Charlotte, NC

It’s close to Christmas, bills are piling up, you don’t have much to eat …
and you’re out of work. 
Worse, you can’t find a job, no matter how many businesses have your applications; you’re either (a) too old, (b) not experienced, (c) too young, (d) over/underqualified or, in some cases, don’t even “look the part”.
And don’t fool yourself; there are still places out there whose bosses won’t hire you on the basis of race, gender, disability or heritage!

So, what are you gonna do?  If ya get SSI, SSD or some other governmental check, you already know it doesn’t last long!  And ya can’t keep borrowing money off kinfolk, pawning your belongings or whatever.
The frustration mounts because you know you can do a good job … if someone would just hire you!

Hey … I’ve got an idea!  Why not consider taking your talents (whether it’s mechanics, excelling at math, repairing small appliances, or even just cleaning)  and work for youself??  I mean, get all the material you need, including equipment (it usually doesn’t cost much), paperwork (receipts, invoices, ledgers, business cards and whatever else your home business will require), space to properly do your work — and, of course, check on licensing in your area — then, when you’re ready, advertise; promote the dickens out of your business!

Now, ya won’t make a lotta money right off, of course; a good customer base has to grow, right?? But, if you stick with it, and let everybody you come in contact with know that you’re there and “open for business”, you could be on your way!
Just make sure you have fair prices and the absolute BEST in quality workmanship! And always treat your customer like you’d wanna be treated!

Natch, there are other ways to beat the wolf from your door: Check with the Employment Security Commission; check the Internet; go to temporary-employment agencies; ask around — your friends or family might know of someone who’s hiring and can put in a “good word” for ya. If nothing else, and you can handle the job (usually manual labor), apply with labor pools! Now, you’ll have to be there when they open (usually at dawn) and wait to be added to a worklist — but, in very short time, you could be working … and, if the employer of the contract company likes your work, you could end up with a permanent job! Either way, you’re paid!

My daddy and practically every uncle I had was self-employed … and every company you see throughout town — from the humongous stores on N. Tryon to the little “Mom-and-Pops” you see farther out S. Tryon and throughout town — started with one person having a vision, and starting his/her own business!

If they could do it — and if you need the income — why can’t you??