How to Find Your Small Business (Or Idea)

If you have been thinking about starting an online business but just have not come up with the business idea that knocks your socks off then it is perhaps time that you consider brainstorming. Brainstorming your small business idea may very well set you on the path to financial freedom.
Webster's Dictionary defines brainstorming as a problem-solving technique that sparks a spontaneous generation of ideas. Brainstorming works through the power of association by offering ideas around a particular subject or problem.
Brainstorming has these basic components:
A. Generating as many solutions to a problem as possible B. Listing every idea presented without comment or evaluation C. Grouping and evaluating ideas to reach consensus D. Prioritizing ideas.
Brainstorming your small business idea can help you choose a topic, develop an approach to a topic, or deepen your understanding of the topic's potential. This is why brainstorming can be extremely beneficial.
Brainstorming your small business idea helps you think outside-of-the-box! Remember that the purpose of brainstorming your small business idea is to generate ideas so avoid other idea-squashers. Do not evaluate or pass judgment on the ideas as you think of them.
Brainstorming your small business idea can be an extremely effective way to generate lots of ideas on a specific issue and then determine which idea - or ideas - is the best solution. This can be particularly useful in providing creative solutions to problems that have defied traditional problem-solving methods as well as in such applications as new product development. However, brainstorming your small business idea requires a comfortable, non threatening environment to work effectively.
Brainstorming your small business idea is very well suited to internet marketing because it can be very manageable to serve a niche, something that would have been more difficult prior to the internet revolution which began in the late 1990s. And small business creates 75% of all new jobs and anchors our communities. Small Business' are the largest employers in America.
When brainstorming your small business idea creativity is enhanced, because individuals are encouraged to bring up all ideas - even those that might appear outrageous. The Site Build-it (SBI) manger brainstorming tool is a very powerful tool for keyword research for your site concept.
Problem solving in small business requires brainstorming of options and alternatives and problems are defined better as questions arise. Thinking challenges in the form of puzzles and other fun activities can get your creative juices flowing before brainstorming. And creativity can be enhanced if individuals are encouraged to bring up all ideas - even those that might appear outrageous.
When brainstorming your small business idea listen to other ideas, and try to piggy back on them to other ideas. List at least 25 practical uses with explanations if necessary. List or describe (in a sentence or two each) at least ten consequences. List the attributes of the problem, object, or situation as you would in a standard attribute analysis. List at least six attributes and at least six alternatives for each. Listing each condition to be met or the part to be covered will assure that none are overlooked. List the concept(s) you chose to use, and describe how you'll use them.
Asking questions are one of the best tools for unlocking creativity. Questions are the best way to get brainstorming started. Brainstorming is a skill that comes with practice and is not a cult or a ritual so use it to your advantage and begin brainstorming your small business idea.
And keep in mind that brainstorming isn't coming up with an end finished idea, its about creating the ideas that spark the ideas. Brainstorming is creating a list of whatever comes to mind.
Brainstorming your small business idea is most effective when you come up with many possible solutions to overcome one specific obstacle instead of thinking up many unrelated ideas.
Brainstorming your small business idea is particularly effective when others provide different views, ideas, and solutions around one problem.
Annette Hampton is the author of this Article and has an extensive 20 year background in the area of Sales and Marketing. Find your perfect idea or concept for your Small Business Make sure you take the Video Tour!
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Annette_Hampton

Top 10 Best Home Based Businesses to Start During a Recession

With the economy in shambles and unemployment on the rise, is now a good time to start a business? Yes, if you choose smartly a home based business can allow you to thrive financially while still having the flexibility that will allow you to be there with your family. Here are the top 10 best home based businesses to start during a recession.
1. At home daycare
Starting an at-home daycare is one of the top 10 home based businesses to start. With daycare being so expensive and so impersonal, many working families prefer to use home day cares where there child will get personal attention at a reasonable cost. This business is easy to set up but be sure to have contracts that you stick with. Check for local regulations before you begin.
2. Pet sitting / dog walking
Even in tough economic times, people keep spending on their dogs and cats. Starting a pet sitting business is a great way for animal lovers to make extra cash. In addition to pet sitting, you can also offer dog walking for people who are stuck at the office all day.
If you are serious about starting a pet sitting business, be sure to become bonded and insured.
3. Web design
You don't need to be extremely skilled to start a web design business. All you need is a knack for selling to the local businesses in your area. Many of them don't have a webpage but spend thousands on expensive and ineffective yellow page advertising.
Learn what kinds of sites business owners want and how to sell it to them, and you can always outsource the technical work.
4. Freelance writing
Many people make extra money with freelance writing, and some make a career out of. There are many places that you'll be able to sell your work, both online and offline. For offline gigs, pick up a copy of Writer's Market. For online work, find people who need articles, ebooks, and autoresponder emails and offer it to them at a competitive (but livable) price.
5. Accounting
Accounting isn't for everyone, but if it is something that you enjoy consider becoming certified and offering your services. You can either start your own business or buy an existing franchise.
6. Blogging
It's possible to make six figures blogging, but you'll need to write frequently and spend your time wisely. There are many ways to get paid by blogging, whether you are selling advertising space, selling products for affiliate commission, or by displaying Google AdSense.
7. Virtual Assistant
If you are organized and enjoy learning new things, consider becoming a virtual assistant. Network with small business owners to see what kind of help they need. You might help them by running personal errands or maintain their websites.
8. Business Coach
Business coaching is one of the most profitable home based businesses you can start. If you can help a business succeed in a certain area, consider becoming a business coach.
9. Affiliate Marketing
If you want your home business to be internet-based, consider affiliate marketing. With affiliate marketing you get a commission of products that you sell.
10. Information publishing
Information publishing is a huge business and there is always room for another publisher. Think about all the newspapers, magazines, and nonfiction books available. They are all selling information. You, too, can sell information that other people are willing to pay for. This can be done in the form of ebooks and downloadable guides.
The number one thing to remember when you are choosing one of the top 10 best home based businesses is to follow your passion. If you provide a service or a product that others need and keep your overhead costs low, your business will be able to thrive in a booming economy or a recession.
Get free tips that will help you build your home based business at http://www.home-business-solutions.net/
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lynn_Keller