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If you’ve been downsized or laid off, or you’re just looking to earn some cash on the side, the U.S. Department of Labor Statistics indicates that today’s gig economy offers a number of opportunities for flexible jobs and freelance work. You might choose to look for employment in your area of expertise or pursue money-making opportunities through a hobby or special interest. If you don’t have a preference for what you do and are just looking to make some extra dough, scope out the market to identify the best paying opportunities that work with your schedule. Writing Conversions hopes the following tips can help you get started.

 

Assessing Your Skills

Looking for a side hustle isn’t typically the same as looking for a full-time job. While your education, training and previous experience can certainly be a benefit, you also have the opportunity to consider your overall skill sets and how you might best utilize them. Start by making a list of things you’re good at, as well as things you enjoy doing. For example, do you like working with people, or do you prefer solo pursuits? Would you like to work from home, or would you rather be out in the community? Understanding your own strengths, likes and dislikes can help you narrow down the type of side jobs you want to explore.

 

Extending Your Profession

If you work in a specialized area, you might be able to parlay your existing skillset into an income-generating side gig. For example, if you’re a business manager, offering business coaching on the side is one way to go. If you’re a chef, advertising private cooking lessons or catering could be an option. If you’re a preschool teacher, private child care, nanny and tutoring services might be a good path to take. If you decide to look for work in your area of professional expertise, you can search for job leads and referrals through your professional network or industry associations, and by reaching out to current and past colleagues.

 

Monetizing Your Hobby

Many people earn extra money by turning their hobbies into small businesses. For example, if you enjoy making jewelry, you might attend arts and crafts fairs to sell your wares, or put together a small website to sell online. If you have a knack for automotive repair, offering your services as a mechanic might be a viable option. If you enjoy singing, you might find gigs working with wedding or cover bands, or even performing as a soloist in different local venues. This approach allows you to earn money while also doing something you find appealing or personally rewarding.

 

Finding Steady Work

Online job boards often have a search section related to gig, work-from-home, remote and part-time or seasonal jobs. You can create a profile detailing your services, and browse and apply for roles that are of interest. You can also hang flyers in places where people who might utilize your services congregate. For instance, if you’re an avid gardener or landscaper, putting your cards on home improvement store bulletin boards can attract business. Social media is also a good place to seek side work, as is asking family and friends to spread the word about the type of gigs you’re in the market for.

 

Whatever way you earn your side-work income, keep in mind the U.S. Internal Revenue Service requires you to pay taxes on what you make. In some cases, it can be beneficial to establish your small business as a limited liability corporation or sole proprietorship. Every state has slightly different regulations, so check your state requirements before getting started. This formalizes your business and protects you in different ways. You can also save money by filing necessary paperwork yourself, or by utilizing a formation services company. Don’t forget to keep good records, including those related to expenses, travel and business-related purchases, as these can be deducted when you file your taxes.

 

Cherie Mclaughlin —   www.couchbasedbiz.com/category/blog

Cherie Mclaughlin has been creating and growing couchbasedbiz.com since her couch was in a dorm room. Through both success and failure, she knows that all it takes to be successful is a willingness to go into it with the understanding that it’s a learn as you go process, and the boldness to step out of your comfort zone and give it a shot.