Teaching equips you with strong skills in organisation, communication, and problem-solving – all of which are invaluable in business. However, depending on your idea, there may be a few new areas you’ll want to develop before getting started. That doesn’t mean signing up for an expensive qualification or sacrificing every evening to return to university.

There are plenty of relevant Open University courses designed to boost your confidence in business essentials, such as:

• Understanding marketing

• Writing your first business plan

• Brushing up on social media strategy

Many are free and completely flexible, allowing you to learn at your own pace and in your own time.

Before getting swept up in logo design and catchy Instagram handles, it’s worth putting together a proper business plan. A good business plan should include clear goals, key actions, and a realistic idea of what success looks like.

Start by asking yourself:

• What do I want this business to achieve?

• Who is my target audience?

• What products or services will I provide?

• How will I reach my customers?

• What are the start-up costs?

Writing it all down will help clarify your ideas and provide a roadmap for when things start to feel overwhelming.

You might begin as a one-person operation, but as your business grows, you may want to bring in additional support. Whether it’s a virtual assistant, a creative collaborator, or a couple of part-time team members, it’s important to create a working environment where they can thrive.

That’s where workspace design comes into play. A well-thought-out working environment can make a huge difference to morale, productivity, and the overall professionalism of your business. Even a small, dedicated workspace at home can help set the tone.

Landing your first clients or customers can feel nerve-racking, but it’s also your chance to share your passion and tell your story. Before diving into full-on marketing, don’t overlook the value of your existing network. Friends, family, and fellow teachers can be your first champions.

Social media is a powerful tool for small businesses – especially when you show up as your authentic self. Keep it genuine, consistent, and focused on the value you bring. A simple, professional-looking website can also help build trust and credibility. Think in terms of small, regular steps over time rather than overnight success.

Starting a business as a teacher doesn’t mean you have to leave the classroom straightaway. Many side hustles begin with just a few hours on weekends or evenings. But by investing time and energy into your idea, you can begin to grow something both meaningful and financially rewarding – on your own terms.