How about my idea.

[killer2021]

I've started another small business on the side however I am constantly thinking of new business idea, its like an obsession of mine. So here is my basic idea:

Amway but for tax prep.

Basically the way this works is I start a small company that focuses on teaching people tax laws required to get their tax license (in CA you need to take a 60 hour tax class in order to prepare any taxes). I'll write the course and get it certified by the CTEC. Then I'll get independent consultants to take the class and get their tax license. I'll give this service free of charge (most other places charge for this class, around 200$ or so). Once people get their license I'll tell them to go and find clients. Since social networking has grown so large I think it would be more effective for the independent consultants to find their own clients. People would rather take their taxes to their friend rather than go to a franchise. Once tax season rolls around I'll supply the tax software and teach the consultants how to use it. When the independent consultant prepares someone's taxes with the software I'll take 25% commission and the independent consultant takes 75% as their pay.

To further help the consultants I could help them to build websites focused on this business idea. The idea being that over time the consultants will increase their client lists and still be able to keep their full time or part time job. The tax consulting will just be on the side during tax season but for them it will be like running their own little tax business without all the hassles of starting their own business.

To further drum up business I'll have a referral program. For each person you refer to the program you'll get 5% commission on every return they file FOREVER.

[jkhustle]

Very progressive idea and I love it. One thing that I would see as a challenge is the tax software portion, if offered after the course is over. You will develop some loyalty by giving the course for free and becoming a coach for your audience, but timing is everything...so to maximize your profit potential I would maybe implement a different timing for the offering of the software.

So, instead of offering it just before tax season, maybe you break your course up in to multiple courses. Course 3 will focus on the utilization of the tax software, and at that point to continue, they'd need to purchase the software from your affiliate link. I suggest that you have 1 to 2 more courses after you offer the software course so they know that there's more to learn after they make their purchase.

I think the website setup will be a great way to further monetize things. This type of website can be very simple and easy to setup, for they really only need the basics for marketing and reputation.

I'd love to learn more about other business ideas you have, or that you are currently operating.


Best of luck.

[generationy]

WOW, sounds like a winner! So long as you emphasize social media, good customer service and great incentives for people to join, you are well on your way to success! Keep us posted! Good luck!