I tried hard to encompass as many sectors as possible in my research. Many people only envision vocational services when they think of working from home or earning additional income. There is also the 'knowledge-based' market which is growing in popularity everyday. Developed countries got a hang of it many moons ago but in some part of the world, it's just catching on.
So option number two for aspiring home biz owners....................
Mobile Legal Services.
Every serious business owner or individual should have a lawyer on speed dial. There are way too many agreements, statements and legal jargon in business and investment transactions that only a lawyer can decipher. Not everyone or business owner can afford a legal team working at their beck and call, but they can probably afford a door to door service which most start-ups prefer since they would only pay for services rendered. Every serious transaction has a legal angle, it really doesn’t matter what it concerns. Consequently, legal services are required in every sphere from property acquisition to recruitment of staff and there will always be a demand for legal services.
The most important thing is to find a niche and be an authority in that area. For instance, a small business will be more likely to give you their tax portfolio to handle if they know that at least 80% of your experience is in tax matters. You will stand a better chance if you have had experience in the conventional legal circle but a good way to break into the market is to handle jobs for family and friends. Referrals are by far the most effective way of building a client base so it’s important to be extremely value-driven in the first few months. It might not be bringing in the millions at first but it will pay off in the long run.
Image Source: http://www.freedigitalphotos.net/images/view_photog.php?photogid=413
Many lawyers are able to offer services alongside their regular jobs and it’s a good way to build your client list from scratch and decide if it is a viable option to pursue full time. As a ‘mompreneur’, it’s a really good way to ease out of the 9 to 5 routine but still be relevant in the industry because you not only remain visible to clients and colleagues, you also keep in touch with current trends even outside a regular job.
So if you are a qualified lawyer and have sat for all the relevant professional examinations as required in your country:
- Double check with authorities and be sure you are fully aware of and will be operating within the regulations.
- Put out the word to family, friends and co-workers (if any) about your business.
- Set up a professional website with search engine optimisation so that your business can be found locally (Check previous post on Tech Solutions for some tips).
- Pick a niche. You can’t be everything to everybody. According to the experienced lawyers I spoke with, that’s the quickest way to go under. You can specialise in reviewing loan and mortgage documents, company incorporation and maintenance, property and estate management, the list is quite expansive. Start with one or two, even if you have intentions of expanding eventually.
- Keep your expenses low and your charges affordable and competitive. In the beginning, a nice shiny office in the highbrow end of town should not be your priority. You can start from your car. Clients are paying for your knowledge, not your air conditioning and colour coordinated waiting area! When you have built a comfortable retainer list, these things will fall into place.
Like I always say, nobody said it would be easy. Clients are not just going to fall into your lap because to start with, you are not the only one reading this post. If you want it, you have to go out and get it. Running a business from home takes skill and an incredible amount of discipline. Thankfully both can be learnt but they need to be learnt fast! Time is money!!
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