Online consultant for one type of business

Owners of online shops, small agencies, coaches and other businesses that want expert help without hiring full time.

Packaged audits and workshops at a set price, monthly advisory subscriptions, and occasional paid templates or group sessions.

• Deep knowledge of one industry or function (such as operations, pricing or hiring)
• Writing and presenting clearly
• Marketing yourself online
• Organizing projects and deadlines

• Check your state's and city's business license and sales tax rules, as some states tax certain digital or consulting services
• Consider professional liability insurance to cover claims about your advice
• Avoid promising specific financial results in your marketing
• Clients in other states may bring different tax or contract issues, so check with an accountant
• Winning clients takes steady marketing, so plan time for it each week

Startup costs are typically around $300 to $3,000, depending on your website, tools, insurance and marketing. Everything runs by video, shared documents and email, so you may not need a physical office.

Estimated monthly revenue is typically around $1,000 to $6,000, depending on your niche, pricing and how many clients you win. Winning clients takes steady marketing, so plan time for it each week.

Check your state's and city's business license and sales tax rules, as some states tax certain digital or consulting services. Consider professional liability insurance, avoid promising specific financial results, and ask an accountant about clients in other states.