- \n
- personal and home services<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- creative and digital roles<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
\n- \n
- trades and manual services<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- professional services<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
Personal and home services<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Dreaming of a business that helps people directly, often right in their own homes? The personal and home services sector is all about providing convenience and support to others.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you’re looking to turn practical skills or a caring nature into a flexible, rewarding venture, this industry offers countless opportunities to start your own small business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- courier:<\/a><\/strong> be your own boss, set your own hours, and hit the open road when you start your own courier business<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- dog walker:<\/a><\/strong> with low startup costs and no legally required qualifications, this can be a great business to fit around your existing responsibilities<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- dog groomer:<\/a><\/strong> dog groomers frequently start in their own homes (with the option to grow into a commercial space), making it a great gig for dog lovers with space to spare<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- personal trainer:<\/a> <\/strong>if you\u2019re into fitness and have the time and budget to study a qualification, you could be a freelance personal trainer in your home or a local gym<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- massage therapist:<\/a><\/strong> want to work from home and help others by alleviating tension, aches, and pains? Find a massage therapist course and get to work<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- childminder:<\/a> <\/strong>childminders generally work out of their home, so you may be able to avoid the startup costs associated with securing a business premises<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- carer:<\/a><\/strong> have empathy, good communication skills, and capable of physical work?\u00a0 A career as a carer can be started with no qualifications or startup costs<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- man and van:<\/a> <\/strong>as long as you have your own van and you\u2019re physically fit, you could make a living helping move or deliver items around your existing commitments<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\nHow to get started<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Find your first clients: <\/strong>start promoting your business locally through word-of-mouth, social media, local flyers, or online directories<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Define your niche: <\/strong>decide exactly what services you’ll offer (e.g. dog walking for specific breeds, mobile massage, local deliveries, elderly care) to help target your efforts<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Get qualified:<\/strong> research any necessary qualifications or training for your chosen service \u2013 such as childcare qualifications, fitness certifications, or even first aid. Plus check if you need any specific licenses or DBS checks for your business<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Purchase essential equipment:<\/strong> list and purchase the basic tools or supplies you’ll need to get started<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Set your prices:<\/strong> research what competitors charge in your area to set competitive yet profitable rates for your services<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
Key skills<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Excellent communication:<\/strong> clearly understanding client needs, providing updates, and building rapport<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Customer service:<\/strong> being friendly, reliable, and going the extra mile to ensure client satisfaction<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Adaptability:<\/strong> being able to adjust to different client personalities, unique requests, and changing circumstances<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Self-discipline and motivation:<\/strong> as a self-employed individual, you’ll need to manage your own workload and stay motivated without direct supervision<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/08\/Screenshot-2025-07-07-at-13.24.30.png\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n
\u201cIt\u2019s extremely important to have a mentor. I had a mentor throughout my work experience and it times of need, it\u2019s always reassuring to hear another voice and opinion.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\nKim Constable
<\/strong>Owner of The Only Way is Grooming<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nCreative and digital roles<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
The creative and digital sectors offer exciting opportunities to turn your artistic talents or digital savvy into a thriving business. And thanks to the power of the internet, this industry lets you reach customers far and wide.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- make up artist:<\/a><\/strong> skilled with makeup and a good people person? Freelance makeup artists require artistry, self-discipline, and good communication<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- influencer:<\/a> <\/strong>influencers and content creators can make money online through a variety of platforms \u2013 find your niche to work this fully flexible and remote job<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- photographer:<\/a><\/strong> while the upfront equipment and software costs of becoming a photographer are large, with good marketing and camera skills, this could be a rewarding and exciting career<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- affiliate marketing:<\/a> <\/strong>want to work online but being a content creator doesn\u2019t appeal to you? Affiliate marketing lets you earn money by promoting a company\u2019s products or services<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- crafter:<\/a> <\/strong>whether you\u2019re making jewellery or art, being a crafter lets you turn your hobby into a career \u2013 with the choice of selling through online platforms or local markets<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- online shop:<\/a> <\/strong>with an online shop, you can sell your own products or curate a store with products from other suppliers \u2013 without needing to pay for a physical location<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- florist:<\/a><\/strong> got green fingers? Grow and sell your own flowers with your own floristry business \u2013 you can start selling online and grow into your own store as your business earns money<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\nHow to get started<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Build a portfolio:<\/strong> identify a specific area you excel in (such as brand photography, social media management for specific industries, or custom crafting) to create a strong portfolio showcasing your best work<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Establish an online presence:<\/strong> for these industries, creating a professional website or dedicated social media channels can help potential clients find you for work<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Set your rates:<\/strong> research competitive pricing for your services or products \u2013 do competitor research to see what others are charging for similar work<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Invest in essential tools:<\/strong> purchase the necessary software, equipment, or materials for your craft \u2013 be it design software, a good camera, or specialised crafting tools<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Market yourself:<\/strong> don\u2019t forget to connect with other creatives, potential clients, and industry professionals<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
\n\n<\/span>![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/11\/Circles-01.png\")
\n14%<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
increase in security guard businesses between 2023\/24<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
\n<\/span>![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/11\/Circles-02.png\")
\n12%<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
increase in craft businesses between 2023\/24<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
Simply Business analysed policies that were trading less than a year in 2023 and 2024 to find the fastest growing sectors<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Key skills<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Creativity and innovation:<\/strong> to succeed in this industry, you\u2019ll need the ability to generate original ideas, think outside the box, and bring fresh perspectives to projects<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Technical proficiency<\/strong>: you\u2019ll need to master all the relevant software (such as Adobe Creative Suite, video editing tools, e-commerce platforms) and digital tools related to your discipline<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Problem-solving:<\/strong> a large part of your role will be identifying challenges and developing creative, effective solutions for clients<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Time management: <\/strong>effectively juggling multiple projects, meeting deadlines, and managing your own schedule should be second nature to you<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nTrades and manual services<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
If you’re ready to build a career with your hands and expertise, in an industry that\u2019s often in demand, take a look at some of the top trades and manual services business ideas that you could start yourself. Here\u2019s how to lay the groundwork:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- handyman:<\/a> <\/strong>covering a range of maintenance issues, working as a handyman can be more varied than other trades jobs<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- gardener:<\/a> <\/strong>love the great outdoors? Gardeners and landscapers can work with domestic or commercial clients \u2013 and have many specialisms within the industry<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- electrician:<\/a> <\/strong>while you\u2019ll usually need at least a level three technical qualification to start your own electrician business, these upfront costs of study can be worth it in the long run thanks to supply and demand for the trade<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- roofer:<\/a> <\/strong>you\u2019ll need to be physically fit, technically-minded, and a good communicator in order to find success as a roofer \u2013 as well not being afraid of heights<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- plumber:<\/a><\/strong> plumbing is a trade that\u2019s constantly in demand \u2013 and you could even find a specialism (like a late night or emergency plumber) which allows you to charge more<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- plasterer or painter and decorator: <\/strong>like working with your hands and have an eye for design? A plasterer<\/a> creates base surface and decorative finishes like cornices, while a painter and decorator<\/a> develops those surfaces by painting, varnishing, and staining \u2013 could you be one or both?<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- carpenter<\/a> or joiner<\/a>: <\/strong>both of these business ideas require a strong understanding of woodworking, a good level of physical fitness, basic maths skills, and a knowledge of safety precautions<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- glazier:<\/a> <\/strong>responsible for installing and repairing glass in windows, glaziers are always in demand \u2013 but you’ll need to be comfortable working at height<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- bricklayer<\/a> or builder<\/a>: <\/strong>these are some of the world\u2019s oldest trades and are still going strong, making them a good choice for tradespeople hoping to work for themselves\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- groundworker:<\/a> <\/strong>as well as technical skills, groundworkers will need to be able to communicate well with different teams to solve problems and make sure work isn\u2019t held up<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- window cleaner: <\/a><\/strong>while you don\u2019t need any formal qualifications or expensive equipment to start a window cleaning business, you\u2019ll need to be trained to work at height<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\n\n<\/span>\n5%<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n
increase in annual turnover for painters and decorators between 2023\/24<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
\n<\/span>\n4%<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n
increase in annual turnover for handymen between 2023\/24<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
\n<\/span>![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/11\/Circles-03.png\")
\n3%<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n
increase in annual turnover for plumbers between 2023\/24<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
Simply Business looked at tradespeople who completed our quote form and requested a quote in 2023 and 2024, only taking into account trades with more than 3,000 submitted quote<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n
\nHow to get started<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Get qualified:<\/strong> many trades roles need specific qualifications in order for you to do the job \u2013 so you\u2019ll need to research apprenticeships and college courses \u2013 plus get any mandatory licenses and certifications<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Invest in essential tools and equipment: <\/strong>build a reliable kit of professional-grade tools and equipment relevant to your specific trade. Work out what tools you need to start with and invest in more as your business grows<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Build your reputation and find work:<\/strong> start by networking, asking for referrals, and showcasing your work. Consider creating a simple website or joining online trade directories to attract your first clients<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
Key skills<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Practical and technical proficiency: <\/strong>you\u2019ll need to develop a deep knowledge and hands-on skill in your chosen trade<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Attention to detail:<\/strong> the key to repeat clients is ensuring high-quality workmanship, accurate measurements, and a professional finish<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Physical stamina:<\/strong> many trades roles need strength, endurance, and fine motor skills<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Customer service:<\/strong> you\u2019ll need to clearly understand your clients\u2019 needs \u2013 explaining work, providing quotes, and maintaining a professional demeanor<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Estimating and quoting: <\/strong>accurately calculating costs for materials, labour, and overheads is a key part of any trades role<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.simplybusiness.co.uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/3\/2024\/08\/Artboard-1@2x.png\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\u201cDespite the challenges, I\u2019m feeling confident about the future of my business. My work is still in demand and I have the unique advantage of being able to be flexible \u2013 which means I can pick up extra jobs and take time off as and when I need.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Taylor Rutter
<\/strong>Contract Carpenter<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\nProfessional services<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
If you’re looking to use your expertise and offer specialised advice or support, the professional services industry offers rewarding opportunities in a range of industries \u2013 so you can match it to your interests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- accountant:<\/a><\/strong> accountants will need to study for vocational qualifications before they begin \u2013 but can find work in a variety of sectors once they’re qualified\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- project manager:<\/a> <\/strong>if people are always saying you\u2019re organised and a problem solver, you can put those skills to use working freelance for a variety of businesses helping them to deliver key projects<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- virtual assistant:<\/a> <\/strong>virtual assisting is a popular business idea as it\u2019s fully remote, requires little start up costs, and can be flexible to fit around existing commitments<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- tutor:<\/a><\/strong> if you have a passion for teaching and inspiring the next generation, becoming a self-employed private tutor can be a rewarding business venture<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- driving instructor:<\/a> <\/strong>you\u2019ll need to pass a driving instructor course to become qualified \u2013 but other than that there are little start-up costs<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- property management:<\/a><\/strong> responsible for the upkeep of rented properties, property managers need to have good communication skills and enjoy dealing with people<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- business consultant:<\/a> <\/strong>if you\u2019re experienced in business, love solving problems, and helping others reach their goals, this can be a rewarding career with few start-up costs<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\nHow to get started<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Gain the necessary qualifications:<\/strong> look into any essential certifications, degrees, or licenses for your field \u2013 and consider specialising in a niche to stand out even more<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Define your service: <\/strong>clearly outline the specific services you\u2019ll offer and research competitive rates to create a profitable pricing structure<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Build your professional network:<\/strong> create a strong online presence which showcases your expertise and testimonials \u2013 then actively network to build connections and find your first clients<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
Key skills<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Sales skills:<\/strong> don\u2019t forget about the ability to identify opportunities, pitch your services, and convert leads into clients<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Communication:<\/strong> excellent verbal and written skills for client interactions, presentations, and reports are key to these roles<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Problem solving: <\/strong>you\u2019ll need to be able to understand complex issues and find effective solutions for clients<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Client relationship management:<\/strong> building rapport, understanding client needs, managing expectations, and fostering long-term partnerships will help you find and keep clients<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Strong digital skills: <\/strong>you\u2019ll need to be adept with the relevant software, tools, and platforms essential for your specific service<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
What next?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Found a small business idea that works for you? Once you have an idea in mind, don\u2019t forget to check out the following guides to help you on your journey:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Communication:<\/strong> excellent verbal and written skills for client interactions, presentations, and reports are key to these roles<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Define your service: <\/strong>clearly outline the specific services you\u2019ll offer and research competitive rates to create a profitable pricing structure<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- project manager:<\/a> <\/strong>if people are always saying you\u2019re organised and a problem solver, you can put those skills to use working freelance for a variety of businesses helping them to deliver key projects<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Attention to detail:<\/strong> the key to repeat clients is ensuring high-quality workmanship, accurate measurements, and a professional finish<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Invest in essential tools and equipment: <\/strong>build a reliable kit of professional-grade tools and equipment relevant to your specific trade. Work out what tools you need to start with and invest in more as your business grows<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- gardener:<\/a> <\/strong>love the great outdoors? Gardeners and landscapers can work with domestic or commercial clients \u2013 and have many specialisms within the industry<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Technical proficiency<\/strong>: you\u2019ll need to master all the relevant software (such as Adobe Creative Suite, video editing tools, e-commerce platforms) and digital tools related to your discipline<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Establish an online presence:<\/strong> for these industries, creating a professional website or dedicated social media channels can help potential clients find you for work<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- influencer:<\/a> <\/strong>influencers and content creators can make money online through a variety of platforms \u2013 find your niche to work this fully flexible and remote job<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Customer service:<\/strong> being friendly, reliable, and going the extra mile to ensure client satisfaction<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Define your niche: <\/strong>decide exactly what services you’ll offer (e.g. dog walking for specific breeds, mobile massage, local deliveries, elderly care) to help target your efforts<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- dog walker:<\/a><\/strong> with low startup costs and no legally required qualifications, this can be a great business to fit around your existing responsibilities<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- professional services<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
- creative and digital roles<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n