- North Carolina Employers Struggle to Find Workers Despite High Unemployment
- Federal Benefits Extension Stirs Mixed Feelings Among North Carolina Workers
- North Carolina’s Division of Employment Security Announces an Extension of EUC and Extended Benefits
- Cuts to North Carolina’s Education Budget Could Increase Unemployment Rate
- North Carolina’s Unemployed Are Finding Their Entrepreneurial Side
Many NC unemployed workers are finding that training in a new career was the missing piece in ther job search efforts.
North Carolina is full of talented and hard working residents, many of whom have found themselves out of work in recent years. If this has been the case with you, perhaps you’re thinking about branching out on your own, and letting your skills or hobbies potentially flourish into a self made business. Congratulations on thinking outside of the box! If you have been the go to person for party cakes and cookies in the neighborhood, or the guy who can always figure out what’s wrong with Aunt Mary’s car, then maybe it really is time for you to extend your skills for the benefit of the rest of the community.
The state of North Carolina, along with the educational system and other small business owners, have all embraced the unemployed who are ready to become self starters in the business world. Here are some helpful resources and tips provided by them to help you process your decision.
You will want to be aware of the state tax implication of becoming self employed in North Carolina, and also stay in the loop about programs and services provided for you. The North Carolina Small Business Center has provided an excellent website with this useful information here: http://www.sbcn.nc.gov/. Through their services, you have access to special workshops and seminars, as well as individual help with business decisions.
If you live outside of the city, you may qualify to start your new journey through the GATE (Growing America Through Entrepreneurship) program. This special scholarship program has been developed to help the unemployed in rural parts of North Carolina to get their new businesses off the ground successfully. Check out the site here: http://www.ncprojectgate.org/ for access to a counselor, either at your local community college, through email, or over the phone. If you are a laid off State employee, you are eligible for the program regardless of whether you live in a rural county or not.
As you’re figuring out your options, think clearly before leaping and educate yourself about everything involved in being self employed. Check out the market for what you have to offer. Develop a good relationship with other small business owners and potential clients, by being friendly and reliable whether you’re conducting business or not. Have an organized business strategy, and don’t hesitate to ask for help from those who have experience. If all of these things point to success, go for it!
Whether you decide to make this path a lifetime career, or simply a way to keep paying the bills for a little while, enjoy the experience. This could be your chance to shine, by using your talent to make a personal mark on your community.
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