2020 saw a 27% increase in people starting their own small businesses as an alternative to a regular 9-5. If this is something you have always been interested in but feel that you lack the qualifications necessary to make it then don’t worry. There is a range of small business ideas that require no qualifications – just the determination to make them work.
Landscaper
If you have a passion for gardening and enjoy being outdoors then becoming a landscaper could be the job for you. Landscaping is a very diverse business so you may find yourself installing pathways, tidying up lawns and planting seeds. No qualifications are required for this role and once your name and reputation are known, you may end up with more work than you can handle.
Of course, some money is required to invest in key tools so if you are just starting your business you may want to consider tools that have multiple uses to ensure you are getting the best value for money. For example, a cordless battery leaf blower can be used for a range of jobs around the garden including cleaning gutters, lawnmowers and strimmers as well as blowing leaves and snow. You will also need some other general equipment such as lawnmowers and shovels, depending on the jobs you will be undertaking.
Photographer
While completing a degree in photography can help hone your skills, qualifications are not necessary to become a freelance photographer. A stand-out portfolio is necessary, however, so you should build this up through practising and editing a range of photos. You will be able to find many tutorials and blogs online that will help you start down this career path.
Alongside your camera, you are likely to need a range of lenses and these will depend on your niche. If your dream is to become a landscape photographer you will need a wide-angle lens but for wildlife photography, you will need a medium telephoto for great zoom.
Cleaner
In the UK, domestic cleaners generally require no qualifications so if you are a fan of keeping things tidy this could be a great business venture for you. Domestic cleaners charge between £15 and £20 per hour and will likely include jobs such as hoovering, dusting and bathroom cleaning.
When it comes to the equipment it is up to you. Some cleaners will choose to bring their supplies, whereas others may use cleaning products that are already in the house. For equipment such as hoovers, unless you have a large car it may not be feasible for you to take your own to the job so be sure to make customers aware of anything you will need to carry out your cleaning professionally.
Writer
If you enjoy writing then why not make money off it? There are many ways to be a writer nowadays, from editorial publications to resume writing and copywriting. Writers who manage their own small businesses may offer their services on a contract or freelance basis or a combination of the two.
The only thing required for this role is a computer which you will need to purchase yourself. If you are considering becoming a writer full-time, it is best to invest in a newer computer model as it will save you time when updating and sending documents. When it comes to freelance work you will likely be paid by the hour so wasting time waiting for your computer to load will be detrimental to your output and income.
