Freelance Writing
Getting Started
Starting a freelance writing gig is one of the easiest and most affordable side hustles you can jump into. All you need is a computer, access to the internet, and a knack for writing. Websites like Upwork and Fiverr are great places to land your first few gigs.
When I started freelance writing, I literally just set up a profile and began to look for job postings that matched my interests and skills. Write a killer pitch explaining why you’re the best fit for the job. Make sure to include any past writing samples you might have.
The cool thing about freelance writing is that you can choose projects that you are passionate about, making the work feel less like a job and more like a hobby. Plus, you can start making money relatively quickly.
Building a Portfolio
Your first few projects might not pay much, but they’re essential for building a portfolio. Once you have a few good pieces, create a simple blog or website to showcase your work. This makes it easier to attract better clients moving forward.
When I first started, I put my work on a free platform like Medium. You can also guest post on other blogs to get more visibility. The more credible and high-quality your portfolio, the better clients you’ll attract.
Once you have a solid portfolio, you can start pitching to higher-paying clients. And don’t forget to ask your satisfied clients for testimonials to further bolster your credibility.
Setting Rates and Getting Paid
Now, let’s talk money. It can be tricky to set your rates when you’re just starting out, but a good rule of thumb is to start with a lower rate and gradually increase it as you gain more experience. Don’t sell yourself short, but also be realistic about what newcomers can charge.
Most freelance platforms have built-in payment systems, making it easy to get paid. I prefer using PayPal for more direct payments because it’s quick and generally hassle-free.
Always have a contract, even if it’s just through email, outlining payment terms and deadlines. This helps keep everything above board and ensures you get paid for your hard work.
Handmade Crafts
Choosing Your Craft
Handmade crafts can be a fantastic side hustle, especially if you have a talent for creating things. Whether it’s knitting, jewelry making, or woodworking, the key is to find something you love to make that others will love to buy.
When I started out, I experimented with a few different crafts—candles, soap, and greeting cards—before I found my niche. The important thing is to start small and see what resonates with people.
Go to local craft fairs or look at online marketplaces like Etsy to see what’s popular and how much similar items sell for. This will give you a good idea of what to create and how to price your goods.
Setting Up an Online Shop
Setting up an online shop is easier than ever. Platforms like Etsy, eBay, and even Facebook Marketplace offer user-friendly interfaces that make selling handmade crafts a breeze.
When I created my first Etsy shop, I was amazed at how intuitive the process was. You’ll need some good photos of your products, clear descriptions, and competitive pricing to attract buyers.
Using social media to drive traffic to your shop can be very effective. Post pictures of your work in progress, share customer reviews, and engage with your audience to build a loyal customer base.
Pricing and Profit
Pricing your handmade crafts can be tricky because you want to cover the costs of materials and labor while still making a profit. Start by calculating how much it costs to make each item, then mark it up to ensure you’re making a profit.
When I first started selling handmade cards, I made sure to track all my expenses down to the last cent. Then I added a fair markup to make sure it was worth my time.
Remember, people are willing to pay more for quality, handmade items. Don’t undervalue your work. Once you have a few sales under your belt, you can adjust prices based on demand and feedback.
Pet Sitting and Dog Walking
Finding Clients
If you love animals, pet sitting and dog walking can be an incredibly rewarding and low-cost side hustle. Start by reaching out to friends and family who might need someone to look after their pets while they’re away.
When I first started, I made some simple flyers and posted them around my neighborhood. I also used apps like Rover and Wag! to connect with pet owners in my area.
Word of mouth is powerful in this business. Once you get a couple of clients, ask them to refer you to their friends and take advantage of any review systems on the apps or websites you use.
Caring for Pets
Being a pet sitter or dog walker involves more than just feeding and walking pets. You need to genuinely enjoy being around animals and understand their needs. Make sure you’re prepared for all kinds of weather and have the energy for those longer walks.
I always make sure to meet the pet and owner beforehand to discuss any specific needs, such as medication or behavior issues. This helps build trust and ensures everything goes smoothly.
Being punctual and reliable is key. Pet owners are trusting you with a member of their family, so make it a point to always show up on time and provide top-notch care.
Maximizing Earnings
Maximize your earnings by offering additional services such as grooming, training, or overnight stays. Understanding and catering to the pet’s specific needs can justify higher rates and lead to more job offers.
When I began, I offered a discount for new clients and ran a referral program. This was extremely effective in getting my first few clients and building a regular client base.
Keep track of your earnings and expenses to understand how profitable your venture is. Use this information to adjust your rates and services offered to continually maximize your bottom line.
Online Tutoring
Choosing a Subject
Online tutoring can be a lucrative side hustle, especially if you have expertise in a particular subject. It could be anything from mathematics, sciences, languages, or even test preparation.
When I decided to start tutoring online, I chose subjects I was passionate about and had a strong understanding of. This made the tutoring sessions not only effective but also enjoyable for both me and the students.
Start by identifying which subjects you excel in and would enjoy teaching. There’s always a demand for tutors in math, science, and languages, but niche subjects can also find a loyal following.
Finding Students
Finding students doesn’t have to be complicated. Websites like Tutor.com, Chegg Tutors, and Wyzant can help you connect with students in need of help. Creating a social media presence can also be a great way to attract students.
When I started, I made a simple website and shared it on community boards and social media groups. Word spread, and I quickly had a steady stream of students.
Offer a free introductory session to showcase your tutoring skills and get potential clients comfortable with your teaching style. This initial investment can pay off in long-term commitments.
Maximizing Your Impact
Maximize your impact by focusing on your students’ individual needs. Each student learns differently, so adapting your teaching style to fit each one is crucial.
When tutoring, I always ask my students about their learning goals and any specific areas they are struggling with. This helps me tailor my sessions to be as effective as possible.
Provide regular progress updates and be available for questions outside of scheduled tutoring sessions. This extra effort can make a significant difference in your students’ success and your reputation as a top-notch tutor.
FAQ About Low-Cost Side Hustles You Can Start with $100 or Less
1. What are some easy side hustles to start with $100 or less?
Some easy side hustles to start with $100 or less include freelance writing, handmade crafts, pet sitting and dog walking, and online tutoring. Each of these can be started with minimal upfront investment and can scale based on your dedication and effort.
2. How quickly can I start making money with these side hustles?
The time it takes to start making money can vary. Freelance writing and online tutoring can often provide quick returns as you can find clients fairly quickly. For handmade crafts, it might take some time to build a customer base, and pet sitting may also require some initial networking to find clients.
3. Do I need any special skills to start these side hustles?
While having specific skills can be beneficial, many of these side hustles can be learned with some dedication and effort. For instance, freelance writing requires good communication skills, handmade crafts need some level of creativity, pet sitting requires a love for animals, and online tutoring needs knowledge in a specific subject.
4. Can these side hustles become full-time jobs?
Absolutely! Many people start these as side hustles and gradually build them into full-time jobs. The key is to provide excellent service, build a loyal client base, and continuously improve your skills and offerings. With time and dedication, any of these side hustles can potentially become a full-time career.