11 side hustle ideas: earn more money and gain valuable experience without quitting your job

Woman doing a side hustle business

Side hustles are a great way to earn extra income, gain valuable experience and build your resume. Plus, you don’t need to quit your job to do them. This article will give you eleven of the best side hustle ideas to start even if you have a full-time job. From marketing your side business to finding time to work on it, this article will give you all the tips you will need to start and succeed with your side business. 

What is a side hustle?

A side hustle, or a side business, is any side project or activity that one engages in to earn additional income on top of their day-to-day job. It is a great way to make extra money while maintaining a regular work schedule and other commitments. Additionally, people with side hustle gain valuable experience and skills since most side businesses involve some level of entrepreneurial activity.

Side hustles can take many forms and are often based on the skills and interests that a person already has. For example, some side hustlers might start their online shop, sell handmade crafts on Etsy, or launch a freelance writing or editing business. Others might use their expertise as web developers or graphic designers to offer consulting services in their spare time. Whatever form it takes, side hustles are an essential part of today’s economy and workforce: 45% of working people in the US have a side hustle.

11 of the best side hustle ideas

Sell old items

If you are looking for a side business to bring in extra cash, consider selling the old items that you no longer need or use online. Many potential buyers would be happy to take your old items off your hands, whether it is unwanted clothing, unneeded furniture, or outdated electronics. And best of all, this side hustle requires little time and effort on your part. With just a few simple steps – such as posting listings online, meeting with potential buyers in person, or shipping packages to customers – you can start making extra cash by selling off your old belongings.

There are countless platforms available where you can list your used goods and connect with buyers who are looking to save money on their purchases. Popular options include websites like eBay and Craigslist and online marketplaces like Amazon or Etsy. You can quickly turn your side hustle into a successful side business by selling your unwanted items online. You will be able to make some extra cash, but you will also have the opportunity to clear out space in your home while helping others find what they need.

YouTube video

Make and sell products

One of the most common ways to start a side hustle is making and selling products. It can be anything from arts and crafts to handmade jewelry or even baked goods. The key to success is finding a niche market and then creating high-quality products that meet the needs of that market. Of course, it takes time and effort to get a side business off the ground, but the potential rewards make it worth the investment.

In general, you will go through the following steps:

  1. Do some research. Figure out what products are in demand and determine your niche market. And make sure your niche is a topic you are genuinely passionate about.
  2. Find a supplier. Once you know what products you want to sell, find a reliable supplier who can provide you with high-quality merchandise at a reasonable price.
  3. Create a website or online store. This is how potential customers will find your products. Make sure your website is professional and easy to navigate.
  4. Promote your business. Use social media, online advertising, and word-of-mouth to spread the word about your side hustle.

Sell online courses

Another option worth considering as a side hustle is selling online courses. With the growth of the internet and e-learning platforms like Udemy or SkillShare, there has never been a better time to start your side hustle in online course creation.

You can use many different strategies to get started and attract new students, from leveraging social media to building relationships with influencers in your field. Regardless of which approach you choose, a few key ingredients will help your side business succeed, such as developing high-quality content and strategically marketing your courses.

In addition, suppose you are willing to invest the time and energy necessary to succeed in this area. In that case, selling online courses can be an enriching endeavor that can help pay for a more comfortable lifestyle or fund other side businesses down the road. Just remember that it requires consistent effort and dedication.

YouTube video

Offer a freelance service

Whether you are a web developer, graphic designer, or writer, people always need your skills. And thanks to platforms such as Upwork, Fiverr, or Freelancer, it’s easier than ever to connect with potential clients worldwide.

If you are organized and prepared, you can make a success of your freelance venture. First, figure out what services you’re going to offer and your rates. Then create an online portfolio or website where potential clients can learn more about you and your work. Finally, start marketing yourself through social media and online job boards. If you put in the effort, you’ll be surprised how quickly your freelance business takes off!

Be an Uber driver

Becoming an Uber driver can be a great side hustle for anyone looking to earn additional income. Unlike many other side businesses, there is no need to invest in special equipment or supplies. You can start making money as soon as you sign up.

In addition, you will have the flexibility to set your schedule, choosing when and where to drive based on your availability and preferences. As an Uber driver, you will be able to connect with a wide range of different customers from all walks of life, allowing you to build connections and experience new things while earning some extra cash. If you are looking for a side business with great potential for growth and flexibility, becoming an Uber driver might be a perfect choice.

Be a personal coach

Do you love helping people reach their full potential? Do you have a passion for coaching and mentoring? If so, starting a side hustle as a personal coach could be the perfect way to earn some extra income.

As a personal coach, you would help your clients set and achieve their goals, whether it is getting in shape, quitting smoking, or advancing their career. You would work with them to create an action plan and hold them accountable for taking steps towards their goals. This will require you to be a good listener and have excellent communication skills. You will also need to be patient and compassionate. If you have these qualities and are interested in helping others, becoming a personal coach may be the perfect side hustle.

Start a blog

Starting a blog can be a great side hustle for anyone looking to make extra money. Blogging can be a relatively low-cost, low-commitment way to earn additional income. It also allows you to tap into what you’re most passionate about and share your knowledge with others.

To get started, you’ll need to choose a topic or niche for your blog and determine how frequently you’ll publish new content. Then, once you’ve launched your site, be sure to drive traffic and engagement by incorporating effective SEO strategies and engaging with your audience on social media.

There are many different ways to monetize a blog, from displaying advertisements on your site to selling digital products or services or even affiliate marketing. With these steps, you’ll be well on your way to building a successful and profitable side hustle through blogging!

YouTube video

Be a food delivery person

With the rise of food delivery apps, there has never been a better time to start a side hustle as a food delivery person. Unlike traditional businesses, there are very few startup costs associated with this type of business. All you need is a reliable vehicle and a smartphone. Plus, you can set your hours and work as much or as little as you want.

Several companies will hire drivers to deliver meals to customers, such as Uber Eats, Deliveroo, or Just Eat. If you’re thinking about starting a food delivery business, you should keep a few things in mind. First, you’ll need to have a reliable vehicle with enough space to transport the food. Secondly, you’ll need to be familiar with the area you’ll be delivering in. And finally, you’ll need to be able to work quickly and efficiently. Working as a food delivery person may be the perfect side hustle for you if you can meet these requirements.

A food delivery driver

Be a tour guide

If you are looking for a side hustle that is both fun and lucrative, becoming a tour guide may be ideal. As a tour guide, your job will be to help groups of tourists explore your city or region and learn about its unique history, culture, and archeological sites.

To excel in this role, you’ll need strong communication skills and an ability to connect with different types of people. You will also need knowledge of local landmarks and familiarity with public transportation options in the area. But with a bit of planning and preparation, becoming a tour guide can be a gratifying side business that allows you to help visitors explore your hometown or travel destination. Additionally, as a tour guide, you will have the chance to build connections with people from all walks of life and gain valuable experiences in customer service.

A tour guide in Japan – Photo by Kentaro Toma on Unsplash

Dropshipping

Dropshipping has emerged as a viable option for many entrepreneurs in recent years. Dropshipping is a business model in which businesses sell products without carrying any inventory. Instead, when a customer orders a product, the business contacts the supplier, who then ships the product directly to the customer.

Dropshipping has several benefits, including low startup costs, minimal risk, and it can be done entirely online. In addition, Dropshipping allows businesses to focus on marketing and sales, as they do not have to worry about inventory management or fulfillment. As a result, dropshipping can be an ideal side hustle for those looking to add another income stream.

Rent your room on Airbnb

As a side hustle, renting your room on Airbnb can be a great way to earn some extra income. Whether you are looking to turn your spare bedroom into a short-term vacation rental or rent out an empty space in your home, Airbnb offers a platform for connecting with potential guests.

In addition to providing you with valuable tools and resources for setting up your listing and managing bookings, Airbnb also provides security features that help to ensure the safety of both you and your guests. Thanks to its growing popularity, Airbnb is an excellent option for anyone looking to start their own side business and make some extra money on the side. Not to mention that it can also offer unique opportunities for personal growth and professional development.

Should you mention your side hustle business on your resume?

There is no definitive answer to whether you should mention your side hustle business on your resume. Some people feel that highlighting a side venture demonstrates initiative and ambition. In contrast, others suggest that including side businesses can undermine the professionalism and focus of a resume.

Ultimately, what matters most when considering whether to include your side business on your resume is how relevant it is to the position you are applying for. If the job you are seeking involves marketing or sales, for example, then it may be appropriate to highlight any related experience. On the other hand, if your side business involves a skill that would not typically be relevant to the advertised role, it may be best to leave it out of your resume entirely.

In any case, regardless of whether you choose to mention your side hustle on your resume, make sure that you have solid evidence demonstrating that you have the skills and experience required for the position at hand.

Conclusion

We have got you covered if you are looking for some side hustle business ideas. Note that we did not mention some of the most lucrative side hustles, such as trading, selling NFTs, or investing in real estate. Indeed, these ideas can be profitable, but they also require a good expertise, otherwise, you may end up losing more than what you invested.

Before you get too excited and start working on your side business, remember that there are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure your side hustle is something you are passionate about – you don’t want it to feel like work. Second, be strategic about how and when you mention your side hustle business on your resume. As a general rule, it is preferable not to do it unless it is related to the job you are applying for. Finally, always consult with an expert before making any big decisions. We hope these tips help jumpstart your journey towards entrepreneurship!

Responses