Karen Darby, founder of simplyswitch.com, who sold the company for £22million, gives her top money-making and money-saving tips:
Make Money
1.The start-up costs of an internet business are minimal and the demand for all things vintage is higher than ever - set up your own shop on eBay selling old clothes, books, CDs and accessories.
2.Car-boot sales aren’t just for the old - get a group of friends together, split the costs of the pitch and sell off all of your old stuff.
3.Play to your strengths. Advertise your special skills - for instance writing CVs, doing accounts or ironing, and earn some extra cash.
4.Quit the gym and take on physical work for cash. Deliver flyers, offer gardening or cleaning services and lose some pounds while you earn them!
5.Use your spare time to teach any special skills you may have - piano lessons, maths tutoring, salsa dancing - the possibilities are endless.
Save Money
1.Mobile phone bills now make up a sizeable portion of most women’s monthly outgoings, so it seems like common sense to find out how much you’re paying and what’s included in your call plan. Someone on an unsuitable tariff could save a small fortune by switching to a better deal.2.It may not be the most glamorous of tasks but switching utility providers can save you hundreds of pounds and with online comparison sites such as www.simplyswitch.com this couldn’t be easier.
3.Shop online there are great savings to be had by shopping online and you don’t even have to leave the comfort of your chair.
4.Make a shopping list. We’re all guilty of succumbing to the sweet smell of the bakery aisle and we’re all equally familiar with bills being a lot higher than expected when we get to the checkout. Make a list and stick to it.
5.Buy presents in the sales and avoid the hassle of last minute panic buying. By stocking up on presents at reduced prices you’ll have some spare cash leftover to treat yourself.