Types of Businesses that Require Little Management / Stress

 There are many different types of businesses that require varying amounts of management and stress to operate, and the level of management and stress required will depend on a number of factors, such as the size and complexity of the business, the number of employees, and the industry in which the business operates.

A big concern of those looking to invest and/or operate a new business will take into consideration the required stress and effort that will be required. Note, little management / stress does not mean easy.

Some types of businesses may require less management and stress to operate and include:

  • Drop shipping businesses: Drop shipping is a retail fulfillment method where a store doesn't keep the products it sells in stock. Instead, when a store sells a product, it purchases the item from a third party and has it shipped directly to the customer. This can be a low-stress and low-management way to run an e-commerce business, as it doesn't require the business to handle physical inventory or handle shipping logistics.
  • Service-based businesses: Service-based businesses, such as consulting, tutoring, bookkeeping, tax preparation or freelance writing, can be low-management, as they often don't require the hiring of employees or the management of inventory. These business can also be easily operated from home.
  • Online course or coaching: Developing an online course or coaching program can be a low-stress, low-management way to share your expertise and generate income. Once the initial course or program is created, it can be sold to customers over and over again, with little need for ongoing management.
  • Affiliate Marketing: Affiliate marketing involves promoting other people's products and earning a commission on any sales. This is low-management, as you don't have to create your own products or deal with customer service.
  • Dividend investing: A portfolio of dividend-paying stocks can be set up and then left to grow with minimal management. This is because dividends are paid out automatically, and the stocks can be bought and sold using a broker's automated trading platform. REITs may be worth a look if you are going this route.
  • Self-publishing: Self-publishing a book or other content via platforms such as Kindle Direct Publishing or YouTube can require little management once the content is created. This is because the platform handles the distribution and sales process.
  • Graphic design, digital products, rental properties, self-service laundromats, vending machines, ATM machines, can also be relatively low-maintenance once established, as they generally do not require ongoing management of inventory or staff.
Businesses That Require a Medium Amount of Management:
  • Small retail businesses: Small retail businesses, such as a clothing store or a small grocery store, can require a moderate amount of management. These businesses typically involve managing inventory, employees, and customer service. They may require additional management such as marketing, budgeting and reporting, legal and financial compliance.
  • Small service-based businesses: Service-based businesses such as small accounting firm, IT services, or design agency can also require a moderate amount of management. These businesses typically involve managing employees, client relationships, and project timelines.
  • Restaurant or food service business: Running a small restaurant, café or any food service business can also require a moderate amount of management. These businesses involve managing inventory, employees, and customer service, as well as compliance with health and safety regulations.
  • Small manufacturing or construction companies: Small manufacturing or construction companies, involve management of employees, inventory, equipment, projects, and compliance with regulations. They may also require additional management such as procurement, logistics, and quality assurance.
Businesses that Require a Significant Amount of Management:
  • Large retail operations
  • Large tech companies
  • Large franchises / restaurant / food service
  • Large manufacturing plants / construction businesses
  • Healthcare 
  • Education

It is important to note that starting and running any business can be challenging and require a significant amount of work, so it's important to do your research and fully understand the requirements before starting any venture.

And I would recommend you to do a thorough market research, Understand the Industry, Identify your target audience and define a clear strategy before starting a venture. This will help you in making informed decisions. Check out startup financial models here.

If you do have employees, here are some helpful HR management trackers and tools to use:

Article found in Startups.