Starting a side hustle is becoming increasingly popular among people of all ages and backgrounds. In fact, 44% of Americans who are employed full-time also work on freelance projects. With the right approach, seasonal side hustles can be a great way to supplement your income, gain business experience, and even explore whole new career paths. Startups are a great option for those looking to get their foot in the door when it comes to side hustles.
Particularly in the current economy, combining a full-time job with freelance work is a great idea for many reasons. Not only does it provide financial security and stability when job opportunities may be limited, but it can also open up new job opportunities and income streams as well. As a freelancer, you can have more control over your schedule and workload and can adjust your hours according to your full-time job. This way take on extra projects when they need additional money.
There are also tax benefits to having multiple sources of income that can be very helpful in an uncertain economy. For example, if you are an independent contractor, your income is generally considered self-employment income, and you can deduct many expenses you incur from your taxes. Additionally, having a portfolio of freelance work may make a person more attractive to potential employers if they ever decide to look for a different job.
Now that we’ve summarized why seasonal side hustles are great, let’s go through a few examples and share tips to help you easily find such opportunities.
10 Examples Of Seasonal Side Hustles To Try
Here are ten seasonal side hustles that promise instant success for hard-working enthusiasts:
- Online Coaching
- Shopping Services
- Food Delivery
- Event Planning
- Business Consultant
- Drop shipping
- Travel & Tourism
- Personal Chef/Catering Services
- Home Cleaning Services
- Freelance Tutoring
1. Online Coaching
With advances in technology and connectivity, providing remote guidance or advice has become an increasingly viable option for entrepreneurs. Consider offering online coaching or consulting on topics such as business planning or operations management during the holiday season when many people are looking for extra support. Make sure you can demonstrate your skills and experience clearly – a professional portfolio will build customer trust and increase your chances of getting more business.
2. Shopping Services
Whether it’s grocery shopping, holiday gift buying or clothes shopping, such services are always in demand during the holiday season! Take advantage of this opportunity by providing a concierge service to busy families who want to avoid the crowds. You can set up your own website and let customers book services online or through a mobile app.
3. Food Delivery
Any holiday is related to busy times in restaurants and catering companies, so offering your services as a food delivery person can be an excellent way to make some extra cash. You can work with local eateries that offer delivery options or sign up with a platform like DoorDash.
4. Event Planning
For entrepreneurs with an eye for detail and organizational skills, event planning is an excellent seasonal side hustle idea. You can use the off-season times to plan events such as corporate retreats and conferences, holiday parties, fundraisers, and more for local businesses or nonprofits.
5. Business Consultant
Many small businesses need help with marketing, operations management, compliance regulations, budgeting, etc., but don’t have enough resources to hire full-time staff members. Take advantage of this opportunity by offering your services as a freelance consultant on a project basis over the holidays or during the summer when companies often lack internal personnel due to staff downsizing.
6. Drop Shipping
The drop shipping model has been gaining traction over the past few years and offers entrepreneurs immense potential during any season (but particularly good returns during the holidays). Drop shipping involves selling products without having to physically hold inventory—making it perfect for those who want to start a business without investing large amounts of capital upfront.
7. Travel & Tourism
As many people look forward to taking vacations during their holidays, there’s no better time, use your travel expertise to help them out. Become a freelance travel agent specializing in planning holiday trips or act as an advisor helping travelers choose economical yet luxurious destinations—the possibilities here are endless!
8. Personal Chef/Catering Services
For culinarians and food enthusiasts looking for short-term gigs during holiday seasons —consider providing personal chef services or catering services to nearby restaurants. Also, stay on the lookout for households who plan on hosting large family gatherings over the holidays where cooking may not be an option due to their busy schedules.
9. Home Cleaning Services
Cleaning may be difficult to fit into a busy person’s schedule so such services are always in demand, especially in big cities. With proper marketing, home cleaning services can prove very lucrative especially amongst professionals wanting their homes spick-and-span even at short notice! In terms of supplies, all you need are some cleaning products and a mop (as most households would already have a vacuum cleaner).
10. Freelance Tutoring
During the holiday season, many parents often look for tutors who can help their children catch up with their studies or prepare them for upcoming exams. Put your teaching skills to use by advertising yourself as an experienced freelance tutor on various websites and social media platforms. You can even specialize in specific subjects such as Maths, English, Science or any other language that you are proficient in.
Final Thoughts
No matter which route you decide to take with your seasonal side hustle venture —start early. Research opportunities in your area so that you can determine which type of seasonal service best suits you both professionally and financially. Then, focus on creating effective marketing campaigns promoting your newfound venture so you can reap maximum benefits from starting from scratch!