7 Ways to Start a Side Hustle
If you’re working a 9-to-5 but have always harbored dreams of doing something more entrepreneurial, there are numerous options for picking up some part-time hours in addition to that steady paycheck. Consider these 7 part-time gig ideas, which can be done from home or on nights/weekends. You could pick one up for extra cash or build them into a full-fledged business.
1. Online Tutoring/Teaching
Do you know how to do math? There are plenty of students out there who need help understanding it!
As an online tutor, you’ll be helping students understand everything from pre-algebra through calculus. You can work as much or as little as you want—and make a lot more money than most people think.
The average hourly rate for a private tutor is $35-$45 per hour (or more). If you can get just three hours of tutoring in per week at $35 per hour, that’s already over $1000 a month.
Anecdotally, I have heard many stories about people who have quit their jobs after just one year of teaching online full-time. So don’t underestimate what you could earn here.
2. Website Creation/Maintenance
Every business needs a website these days, but not everyone has the time or technical skills to create one.
If you do have some experience with WordPress, Weebly, Wix or another site builder platform, why not start charging businesses to build them a custom site?
You’ll still be able to work your 9-to-5 job while creating sites in your free time; eventually it could turn into a full-time gig for yourself.
3. Writing/Editing
Almost every small business owner today has something they wish they could write better. From content marketing pieces to press releases, white papers and ebooks, good writing is essential for getting any company noticed in today’s noisy marketplace.
If you’re a writer, editor or proofreader, offer your services to local companies and see if they’re willing to pay for your expertise. Start by asking friends and family members if they know anyone who might need your services.
4. Graphic Design
With so many different types of graphic design available (logo design, print ads, brochures, etc.), starting a graphic design side hustle is an excellent way to stay busy while also earning extra income.
If you’ve got a knack for visual arts, consider offering your services to local clients. However, if you’re not quite ready to jump in with both feet, try a site like Fiverr , where you can offer your graphic design skills for just $5.
5. Virtual Assistant
Sometimes entrepreneurs and other professionals simply don’t have enough hours in their day to get everything done. If you’re a highly organized, efficient person who can juggle multiple tasks and projects, you may have what it takes to be a virtual assistant.
In exchange for your services, you can ask for an hourly wage or a flat fee for each project. If you’re just getting started, try Elance or Upwork to connect with potential employers.
6. Transcription
If typing is your thing, transcribing audio files could be a great part-time gig for you. Whether you’re transcribing a podcast, an interview or a speech, you can set your own hours and work from anywhere.
Try transcribing on Rev for a quick and easy way to get started.
7. Event Planning
If you’re outgoing and enjoy meeting new people, event planning could be a great part-time gig for you.
Whether it’s planning weddings or corporate events, event planners bring together everything their client needs to execute an event.
