Starting a Side Hustle that Works for You
By Rodeena Stephens
Do you have a 9-to-5 job, as well as a side hustle? If the answer is yes, you’re not alone: According to a recent article on CNN.com, more than 44 million Americans have a side hustle.
Studies show the initial reason for starting a side hustle is out of necessity for extra cash. However, there are many benefits to having a side hustle, such as learning new skills, building a network, expanding your brand and landing your dream job.
We had the opportunity to connect with Mandy Carr, freelance journalist and founder of the blog PrimeTimeAddiction.com. Mandy shared insight on how to use your side hustle to land your dream job.
What is/was your side hustle?
I have a blog about TV shows that I’ve been doing for almost 5 years now. It’s called Primetime Addiction.
What are the benefits of having a side hustle?
If you don’t have the job you want at the moment, you can do what you love and continue to build on your skills.
How do you get your side hustle noticed?
Do the things you would do in the job you want in your side hustle to be able to talk about those things in a job interview.
Top tips for networking your side hustle?
If you are still trying to break into your career, you can use your side hustle to enhance your elevator pitch. You can talk about your skills and aspirations without saying you are unemployed or not yet situated in your dream job.
How is your side hustle useful for your job search?
It helps you build your skills and gives you professional talking points in job interviews and while networking.
Should you continue your side hustle after you land your dream job?
That depends on your job, the time you have on hand and what you want from your side hustle right now. I want to continue growing my blog; it’s something for me. You have to decide what’s right for you.
How can you balance side hustle and work?
Be realistic about your time and energy levels. Create a schedule that you can maintain long-term. It’s better to have quality than quantity. We’re all learning how to balance our careers with our lives, so you can always change your side hustle.
Mandy also suggests that you enjoy your side hustle and that you make it work for you.
