Photo via Pixabay by Stevepb

Starting an at-home business isn’t exactly easy, but recently, more people have been tackling this challenge. Advances in technology have made it easier to become an entrepreneur from your own home. From making and selling crafts and other handmade items to becoming a freelancer, working for yourself is just as attainable as any other job these days, and it’s become a huge draw for seniors who are retired but want to add to their income without straining themselves.

To start an at-home business, your parent will need time and patience. Because the internet will likely be a big part of it, it’s important for seniors to be technology savvy. Knowing at least the basics of how to use online tools and social media will help them advance their business successfully and quickly. There are ways you can help your retired parent even if you live far away.

Keep reading for tips on how to help your senior parent start their own at-home business, presented today by Mike McRitchie. 

Look for an Online Lesson Plan

Teaching anyone how to do something long-distance can be tricky, but thankfully there are several websites out there that are specifically made for seniors who want to start learning computer basics. Look for a lesson plan that they can follow easily; you can start at NetLiteracy.org for lessons on using computers, navigating online, emailing, and setting up social media pages. Social media can help your loved one boost their business quickly by connecting them with clients and helping them network.

Talk About Internet Safety

Internet safety is important for anyone, regardless of their age, and since many seniors aren’t familiar with the trappings of social media and email, they may not be aware of scams, viruses, and hackers. Talk to your loved one about how to stay safe online. Let them know to never give out private information, protect and change passwords often, and never accept a message from someone they don’t know.

Direct Them to Local Classes

There may be several local classes in your loved one’s area that will help them learn new skills while connecting with other like-minded individuals. Check out the library or senior center where your parent lives for more information. Sometimes, being in a physical class is more helpful than trying to learn online. According to headspace.org, “Completion rate of teacher-led classes is almost five times higher than that of online learning.” It is important to keep in mind that in-person classes are not as flexible as online classes, and it might be difficult to find the right class, depending on where your parents live. 

Look at Business Niches

There are several options for your loved one when it comes to starting an at-home business, so talk to them about their plans and help them find the best option for their needs. If they are making a product — such as furniture, bath products, or artwork — there are many websites that will host an online store for a minimal listing fee per item. If they are offering a service, such as accounting or tutoring, look for the best sites that will help them gain clients. 

Talk About the Legalities

There are several things to consider when starting a business online, from learning how to protect one’s assets to making sure the taxes are paid on time. One of the most important first steps to starting a small business is coming up with a name and logo, and this can be extremely time-consuming and overwhelming for anyone, let alone a senior. Guide them towards easy online tools for help, which will help create a spectacular, recognizable logo. 

Does your parent plan to hire employees? If so, let’s talk payroll. Essentially, payroll involves the way a business pays its employees. It also involves the business taking out the right deductions and taking care of payroll taxes on time. Fortunately for those who don’t want to handle the payroll process themselves, there are services available that will handle these important tasks for you.

Helping your retired parent start an at-home business will take some time and patience, so be sure you have plenty of both before you get started. With a good plan and some help from both online and traditional tools, you and your loved one can create a successful business that will let them live out their post-retirement dreams.