I want to work from home. I want to read books for people on tape or cd. How do I start?

Question

I'm on disability so I can't work outside the home but I am a very creative person and love to read. I would like to start a home business where people could contact me and have me read the books that they are too busy to read for themselves on tape or cd. My questions are, Does it sound like a viable business option, How would I get started, and would my southern accent (not very strong, but noticeable) be a problem? (I'm not talking about southern slang, just an accent).

Answer 1

Like most other business, have money. start by looking to see if there are other business do this in you area. Do not let this stop you, just check to see how they are doing., Check with a local hospitable to see if they have a program for this type of thing, Check with local government to see what the rules for working out of your house is. what is required for starting a business in your area. A bank account. You will need some equipment to record your books. you will need books to read. make up some tape or C.D. and pass them out to your friend and family, to see how they like then. make a list of places that might be interested in these tape, or C.D. now the hard part, you need to get the tape and. C,D out in the public. Adds in the papers, books on line. sit back and see what happen. Find a way to get on local T.V. as a human interest story, book reading for the blind, shut in, or the handicapped. For drivers to listen to while driving Just work it and keep working it, It may go or it may not, only God know, but at lest you tried.

Answer 2

It sounds like a very viable option. Congratulations on taking the first step toward your independence by isolating your unique niche!

I'd love to listen to books  on cd, & would definitely pay for this service! So many books I want to devour, so little time!

Southern accents are universally accepted as soothing. (Didn't you watch Slingblade?) :D

Being yourself is all you need to make yourself a success.

To get started I would suggest you start with your state's Secretary of State office. They will have the forms you need to download & fill out for your business. It would be great to book a free consultation with an accountant and  the best attorney around.  The good news is that after you file your business with both the state & the Federal Government you'll usually get these services offered to you free by both the accountans & the lawyers who want your business.

Find ways to do what you love for free. You'll find that God opens up the world for you in a whole new way once you declare your dreams.

Good Luck!

Answer 3

I was able to retire at the age of 50 due to the success of two companies I started and operated. My time is now spent helping people start their own homebased businesses. As a long time entrepreneur on the surface it is a GREAT idea but you are alittle late. You can order almost any book online now, I'm just not sure you would be able to compete let alone make a profit. There are some other options available to you that you might just love. Also we live in Kentucky now and I love the Southern accent. I am always available if you have any questions.

I do not mean to rain on your parade by any means but with over 35 years experience I see things alittle different, more from the business and profit point of view. Anyway it's only my opinion.

As far as the first few answers you received you do not need to register with the state or federal government to get started. That is only needed if you incorporate which does not need to be done when you first start. You simply go to your local city hall and apply for a business license the cost is usually under $100. Next you open a business checking account with the bank of your choice, the bank will advise what steps are needed. That's it! When you file your taxes on or before April 15 is when the state and IRS will learn of your new venture.