
• Videotapes in Beta, VHS, S-VHS, 8mm, Hi8, MiniDV, and Digital 8 formats,
converted to CD or DVD.
All of these conversions use a PC for processing, storing, and creating CDs or
DVDs.
Offer a selection of output options. Let clients choose between CDs that
play on computers or DVDs that have more capacity and can be used on either
262 COMPUTERS, GRAPHICS, AND PHOTOGRAPHY
computers or television sets. Each scan can be done at a range of resolutions
(degree of fine detail). The higher the resolution, the sharper the image in display
and the better the print that can be made from the file; on the downside, it
takes considerably longer to scan at higher resolutions and the files take up
more space on the CD or DVD.
How to Get Started
Begin by becoming an expert on the technology. Read computer and photography
magazines, visit trade shows, consult web sites, and tap the expertise of
knowledgeable equipment salespeople.
Draw up a detailed business plan with reasonable assumptions to determine
how much of an investment makes sense. You might want to start out offering just
slide, negative, and print conversions; the technology is more mature and the
investment a bit less.
Advertise your availability through flyers at community centers, senior centers,
and schools. Place ads in newspapers and shopping guides.
You might be able to establish a relationship with area photo, art supply, or
framing stores to allow you to advertise there in return for referring customers to
them for services you don’t provide.
Up-front Expenses
You’ll need a current PC with a large amount of memory and storage; plan on
spending at least $1,500 for the computer. The PC will need to have a recordable
CD or DVD burner.
A high-resolution 35mm slide scanner ranges in price from about $500 to
$2,000, and most include holders for negatives and software that can reverse
images from negative to positive. The more expensive scanners generally include
advanced features that can automatically remove scratches and improve the quality
of the image being scanned.
Flatbed scanners, for use with color or black-and-white prints, range in price
from as little as $100 to as much as $1,000.
Prices for high-end drum scanners for large slides and prints begin at several
thousand dollars and go up from there.
Digital capture boards and external capture devices range in price from about
$200 to $1,000; these are used to scan incoming video from a VCR or camera
and convert it to digital.
You’ll also need capable software on your PC to edit digital files and to transfer
them to a recordable CD or DVD.
FILM TO DIGITAL SCANNING 263
How Much to Charge
You can get a sense of prices by consulting web sites of companies offering these
sort of services.
We found prices for slide scanning ranging from about 45 cents to $1 each
for basic work and from about $1 to $2.50 per slide for high-resolution scanning.
Prices for scanning negatives were higher because of additional time required
on most systems; we saw prices of about 80 cents to $1.60 for basic work.
For transfer from film to VHS tape, prices were about 10 cents per foot at
basic levels of resolution and without digital restoration. Prices for transforming
film images to DVD were priced from 12 to 25 cents per foot, depending on level
of resolution and amount of restoration.
Scanning a print to digital form and restoring it can range in price from $5 to
$50, depending on the amount of touch-up required.
In addition to per-image or per-foot charges, companies add charges for CDs
and DVDs provided to the client, plus shipping costs.
Legal and Insurance Issues
Special notes: In dealing with your client’s property, seek to limit your liability
for damage or loss to the actual replacement value of items in your possession.
You should protect yourself against claims for sentimental value or
loss of use.
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
➅ Insurance
264 COMPUTERS, GRAPHICS, AND PHOTOGRAPHY
Photo and Document Restorer
–
Description of Job
• Scan and digitize old black-and-white or color photographs.
• Scan and digitize old documents such as birth certificates, marriage licenses,
and diplomas.
• Apply advanced computer software effects to restore color, improve contrast,
remove scratches, and fill in holes.
• Edit or crop images as requested.
• Print new digital images and store edited files on disk for archival purposes.
The Need
In case of fire or natural disaster, almost all of us would (1) see to the safety of
family members, (2) rescue cats and dogs, and (3) grab the photo albums. In
many ways, the photos we accumulate are the most important remembrances of
our lives.
That said, we almost all have a closetful of family treasures, at best gathering
dust, at worst moldering away.
Photos have a life span of as little as 10 years—less if they are exposed to sun
or extreme humidity. They’ll last longer if stored in sealed boxes at controlled
levels of heat and humidity.
Older color prints fade away more rapidly than those produced in more
recent years using improved papers and finishes.
Many people retain only the prints, having long ago lost or misplaced the
negatives. Negatives themselves, if stored in high humidity or heat, can become
damaged and unusable in ordinary photo processing.
The job of the photo and document restorer is to use modern digital tools to
scan images and documents and restore them to their original—or better than
original—condition. The images can be reprinted using modern methods, and the
edited digital files can be stored on CD or DVD for future use.
PHOTO AND DOCUMENT RESTORER 265
Challenges
The most critical task is to catch the images before they fade away to nothingness.
The process of photo repair and restoration is nondestructive—it does not
damage the original; you should use reasonable precautions in handling them,
though, such as lintless cotton gloves and archival storage boxes.
You’ll need to learn to use your computer hardware and software tools to
their full extent and in an efficient manner.
You will have custody of irreplaceable family treasures and must use all reasonable
efforts to safeguard them from loss or damage.
Know the Territory
Almost everyone has precious photos, but relatively few have the skill and time
to convert them to digital form and store them for the ages.
You’ll be in competition with national companies that sell their services over
the Internet or resell through major photo store chains. Your sales pitch should
emphasize your local availability and custom services.
You’ll scan images and store them on disks. A color scan of an 8- by 10-inch
photo at high resolution can require as much as 400 megabytes of storage space;
reducing resolution slightly, to 600 dots per inch (dpi), yields a file of about 103
megabytes. Black-and-white images are smaller, about one-third the size of color
images.
Once an image is scanned and stored on disk, you’ll first use advanced software
to adjust the color and contrast, sharpen details, remove scratches, and fill
holes. Then you may be called on to do some editing to crop the image, to digitally
remove background trees and signs that seem to be growing out of people’s
heads, or to delete strangers (or old boyfriends or girlfriends) from otherwise
acceptable pictures.
Completed images stored on a hard disk can then be transmitted over the
Internet to a professional processor who will produce high-quality photographic
prints. The images can also be printed locally using high-quality inkjet
printers; such images can be done quickly and are of high quality, although
they may not last as long as a photographic copy. The client also receives a CD
or DVD containing a copy of the edited file; the disk may also contain an electronic
photo album that displays the edited files on a television or computer.
How to Get Started
Begin by becoming an expert on photo scanning and restoration. The investment
is not huge if you already have a capable personal computer.
266 COMPUTERS, GRAPHICS, AND PHOTOGRAPHY
There are many books about photo restoration using software such as Adobe
Photoshop. You can take courses over the Internet or at community schools.
Adobe also conducts its own series of traveling classes.
Promote your availability with ads and flyers at community centers, in senior
centers, and through religious organizations. Seek cooperative arrangements with
area photo labs and picture framers.
Up-front Expenses
You’ll need a PC with an abundance of memory and storage; we recommend at
least 512 megabytes of RAM and at least 40 gigabytes of hard disk storage
space. Purchase a high-resolution flatbed scanner for photos; even better is a
drum scanner, although prices for these devices can run into the thousands of
dollars.
Your PC should also include a CD-R or DVD-R burner and high-speed broadband
access to the Internet for uploading files to service bureaus for photograph
printing. You should also have a photo-quality printer to produce prints using
ink-jet technology.
In addition, you’ll need professional-quality photo editing software; the
industry leader is Adobe Photoshop, which has some special-purpose add-in
modules that help perform tasks such as isolating a single person or a small detail
from a crowded image.
If you need to purchase all of the equipment, plan on spending $2,500 to
$3,500. (Adobe software alone costs about $750 to $1,000.)
Additional costs include advertising and promotion.
How Much to Charge
Billing is done on an hourly basis, plus the cost of the disks and the prints you
produce. You can add a reasonable markup to the cost of photos produced by service
bureaus based on the files you have created. You should offer clients an estimate
of the amount of time that will be required for restoration. Add charges for
pickup and delivery. Working with a professional picture framer, you can offer to
deliver finished photos mounted in frames; seek a discount from the framer and
charge your client standard retail rates, or add a reasonable markup.
Legal and Insurance
Special notes: In dealing with your client’s property, seek to limit your liability
for damage or loss to the actual replacement value of items in your possession.
You should protect yourself against claims for sentimental value or loss of use.
PHOTO AND DOCUMENT RESTORER 267
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
➅ Insurance
Videographer
–
Description of Job
• Videotape weddings, amateur sports events and competitions, parties, and
celebrations.
• Record meetings, public events, and speeches for business clients.
• Edit tapes into a professional presentation.
• Produce copies on videotape, CD, or DVD.
The Need
We live in a visual age; we are used to having photos, movies, and television to
record nearly every moment. Modern families and businesses have VCRs,
DVDs, video cameras, digital cameras, cell phones with built-in cameras, and
increasingly antiquated film-based cameras.
However, it is obvious to most of us that a great gap exists between an amateur
point-and-shoot effort and a polished, edited production by a trained
expert using professional-quality equipment. It may be acceptable to shoot
your own video of your son’s debut in the school play or your daughter’s
game-winning goal in a lacrosse game. However, when it comes to what we
expect to be once-in-a-lifetime events—a wedding, an award presentation,
or a keynote address—it makes a lot of sense to hire a professional freelance
videographer.
268 COMPUTERS, GRAPHICS, AND PHOTOGRAPHY
Challenges
You have to know what you’re doing, and you have to have reliable, professionalquality
video, audio, and lighting equipment. You’ll be shooting live events, with
no second chance in case of a technical problem.
It may be possible to take on some jobs by yourself, but most productions
will require assistants to help with setup and to stand by to help during the work
itself; some events will need multiple cameras and audio pickups.
Know the Territory
Make sure you fully understand your client’s needs and wants, and be very
careful about what you promise. In most cases you should not take on a job
without visiting the location to make sure you will be able to function properly
there.
Not every location permits installation of bright video lights and microphones,
and some may have limited electrical outlets. Modern equipment can
usually be run from battery-powered sources.
Some churches and other religious institutions may not permit any intrusion
on their ceremonies, and you should carefully look into any request for taping of
a theatrical performance to make sure you are not violating the rights of the copyright
holder.
At some hotels and convention centers, you may be required to work with
unionized employees. Any extra costs should be passed along to your client.
If permitted, videotape a dress rehearsal of the event. This will allow you to
confirm that all your equipment is functioning properly, help you determine the
proper placement of cameras and microphones, and acquaint clients and guests
with your style of operation.
Some of the dress rehearsal tape may be of use in the final video you prepare
for the client.
How to Get Started
Contact area party and wedding planners, banquet halls, community centers, and
schools to make them aware of your availability. Post flyers and ads on area bulletin
boards and advertise in newspapers and shopping guides.
Obtain permission from your clients to use portions of their events in creating
a sample tape or DVD to show prospective customers. Offer a bonus or discount
to satisfied customers who refer new clients to you.
VIDEOGRAPHER 269
Up-front Expenses
You’ll need at least one professional-grade video camera, plus external wired and
wireless microphones, an audio mixing board, and a set of video lights. A basic
setup could cost from $1,500 to $5,000.
Some equipment, including additional cameras, lighting, and audio devices
can be rented from professional supply houses. (Be sure to carefully test any
rented equipment before using it on a job.)
Once the video has been shot, you’ll need editing equipment. These can be
special-purpose video editing controllers and rerecorders, or you can use video
capture and editing systems for use with high-end personal computers. Plan on
spending between $3,000 and $5,000 for editing equipment and computers.
You’ll need video libraries of images, fades, dissolves, and special effects to
liven up the edited tape. Other helpful software includes audio editors and a
library of copyright-free music.
Finally, you’ll need a way to produce multiple copies of the final video. This
can be done on a professional-grade video recorder or with a CD or DVD burner
that is part of your PC.
You’ll need a van or large vehicle to transport your equipment to jobs; make
sure it can be made secure to protect valuable gear.
How Much to Charge
For most jobs you can charge a set price for videotaping, editing, and producing
the final version of the video. Include in your price the time required to visit the
location, tape a dress rehearsal, return for the actual event, and edit video. Add
the expense of any special requests by the client and for multiple copies of the
finished video.
Legal and Insurance
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
270 COMPUTERS, GRAPHICS, AND PHOTOGRAPHY
CHAPTER 15
Office and Professional
Services
88 Temporary Secretary
89 Transcription Services
90 Temporary Worker at Conventions and Business Meetings
91 Bookkeeping
92 Billing Service
93 Resume Design
94 Letter Writing
Temporary Secretary
Description of Job
• Perform short-term, temporary secretarial or clerical assignments.
• Assist with special projects using computer or secretarial skills.
The Need
You’re tapping into the fact that it is almost always considerably less expensive
for a company to hire short-term or temporary workers for special projects and
seasonal work. Hiring temporary workers generally relieves companies from the
expenses for medical insurance, paid leave, and other benefits.
Small firms such as medical offices, accountants, and construction companies
may need coverage to fill in when their only clerical person is on vacation or
called away for an emergency.
Challenges
You must have up-to-date office and computer skills and be flexible enough to
adapt to various assignments. It is also critical for you to be able to work professionally
with a changing cast of supervisors and coworkers.
You must be a quick learner, and you must be able to follow instructions
exactly. Most of the time you will be hired to help out during times of stress; you
have to be part of the solution, not part of the problem.
Although your work will be short term and temporary, you have to demonstrate
that you are dependable, that you will be at the job on time, as required, and
that you will not walk away for a vacation or a better offer during the term of
your commitment.
As a temporary worker, you will be expected to act and dress as professionally
as full-time staff.
Know the Territory
Learn as much as you can about businesses and stores in your area. Check web
sites to learn about each company’s operations.
272 OFFICE AND PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
How to Get Started
Advertise your availability in newspapers. Send letters, with a resume and summary
of your qualifications, to the human resources departments of companies in
your area.
Notify the companies you already deal with about your availability. Tell your
personal doctor or dentist that you are available, and submit your qualifications.
A number of small companies rent space in large professional buildings. Visit
them and leave your business card, resume, and references.
Up-front Expenses
The primary expenses are for advertising, promotion, and business cards. You’ll
also need an appropriate wardrobe for professional settings.
How Much to Charge
Temporary work is paid on an hourly basis; state laws usually dictate higher rates
of pay for nights or weekends and set a multiplier for overtime.
Legal and Insurance Issues
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
Transcription Services
Description of Job
• Transcribe taped or digitally recorded memos, notes, and manuscripts to a
computer file or printout.
• Perform basic spell-checking and editing on files.
TRANSCRIPTION SERVICES 273
The Need
Many professionals, including lawyers, doctors, researchers, corporate executives,
and authors, prefer to dictate notes, letters, and drafts of articles, speeches,
and books. Corporate and government committees often seek transcripts of meetings.
Academic institutions may want a transcript of a speech.
It often makes economic sense to hire a professional transcription service for
temporary or project-based work.
Challenges
You need a good set of ears, a fast pair of hands, and the ability to work with
clients in technical, academic, governmental, and other specialties. For instance,
transcription for a doctor would include medical words and phrases; lawyers use
legal and court terms and special forms of citation for cases and law.
The good news is that a number of tools are available to help you perform
work in specialty fields. You can purchase medical, legal, or technical dictionaries,
and electronic add-ons can expand spell-checkers in word processors to
cover specialized terms.
You will need to have equipment capable of working with different types of
media, including microcassettes, full-size cassettes, and digital memory. Most
word processing software, including industry leader Microsoft Word, is able to
accept or output files to or from most other programs.
Most businesses use PC equipment; a relatively small number of companies
use Apple Macintosh hardware. In most cases, both types of machines are capable
of reading data files from each other. One way to transfer your files without
having to worry about converting from one type of media to another is to send
them electronically over the Internet.
Know the Territory
Begin by becoming an expert on the use of a computer word processor, electronic
fact-checking and spell-checking software, and the Internet. You’ll also need to
become completely comfortable with the use of a transcriber, a specialized
machine that allows you to control the playback of a tape or memory with a foot
pedal; a good machine includes settings that allow you to speed up or slow down
playback, adjust the amount of backspacing, and change the tone of the audio to
make it clearer.
Some professionals add speech-recognition software to their bag of tricks.
This sort of program is capable of recognizing speech and converting it to text on
a computer; the conversion is not perfect and requires a human to edit the files.
274 OFFICE AND PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
Your next assignment is to get to know the market. You’ll have the greatest
success in an area that includes businesses, colleges, and professionals.
How to Get Started
Make yourself and your availability known to the business and professional community
in your area. Contact local chambers of commerce and associations and
ask for leads; consider placing ads in their publications. Do the same at area colleges;
post notices in student centers, faculty lounges, and place ads in college
newspapers offering your services to professors and students.
Speak with the town or city manager and ask about needs for transcription of
governmental meetings.
Send letters to corporations, legal firms, and physicians in your area.
Ask friends and relatives whether they know of area authors or researchers
who might need transcription services.
Up-front Expenses
You will need a professional-quality transcription machine; the most common
format uses microcassettes, but you may need to buy several machines to handle
tapes or digital memory that use other types of media. Machines range in price
from about $200 to $400.
You will also need a current personal computer that runs a major word
processor such as Microsoft Word, plus a professional-quality printer. If you plan
to accept digital files over the Internet or send your completed transcripts that
way, you will need access to the Internet.
Other expenses include advertising and promotion.
How Much to Charge
Charge by the hour for services at the prevailing professional rate in your area,
which might range from about $15 to $40 per hour. Add a surcharge for rush jobs
or work that must be performed over the weekend.
You can also add charges for floppy disks or CD-ROMs you provide to the
client, plus a reasonable charge for each printed page of the final product.
If you are required to travel to an office, add a mileage charge. Add the cost
of postage or courier service if used to deliver the work.
Legal and Insurance Issues
Special notes: In dealing with your client’s property, seek to limit your liability
for damage or loss to the actual replacement value of items in your possession.
TRANSCRIPTION SERVICES 275
You should protect yourself against damage claims for sentimental value or loss
of use.
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
➅ Insurance
Temporary Worker at Conventions and
Business Meetings
Description of Job
• Provide reception, registration, clerical, or other professional services at
conventions.
• Assist salaried staff at business gatherings, shareholder meetings, and other
special events.
The Need
Most businesses are not equipped to fully staff conventions and large business
meetings. They usually contract with temporary personnel agencies or hire individual
workers as needed. The work includes registering guests, assisting in setup
of events, secretarial services, and support staff.
Workers may spend time in the meetings, or they may be dispatched to area
hotels and conference centers to assist visitors.
Challenges
Temporary helpers need to be professional in their actions and dress and very
flexible in accepting assignments. Working hours may include weekends and
early-morning or late-evening assignments.
276 OFFICE AND PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
You’ll need to commit to being available through the entire period of an event.
Some convention centers may require that all employees be members of a
union; find out the details and determine whether it makes sense to join for a temporary
job such as this.
Know the Territory
Contact area convention and visitors bureaus to find out about upcoming events;
most are scheduled months or years ahead of time. Ask whether the bureau hires
temporary workers for its clients, or ask for referrals to companies that do the hiring
themselves.
Maximize your appeal: Do you have any special skills, such as speaking a
foreign language or interpreting for the deaf? Are you capable of working at a
computer or helping at the registration desk?
Do you know area restaurants and entertainment well? Many events could
use the services of guides or concierges for their guests.
How to Get Started
Market yourself through the area convention and visitors bureau and local chamber
of commerce. If you obtain the names of upcoming conventions and large
meetings, contact the meeting planners at the sponsoring companies or groups
directly.
Contact area hotels that have convention space or those used to house guests
for large meetings elsewhere; inform business centers that host large meetings of
your availability.
Up-front Expenses
The principal expenses are for promotion and advertising.
How Much to Charge
Expect to be paid on an hourly basis, with overtime for lengthy days or weekend
and holiday work. If you are asked to transport materials or move from one location
to another, you should be reimbursed for mileage.
Legal and Insurance Issues
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
TEMPORARY WORKER AT CONVENTIONS AND BUSINESS MEETINGS 277
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
Bookkeeping
Description of Job
• Handle bookkeeping, accounting, and record-keeping services for a small
business.
• File monthly, quarterly, and annual tax forms, or coordinate with client’s
tax accountant or attorney to provide necessary information for tax purposes.
The Need
Every business has to maintain records of receipts, expenditures, sales taxes collected,
income tax withheld, and many other details of interest to local, state, and
federal governments as well as to banks and other lenders. Other records relate
to expense accounts, depreciation, inventory, accounts receivable, accounts payable,
and various benefits.
Yet few small businesses can justify putting a full-time bookkeeper or
accountant on the payroll, and some larger companies may prefer outsourcing
the job to save money or to establish a presumably independent arm’s-length
relationship.
Challenges
In addition to strong bookkeeping or accounting skills and experience, you’ll
need to be able to work with many different types of businesses and clients.
The lexicon, accounts receivable, and accounts payable will be much different
at a restaurant than at a pet shop; the types of tax forms and information required
by a DBA or partnership may be not the same as those required for a corporation.
You may be called on to fill in for vacation absences or for special projects;
in such cases, you will have to follow someone else’s plans and methods exactly.
278 OFFICE AND PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
Outside or part-time bookkeepers and accountants must demonstrate professionalism
and discretion, keeping private the proprietary information of their
clients.
Make sure your bookkeeping and accounting skills are up-to-date. If your
skills and knowledge are limited in a particular area, you should probably decline
a related job rather than do damage to your clients and to your reputation.
Know the Territory
You’ll need to keep current on accounting practices and on the local business
environment. Make contact with local chambers of commerce to learn about new
and expanding companies.
Make sure you are capable ofworking with state-of-the-art accounting software.
How to Get Started
Identify possible clients by contacting your local chamber of commerce and
other business associations; place ads in newsletters to their members. Send letters
to new and expanding companies.
You may be able to post your business card or a flyer at area business supply
stores, including some of the major chains.
Up-front Expenses
The primary expense will be advertising and promotion. You may also want to
have a listing or ad in the Yellow Pages under “Accountants,” “Bookkeeping services,”
or “Temporary services.”
How Much to Charge
You should charge by the hour. Investigate companies in your area that perform
similar services.
Legal and Insurance Issues
Special notes: In dealing with your clients’ property, seek to limit your liability
for damage or loss to the actual replacement value of items in your possession.
You should protect yourself against claims for sentimental value or loss of use.
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
BOOKKEEPING 279
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
➅ Insurance
Billing Service
Description of Job
• Aggregate accounts and take over billing for products and services.
• Collect payments and post them to proper accounts.
• Monitor accounts receivable and report to client about any problematic
customers.
• Work with collection agencies when appropriate.
The Need
Many businesses and professionals are fully dedicated to the services they provide
or the products they sell. At some smaller companies, there is much less
interest in, and sometimes inadequate attention paid to, billing customers and
collecting the money—tasks that keep the whole enterprise afloat.
Even when a company is fully prepared to send bills and collect revenues
with well-trained staff and state-of-the-art systems, it might not make economic
sense to do so.
The job of the independent billing service is to devote full attention to
accounts receivable as needed, which eliminates the need for a company to hire
and pay salary and benefits for a full-time employee. Your basic pitch is this:
Your services as an outside billing agency will cost less than doing the work inhouse,
and/or your agency will do a better job of managing receivables (and
working with a collection agency when necessary). If you can’t make that claim,
you have no appeal to the client.
You can also appeal to small businesses that have suffered from turnover in
their billing departments; you should be able to promise that services will be
standardized and available every business day of the week.
280 OFFICE AND PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
Challenges
You’ll need to mesh your experience and practices with the systems and methods
of your client. Among special challenges: not ruffling the feathers of valued customers
who are used to preferential treatment. There may also be times when
you’ll have to play the heavy in dealing with certain customers.
Some billing scenarios are much more complex than others. Medical practices,
for example, have to deal with a dizzying collection of federal and state
government agencies, major insurance companies, union and association medical
plans, and private payers. If you have previous experience in the medical
field, you may be able to pick up doctors as clients; if not, medical billing is
probably not the place to start.
Know the Territory
You must be current on computer communications, billing software, and accounts
receivable programs. Most accounting or billing programs can be customized
with modules that adapt them to the specific needs of particular types of
businesses.
The best qualification for this sort of job is your previous experience working
in an accounting or billing department.
You must promise and demonstrate discretion in managing the private affairs
of your clients, and you will be subject to audit by your client’s accountant or
other representative.
Your client must be capable of transmitting the raw data for billing in an
efficient manner. The state-of-the-art way is to send files to your office via the
Internet. Less modern, but still relatively common, is to physically ship boxes of
paper invoices that you will have to enter into your computer system and
process.
How to Get Started
Contact area businesses to let them know of your credentials and availability.
Place ads in business publications and general newspapers.
Ask satisfied clients to recommend your services to other businesses; give
them a bonus or a discount for any new business they bring to you.
Up-front Expenses
You’ll need a current PC with access to the Internet, standard accounting or
accounts receivable software, and a printer capable of producing invoices, labels,
BILLING SERVICE 281
and envelopes for mailing. If your client requires you to use a specific software
program, you may have to purchase and learn to use that package.
Other expenses include advertising and promotion.
How Much to Charge
The most common billing scheme for small businesses is to charge by the hour
or to offer a flat rate based on the number of bills processed per week or per
month. Add to the bill the cost of paper and envelopes, postage, phone calls, and
any special services requested by the client; alternatively, those expenses could
be built into the hourly or flat rate.
Legal and Insurance Issues
Special notes: In dealing with your client’s property, seek to limit your liability
for damage or loss to the actual replacement value of items in your possession.
You should protect yourself against claims for sentimental value or loss of use.
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
➅ Insurance
Resume Design
Description of Job
• Interview clients for details about academic, professional, and relevant personal
details.
• As appropriate, fact-check and verify information.
282 OFFICE AND PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
• Design a resume suited for the type of position sought.
• Print resumes and create an electronic version suitable for e-mailing and
posting online.
The Need
A well-crafted resume is one of the primary ways for a job applicant to get a foot
in the door. Human resources officers, executives, and recruiters appreciate a
well-written cover letter, but they zero in on employment history, appropriate
experience, and specialized education. (Some companies use computerized software
to screen e-mailed and online resume submissions for keywords that relate
to the job they are looking to fill.)
A resume must be easy to read and understand, accurate, and accessible in any
form requested. The resume designer combines reporting and designing skills.
Challenges
You must be honest in dealing with your client and scrupulous of your reputation;
any mistakes or willful misrepresentation will reflect poorly on both you
and your client. Do not agree to falsify information or unreasonably inflate the
importance of a particular job or experience.
You must also be discreet about the information you gather; not all of your
client’s history may be positive, and the client may want to keep confidential
some of the information, including salary history.
You will be expected to keep your involvement in a client’s job search to
yourself. Not all job seekers want their present employer to know they are in the
market to leave.
You must know how to use a word processor to create a resume, and you will
need to have design skills to make it attractive and easy to read.
Many companies now ask applicants to send resumes by e-mail or by posting
to a web site. For these purposes, you need to learn how to create a text-only version
of the resume, without formatting, or to create an HTML-coded version.
(HTML is the underlying code used to apply formatting to web sites.)
Know the Territory
Gather information from previous resumes, employment and academic records,
and interviews with your client that yield relevant details about job responsibilities
and accomplishments. With your client’s permission, research and verify any
details that are not supported by documents.
RESUME DESIGN 283
Working with your client, develop a list of references who are willing to
respond to inquiries about the client’s work history and character. Verify names,
addresses, titles, and phone numbers, or assist the client in doing so.
How to Get Started
Advertise at colleges, in community centers, and in newspapers and shopping
guides. Be prepared to show prospective clients generic versions of resumes you
have produced, with names and other personal details removed or replaced with
fictional names or randomly generated addresses and phone numbers.
Up-front Expenses
You’ll need a capable computer with Internet access and a professional-quality
printer. You may produce resumes on your own machine, or upload them to a
service bureau for professional printing. In the case of electronic submission of
resumes, you will need the ability to send the file over the Internet.
Other expenses include advertising and promotion.
How Much to Charge
Bill for your time on an hourly basis. You might want to offer a basic package
that includes a set number of hours plus production of a resume, with additional
charges if research or fact-checking goes beyond ordinary efforts.
You can add a charge for printing resumes on your own equipment or for
arranging for printing by an outside service bureau.
Legal and Insurance Issues
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
284 OFFICE AND PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
Letter Writing
Description of Job
• Prepare letters from individuals to businesses, government agencies, and
others.
• Provide guidance and assistance in filling out forms and responding to
inquiries.
The Need
We live in a highly verbal and visual world; much of what we do in life is accomplished
with a conversation or a point-and-click computer function. However,
sometimes you need to put it in writing, and that is not something that everyone
feels comfortable doing.
How do you notify a credit card company that you want to dispute a charge?
What is the most gracious way to thank someone for a favor? How should you
acknowledge condolences? What is the best way to outline your concerns or
requests to a politician or a government agency?
A carefully composed letter to a neighbor or a business may help fend off the
possibility of an expensive legal action. A properly written letter of return or complaint
may result in a full refund for a faulty product or an unsuccessful service call.
The advantages of written communication include the ability to carefully
hone your message to make it as clear and unambiguous as possible and the
advantage of retaining a written record of your correspondence.
Challenges
You need to be able to communicate clearly and concisely in writing. Equally
important is the ability to communicate clearly with your clients; you’ll need to
understand their needs and get the exact details necessary for the letters you write.
Know the Territory
Your clientele may come from any walk of life—from the young and inexperienced
to the overly busy professional to senior citizens who need an outside advocate.
LETTER WRITING 285
Become familiar with forms of address and the proper style for written communication.
There are a number of books that would be of help. One easy-to-use
letter-writing book is 1001 Letters for All Occasions (Adams Media), by Corey
Sandler and Janice Keefe, the authors of the book now in your hands.
You should be an accomplished user of a computer and word processor, and
make full use of the spelling-and-grammar function. You should also be comfortable
using the Internet to research information and to submit electronic mail
and forms on behalf of your client.
How to Get Started
Place flyers and ads in community centers, schools, and senior centers. Place ads
in newspapers and shopping guides.
Consider offering classes on letter writing at senior centers or community
centers as a way of earning money and generating new clients.
Up-front Expenses
Invest in books on letter writing as well as reference books. You should have
access to a capable computer with a word processor and access to the Internet.
Additional expenses include the costs of advertising and promotion.
How Much to Charge
Charge an hourly rate for your services, plus the cost of any special services you
provide, including mailing.
Much of your work can be conducted over the telephone. If you must travel
to a client’s home to perform work, you can charge a mileage rate.
Legal and Insurance Issues
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
286 OFFICE AND PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
CHAPTER 16
Sales
95 Yard Sale Organizer
96 Consignment Resale
97 Antique and Collectible Wholesaler
98 Used Book Reseller
99 Tool and Equipment Rentals
100 Newspaper Delivery Route
101 Online Auctions: EBay and Beyond
Yard Sale Organizer
Description of Job
• Help homeowners and renters conduct a successful yard sale, tag sale, or
garage sale.
• Manage the organization, promotion, and sales of such events.
The Need
We’re not sure which is more satisfying: clearing out your attic, basement, and
closets or recouping some of the money you spent on dust magnets and clothing
you can’t believe you ever thought looked good on you.
You know the stuff we’re talking about: that exercise bicycle in your bedroom
that hasn’t been used in two years . . . plus half the clothing hanging on its handlebars
and all the shoes stacked behind the rear wheels. As your children grow
older, you’ll have a nice collection of clothing, toys, books, and sporting equipment
ready for a new home.
Not everyone knows how to set up a sale and how to make it successful. As a
yard sale organizer, your emphasis is on the organization. Among the skills you’ll
bring are:
• Understanding local ordinances about signs, hours of sale, and other matters
• Knowing the sort of items that sell well in your neighborhood
• Knowing the value of stuff around the house
• Cataloging the items for sale
• Knowing how to set up a display of items
• Knowing how to manage the cash box
Challenges
Some towns and community organizations place regulations on yard sales that
limit hours of operation, posting of signs, and parking. In some states and municipalities,
the law may require collection of sales tax.
288 SALES
It would be polite to notify neighbors in advance of the sale date; if the sale
attracts a large number of cars, it might interfere with their ability to get in and
out of their own driveways. Devote as much attention to taking down your signs
after the sale as you do to putting them up beforehand.
Expect early birds to attempt to grab bargains before the official starting time
for the sale; in fairness to all, most yard sale pros will ask them to wait until the
posted time. Consider what you will do if it rains on the day of sale; you might
want to list a rain date in ads and on signs.
You have to organize the wares for sale. Use tables (which could be old doors
propped on sawhorses) or blankets and painter’s tarps on the grass to display
items. Place similar items together. Clean all clothing before sale, and neatly fold
items so they can easily be seen and not wrinkled or damaged.
Place your most expensive items in a location where you or your client can
keep a close eye on them. If you have antiques, works of art, or collectibles, do
some research or hire an appraiser. You—or your client—should pay heed to the
stories of yard sale buyers who have found paintings worth small fortunes or
original documents of treasures such as the Declaration of Independence that
sold cheaply and then earned a fortune for the “finder.”
Mark items with labels that indicate the asking price or with a color code that
corresponds to a price chart.
Although many buyers will give you the asking price, others consider it part
of the game to haggle a bit. Using color codes allows the seller to play the game,
too: Price an item at the high end of its price range if you are willing to accept
less; adjust prices downward if sales are slow or to clear out items you don’t want
to lug back inside at the end of the day.
Another advantage to hiring an organizer is that some people are not comfortable
dealing with friends and neighbors on a cash basis. In addition, the organizer
will be less emotionally attached to items; his or her goal is to help clear out
the merchandise, even if it requires cutting the price. (As an organizer, be sure
you understand your client’s bottom-line price for expensive items.)
Finally, an experienced yard sale organizer knows how to keep the books,
manage the cash box, and keep an eye on the merchandise—all while handling a
wave of customers.
Know the Territory
Attend garage sales or tag sales in your area to see what sorts of items they are
selling and at what prices. Make note of the kinds of signs posted and ads placed.
Most yard sales are held on the weekends, and certain times of the year are
YARD SALE ORGANIZER 289
better than others. In a vacation area, the best time may be in the late spring or
early summer, when people are furnishing their summer residences. In a college
town, students may want to buy furniture and furnishings in September and sell
them off in May.
How to Get Started
Advertise your availability as a yard sale organizer in shopping guides and newspapers;
post flyers in supermarkets, home supply centers, and community centers.
Make contact with professional housecleaning companies and ask them to
recommend you to their clients in return for a referral fee.
Up-front Expenses
You’ll need to make your services known through ads in newspapers and shopping
guides and by distributing flyers and business cards. Any expenses related
to actual yard sales will be billable to your client.
How Much to Charge
Yard sale organizers can charge an hourly fee or ask for a percentage of the proceeds.
Plan on several hours of organization, advertising, and setup, plus three or
four hours for the sale itself and two hours for cleanup afterward. A typical job,
then, might require 8 to 10 hours of your time.
If you charge a percentage of sales—perhaps 15 to 20 percent of the take—
do so only if you have a reasonable expectation that sales will total more than a
few hundred dollars.
Any out-of-pocket expenses to advertise the sale or for supplies should be
reimbursed by your client.
Legal and Insurance Issues
Special notes: In dealing with your client’s property, seek to limit your liability
for damage or loss to the actual replacement value of items in your possession.
You should protect yourself against claims for sentimental value or loss of use.
Consult your town clerk for information about local ordinances. Ask an
accountant or your tax office for advice about sales tax collection; although it
may be common for homeowners to ignore tax laws for yard sales, we are not
going to endorse that practice in this book. First of all, sales tax is not an expense
to you; however, if you or your client are fined for ignoring the law, the expense
is quite real.
290 SALES
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
➅ Insurance
Consignment Resale
Description of Job
• Accept items owned by others and offer them for resale at tag sales, at yard
sales, and over the Internet.
• Receive a portion of the proceeds from the sale.
The Need
Not everyone is comfortable holding a yard sale outside or a tag sale inside their
home, and not everyone has enough items to sustain a sale by themselves.
The consignment reseller gathers items from multiple sources, consults with
the owner about pricing, and sets up a table at a flea market or yard sale to offer
them for sale.
Another way to sell items is to offer them through Internet auctions and sales
sites.
Challenges
Don’t accept an item if you don’t feel you have a reasonable chance of selling
because of lack of demand or because the seller wants to put an unrealistic price
on it. Maximize your profits by cherry-picking items that will sell quickly at a
good price.
Do not accept items that might subject you to unreasonable liability: very
expensive things, fragile items, guns and other weapons, tools that are obviously
broken, and the like.
CONSIGNMENT RESALE 291
Take care to maintain a close inventory of items you have accepted for sale;
each should be marked with a code that identifies the owner and refers to a listing
of the minimum price. You will be responsible for paying the owner if an item
is lost or stolen while in your possession.
Include in your agreement with the seller provisions for return of the item if
it does not sell within a specified period of time. Many contracts specify that if
the owner does not pick up an unsold item at the end of the for-sale period, the
reseller can dispose of it at any price and pay the owner only the reduced yield.
Know the Territory
Search for opportunities to participate in flea market sales or to mount your own
yard sale.
Consider placing valuable items on Internet marketplaces like eBay and Amazon;
in doing so you will be relieved of the cost of advertising, promotion, billing,
and accepting credit cards and other forms of payment. You will have to pay the
Internet web site owner a commission or fee for products you list and sell; this
cost should be deducted from the proceeds before you assess a fee to your client.
How to Get Started
Place flyers and ads in community centers and retail outlets offering to sell items.
Place ads in newspapers and shopping guides.
Promote your flea market or tag sale in the same way, or participate with
others in a general advertisement.
Learn how to use Internet auction and sales sites, and study the sorts of items
they offer to find the best match for the products you will be selling.
Up-front Expenses
The principal up-front costs for a consignment business are advertising and promotion,
plus any fees for participation at a flea market or a tag sale run by an
organization.
If you choose to advertise some of your items on a web site, there may be
expenses associated with setting up the site, hosting, and accepting credit cards.
If you use an Internet marketplace such as eBay, there are no up-front costs other
than computer access to the Internet.
How Much to Charge
Most consignment resellers charge a fee based on a percentage of the selling price
of the item; a typical fee is 20 to 30 percent. Depending on your cost of doing
292 SALES
business, you might ask owners to pay you an up-front fee when you accept their
items for resale, and then deduct that amount from your commission when an item
is sold.
Legal and Insurance Issues
Special notes: In dealing with your client’s property, seek to limit your liability
for damage or loss to the actual replacement value of items in your possession.
You should protect yourself against claims for sentimental value or loss of use.
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
➅ Insurance
Antiques and Collectibles Wholesaler
–
Description of Job
• Take your sharp eye on the road in search of hidden and underpriced gems
at garage sales, tag sales, and flea markets.
• Research the market value of your finds and resell them to collectors or
auction houses.
The Need
Any careful shopper at a tag sale stands a good chance of picking up bargains,
like a never-used Crock-Pot for $5 or an extra set of plates that more or less
match the ones in your kitchen cupboard.
The more observant eye shops in search of the treasure within the trash:
real jewels among the faux, a valuable antique chair mixed in with cheap reproductions,
a work of art or rare print hidden among the neon paintings on black
velvet.
ANTIQUES AND COLLECTIBLES WHOLESALER 293
People have garage sales because they want to get rid of their extraneous
stuff; some of it should go directly to the dump, but sometimes you can uncover
great finds.
Don’t count on emulating the story of the Philadelphia tag sale shopper who
bought a painting for $4 because he liked the frame and, when he removed the
canvas, found an original of the Declaration of Independence that later sold at
auction for $2.42 million. That sort of lucky accident is nearly impossible to
replicate.
Much more likely are the stories you’ll see on television, like those on
Antiques Roadshow. For example, a set of dusty old handwritten ledgers picked
up at a tag sale were identified by a trained appraiser as former properties of Ben
Franklin; the books were valued at $12,000 to $18,000.
The job of the antiques and collectibles wholesaler is that of the huntergatherer;
your goal should be to turn around and resell the items to private clients
or to a wholesaler.
Challenges
The biggest challenge facing people who shop tag sales and flea markets as a
business is to avoid paying too much for items. You should develop and enhance
your expertise in a reasonable number of areas: jewelry, wooden furniture, historical
documents, Depression-era glassware, antique cameras, old radios, and
the like.
Spend the time to learn how to separate real items from reproductions. Learn
how to discover dates of manufacture, serial numbers, artists’ names, and other
identifying information. Find out the secrets of counterfeiters—artisans who
make modern versions of valuable Chippendale chairs or reprints of old documents
on artificially aged paper.
Know the Territory
Contact antique dealers and collectors to determine the sorts of items they are
most interested in buying and selling. Ask friends and acquaintances to put you
in contact with collectors who may have wish lists of items they are looking to
add to their shelves.
Learn the seasons and the locations for tag sales, garage sales, and flea markets.
Check prices for items at online web sites, including eBay.
Look for courses on antiques and collectibles at local community schools or
colleges.
294 SALES
How to Get Started
Make yourself known to owners of antiques stores and establish relationships;
you may be able to call them from the road and negotiate a price for resale before
you buy something you find. Look for clubs and organizations that attract collectors
and let them know you are available to help them fill their collections.
Up-front Expenses
You should build up a collection of books and research materials and have access
to the Internet. You’ll need to bear the expense of traveling in search of items.
You will have to lay out the money for your purchases and may have to pay
for shipping and storing items until they are resold.
Other expenses include advertising and promotion.
How Much to Charge
You will make your profit by reselling items at a price higher than you paid for
them, plus the cost of travel and shipping.
Legal and Insurance Issues
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
Used Book Reseller
–
Description of Job
• Resell used books from your own library to collectors and readers via web
sites and online marketplaces.
USED BOOK RESELLER 295
• Resell textbooks and technical books to students and researchers.
• Purchase used books at tag sales and yard sales for resale.
• Act as a purchasing agent for collectors seeking specific books.
The Need
You love books. That’s why you’re holding one in your hands right now.
Sometimes, though, the cost of new books—especially textbooks and technical
titles—can be quite high. Perhaps you want a book that is no longer in print
and not available at a retail store.
Sellers of used books keep old books alive and deliver current but secondhand
titles to willing readers.
Challenges
The margin of profit between the purchase price of a used book and its resale
value is not very large. Therefore, any books you buy and cannot resell will eat
away at overall profits.
Know the Territory
Reselling used books is a time-honored business that dates back to the time when
the first new book was sold. Much of the business was once a low-paying enterprise
with high costs: inventory, storage, advertising, and a retail location.
However, this business model was turned on its head by the arrival of the
Internet, which allows virtual businesses to thrive because of the quick and inexpensive
exchange of information without regard to location.
Study the used book marketplaces at Amazon.com, at BarnesandNoble.com,
and at other web sites to learn about programs that allow registered users to sell
used books. These sites essentially give you free advertising for your wares, as
they are directly linked to searches performed by visitors to their well-promoted
cyberstores. They handle the billing and collection of funds from purchasers and
remit the amount—minus a reasonable commission—to you.
Amazon and Barnes & Noble allow resellers to post a price for their books
and adjust it up or down based on their success. At various forms of eBay auctions,
products are sold to the highest bidder; sellers are allowed to set a reserve
price, which is the minimum price for a product.
You can also market your services as a book sleuth for collectors. Armed with
a list of books they need or want, you can search the Internet, used book stores,
296 SALES
estate sales, and other sources. When you find a wanted book, you purchase it on
behalf of your client.
How to Get Started
Study the online web sites to learn about the used book market and resale programs.
Register as a reseller. The web sites do all of the work of promoting their
offerings and making visitors aware of the used book marketplace.
If you will be selling direct, place flyers and ads in high schools, at colleges,
and on community bulletin boards.
To find books to sell, be on the lookout for tag sales, estate sales, and private
offerings.
To find private collectors seeking titles for their libraries, place ads in newspapers
and in newsletters of special-interest organizations.
Up-front Expenses
The principal up-front expense of a used book business is the cost of inventory.
You’ll want to avoid overpaying for any books you purchase.
If you are listing products on another company’s web site, your only expense
will be the minimal cost of computer access to the Internet. There may be some
costs related to the storage of books.
How Much to Charge
If you resell books through an online web site operated by Amazon, Barnes &
Noble, or similar operations you will receive the selling price of the book (minus
a prearranged commission and shipping costs).
If you list books on a web site of your own, you will receive the full purchase
price of the book plus shipping costs, but you will also bear the additional costs
of advertising, promotion, web site creation and hosting, and credit card services.
Acting as an agent on behalf of a collector, you can charge a significant premium
above purchase price to pay for your time and other expenses.
Legal and Insurance Issues
Special notes: In dealing with your client’s property, seek to limit your liability
for damage or loss to the actual replacement value of items in your possession.
You should protect yourself against claims for sentimental value or loss
of use.
USED BOOK RESELLER 297
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
➅ Insurance
Tool and Equipment Rentals
–
Description of Job
• Rent specialized tools to hobbyists and professionals.
• Rent testing, measurement, and configuration equipment.
The Need
Do you need to own a high-powered brush cutter for a one-time clearing of a
patch of ground on your property? Does it make sense to purchase an electronic
testing device for a one-time installation or modification of a new feature for an
automobile you are working on in your driveway? Can you justify purchasing an
extra computer and monitor for a weeklong special project?
The answer in each case, and many others, is that it often does not make
sense to make a capital expenditure for a one-time or occasional use of an expensive
piece of equipment.
That’s the rationale behind equipment rental companies; they spread the cost
of a unit over many users. If the rental unit is managed and maintained properly,
the owner may write off the depreciation over time and then sell the used equipment
to recover some of its original cost.
Challenges
Don’t try to compete against the major national franchise tool rental companies,
at least at the start. These operations require a major up-front investment in
equipment, training, retail operations, franchise fee, and mass-market advertising.
Instead, concentrate on renting out expensive and hard-to-find tools and
298 SALES
equipment. Your business plan should be built on a high per-device fee for a low
volume of daily or weekly rentals.
Research the cost and life expectancy for specialized equipment before you
make any purchases. Some tools have an almost unlimited life; other pieces of
equipment are so specialized or unusual that they may become outmoded or
unusable after a very short period of time. Your business plan should be based on
a realistic estimate of the number of times a device can be rented while in your
possession; the total yield plus any resale value has to produce a profit.
In most agreements, you are responsible for the maintenance of equipment
and must bear the cost of any equipment that breaks in normal use. However,
your rental agreement should spell out situations where the customer must pay
for repair or replacement of the equipment because of negligence or misuse. The
customer is also responsible for replacement if the equipment is lost or stolen.
Know the Territory
If you have a special interest or hobby, you may already possess some unusual tools
or equipment that others may want to “borrow”—for a fee—from time to time.
Learn as much as you can about the demographics, hobbies, and activities in
your region. Look for clubs for hobbyists and special-interest groups; become
familiar with shows and demonstrations aimed at hobbyists and do-it-yourselfers.
Attend meetings and ask about the sorts of tools and equipment members
would like to use from time to time.
Look into selling insurance policies to customers to cover them against loss
or theft of rented items and other unexpected costs; some rental companies selfinsure,
applying extra payments made by customers to a pool of funds earmarked
for replacement of equipment.
How to Get Started
Post flyers and ads on community bulletin boards, in retail stores, and at community
centers. Place ads in newspapers, shopping guides, and special-interest
newsletters. Attend meetings of clubs and make members aware of your interest
in acquiring and renting equipment they may need.
Up-front Expenses
Your principal up-front cost will be for the purchase of equipment. You may be
able to buy some used or reconditioned equipment; be sure the items come with
a warranty and a ready supply of parts for repairs.
Other costs include advertising and promotion.
TOOL AND EQUIPMENT RENTALS 299
How Much to Charge
Your business plan should include a realistic estimate of the demand for each
item and its life expectancy. Calculate a price based on the expected revenues an
item will generate over a reasonable period of time, taking into account the cost
of the equipment, its possible resale value, and the cost to you for the money you
have invested in inventory.
As an example, consider a $500 tool that you think will be rented once a
month and that should have a value of $200 at the end of two years of use. Your
real cost for the item is perhaps $350; rented 24 times in two years, your breakeven
price for the equipment alone is about $15. You’ll also want to add in a portion
of the cost of operating your business and paying for repair or replacement
of items that break, and you should make a profit for your time and effort. In this
example, you could justify charging about $50 for short-term rental of the tool.
Legal and Insurance Issues
Special notes: You’ll want insurance on your equipment; don’t expect to collect
if a single power sander is stolen or if a wrench breaks, but you should be covered
in case of a major loss of expensive equipment at your site or while rental
items are in the possession of clients.
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
Newspaper Delivery Route
Description of Job
• Deliver the newspaper to residential and business locations, usually in the
predawn hours.
300 SALES
• Perform other services, including stuffing Sunday newspapers with advertising
inserts, magazines, and other special sections.
• You may need to rent, lease, or purchase an appropriate vehicle.
The Need
The days of a kid on a bicycle prowling the streets with a canvas sack of newspapers
are mostly gone. In most communities today, newspapers are delivered by
adult subcontractors who use a car or truck to cover large geographic areas and
hundreds of subscribers.
In most areas, this is a five- or seven-day-a-week commitment that can be
accomplished in the predawn hours. For that reason, it is often a second job.
Newspaper companies generally employ their own drivers or a trucking company
to deliver large bundles of papers to newsstands and stores. Delivery to
homes is usually subcontracted to individual carriers.
Challenges
First you need to get past the idea of taking on a job that may begin at 5 A.M.
every day—despite wind, rain, or snow.
You’ll need a vehicle that is large and sturdy enough to carry a heavy load of
newspapers. The vehicle will sustain a great deal of wear and tear because of the
start-and-stop nature of the route. In snowy climes, you may be out on the roads
before the plows have arrived.
There’s also the chance of some wear and tear on yourself: sore back and
shoulders from loading the papers and getting in and out of the car at each stop
on the route.
Drivers may be responsible for makeup deliveries for subscribers who do not
receive their paper as promised, or who find their paper in the swimming pool
instead of on the front porch.
As a subcontractor, you may be required to find, hire, and provide a substitute
carrier to fulfill your deliveries if you are unable to do so because of illness
or vacation.
Know the Territory
In most communities, the newspaper handles the sale of subscriptions and the
collection of payments. Deliverers receive a listing of their route; the list of subscribers
may change slightly from day to day because of new customers, cancellations,
and vacation suspensions.
NEWSPAPER DELIVERY ROUTE 301
Some newspaper companies have sophisticated software programs that can
provide carriers with a logically organized route (or local experts who perform
the same function). If not, you’ll need to know the area well enough to set up a
logical plan by yourself.
Bundles of newspapers may be available for pickup at the printing plant, or
they may be delivered to several regional locations to be picked up by carriers.
Depending on your state’s regulations, you may need a commercial license
and plate for your vehicle, and your insurance company may require coverage for
use of the car or truck for commercial purposes. Consult a capable insurance
agent for advice.
How to Get Started
Contact the circulation department of area newspapers and ask about delivery
jobs. Most newspapers also advertise for carriers in their own classified sections.
Up-front Expenses
In most situations you will be responsible for providing your own vehicle, and
you may be required to supply to your employer evidence of proper licensure and
insurance.
You will have to pay for gasoline and maintenance of your vehicle; you
should be able to recoup some or all of these expenses from the mileage reimbursement
paid by the newspaper company.
How Much to Charge
The newspaper company will generally offer a fixed fee for each delivery. Many
companies also pay a mileage reimbursement for use of your car.
In some communities, carriers are directly employed by the newspaper company,
earning a salary plus benefits and mileage reimbursement for the use of
their own vehicle.
Because most companies do the billing and collection by mail or by automatically
charging credit card accounts, newspaper carriers can no longer count
on weekly or monthly gratuities from customers. However, in some communities
it remains common practice for regular carriers to receive a tip at Christmastime;
some carriers encourage the practice by inserting a holiday card with their name
and address in deliveries near the holiday.
302 SALES
Legal and Insurance Issues
Special notes: An insurance agent can offer counsel about commercial vehicle
insurance and liability coverage.
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
Online Auctions: EBay and Beyond
–
Description of Job
• Sell nearly anything to almost anyone over the Internet.
• Choose your method of sale: auction to the highest bidder, fixed price, or
Dutch auction of multiple items to multiple bidders.
• Use automated processes to bill buyers, collect payment, and prepare shipping
labels and computer-generated postage.
The Need
From the dawn of time, humans have bought and sold nearly every imaginable
product and service. Commerce started as one-on-one sales from growers or artisans
to individual buyers. It moved on to retail stores and later catalog companies
that brought together inventories of goods to sell to many individuals. Built into
the price of everything sold were the costs of showcasing goods in a store, printing
and mailing catalogs, and paying the salaries of salespeople and telemarketers.
With the advent of the Internet, though, came an incredibly efficient, lowcost
marketplace that blew down nearly all of the costly walls that stood between
seller and buyer. The champion—and one of the few great successes of the Internet
age—is eBay. Launched in 1995, the value of goods traded through its web
ONLINE AUCTIONS: EBAY AND BEYOND 303
site was expected to exceed $24 billion in 2004. More than 105 million users
around the world buy and sell items in more than 50,000 categories.
As sellers, eBay and similar sites, including Amazon Marketplace and Yahoo!
auctions, allow you to clear out your attic, empty your closets, and conduct a virtual
yard sale, offering items to anyone with a connection to the Internet and a
mailing address. Don’t limit yourself to the idea of a yard sale; tens of thousands
of businesses exist entirely as storefronts on eBay or other services. They buy new
items at wholesale, used goods at other people’s tag sales, whole collections from
hobbyists, and antiques from estates, dealers, and individuals.
Challenges
As with any business, you have to find a way to buy low and sell high. The proceeds
for items sold at auction should include your cost for the item, the cost of
listing it with the service, computer costs, shipping costs, and a reasonable profit
for your time and effort.
Before you go out and buy a truckload of bobble-head dolls to resell on eBay,
make sure there’s enough of a market for that item at a profitable price. Here’s an
example of how these online services can help you run a very efficient business:
You can easily check the success of other sellers offering similar items. You can
watch the progress of an auction, from its opening bid to its final selling price,
and even determine the number of bidders.
Depending on the type of item and the auction site you use, you may have to
deal with a certain percentage of returned merchandise and an occasional bad
check. (Many sellers use the services of the auction site to collect payment by
credit card, or insist on money orders or bank checks as payment.)
Know the Territory
The biggest and most successful online auction company is eBay. You can learn
about its services and fees and browse through tens of thousands of items by
going to its web site at www.ebay.com.
As eBay has expanded beyond its original auction-only business, it now
offers several choices of selling methods:
• Auction. You set an opening price and promise to sell your item to the
highest bidder above that floor.
• Reserve price auction. You set an opening price, which is published on the
site, and a reserve price, which is not disclosed to bidders. If the highest bid
304 SALES
does not meet or exceed the reserve price, you are not obligated to sell the
item.
• Dutch auction. If you have multiple identical items, you can sell them in a
single Dutch auction. Bidders offer a particular amount for one or more
items, and all items sell for the lowest successful bid. For example, if you
have three clocks for sale, all three will sell for no more than the third highest
bid.
• Fixed price. You can offer items for sale at a fixed price, without an auction.
• Buy it now. You can set a buy-it-now price that will halt the auction if a
buyer agrees to that price.
You can select the time limit for each type of offering. The standard run for
an item on eBay is usually seven days.
Yahoo! auctions are listed at http://auctions.shopping.yahoo.com.
Amazon offers a service allowing sellers to list new and used books and
many other items for sale at a fixed price. Listings for these products appear on
the same pages as prices charged by Amazon and major retailers. Currently (as
of 2004), there is no charge to list an item in the Amazon Marketplace; fees are
levied only on actual sales.
Amazon also offers Amazon Auctions, which functions similar to eBay’s
offering. For information, consult www.amazon.com.
How to Get Started
Spend time trolling the sites of all of the online auction sites. There is no charge
for electronic window-shopping.
Look at the sorts of products that are offered for sale. Most sites, including
eBay, allow you to see the opening price and the progress of bids over the course
of an auction.
If you see lots of people selling the same sort of product you hope to sell,
that’s not necessarily bad news; it probably means there is a healthy market for
that item. Only you can decide whether you can make a satisfactory profit at the
going prices.
If you cannot find similar products for sale, proceed cautiously. It may mean
that there is no market for the item you want to sell, or it may mean that you have
something that is extremely rare.
ONLINE AUCTIONS: EBAY AND BEYOND 305
Up-front Expenses
You will need access to the Internet. There are no advertising and promotion
costs associated with most auction sites.
Depending on the type of product you are selling, you may want to post a
digital picture with your ad; you can purchase or borrow a digital camera or a
scanner to create a file.
How Much to Charge
There are five elements to consider here: (1) the price you receive for the sale of
the item, (2) the listing fee from the auction site, (3) the final fee based on the
actual selling price for the item, (4) the cost of shipping the item to the customer,
and (5) charges for accepting payment from your customer by credit card or debit
card.
The beauty of an auction—if you are reaching the right audience for your
product—is that you are participating in a relatively pure form of capitalism. The
price you receive is the highest any of the bidders is willing to pay.
Of course, in most cases you don’t want to sell items at prices that are lower
than your costs or significantly below what you think the item is worth. There’s
bad news and good news here. In a standard auction, you are bound to sell the
product to the highest bidder, which could be at too low a price.
The good news is that most online auction services allow you to set a reserve
price, a floor below which you are not willing to go. For example, you could
offer a used camera for sale and allow opening bids of $10 to get the process
going. As part of your listing, though, you may set a reserve price of $100. Bidders
are not informed of the reserve price, but the site will notify them if their bid
is below the reserve.
Online auction sites generally charge a listing fee and then an additional
charge based on the actual selling price of the item. You can also choose extracost
services, including featured positions, boldface or color listings, and multiple
photos.
We’ll use as an example some of the elements of eBay’s plan; others are similar.
Currently (as of 2004), the insertion fee for items with an opening-bid price
of less than $25 is about 60 cents; the fee for items with a starting price of $50 to
$199 is about $2.40; and items with a price starting at $500 or more have an
insertion fee of about $4.80.
If you register a reserve price with eBay, the company adds a fee of as much
as 1 percent of the reserve price. If the item sells (which means it is purchased at
a level above the reserve price), the additional fee is refunded.
306 SALES
Then there is a final value fee. As of late 2004, eBay charged 5.25 percent of
the closing value for items that sell for $25 or less. For items selling for as much
as $1,000, the final value fee is 5.25 percent of the initial $25 plus 2.75 percent
of the remainder. Items selling for more than $1,000 are assessed a slightly lower
overall percentage of the selling price.
For most online auction sales, you should add a set fee to your product to
cover shipping. Spend the time to research actual costs, and list a realistic price
for shipping. If you set the fee too high, you will scare off knowledgeable buyers;
if you set the fee too low, you will reduce your actual profit. Most of the auction
companies, including eBay, offer guidance on shipping costs and may even
have links directly to the U.S. Postal Service, United Parcel Service, and FedEx
to help you calculate costs and arrange for shipment.
Finally, you may have an expense associated with accepting credit cards or
direct debit from checking accounts. In 2004, eBay’s affiliated company Paypal
charged about 3 percent of the total amount (including selling price and shipping
costs) for its services.
You do not have to use a company like Paypal, although there is great value
in receiving immediate payment for orders. If you deal directly with buyers, you
may want to ask for bank checks, postal money orders, or other forms of guaranteed
payment, or delay shipment until personal checks have cleared.
Legal and Insurance Issues
Special notes: The online auction site will require you to agree to its seller’s
agreement; there is little if anything you can do to modify it. You will likely have
to give the company an active credit card account number or a debit account for
direct payment, and the company may reserve the right to assess charges or
penalties for actions that violate the agreement.
If you plan to make this an ongoing enterprise, consult an accountant to
determine the proper form of business for your operations. An insurance agent
may recommend a business owner’s policy.
➀ Legal
➁ Legal
➂ Legal
➃ Accounting
➄ Insurance
ONLINE AUCTIONS: EBAY AND BEYOND 307

APPENDIX
Government and Private
Resources for Small Businesses
Small Business Administration (SBA)
This is a U.S. government agency offering training, publications, advisory services,
financial offerings, and special programs for women, minorities, veterans,
and other priority groups. The SBA has offices in most states.
For your nearest office, consult the telephone directory under U.S. Government
or call 800-827-5722.
Web site: www.sba.gov
Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE)
Sponsored by the Small Business Administration, SCORE is a national organization
of thousands of business executives who volunteer to provide free counseling,
workshops, and seminars to prospective and existing businesspeople.
SCORE Association
409 3rd Street, SW, 6th floor
Washington, DC 20024
800-634-0245
Web site: www.score.org
Small Business Development Centers (SBDC)
These are state, local, educational, and private groups and individuals who provide
assistance, counseling, and training on small business development.
Web site: www.sba.gov/sbdc
Government Printing Office Publications
The government publishes pamphlets, online guides, and other information.
Government Printing Office
Superintendent of Documents
Washington, DC 20402-9328
Web site: www.gpoaccess.gov
U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)
The USDA offers information about food safety and preparation.
U.S. Department of Agriculture
12th Street and Independence Avenue, SW
Washington, DC 20250
Web site: www.usda.gov
U.S. Department of Commerce (DOC)
This agency offers information, advice, and grant programs, including business
opportunities supplying goods and services to the federal government.
U.S. Department of Commerce
Office of Business Liaison
14th Street and Constitution Avenue, NW
Room 5898C
Washington, DC 20230
Web site: www.commerce.gov
310 GOVERNMENT AND PRIVATE RESOURCES FOR SMALL BUSINESSES
U.S. Department of Labor (DOL)
The DOL provides information and publications about compliance with federal
labor laws.
U.S. Department of Labor
Employment Standards Administration
200 Constitution Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20210
Web site: www.dol.gov
U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
Contact the FDA for information about packaging and labeling requirements for
food products.
U.S. Food and Drug Administration
5600 Fishers Lane
Rockville, MD 20857-0001
Washington, DC 20402
888-463-6332
Web site: www.fda.gov
GOVERNMENT AND PRIVATE RESOURCES FOR SMALL BUSINESSES 311

Index
Entries in italics designate major categories.
Accidents, errors, and omissions, xiii
Accounting, xiv
Actual value of items, xiv
Airport transportation, 238–240
Alterations, 218–220
Antiques wholesaler, 293–295
Artistic skills, xv
Arts, crafts, jewelry, clothing, and musical
instruments, 218–220
Attractive nuisances, 4
Auctions, Internet, 304–305
Auto detailing, 243–245
Automobile insurance, commercial, xiv, 9
Babysitting, 166–168
Babysitting agency, 168–171
Baker, specialty cake, 134–137
Bank accounts, legal requirements, xiv
Bartender, freelance, 140–142
Billing service, 280–282
Bookcase builder, 81–83
Bookkeeping, 278–280
Break-even point, 20, 21
Brick worker, 55–57
Brochure and catalog design, 256–258
Building permit, 47, 49
Business automobile insurance, 9
Business form, xiv
Business insurance and risk management,
1–9
Business interruption insurance, 7
Business licenses, xiv, 14
Business meeting temporary worker,
276–278
Business owner’s policy (BOP), xiv, 3–4, 8
Capital expenditures icons, xvi
Car service, 238–240
Caretaker, 94–97
Categories icons, xv
Catering, 129–131
Certified Development Company (CDC)
504 loans, SBA, 28
Challenges icons, xv
Chemicals, 31, 42, 61, 64, 74–77, 101,
102–105, 106–107
Children, family, and pet services,
165–194
Children’s event organizer, 123–126
Children’s night out, 171–174
Children’s outdoor playset installer, 51–52
Chimney cleaning, 102–105
Christmas tree service, 113–114
Client responsibilities, xiii
Client’s home, entering, xiii
Closet organizer, 79–81
Collateral for loans, 27
Collectibles wholesaler, 293–295
College application consultant, 211–214
College selection advisor, 208–211
Comaker, loan, 27
Commercial general liability insurance, 8
Commercial licensing, xiv
Compensation, xiii, 17–23
Complexity icons, xv
Computer buying consultant, 248–250
Computer instructor, 202–205
Computer repair, 250–252
Computer skills, xv
Computer upgrades, 250–252
Computers, graphics, and photography,
248–270
Consignment resale, 291–293
Contracts, xiii
Convention worker, temporary , 276–278
Corporations, 13–14
Cost of goods and services, 17
Costs:
fixed, 18–20, 22
incremental, 20
variable, 18–20, 22
Creative skills, xv
Criminal activity insurance risk, 6
Custom dollhouses, 231–233
Custom knitting, 222–224
Custom meal service, 137–140
Custom quiltmaker, 224–226
Custom tailoring, 220–222
Debt, 26
Deck cleaning, 41–43
Deck construction, 46–48
Digital scanning, 261–264
Disability insurance, 7
Document restorer, 264–268
Doggie day care, 182–184
Doghouses, 48–50
Dog walking, 178–182
Doll clothing, 220–222
Dollhouses, custom, 231–233
Dried flowers, 85–87
EBay, 303–307
Educational services, 196–216
Elder care consultant, 186–188
Elder companion, 184–185
Endorser, loan, 27
Entertainer, 143–145
Equipment rental, 298–300
Equity, 26
Errand runner, 92–94
Errors and omissions insurance, 9
Excess liability insurance, 9
Exposure reduction, 5
Family biographer, 191–194
Fertilizing, lawn, 30–33
Film to digital scanning, 261–264
Financing small business, 25–28
Firewood delivery, 108–110
Fitness trainer, 160–162
Fixed costs, 18–20, 22
Flower arrangements, 85–87
Food, xv
Form of business, xiv, 11–14
Freelance photographer, 258–261
Furniture repair, 77–79
Furniture stripping, 74–77
Garden tilling, 37–39
Genealogical researcher, 189–191
General partnership, 12–13
Gift basket maker, 152–155
Government and private resources for small
business, 309–318
Government Printing Office, 310
314 INDEX
Graphic designer, 256–258
Guaranteed replacement value of items,
xiv
Guarantor, loan, 27
Handicapped or homebound, xv
Handyperson, 90–92
Hazardous work, xv, 74–77, 102–105, 107
Health codes, xiv, 130, 132, 135, 138
Historical tour guide, 157–160
Holiday decoration service, 145–147
Home services:
exterior, 29–57
interior, 59–87
specialty, 90–117
Housecleaning, 60–62
House painting, 100–102
House watcher, 97–99
How to use this book, xiii–xvi
Icons, xv–xvi
Incremental costs, 20
Independent delivery contractor, 240–243
Indoor painting, 72–74
Informational icons, xv–xvi
Installment loan, 27
Instructor, community school, 214–216
Insurable risks, 6–7
Insurance, xiv, 1–9
Insurance issues, heights, 40, 46
Interior decorator, 64–66
Internet services, 253–255
Invitees, insurance definition of, 4
Jewelry maker, 226–228
Key person insurance, 7
Knitting, 220–224
Ladders, 39, 104, 146
Landscape designer, 44–46
Language instructor, 198–200
Lawn care/mowing, 30–33
Legal concerns, xiii–xiv
Legalities and taxes, 11–15
Letterhead design, 256–258
Letter writing, 285–286
Liability, xiii
Liability exposure, xv
Liability insurance, xiv, 6–7
Licensees, insurance definition of, 4
Licenses or permits, xv, 36, 47, 104, 110,
111–112, 130, 132, 135, 138, 141
Light pollution ordinances, 54, 146
Limited liability corporation, 14
Limited partnership, 13
Line of credit, 26–27
Loans, type, 26–27
Logo design, 256–258
Long-term loan, 27
Loss or damage to items, xiv
Low-voltage outdoor electrical wiring, 53–55
Markups, 20–23
Medical training, 160–162, 162–164,
168–171, 174–178, 184–185
Mowing, lawn, 30–33
Musical instrument tuning and repair,
233–236
Music teacher, 200–202
Newspaper delivery, 300–303
Noise ordinances, xiv, 31, 146
Occupational safety regulations, xiv
Office and professional services, 272–286
Online auctions, 303–307
Outdoor lighting, 53–55
Parties, entertainment, and special events,
119–147
Partnerships, 12–13
Party and special event rentals, 126–129
Party planner, 120–123
Personal services, 149–164
Personal shopper, 150–152
Personal trainer, 160–162
Pets, xv
Pet sitter, 182–184
Photographer, freelance, 258–261
INDEX 315
Photo restorer, 264–268
Physical damage insurance risk, 6
Plant care, 83–85
Playhouses, 48–50
Playset installer, 51–52
Pool service, 105–108
Portraiture from photographs, 228–230
Price of goods and services, 17
Price setting, 17–23
Professional liability insurance, 9
Property coverage insurance, 8
Quiltmaker, 224–226
Rentals, party and special event, 126–129
Resume design, 282–284
Risk management, 1–9
Risk retention, 5
Risk transfer, 6
Rototilling, 37–39
Rug cleaner, 62–64
Sales, 287–308
Sales tax on services and products, 14–15
SAT or ACT test preparation, 205–208
SBA. See Small Business Administration
Seasonal jobs, xv, 30, 33, 37, 42
Secretary, temporary, 272–273
Secured loan, 27
Self-insurance, 5
Service Corps of Retired Executives
(SCORE), 309
Setting your price, 17–23
7(a) loan guarantee, SBA, 28
7(m) microloans, SBA, 28
Shelf builder, 81–83
Shopper, personal, 150–152
Short-term loan, 27
Silk flowers, 85–87
Skills icons, xv
Slipcover maker, 67–69
Small Business Administration (SBA), 28,
309
Small Business Development Centers
(SBDC), 310
Small engine repair, 115–117
Snow removal, 33–36
Social events, 127
Sole proprietorship, 12
Specialty cake baker, 134–137
Specialty painting, 72–74
Sponging, painting, 73
Stenciling, 73
Stonemason, 55–57
Storage sheds, 48–50
Subchapter S corporation, 14
Surety bond guarantee, SBA, 28
Tailoring, 220–222
Temporary secretary, 272–273
Tool rental, 298–300
Tour guide, historical, 157–160
Training or certification, xv
Transcription services, 273–276
Transfer of risk, 6
Transportation service, 238–240
Transportation, delivery, and auto services,
237–245
Trash removal, 111–112
Travel planner, 155–157
Trespassers, insurance definition of, 4
Tutor, 196–198
Types of loans, 26–27
U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA),
310
U.S. Department of Commerce (DOC), 310
U.S. Department of Labor (DOL), 311
U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA),
311
Umbrella insurance, 9
Unsecured loan, 27
Upholsterer, 67–69
Used book reseller, 295–298
Vacation-related jobs:
child care, 174–178
home caretaker, 94–97
house watcher, 97–99
pet visits, 178–182
316 INDEX
Variable costs, 18–20, 22
Videographer, 268–270
Visiting chef, 131–132
Wallpaper hanger, 69–72
Web and phone sales, xv
Web design and maintenance, 253–255
Window cleaning, 39–41
Workers’ compensation coverage,
xiv
Yard sale organizer, 288–291
Zoning codes, xiv, 15
INDEX 317

ABOUT THE AUTHORS
Corey Sandler is the author of more than 150 books on business, travel, and technology.
He has worked as an executive for three national publishing companies
and as an executive officer of an agency of New York State government. Current
titles include Performance Appraisal Phrase Book, 1001 Letters for All Occasions,
Fix Your Own PC, and the Econoguide Travel Book Series. Watching
Baseball: Discovering the Game Within the Game, coauthored with Boston Red
Sox broadcaster and former major leaguer Jerry Remy, was a Boston Globe number
one best seller in 2004.
Sandler, a former Gannett Newspapers reporter and columnist, also worked
as an Associated Press correspondent covering business and political beats. He
became the first Executive Editor of PC Magazine in 1982 at the start of that
magazine’s meteoric rise. He also was the founding editor of IDG’s Digital
News. He has degrees in psychology and journalism.
Sandler has appeared on NBC’s Today show, CNN, ABC, National Public
Radio’s Fresh Air, and dozens of local radio and television shows. He has been the
subject of many newspaper and magazine articles.
Janice Keefe is coauthor of Performance Appraisal Phrase Book (Adams
Media) and 1001 Letters for All Occasions (Adams Media). She is a former manager
for an agency of New York State government.
You can send e-mail to the authors at info@econoguide.com.