HR advisor for small employers

Owners of small businesses such as trades companies, restaurants, clinics, retailers and start-ups with roughly 5 to 50 staff.

Monthly retainer for ongoing advice, fixed fees for projects like a handbook or hiring package, or an hourly rate for one-off issues.

• Knowledge of employment practices in your province
• Clear writing and communication
• Discretion with confidential information
• Calm, practical problem solving

• Employment standards, human rights and health and safety rules differ by province and for federally regulated employers, so check the rules for each client's location
• Professional liability (errors and omissions) insurance in addition to general liability
• You give practical HR advice, not legal advice, so know when to refer clients to an employment lawyer
• Check whether a CPHR designation is needed or helpful in your province, as the use of some titles is regulated
• Check whether your municipality requires a home-based business licence
• Keep client and employee information private and follow privacy rules

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around $500 to $3,000, depending on your equipment, insurance and how you find clients. Working from home keeps overheads low, since you do not need separate premises.

Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around $1,000 to $6,000, depending on how many clients you take on and whether you work on retainers or projects. These are revenue estimates before expenses and tax.

Check employment standards, human rights and health and safety rules, which differ by province. Also check whether a CPHR designation is needed or helpful where you live, professional liability insurance, and any home-based business licence your municipality requires.