We took up the family piece first, examining her assumption that she would have more time to give her child if she worked from home. Given the stresses of running a new business, we suggested she find mentors, explore subsidized child care, and shore up her emotional support system before embarking on any business venture. This week, we turn to the work part. The best solution may not be to create an independent business right now but to work for someone else at home. Don't quit a day job or throw money into an at-home venture impulsively.
Startups have an uncertain income stream.
A cushion spells the difference between success and failure, says Trent Anderson, the editor of Kaplan Inc.'s career guides. Next, it's time to inventory what skills you can parlay into a home-based franchise or business. Break down past jobs into their parts. Scan online job ads to see what skills are being sought. Identify what you're missing, and plan to fill in the gaps.