Home-based start-ups A couple of keys to finding the right venture for you If you're on the lookout for fantastic work-at-home ideas and that great start-up idea has been eluding you, here are two key things you can do to ensure you find the right business venture for you: 1. Do some ethnographic research Be a fly on the wall on forums and in social media groups that are specifically targeted at the startup and work-at-home community. You will gain exposure to a range of business types and you will also gain insight into relevant issues that may affect the type of work you take on. Looking at what is out there is also a great way to find the gaps. You never know, that gap might be the golden idea you are looking for. Participating in these networks will also help you build relationships with others who can give you pointers as you develop your business idea into a thriving kitchen table enterprise. 2. Invest in building your business skills and knowledge Whether you're aiming to sell party plan products with the marketing all laid out for you, or come up with your own business idea, it's a good idea to boost your business through further education. It never ceases to amaze me how many people fail to consider further education as an investment. You don't necessarily need to invest thousands to get results, but if you're serious about creating a more flexible lifestyle working from home, it pays