Teen Business Idea: Polishing Portables

Background

Any computer guru will tell you that being good with computers comes with the onus of being "the fix-it guy." People know I'm into computers, and I'm frequently called upon to resolve problems. Sometimes I do this as a service, sometimes for pay and sometimes in trade. I recently fixed a laptop for a friend, and in return got an iPod. I'm not much of a music buff, so I decided to sell it for cash. The iPod had been well-loved, and despite being perfectly functional, the signs of use were quite evident by way of scuffs and scratches.

I did my best to polish the case with the materials on hand, but I know I could get a better price with a better polish job. Buuuuuuuut, it wouldn't be worth buying the stuff needed to get a professional finish. What I really needed was someone who already had the polishing equipment...

I often find myself wanting something that just isn't common. And when that happens, I see an idea.

The Idea

Cell phones, tablets, laptops, MP3 players, etc. - These things are a part of our everyday lives. We have come to depend on them for nearly every facet of our electronic requirements. One device that does everything tends to take some abuse over time. This means people get annoying scratches, scuffs and worn out screens and cases. It would be nice if there was an accessible way (which is just my way of saying "cheap") to get rid of these scratches.

But this the United States, where manufactured items are cheap, and services are expensive. This is a job for moderately-skilled, cheap labor...aka Teenagers. I think there are better jobs for teens than flipping burgers or working at the movie house. Not that there is anything wrong with those...but learning an uncommon skill or providing a unique service can improve your earning potential.

So here's what you do. Get mom, or dad, or rich uncle Ted to loan you enough money to buy a polishing wheel, some pads, discs and compound. Educate yourself and learn the art polishing plastic and glass. You should be able to find everything on Google (if your Google-Fu is good). If not, try asking a local jeweler for a pseudo apprenticeship. You could also go to the library. Heck, if you're that bad off you can send me an email and I'll get you started.

The last bit is all about marketing yourself and getting business. Start learning on your family and friends. Offer your business for free until you build some skill, and possibly a reputation. Then build your clientele. Make up some business cards, flyers and leave them at independent cell phone stores. Maybe they'll let you setup shop around the store. Go door to door if necessary. And good luck.