Creating extra streams of revenue is the way to go if you want to stay on top of your money game. Not only are side hustles a great way to make extra cash, but they could help you develop new skills, make for great “bridge gigs” when you’re in between jobs, or provide a refreshing change from your day job.
In the past few years I’ve made extra money by copyediting art mags and self-published novels; copywriting in the beauty, art, and tech industries; catsitting; helping out with my friends’ businesses like an art gallery and Etsy store; and test proctoring at a local university.
My love for making extra money probably started in middle school when my best friend and I wanted to save for a summer shopping spree. I made flyers and offered my help to my neighbors and watered their lawns, walked their dogs, and organized a yard sale. There’s a feeling of immense joy and power when you have extra money that you can put toward anything you want (even if it’s toward debt or bills).
Here’s how you build multiple streams of income and master the art of the side hustle:
Pick your passion.
There are a gazillion different things you can do to bring in extra income every month. For service-related tasks there’s TaskRabbit. If you’ve got a creative bent, there’s Fiverr, 99Designs, and Etsy. Try doing something you love or something that breaks you free from your humdrum routine. If you love pets but can’t have dogs at your place, take up dog walking. If you love to drive, be an Lyft or Sidecar driver. Have a knack for flower arranging? Work at a florist during Hallmark card holidays. Who knows, your side income could potentially turn into your main gig one day.
Try something new.
I’ve long fantasized about being so wealthy that I can work random seasonal jobs such as See’s Candies or at an ice cream shop. I’m sure I’m glamorizing it, but there’s something neat about being a fish out of water and doing something you’ve never done before. You could easily hate it, but it’s very low commitment and there’s not too much risk involved to try.
Get those rave reviews.
In this “Era of Yelp,” reviews will make or break you. Build a positive reputation and gain cred by asking your clients to write a sterling recommendation on your Linkedin profile or online store. To build your client base, you can do a free trial for your friends in exchange for a review.
Ask your friends.
Sometimes the best opportunities are right underneath your nose. Most of my side hustles came from referrals, and it could be as simple as reaching out to your contacts via Facebook or Twitter and letting people you’re available for handiwork, being a virtual assistant, whatever.
Offer tiered pricing.
Figure out at least 2–3 different packages for your services to your customers’ needs and budgets. By having this stuff figured out, it will keep things simple and up the odds on getting hired.
Throw something in for free.
Whether it’s a small discount for repeat customers or a free download to an ebook you wrote, people love freebies, and anything you can have to offer will up your game. It doesn’t have to be a tangible item either. You can offer a two-for-one deal, or if you are providing moving services and have a van, let them know you’ll also be providing the means of transport.
So don’t hate the game. Master it. With a little bit of planning and effort, you’ll master the art of side hustling in no time.
