start a hobby

This can have the selfish benefit of being great for your CV. It can also lead to bigger roles on company boards if you

One of the best ways you can spend your time. Saving lives.

Check local government websites and community boards for cheap events in your area.

It might not be the most fun in the world, but you did be doing good. Try picking up a piece of rubbish every day.

Could transforming a favorite leisure activity into a business be too much of a good thing? Some people find that when they make something they love a full time endeavor, they lose the joy they had for it. Do some soul-searching to determine how much you truly love your sideline and whether you d continue to take pleasure in it after turning it into a commercial enterprise.

Say you enjoy cake decorating, and your family and friends always praise you for your work. Are there people who would be willing to pay you for your craftsmanship? And has your talent risen to the level of other players in the marketplace? Be honest with yourself. Remember, family and friends tend to always say nice things. If the answer is yes, then ask yourself how you'll stand out from the competition. Perhaps you could fill a special niche or undercut competitors fees.

If you dont have funds to spend on marketing, there are excellent resources that cost next to nothing, save for your time input. For example, you could create a Facebook fan-page and offer incentives to your followers. You could also stay in communication with repeat and potential customers via an e-newsletter.

Every small business needs a Web presence today. It is the modern day equivalent of being listed in the phone book. However, a credible website doesnt have to be flashy or expensive. There are many low-cost Web design and hosting tools online that are easy to use. Alternatively, you could create a blog or social-media profile to represent your business, or you could list it in an online business directory. Another option is to set up a store within an online marketplace like eBay.com or Etsy.com. Some start ups have also found success selling products on Craigslist. See A Web Presence Without a Website.

How are you going to sell your product or service? Where are you going to be located? Some hobby type businesses sell only through community fairs, flea markets and on the Internet. Others choose to sell via consignment opportunities. If you plan to work from home, you need to make sure home-based businesses are permitted in your area. Check with your neighborhood association as well as your municipality about what's required, whether thats a license, permit or special approval.

Your business name is the beginning of your new brand, so choose it wisely. Make sure its easy to remember and spell, and indicates something about the nature of your business. Also, check if the website address for the name you have selected is available. You dont wan to confuse customers by using a name with a different Web address.