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How does this crazy idea sound?

wchristnerwchristner subscriber Posts: 15 Bronze Level Member
edited January 2017 in Business Planning
Due to me being a IT Contractor and the financial troubles that can come with it, I am getting ready to head out on the road full time in an RV, with my family and look forward to seeing the country. I will be getting a full time job of course, (I do have a family to feed) but also would like to start my own small business on the side. I would be staying RV parks across america for about 6 months to a year, perhaps more. I was thinking a business in Mobile Repair might be a good idea. Cell phones, Laptops, Tablets...etc. Also I would like to target other small business for general IT work. Running Ethernet Cable, WiFi Infrastructure Upgrades, Computer Support etc... Do you think there could be a niche for a Full Time Camper? After I sorted out everything I would advertise right on the camper itself. Then everyone in the campsite will know who to call. What do you think about this Crazy Idea. Thanks Everyone.
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Comments

  • BlueBoxTeamBlueBoxTeam subscriber Posts: 3
    Hi Dude, No this is not a crazy idea at all. More people need to think outside box....I have been doing this in New Zealand for the past year and have been having allot of fun. The key thing for me thought has been to stay in communities for long enough for people to get to know me, a couple of months at least. I think if you are in areas for shorter periods of time you would need to try and set -up promotions before you got to an area. Perhaps post on Craigs list something like:

    "roaming IT guru in your area for 2 weeks only, heavily discounted IT support while he is in your town, call xxxxxx now while there are still free appointments!"

    On another note, i will be launching a business in the USA in a few months and am looking for people like yourself to work as IT freelancers for onsite IT support. i have added you as friend and if your interested i can ping to details in a couple of months.

    GOOD LUCK with you ventures!
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  • Charlie PCharlie P subscriber Posts: 84 Silver Level Member
    It sounds like a viable side business (or at least a really good hustle). You are going to have to rely heavily on social media, craigslist, and word of mouth. I wouldn't do huge advertisements on the RV. Some signage on the RV is good, but too much becomes atrocious. You want them to know what you do and maybe how much the basic charges are, but not be intimidated to approach the RV. With that said, you will need to check with the RV campsites that you stay at to make sure that there isn't any rules that would prohibit the use of those signs and/or the prohibition of running a business on the grounds.

    Good luck on your project!
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  • wchristnerwchristner subscriber Posts: 15 Bronze Level Member
    That's a good point. Perhaps a smaller magnetic sign would be better. Then I can take it down if advertising is prohibited in a particular camp site.

    Thanks
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  • Charlie PCharlie P subscriber Posts: 84 Silver Level Member
    Excellent idea. Plus, you can put it on your car when you are driving to a job (or just into town for that matter). It will probably end up being cheaper and will end up putting forth a more professional image.
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  • DobrzaDobrza subscriber Posts: 3 Member
    You can also go as a freelance IT specialist. There are many websites such as:

    https://www.upwork.com/
    https://www.peopleperhour.com/
    http://www.guru.com/

    Make sure you work on your online presence and branding - your competitive advantage is the fact you can drive to the clients site and relocate!

    Plus, advertising on the RV however some people might find it 'sketchy' - make sure to include social media page name, website, etc.
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  • DobrzaDobrza subscriber Posts: 3 Member
    It sounds really good!
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  • alohasteph06alohasteph06 subscriber Posts: 7
    Hi - so are you on the road now?
    What have you done so far?
    Have you thought of taking this business to the next level and not just a side business?
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  • wchristnerwchristner subscriber Posts: 15 Bronze Level Member
    We haven't left yet,in about 2 or three weeks we will be heading to Campbellsville KY. I will be working at amazon as part of there camperforce. I figure it would be a great way to get good hours and stock up on some money while we plan our next move.

    alohasteph06 in terms of taking this to the next level, I would love to do this type of work full time. I have completely replaced an local hotel's (Best Western) Wi-Fi Infrastructure. I have also repaired countless Computers, Phones, Tablets and even a couple of X Box's along with create a few Websites for local Profit and non-Profit organizations.
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  • alohasteph06alohasteph06 subscriber Posts: 7
    I've recently worked with an insurance agent, a doctor, and a web designer that all wanted to leave their job to start their own business. It wasn't a hurry up and open a new business but rather we really went through what it meant to be an entrepreneur complete with financial projections and business plan. By the time they started their business, they had new skills, knew their value and felt confident in their new venture. I have found that doing this eases some of the fear of the unknown.

    Installing wifi and doing repairs sounds like it would be difficult on the road. Websites might be easier to do. The first step before going out on your own is to be crystal clear about what you will provide. My youngest child asked everyone at dinner the other night "If you could do any job and money was not a concern what would you do?" It's a good starting point. If you still have a way to earn income while figuring it out, that's great.
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  • wchristnerwchristner subscriber Posts: 15 Bronze Level Member
    Its been a while since I replayed to this post...busy but I think your right. With today's technology I am looking to start a small MSP. I think there are a lot of things and services I can offer. I will think more on this. Thanks for the info and opinions everyone.
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