Published on 12, July, 2020
Okay, my first thread...
I need some money, not much. I know I cannot work or rather regular work doesn't suit me. I'm not particularly skilled in anything and that makes things even more difficult.
I have no social connections and so asking for cash-in-hand work is likely out of the question. I'm only receiving JSA and would have to starve without it. A few months ago my rent had increased and my computer broke down and so took measures to account for these, and the result is not much money left. I'm in a better position than most since I only eat one male a day on most days, and do intermitten fasting, and that saves some money.
So I was thinking about dog walking because I like dogs and I could charge £3 per hour and make a few quid. A lot of people have dogs in Wigan, but I see a lot of dogs getting walked too.
My first hurdle is getting the word out. I need a business card but I am told that they can get expensive.
Nothing is certain in life so I've given up seeking certainty. Everything is a wild stab in the dark, like throwing a dice and seeing if you'll get a six.
But why am I asking you this? Why do I need external validation? I am not sure. Perhaps there is a part of me that still clings to the illusion that people can help?
I might start with an A4 advert first; just give one to the petstore to put in their shop window.
You're welcome!
I've been doing my own thing now - self employed since 2005. Before that I was a surf bum - lol
I have an instagram that I use for my airbrush work - It is customising sunglasses.
If you have a smart phone, then you can do all your marketing on that, using an app called Canva for designing your stuff.
I appreciate your advice.
Definitely - If you start a little lower it also gives you room to put prices up in future.
Good idea. Thanks. I think I could bump it up to £4 an hour.
Ah so if the same is true in Wigan that the going rate is £10 I could undercut these people and get a headstart.
£10 is the going rate around my area.We have a handful of local walkers. They all walk about 8-16 dogs per day.One lady - She can make as much as £80 per hour at times.
You need an artwork first. Some kind of image and business name.
Or you could just have a personal details card - then you can use it for anything.
Making cash online is great fun. It’s like fishing - you set your line and wait for a bite :)
I can help you with a design for a card if you like?
One way I make money is as an airbrush artist doing small custom works that customers send to me from around the world.
I think you coud build a small customer base by finding online groups or forums for dog lovers.
I would recommend avoiding facebook but use stuff like instagram or twitter.
Yeah... I think the title of your thread goes for most of us. Everyone on earth, quite probably, would like to be able to do what they want through being - or to make them - financially independent. It's hard enough, without throwing autism into the equation.
I know some dog-walkers who seem to do okay and make a living. Maybe £3 an hour is a little low. Unless you could walk several dogs at once and make it more worth your while. A local woman to me has a service called 'Walkies', and I often see her in the park with up to 8 dogs.
How about posting some cards in shop windows? Or letting your local pet shops and vets know that you are offering the service?
Just some thoughts.
I find Vistaprint is easiest way to get a business card. You’re looking at about £30 ish.