5 Online Business Ideas

In today's wireless world, it's easier than ever to launch an Internet-based business. You can reach a wide national – sometimes international – client base and work from anywhere, armed with only a basic knowledge of website maintenance and a knack for communication. If you're ready to take the plunge into becoming an online entrepreneur, we've got 5 ideas to help you get off the ground. 1. Web design - Have you ever been turned off by a business’s generic-looking website layout? If you know some HTML and have a good eye for design, you can launch a service to create attractive, easy-to-use websites for small businesses. You can put your skills to good use for business owners who want to take their online presence to the next level. Build up a portfolio of work with smaller freelance jobs, then create your own website to show it off and bring in a steady stream of clients. 2. Resume/cover letter writing - It's a tough truth to swallow, but a standout resume and cover letter can make all the difference when you're applying to a job. While listing your career accomplishments might seem like an easy task, the fine art of “humble bragging” eludes some of us. Get hired to help others get hired by writing stellar CVs. Capitalize on the increasingly important social media branding bandwagon and offer to fix LinkedIn profiles as well. 3. Affiliate marketing - If you're a person that loves leaving customer reviews on sites like Amazon, stop doing it for free. Word-of-mouth advertising is still a huge lead generator for many companies, and a lot of them are willing to share a portion of their profit with persuasive individuals that will promote their products to the public. If you have a personal website with a large following, this might be easier to accomplish (PR reps are always seeking out brand advocates they can send free samples to). Smart Passive Income breaks down three types of affiliate marketing and explains which one is most profitable. 4. Virtual consignment store - Bargain hunters and thrift store enthusiasts can turn a nice profit reselling their vintage clothing finds. Brand yourself by setting up an independent website as your virtual storefront, but use a managed service like Google Checkout to handle transactions. High-resolution images and catchy copy for your products will make you stand out in the sea of Internet users trying to sell their used items. ICLabs put this startup idea on their list of tech industry trends for 2013. 5. App development – Mobile applications are more popular than ever, and people are willing to pay good money for ways to manage their lives from their smartphones. If you have a great idea and happen to know coding, you can run with it and create your app yourself. If you just have an idea, there are plenty of software developers looking to collaborate with people on app creation