Nobody minds some extra cash, especially in the current economic climate, with surging inflation and increasing cost of living. But where will you find this extra cash? Not all of us are lucky enough to win a lottery or receive a large inheritance from a distant relative.
Have you ever faced a situation where you’re looking up “how to apply for a loan with bad credit” despite trying your best to build your savings? If yes, it may be time to supplement your main income with a side hustle.
A side hustle, which is typically a freelance or part-time job, is a job you do in addition to your main job. It helps you earn extra income while learning new skills and gaining exposure. It’s easy to earn a few extra hundred pounds from the comfort of your home.
Are you looking to supplement your income by side hustling? Here are some popular jobs to try in your free time.
1. Selling Homemade Delicacies
Do your friends and colleagues complement your cooking? Have you always found comfort in the kitchen, whipping up gourmet delicacies or cakes for your loved ones’ birthdays? It’s time to cash in on this skill.
You can try cooking a range of homecooked delicacies, from jams and preserves to cakes and cookies, and even cater for parties. Word of mouth will be the best and most free marketing for this side business. Being active on social media will help you reach potential customers and also showcase your skills.
2. Pet Sitting or Dog Walking
Are you good with pets? Then this side hustle will appear like the dream job. Dog walking is a fun activity, and dog walkers can earn £10 per hour on average, making it a profitable and popular side job. You can walk four to six dogs simultaneously.
You can also work as a pet sitter if it’s allowed at your home (if you are staying in a rented flat) and have the necessary license. Owners can leave their cats and dogs with you while they go on a holiday. You can find gigs in your neighbourhood, among colleagues and family members, advertise on social media, or sign up at a local community centre or pet shelter.
3. Tutoring
Tutoring is a great way to add extra income; you can teach anything from language to mathematics to music. Tutors make anywhere from £15 to £50 per hour depending on their speciality. You can take classes online or offline depending on your convenience.
Mentoring is also an option, where you guide junior professionals about the industry and how to succeed professionally. There are many mentoring platforms available that help you monetise your expertise while helping others.
4. Digital Marketing
Are you good with Adobe and Photoshop? Do you have a way with words? Working as a freelance digital marketer might be the right choice for you. You can work as a content writer or marketer or become a graphic designer. It’s easy to find gigs on platforms like Fiverr or Upwork.
Once you establish credibility and have a good body of work to showcase, it’s easy to land regular assignments and generate a steady income.
5. Babysitting
Many of us have worked as babysitters during our teenage years to substantiate our pocket money. You can do the same even as a working professional. If you are good with kids and are a responsible person, this can be a great way to earn money.
Babysitters are much in demand, especially if you work as a teacher or medical professional. You can earn £20 on average; this can vary depending on where you are located, how many children you have to manage, and their age. If you help with other chores around the house, like making dinner or tutoring children, the pay can vary.
6. Participate in Online Surveys
This is an easy way to earn some extra money with minimum effort. Brands often offer free goodies, vouchers or points for participating in surveys. You can sign up on platforms such as survey sites, participate in multiple online surveys, and earn points. The points can be redeemed as vouchers on Amazon or other websites.
Mystery shopping is another popular variant of this side hustle. You need to visit physical or online stores and rate their product, customer service, or any other facet that’s being surveyed. You not only get redeemed for the product you buy but also get paid extra for the effort.
In Summary
Side hustles are increasingly becoming popular, and 43% of Brits are doing it to substantiate their income. You can earn anywhere from £200 to £900 per month from side jobs.
Before you start side hustling, it’s important to remember that you do not overexert yourself and that there is a proper work-life balance. You should also not compromise your primary work, which can lead to job loss.
Make a realistic plan to successfully navigate side hustling along with your main job. Don’t forget to save or invest the extra income earned to secure your future.