There are many reasons why someone may find themselves in possession of an office. It could simply be part of a building you have bought, and is usually rented out. Maybe the building was left to you as part of a relative’s estate when the passed away. It could even be that you are locked into a lease for the next couple of years after you were forced to close your old business.
Whatever the reason you are in possession of the office, it should be looked upon as an opportunity and not an unwanted responsibility.
But what can you do with this space to at least cover the rent if you are a tenant? Here are a few ideas that may guide your thoughts to find the best way to utilise it.
Sell Online
It is possible to sell goods online without ever coming into physical contact with them.
Drop Shipping is a method employed by many people around the world and good money can be made if you are good at building websites. There is minimal risk involved and overheads are very low. The principle is that you advertise someone else’s goods for sale on your website. When you sell an item, you process the payment and pass the order to the stockist. You pay them the cost to the middle man, and they ship the goods out to the client. The difference between what you are charged for the item and how much you sell it for is your profit. Often it takes many websites selling lots of different things to make a good living at drop shipping. Once the websites are set up, however, they do run themselves to a great extent and the effort the owner need to put in is minimal.
Be A Travel Agent
Have you worked in the travel business before? Most of the work is carried out online so the office will not need a lot doing to it. Obviously it will need a big sign and advertising in the windows. Point of sale displays from gpx group, or other online shops, will be used to hold leaflets and other literature. A good internet connection is essential.
Be a Virtual Secretary
There are small businesses, often sole traders that need administrative services on a regular basis, but cannot afford to employ someone full time. Offering your services to them on an hourly rate could bring in up to fifty pounds per hour. Obviously this is not a full time job, but it can be, if you offer the services to many clients. They will benefit by having you to answer the phone during office hours to record enquiries and to carry out office duties for them, such as typing and posting letters.
Helping Hands Agency
Do you have friends that have a lot of spare time on their hands? Starting a helping hands agency is a great idea. The office is used for a place where people come to find help in doing small jobs that they cannot do themselves. This could be a bit of gardening or dog walking. This idea won’t make you rich, but it is a great job and you get to meet some interesting people.
So there is no need to feel daunted by the idea of having an office. The inventive entrepreneur can turn anything into a golden opportunity.