If you've been stuck at home during the pandemic, it's a great time for you to get another gig going to keep paying the bills, and/or make extra money. Even if you've worked through the pandemic, it's still a great time to get out of your normal routine and pick-up another source of income for better financial well-being. Not sure how to go about it? Check-out five ways to get a side hustle during the pandemic!
#1: Sell Stuff Online
This is a super easy side hustle idea. If you've never sold stuff online, it's definitely an experience everyone needs to try at least once, and it can be very profitable. Some people are well suited for marketing and selling things online, from personal items they no longer use, unwanted gifts, garage sale bargains, and beyond, to purchasing items bulk or wholesale with the intent of reselling them.
If you're not sure what to sell, take an inventory of things around your home and in closets that aren't being used, or clothing that you haven't worn in years. Make sure to do some research on any vintage or antique items. You might find that something you've had for a long time is actually worth a mint!
This is also a perfect time to sell stuff online, with so many businesses closed or low on stock or with strange hours and social distancing requirements. More than ever, people are turning to online shops to meet all of their wants and needs, from essential items to frivolous and luxury items. There are many places to sell your stuff online, but eBay is a good place to start!
#2: Sell Your Service
Many businesses who offer services have closed or have limited hours, decreased labor, and/or other issues resulting from COVID-19. If you have a service to offer, think of a way to offer the service in such a way that is safe for people, such as providing the service when they aren't home, or offering increased sanitation and safety.
It may be a good idea to brainstorm the types of services you have available. Keep an open mind with brainstorming, but don't be afraid to get your foot in the door with a traditional service either. There are always side-hustles available for mechanic work, handyman work, lawn work, or maid services!
Once you figure out what service to sell, use all of your options, from Craigslist to community bulletin boards.
#3: Create & Sell
Do you remember a time when you wanted to devote yourself to creating something? Maybe you wanted to be a painter, or make homemade baskets, cookies, or soap!
Being creative is excellent for mental and emotional well-being, and once you start creating stuff regularly, you can take the time to build up your inventory of handmade items, and then sell what you create locally or online. Flea-markets, local markets, and trade shows are starting to open back-up in many places, and these locally-owned venues are always a great option for selling handmade items.
#4: Check-Out Online Job Boards to Find a Side Hustle
If you want a side hustle that's less entrepreneurial, check-out online job boards like Indeed. Many companies are hiring for remote and part-time work, as well as contract work and one-time gigs. As things continue to change during the pandemic, you never know what might be needed during this time!
#5: Check with Former Employers
You may have had a former employer you enjoyed working for and left on good terms, but that you quit for a better opportunity or change of pace. Consider whether you might enjoy working for them again and if so, give them a call and see what they have available for you.
Regardless of which way you decide to go, side hustles provide extra income, and they're excellent to help build financial stability over time!