Advertise your services. Print neat, professional-looking fliers or business cards. You can post these promotional items in approved areas of schools and colleges. Consult the office staff at these institutions to verify what kind of advertising is allowed and where. You can also advertise on the Internet. Many social networking sites allow you to build a page for your business. Libraries and coffee shops can also provide advertising opportunities.
Plan where you will hold your tutoring sessions. It is a good idea to conduct tutoring in public places, rather than in your home or the home of strangers. Libraries, coffee shops and parks can provide the kind of quiet environment that is conducive to teaching and learning.
Decide what elements of algebra you are qualified to teach and be honest about your skills. Do not attempt to learn as you teach and thereby cheat your students out of the kind of expertise they are likely expecting when they hire a tutor. When prospective customers contact you, ask what concepts they need help with and be realistic about your ability to teach those topics.
Assess the value of your time and how much you will charge per hour. If the amount that you charge will be dependent on the complexity of the material, do not place rates on your advertising materials. Quote a price only after you determine what the individual needs help with and how much of your time these lessons will claim.
Research the tax implications of your tutoring business. Even if you do not become rich from your tutoring job, the government will want a cut of your earnings. Consult a tax professional regarding the kinds of records and forms you need to keep, so that you can report your earnings at income tax time.