Specifically the US but I guess this could be asked anywhere.
I am not of the assumption it is actually possible for any normal person that doesn’t already have millions. The days of an honest mom and pop seem long dead (since at least the 90s, maybe 80s). Or if there are any, they are struggling to even stay afloat.
Like many, I thought I’d always want to start some sort of good business that actually serves a need. I now see that as impossible. I know people who made small niche software in the 80s, ended up making it a decent size company and retired with millions. I do not think anyone could do that today, especially with how tech is now.
I see plenty of scammy tech startups. This isnt what I’m talking about. Imagine a CNC shop starting today. They largely dont exist because no one does engine work anymore and most things are throwaway. Similar thing for any type of repair, none exist because its all throwaway. The only businesses I ever see are reselling things made by slaves in China. No one makes anything (other than 3d printed junk).
I’d be quite surprised if anyone is living decently off a real, honest business that they didnt get millions from their parents to start and that doesn’t exploit the hell out of others.
No, sorry, I meant exploit as in make a little plastic doodad for 2 cents and have people in China make it for you then sell it for $20. I don’t want that. Or have a shipping business where I pay people minimum wage etc.
I have tons of ideas. Theyre all outdated or just not viable in a few years. I really have no clue how anyone does it !
Paying minimum wage isn’t exploiting.
In some ways I guess. Just feels scummy to have someone work 8 hours and give them $70.
You don’t have to pay them low. You can make the choice to pay them above average.
If someone will work for $70 for 8 hours, unless you’re forcing them it’s not exploitation.
If you have money and others don’t and they are competing to get a job, and you pay them minimum wage, you are exploiting them. You can pay more, you can help the economy, and you refuse to. You are exploiting them because they have no choice.
Even if you can only afford to pay minimum wage?
Yes? Even if you’re literally making zero dollars off of your business you are exploiting others for work to try and make your business survive. If you can’t support them then your business is not viable.