2020 Mar 4
The ongoing pandemic has us confined to our homes, and with some of us facing salary cuts and layoffs, financials are a niggling source of worry. A side hustle is a type of employment that some people undertake in addition to their full time job for earning a supplementary income and is a profitable way to earn some extra bucks, even if you have your day job.
These six ideas for lucrative side hustles are the ideal fit for any schedule or skillset.
1. Freelance Writing
Freelance writing typically involves writing for more than one client and being paid per assignment or batch of assignments. The nature of writing and the service required may depend on what you are interested in or based on your skillset. These different types of writing include:
- SEO Writing: Providing optimised content that tops online search engines.
- Blogging: Writing content for blogs and other community based platforms.
- Content Strategising: Managing content with a focus on creativity and originality.
- Ghostwriting: Writing content on behalf of someone else with the credit going to the company or business that hired you.
- Content Writing: Focuses on all kinds of content (i.e. blogs, digital platforms,
magazines, websites, etc.).
Consider choosing only one of the above categories, such as blog writing, for starters. From big businesses to start ups, most companies are in need of some type of content. So look out for freelance writing opportunities posted online, in the newspapers or on company websites. As an alternative, you can also consider writing to prospective companies or businesses about your availability and services in freelance writing. Most clients request for a few of your writing samples to assess your capability and writing style so preparing a few sample content in advance would come in handy.
2. Tutoring
Although schools and universities are conducting online lectures and handing out assignments virtually, it can be hard for students to concentrate and to allow for optimal studying time. It is still important for them to stay on top of their syllabuses and this is where you can help!
Becoming a tutor can be a fairly lucrative side hustle, especially if you are an undergrad, recent grad or are still in touch with the academic field. If you are good at teaching and are passionate about a certain subject, online tutoring might just be an ideal solution to earn some extra cash.
Firstly, figure out your niche. Which subjects did you excel at in school? Apart from conducting online classes, do you prefer home visits or having students come to you? Which grades can you tutor? Have your determined your hourly rates? Note that it is important to take your tutoring job seriously as parents of students expect results since they pay you. Understand their expectations and plan your lessons in advance so students receive the optimum benefits from the extra help they get from you. The best ways to get started are to spread the word to your friends and family, give out business cards, hang flyers and provide handouts to potential students or their parents. You can also make use of social media and make a posting online. Lastly, remember to always stay on track and be consistent in your teaching and lesson delivery!
Tip: Your niche does not always have to be an exam or school based subject. If you happen to be a pro at anything worth teaching, such as chess, a language, sewing, designing – the sky’s the limit; it would help to consider these options too.
3. Home Baking
This is an ideal time for you to perfect your craft or to try out new, unique recipes. While baking cakes and other confectionery can be fun, remember that a proper business plan and other tasks such as costing also come into the equation. Also, though making deliveries personally can prove to be a struggle, you could opt to employ a third party delivery service.
Begin by figuring out different recipes (pick a few unique ones so you stand out from the rest!) and their costs. Be realistic about the time and energy you are able to commit to a home baking side hustle and the amount of ingredients you will have to buy. After mapping out a business plan, get the word out by advertising your business along with what you offer and your rates.
Instagram is the perfect medium for getting the word out, and with its image-friendly interface, feel free to show off your creativity and style with pictures and videos. Once the current restrictions are lifted, consider making a few sample desserts for your friends and family and offering them a taste. Aim to build a network of clients thereon.
Since we are all at home, why not branch into something new? Try your hand at these quick recipes that you can easily make at home!
4. Selling Handmade / DIY Products
If you are an artsy or creative person with a passion for D.I.Y (Do It Yourself) crafts, this might just be the perfect side gig for you. What is wonderful about this kind of job is that there is no limit to what you can create! From quirky handmade greeting cards, gift boxes and interior décor to custom badges, t-shirts and even phone covers – the list is endless. Begin by figuring out your style and which products you would like to create or upscale. Remember to be realistic, and make use of discarded items so your business would also be environmentally friendly and sustainable.
During this time, since delivering your goods personally might be a challenge, you could approach businesses such as bakeries or flower shops and have one of your handmade greeting cards sent out with a cake or a bouquet of flowers. Do some research and try to figure out which types of products are ‘in’ right now and take some time to understand the market and your target group.
Promote your products on Instagram and other social media platforms or consider putting up or sharing a stall at a flea market, once the current restrictions are lifted. The Good Market and pop-up shops that take place during various times of the year are also excellent options. Alongside, you can opt for selling them at different stores by paying vendors a commission.
5. Translating
Businesses, companies and non-profits are often in need of translation services. If you speak two or more languages fluently and have some spare time to provide translation services, this might be the gig for you. A few transferrable skills such as being good at communication, meeting deadlines and an eye for detail will come in handy.
A unique aspect of this type of side hustle is the importance of positioning yourself as a reliable and trustworthy translator. This comes with establishing a good rapport with clients, maintaining professionalism, delivering expected results and being consistent. Your reliability will be a key factor that drives your business forward and increases word-of-mouth referrals. Your rates can be calculated on a per-word, per-hour or per-project basis, depending on the requirement. As an additional step, have a tabulated version of your rates ready to provide to prospective clients.
6. Photography
Turning your passion for photography into a side hustle is a great way to earn some extra income. With a suitable camera and an eye for photography, you could sell your photos to websites, newspaper or magazines. Publication companies are always on the lookout for newsworthy photographs.
Once the current restrictions are lifted, you have the following options:
- Working with clients. From product shoots to portraits, advertising your services based on what you are good at will connect you with the right clients.
- Covering special events. Get hired as a photographer for special events such as weddings, product launches, birthdays and other social gatherings.
Regardless of what you choose to do, always keep a portfolio of your best work at reach in order to prove your skills and professionalism to prospective clients.
There is no doubt that it is a tough time for everybody, be it concerning financials or motivation to be productive. It is important that we all stay focused and find effective solutions to our problems. Keeping our brains active and earning some extra cash can go a long way in keeping our spirits up. Until next time, stay safe and stay productive!
