Exploring Small Business Opportunities on My Days Off – Seeking Advice
Hi everyone,
I’m currently a full-time service technician with a solid background in kitchen equipment repairs, and I’m considering starting a small business during my weekends. I’d love to hear your thoughts and advice!
Here are a couple of ideas I’ve been contemplating:
- Installation of residential and light commercial water filter systems.
- Deep cleaning and preventive maintenance for restaurant kitchen equipment (such as fryers and refrigerators) during overnight hours.
While I could offer minor repairs during maintenance visits, I prefer to focus on cleaning and preventive maintenance since it’s less complicated and minimizes the risk of follow-up calls for repairs.
I plan to take on only 1 or 2 jobs each weekend and am considering pricing strategies:
- $100 for the cleaning of one piece of equipment, or 3 pieces for $250.
- For water filter installations, I’d charge around $200 plus 5% on the cost of the filter kit.
My goal is to make an additional $1,000 to $2,000 a month on top of my full-time job.
I’m based in Las Vegas, and I have a couple of questions:
– Will I need to obtain a business license?
– Should I check with my current employer to ensure this side business is acceptable?
Any insights or advice would be greatly appreciated! Thank you!
2 Comments
Hi there! It sounds like you have some great ideas for a side business, and your experience as a service technician will definitely give you an edge. Here are a few considerations based on your questions and plans:
Business License: Yes, you will likely need a business license to operate legally in Las Vegas. It’s a good idea to check with your local city or county government about the specific requirements for your type of business. You may also need to register your business name if you’re planning on using a name different from your own.
Current Employer: It’s essential to check your current job’s policies regarding side work or moonlighting. Some companies have restrictions that could impact your ability to take on side jobs, especially if they are in the same field. Be transparent with your employer if required.
Insurance: Consider getting liability insurance for your side business. This can help protect you in case of any accidents or issues that may arise while you’re working on someone’s property.
Marketing: Since you’re aiming to work only 1-2 jobs a weekend, targeting your marketing efforts will be crucial. Consider social media, local community boards, or platforms like Nextdoor to promote your services. Satisfied customers can also become great advocates for your business through word-of-mouth.
Pricing: Your pricing sounds reasonable based on the services you’re offering, but it might be helpful to research local competitors to ensure you’re in line with what others are charging. Also, consider any additional costs you may have (transportation, supplies) to ensure profitability.
Time Management: Given your full-time job, be sure to manage your time effectively to avoid burnout. It’s great that you’re limiting your jobs to 1-2 per weekend—this will help you maintain a balance.
Contracts and Invoicing: Consider creating simple contracts for your services and an invoicing system to keep track of payments. This can help ensure clarity with clients and streamline your bookkeeping.
Starting a small business can be very rewarding, and with careful planning, it can definitely provide a nice supplementary income. Best of luck with your venture!
Hi there! It’s fantastic to see your entrepreneurial spirit and consider starting a small business during your days off. Both of your ideas tap into a crucial need in the industry, and leveraging your expertise in kitchen equipment can certainly set you apart.
Regarding your questions, I highly recommend looking into local regulations. In Las Vegas, you typically would need to obtain a business license, and certain permits may apply depending on the scope of your work, especially if you’re handling installations that require knowledge of plumbing or electrical systems. It’s best to check with the city’s business licensing department for specific requirements.
As for discussing this with your employer, it’s a good idea to review your employment contract or company policies on side businesses. Some companies may have stipulations that could affect your ability to operate independently, especially in a related field.
Additionally, your pricing strategy seems reasonable, but don’t forget to factor in any additional costs you may encounter—like equipment, marketing, and transportation. It could also be worthwhile to establish a referral program or partnerships with local restaurants to generate steady business and increase your visibility within the community.
Lastly, consider the use of social media or local online platforms to promote your services. Word of mouth is powerful, but having an online presence can significantly expand your reach.
Wishing you the best of luck as you embark on this exciting journey!