Think about it: What’s your passion? What are some services or skills you could offer to others? What are you knowledgeable about? Remember, starting is always the most challenging part, so take all the time you need to reflect and make confident decisions.
Examples:
- Offer music lessons.
- Offer tutoring services (coding, Excel basics, etc.).
- Offer outdoor services (lawn and gardening, dog walking, painting services, etc.).
- Create products or goods (jewellery, refurbished thrift store items, etc.).
- Share your knowledge (blogging, etc.).
- Share your talent (photography business, personal trainer, etc.).
Learn as much as you can about the market or industry you’re interested in. How can you set yourself and your services apart from other entrepreneurs?
Some ways to get started:
- Get information from advertisements.
- Figure out how much other entrepreneurs are charging for their services or products.
- Determine how they’re operating virtually.
- Find out which specific audience or demographic is requesting the service or product.
One way to set yourself apart is by entering existing markets with your own unique spin on products. You can use your digital art skills to re-create portraits and print them as wallet cards for clients. Or you can use your candle-making skills to sell book-themed candles that would appeal popular fanbases.
Now, it’s time to start outlining your plan and identifying your goals! Read this CNBC article to get started: 4 steps for launching a profitable side hustle in less than a month.
Consider these questions:
- How much time are you willing to dedicate to your side gig?
- Who is your target population?
- How will you deliver your product/service?
- How will people contact you?
Now that you’ve formed a plan, think about the resources you might need to get started. Do you need to buy any materials? Are there any budget–friendly alternatives you can use?
Check out Mac’s Money Centre for budgeting tips to help you manage your finances and ensure you have what you need to get started!
It’s almost time for all the behind-the-scenes planning to pay off! Start thinking about how you can effectively market your skill, service or product to connect with your audience.
Some options to consider:
- Create some online posters. Check out our Digital Skills Series for helpful multimedia tips. Canva is another great resource to use.
- Advertise on social media. When it comes to social media and viral marketing, understanding the ins and outs of the platform you’re using becomes crucial. It is always a good idea to read up on relevant literature to figure out the best strategies for you and your business!
- Consider creating a portfolio to show your work, if applicable.
- Make a website using a free domain, such as Wix or WordPress.
- Tell your friends and family — referral marketing can be very effective!
Click “post” and put your plan out there! Remember that it will take time for the ball to start rolling, so try to stay patient! In the meantime, you can continue to improve on your skill; it can take thousands of hours to become a master at any task.
Now that you may be making some money, you need to consider how you might want to save your money. Or, maybe you’re curious about the Canadian taxing process. Mac’s Money Centre has some excellent information to help you learn how to file taxes as a student.