4 Steps to Start Making Money Online with a Service-Based Business
Making a full-time income online is possible. You have to bypass all the get-rich-quick-scams and put in the work, but it's possible. That's why I am sharing 4 steps to help you get started making money online with a service-based business.
I took these same steps over a year ago. If I can do this, so can you. Let’s get started.
Choose Your Service
Consider what skills you have that other people would pay for. Everyone is good at something, and there are probably people willing to pay you for that skill online. For a list of service-based business ideas check out my blog post: 30 Service-Based Business Ideas.
You can also scroll on Fiverr.com and see what other people are selling. There are a plethora of services out there. If you can't think of a skill to sell, think of something you think you would enjoy doing like, copywriting, data entry, website design, and then take the time to learn the skill.
There are plenty of online courses and free Youtube videos to help you hone your craft. When I started my business, I took many online courses that taught me the skills I sell today.
If I can go from feeling like I have no value to give to making a full-time income online in a matter of months, you can do the same.
Package Your Services
Next, take your skill and package it. Offering packages is a great way to sell your services so that both you and the client clearly know what is expected. When packaging your services, make sure to outline all the details that are included in the price. For help, take a look at my current services page.
Don’t get stuck too long on pricing. You can always change it as you gain experience and confidence. Consider how much you would like to make per hour and estimate how many hours you will spend working per package. $25 per hour times 12 hours comes out to $300.
As you become more confident, you can always raise your prices. Ideally, you want to charge for the value and transformation of the services you provide, not just the labor you put in, but this is a good starting point.
Pick a price you are comfortable with but don’t undercharge. You deserve to be paid for your work no matter how new your business is.
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Market Yourself
Okay, now you have your services, packages, and pricing lined up. How do you get people to buy? Start by creating a website, landing page, and or a social media account where you can talk about your offerings and provide value to potential clients by sharing your expertise.
Personally, I like to have a website and a blog, but if you are limited budget-wise, creating a landing page, or simply selling your services on Instagram will do.
Basically, you need somewhere that potential clients can get to know you and find your services. I know some business owners use Instagram and don’t have a website. If you decide to go this route, I recommend setting up a landing page with your services outlined and sharing that link in your bio.
Find Clients
Now that you are set up with a website, social media, or both, it's time to find clients. At first, clients might not come to you. You will have to go to them.
I started by joining Facebook groups where I knew my ideal client was hanging out. Join Facebook groups where people who need your services are active. There are a lot of groups for entrepreneurs and business owners online.
A lot of people post when they are looking for a specific service. You can also begin building relationships and form connections by providing value in those groups outside of selling your services. It could take you a while to find your first client, but keep going!
Once you sign your first client, that proves you can sign more.
Another great way to find clients when you are first getting started is to use a freelancing platform like Fiverr. This helped me build my confidence and learn how to sell—before transitioning to selling in the DMs or in Facebook groups.
I spoke with multiple people before I signed my first client. I am so grateful that I refused to throw in the towel!
Ready to take one of these ideas and get your business up and running? Sign up for my 5-day email course: Business Kickstart, where I walk you through how to package your services, find clients, and start making money online.
