Are you a freelancer or soon-to-be freelancer that’s short on ideas? We have in here 20 ideas from where you can choose one, or maybe this will inspire you to have another great idea.
1. Podcaster
Real World Examples: Jordan Harbinger has built a business around his successful podcast, The Art of Charm.
2. Blogger
Bloggers have been building audiences by delivering free, relevant, entertaining, and/or informative content on a myriad of topics, including fashion, food, fitness, health and wellness, minimalism, business, careers, and technology.
Real World Examples: Dana and John Shultz have built a business around their blog Minimalist Baker.
3. Selling Through Etsy and Ebay
Online retailers offer indie business builders an existing platform with which to sell products online (no complicated shopping cart or website development required). Handmade art, vintage collectables, jewelry, and custom creations can all be sold effectively through websites like Etsy and Ebay.
Real World Example: Think selling jewelry is “too small” a business idea for you? Jess Lively explains how selling jewelry was an instrumental component in her incredible business journey.
4. Wedding Photographer
Soon-to-be-wed couples are always on the hunt for a talented photographer to snap unforgettable shots on their special day. The generally higher rates for wedding related products and services presents an excellent opportunity for wedding photographers to generate great income.
Real World Example: Jen Wojcik specializes in “Fine Art Weddings” and has built an impressive client list and portfolio in just a few years.
5. Video Producer/Creator
A quick scroll through your Facebook feed will reveal just how prevalent online videos have become. Whether it’s sales, education, animations, or instructional, the ability to create high quality video content is a skill that’s only going continue to rise in demand.
Real World Examples: Caleb Wojcik runs a successful video production business.
6. Freelance Writer / Content Creator
While the prevalence of podcasting and videos continues to rise, the majority of online content is still based in the good ol’ fashioned written word. Talented writers have a myriad of opportunities to build a business by offering their writing services in the creation of blog posts, magazine articles, editorials, and more.
Real World Example: How to Become a Freelance Writer for tips from over 25 successful freelance writing experts.
7. Personal Chef
Our insanely busy modern lifestyle is, paradoxically, coinciding with increasing understanding of the importance of nutrition in our lives. The result is many busy people looking for a personal chef to cook them healthy and delicious meals.
Real World Example: “Chef Shelley” is a personal chef and runs the site Chef in the ‘Burbs where she shares recipes honed from working as a chef and cooking for her two boys (one of whom is a very picky eater).
8. Freelance Designer
Online resources like Squarespace and WordPress can take the average DIY website builder a long way. That said, many businesses still want to hire a design professional to design and build their websites.
Real World Example: Chuck Longandecker, of user-experience web design company Digital Telepathy, shares how to build a design company from scratch.
9. Photography Teacher
Already built a successful photography business? Time to start teaching what you know to others.
Real World Example: That’s what Darlene Hildebrandt does through her business Digital Photo Mentor.
10. Copywriter
Copywriters create content intended to produce a specific action from the reader, be it make a purchase, book a consultation, or opt-in to a mailing list. These writing gigs can include sales pages, email marketing, landing pages, white papers, in-app messaging, and more.
Real World Examples: Faith Watson, offers copywriting services via her business Pen to Zen.
11. Online Course Creator
It’s no secret that information products like online courses are an extremely effective means of sharing your knowledge with an audience. Your course can be self-hosted, or sold and hosted through online learning sites like Udemy and Lynda.
Real World Example: Fizzler John Corcoran of Smart Business Revolution has created successful courses on connecting with influencers and hosting webinars. He recently launched his latest course on finding and working with ideal clients.
12. Software as a Service
People need software to solve their problems. If you have the insight and the skill-set to create that software, you’ll have a successful business on your hands.
Real World Examples: Frustrated with the existing webinar software available, Omar Zenhom created Webinar Ninja.
13. Personal Trainer
Whether it’s in-person or online, people are always looking for expert advice on how to get healthier, leaner, and stronger. If you know your way around a gym, this might be for you.
Real World Example: Personal trainer Darren Stehle helps folks get in shape over at Eat, Move, Be.
14. App Developer
Mobile app development, especially for iOS, is a great opportunity for a business.
Real World Example: Nathan Barry describe how, prior to creating the popular email service ConvertKit, he got his start in business by developing iPhone apps.
15. Researcher
As is the case with many time-intensive and skill-dependent activities, business owners, authors, and journalists alike often look to outsource the research portion of their work.
Real World Example: Jolene Davies runs a successful research and consulting business called In the Know with Jo.
16. WordPress Plugin Maker
One of the great things about the WordPress platform is that it allows independent businesses to develop and sell plug-ins that extend and expand website functionality.
Real World Example: Anne Dorko developed the popular WordPress Dictionary plug-in.
17. Social Media Consultant
Let’s face it, every business needs a social media presence, but few have the time and skill-set to do it right, especially in the always changing social media environment. That’s why social media experts will continue to be in high demand for the foreseeable future.
Real World Examples: Tony Rulli helps businesses do social media the right way.
18. Affiliate Marketer
Affiliate businesses create income by marketing author people’s products through joint ventures or affiliate agreements.
Real World Example: Pat Flynn of Smart Passive Income is an affiliate marketing expert.
19. Exam Prep Educator
People want to pass exams, and you can build a business by helping them do just that.
Real World Example: Mike Grossman’s business Professional Practice Exams Headquarters provides technical exam preparation support for professionals.
20. Life Coach
Life coaches work with their clients to help address personal challenges, make better decisions, and increase confidence and happiness.
Real World Example: Fizzler James Mondry is a life coach who specializes in working with corporate managers.
Article inspired by Fizzle: https://fizzle.co/sparkline/50-business-ideas
My favourite blog! Thanks for sharing such insightful and relevant content!
The blog was how do i say it… relevant, finally something that helped me. Thanks:)
Great stuff…!!!