Are you a social media expert with some time to spare? Or perhaps you’re a photography enthusiast who wants to break into the lucrative wedding market?
If you have a professional skill or passion that’s not being used to its full potential, it might be time to consider setting up your very own side gig. Just follow our guide to find out how.
Evaluate your skills
Your side gig should be something that you are passionate about. You’ll also need to have relevant skills and industry knowledge. For example, if you’re a musician you could perform in local bars and clubs at the weekend. If you have design skills you could design logos and brand identities outside of working hours. Play to your strengths. If you’re lacking expertise, now is the perfect time to upskill.
Start with a plan
First things first, you need to make a business plan. It can be pretty basic to start with. Include things like, who’s my customer? How will I attract business? What are my costs? Do I want this to be a side gig forever or develop it into a full-on business?
Once you have the basics down, developing your brand will be much easier.
Find your first customer
Validate your side gig idea with a paying customer before getting too far into the business. You might think that you have a perfect idea but if nobody wants your product or service, the resources you invest in building it will just go down the drain.
Build your brand
In order to be successful, you’ll need to differentiate yourself from the competition. Focus on your Unique Selling Point (USP). What makes you better than the other brands out there?
Next, you’ll need to create a polished web presence which includes a work email and website. This will show your customers that you’re serious.
Be ready for change
The business that you start out to build may not look the same after six months or even a year. In order to run a successful side gig, you need to be adaptable.
Listen to customer feedback and look out for gaps in the market. Continually tweak your product until both you and your customers are happy with it. It should be an on-going process.
Know your limits
A side gig can be exciting and all-consuming. However, it’s important that you don’t let it take over your whole life. You still need time to rest and relax otherwise you run the risk of burning out.
