Instructions

1

Research the business and operational models currently available for tutoring websites and decide what will work best for you. You will need to decide if you want a high-end "live chat" setup or a more basic post-and-reply message board format for your tutoring business. You might also consider voice telephony systems like Skype, or simply plan to have a business-dedicated cell phone. There are a number of reasonably priced turnkey tutoring websites with different features available, or you can have a website custom built if you have the budget. It might be a good idea to set up a chart comparing the features and costs of the various possibilities.
2

Prepare a budget to operate your online tutoring business for at least one year. Make sure to include all costs associated with whatever type of website setup you choose, including the annual costs for registering your domain name, the monthly or quarterly hosting fees you pay your Internet service provider, a marketing and advertising budget, and website content and upgrade expenses. The rates you charge for tutoring need to reflect all these expenses plus a reasonable hourly rate for your time. Most tutoring websites charge by the hour, but some offer a weekly rate or charge by the course or the semester.
3

Advertise your business for at least a couple of weeks before you actually go live with the website. Banner ads and targeted email newsletters are two cost-effective ways of advertising a new website. If you have larger advertising budget, you can even consider working with an ad agency. It is a good idea to get your business name and concept out in the public sphere as much as possible. Consider offering introductory rates or one-time specials to attract first-time clients.