Tips for Veterans Considering Entrepreneurship

Starting a business can be a great way to kickstart your career after serving in the military. If you’re a veteran thinking about launching a business, there are several resources available to you as a former service member. Use this guide for tips on becoming an entrepreneur and learning about what types of businesses are worth considering.

Becoming an entrepreneur

Many veterans benefit from having some flexibility in life when returning from active duty. The military’s rigidness can be hard to maintain for years on end, so when you retire from service, it’s a great idea to find work that allows you more control over your life. For this reason, becoming an entrepreneur could be perfect for veterans of any age.

As a veteran, you’ll be able to access specific resources allocated to former service members. Do research to see how you may qualify for funding through the Small Business Administration.

Types of businesses to consider

There are countless options when it comes to starting a business, but what matters is what you’re most interested in. Sometimes it’s helpful to try out a few different career paths by freelancing. For example, if you like to write, start working as a freelance writer. If you enjoy it and you find some regular clients, you could start a writing business.

If you’re good with your hands and enjoy fixing things, consider becoming a handyman or carpenter. You can start small by working on friends’ houses, and then grow your network as you get more experience. When you launch your business, be sure to check if you need any specific licenses in your state to perform repairs.

Many veterans have excellent physical health due to rigorous physical exercise while serving in the military. If your time as a service member made you a fitness junkie, consider learning how to become a personal trainer. If you don’t want to be bound to a gym, you could offer private sessions in a rented studio in town. Not only will it allow you to continue your own fitness routine, but it will allow you to work with others and build relationships.

If serving in the military made you love the outdoors, consider starting a business that will keep you out of an office and away from a computer screen. Becoming a landscaper could be a great use of your talents, especially if you enjoy working on your own or with a small team. You could gain skills by going to a trade school or apprentice with another landscaper to learn the ins and outs.

Going back to school

Starting a business requires some resourcefulness, and many people tend to fake it until they make it. If you’d rather start a business with some skills in your toolbelt, consider going back to school to earn a business degree.

These days it’s easy to earn a degree online, allowing plenty of flexibility if you have responsibilities at home or work. Going to business school online could give you a chance to develop your business understanding: You can choose between business management, marketing, or management and leadership.

If you’re fresh out of the military, first take some time to think about what type of job you most see yourself doing. Consider what type of work environment you crave, whether it’s working outside or working in a home office. If you’re considering a new career path, it might make sense to intern or work as an apprentice to see if it’s right for you. Or if you’re looking to learn more about how to run a business successfully, consider heading back to school for a business degree.

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