If you’ve built up experience in your career and you’re ready for a side hustle, you’ve got two paths: start your own business or use a platform that connects people to gigs. Starting something from scratch can be really rewarding, but riskier. Using a platform is easier to jump into, and there are thousands out there offering short-term jobs, contract work, or focus groups.
If you’re mid-career, you can often charge more. Kathy Kristof from SideHusl.com says you could earn $50 to $100 an hour doing things like consulting or tutoring. Just be smart about start-up costs. Don’t sink too much money upfront, especially if you’re still thinking about retirement goals.
But don’t let age keep you from starting something. Whether you think you are too young or old, don’t let it hold you back from pursuing a new method for earning income.
The people who succeed in side hustles usually stay connected to what they enjoy. For instance, if you fell in love with magic as a kid, become a performer for corporate events. Have fun while maintaining your business.
Or maybe you’re an at-home mom and can use your skills to assist others in their homes such as food preparation, errand service, or home organization.
Marketing is key too. You’ll spend just as much time getting your name out to the public as you do performing the actual work. Think word of mouth, Facebook groups, and local press. It all adds up to helping you market your services.
So, if you’re pondering a side hustle, don’t overthink it. Use your experience, follow what feels good, and lean into what makes you different.
