Think you’re too young to start a business? Think again.
Did you know that you only need to be 16 to get yourself a drone pilot’s license and start your very own drone biz? Yes, you read that right!
Put “being famous on the Internet” to good use by promoting your business and selling your skills. In this post, we’ll be sharing a few ideas that might just be what you need to get yourself started with a drone business of your own!
1. Offer aerial photography for special occasions
If you have an eye for taking good pictures and video, then this might just be for you. Most drones now come with high-resolution cameras that will allow you to take stunning aerial pictures or video. If you know someone in the neighborhood who might be celebrating their kid’s birthday, their wedding anniversary, or any other special occasion, you can offer to capture their memorable moments on film! Added income, if you are good at social media–you can offer to create an album or post their images for them.
2. Help find lost pets
We all know that most of us love our pets dearly and they can get themselves lost at times which can be a scary thing for pet owners. With your drone, you can cover more ground faster and make the search much more efficient!
Now (because you have a heart) this one would be unpaid but would likely get you a tip from the thankful pet owner, and will be a great way to get your name out there.
3. Look at a neighbor’s roof, gutters, and chimneys
With drones coming in with high-resolution cameras, you can easily perform a close-up survey of your neighbor’s roof, gutters, and chimneys. These can come in very handy to check if their gutters need to be cleaned or for them to be able to detect any trouble spots ahead of time. Careful not to pitch this as a roof inspection (because that’s illegal) — you’re just taking a look so they can be aware of their roof’s status.
4. Coming soon…Deliver packages for your neighbors.
Reach out to your local pharmacy or grocer and suggest they have a commercial licensed drone pilot (that’s YOU!) on staff. While there are still legal/licensing issues, drone delivery in everyday life is coming soon. Help businesses in your neighborhood be the first to get on board.
Create your own opportunities
Technology is advancing at an extremely rapid pace and is creating more and more opportunities for everyone, even for teens like you to get yourselves started as budding entrepreneurs!
If you are having trouble finding something in your neighborhood, create your own opportunity. Try reaching out to a local roofing company or real estate photographer and offer yourself as an intern. This will not only get your foot in the door but it will give you valuable experience you can then use in the future!
Remember: while technology does change the nature of the way we run business and the way people work, it’s important, especially at a young age, to remember the importance of leaning into the new technology and find ways to make them work for you!
Ready to train?
Contact us today to learn about our Part 107 drone pilot certification training program.
Businesses…Sponsor a Teen!
Know a teen who would make a great drone pilot or want to help the next generation build a successful career? Contact us to learn about our “Sponsor a Student” Youth Aviation Program.
Learn more about how drone operators get drone jobs with this post from Drone Life.