20 Smart Ideas for Mobile Businesses
If you think your business needs a fixed location to be successful, think again. With the rise of virtual offices and telecommuting, modern entrepreneurs can work from just about anywhere. If you'd like to unshackle yourself from a traditional brick-and-mortar workplace, consider the following 20 ideas for mobile businesses.
Computer consultant: These mobile professionals make a nice living assisting clients in training, trouble-shooting, purchasing and installation of computer systems and any related software. Typical customers include small business owners and organization administrators who can't afford full-time tech employees. Mobile computer consultants typically market their services via customer referrals and local business owners’ organizations. Cost and convenience are usually the most effective selling points, along with a strong emphasis on improving operational efficiencies.
Employee Training: Mobile staff trainers provide specialized instruction to a business's employees. Depending on their specific expertise and credentials, these mobile entrepreneurs can offer training that centers on technological skills, sales or customer service. Some mobile trainers also specialize in helping companies seamlessly integrate older or disabled employees into their existing workforces. Minimum requirements include a background in human resources and staff training and/or formal education in a specific field.
Mobile Notary: All sorts of people require notary services, including lawyers, business owners, real estate professionals, insurance agents and everyday individuals. By standing witness at the signing of important documents, you can provide a valuable service. Virtually anyone can become a notary, as long as they are over 18 and have never been convicted of a felony. That said, you will need to check with your specific state for any unique requirements.
Other Options
There are a variety of other mobile business ideas for people with unique talents or little business experience. These include:
Catering Vehicle
Cleaning Service
Decorating for Holidays and Special Events
Disc Jockey
Dog Walking
Lawn and Garden Care Services
Mobile Oil Changing Business
Personal Shopper
Coffee Cart Operator
Event Planner
Blogger
Personal Trainer
Tutor
Child Care Provider
Locksmith
Courier Service
Dry-Cleaning Pickup & Delivery
Making it Work
Because they sustain their enterprises on razor-thin budgets, most mobile entrepreneurs can't afford full-time help. At the same time, because they take a hands-on approach to their companies’ success, mobile business owners typically have little time for marketing, bookkeeping, scheduling, phone answering, outbound calling and personal errands. Fortunately, today’s mobile entrepreneurs can leverage virtual assistants to keep their companies running in high gear without exceeding their limited budgets.
At the same time, it's also important for entrepreneurs to adopt a few basic strategies that are essential for a successful mobile enterprise. This includes having a reliable vehicle that projects the right image for your company. You should also stay current with the trends in your specific industry and acquire all necessary licenses or certifications. Since word-of-mouth plays such a large role for mobile companies, you should provide optimal customer service to encourage referrals and repeat business. Finally, it's important to manage your schedule carefully. Since you can't be in two places at once, you may have to turn down a client from time to time. While not ideal, this is far better than being late for - or outright missing - an appointment.
