Article by guest author June Duncan from riseupforcaregivers.org
Being a caregiver is a full-time job. But what happens when you need a little extra money to make ends meet, or you want to save up for a special project? Having a side gig can be useful in many different scenarios.
There are plenty of reasons why senior caregivers should consider working a side gig. For one, it can provide some much-needed financial relief. It can also give you a sense of purpose outside of your caregiving duties and help you meet new people while developing new skills. Here’s more about starting (or landing) a side gig in your golden years!
What Side Gig Should You Start?
Not sure what kind of side gig would be the best fit for you? Here are five ideas to get you started:
Personal Concierge: Offer your services as a personal concierge to busy families in your community. Your duties might include running errands, scheduling appointments, coordinating travel plans, or doing grocery shopping. This is an excellent job for caregivers who are organized and have great time management skills. Plus, it’s an opportunity to get out of the house and interact with other people.
Home-Based Business Owner: If you’re crafty or have a unique skill set, why not start your own home-based business? This could be anything from launching a blog or YouTube channel to selling handmade goods online or teaching classes out of your home.
Freelance Writer: Freelancing could be the perfect match if you love writing. There are all kinds of businesses and publications looking for competent writers, from small businesses needing help with their blog content to magazines looking for new contributors.
Online Tutor: Are you good at math, science, or another academic subject? Consider becoming an online tutor! Countless students are looking for extra help, and tutoring is a fantastic way to make extra money while flexing your brain power.
Quick Start Tips for Your Side Business
Take time to determine what type of side gig is best for you to pursue, whether it’s one of the ideas above or something else entirely. Then start preparing your startup for a strong launch. Here are some fundamentals to handle right away:
Form Your LLC
Forming an LLC is the first step to launching a business, and it offers several advantages. It provides limited liability protection and can help separate your personal assets from those of the business. It also ensures that anyone who transacts with you has a clear understanding of who owns the business. If you’re wondering how to start an LLC in Indiana, find a reputable formation service to help you get started.
Make Your Schedule
One great way to manage both caregiving duties and your side job is to develop a routine that allows you to devote specific timeslots for each activity. You’ll probably want to prioritize client obligations first since they’re likely to be more urgent than starting your side job.
That said, you will be better equipped to stay organized and on track with everything when you have clear boundaries between your commitments (client obligations vs. family/personal responsibilities).
Find Funding
To obtain funding for your side business, consider reaching out to investors, applying for small business grants, or crowdfunding on platforms such as Kickstarter or GoFundMe. You may also choose to take out a loan. Before applying, check your credit report to determine your credit history and credit worthiness.
Do Your Own Marketing
Marketing can be expensive if not executed well. So how do you market yourself on a budget? One way is by leveraging social media platforms like Twitter and Instagram; these networks are fantastic platforms for building relationships and expanding your reach without breaking the bank.
It also helps to create content like videos or podcasts — which are becoming increasingly popular — around topics related to your offering. This can go a long way in establishing yourself as an authority figure in the industry while building brand recognition.
Conclusion
Working a side gig doesn’t need to be complicated or time-consuming. If you know what you’re looking for, the process can be quite simple. Best of all, there are plenty of benefits that come with it!
Consider the ideas above or keep looking until you find the perfect side gig for your needs and lifestyle. And remember to establish an LLC, create a schedule, and embrace DIY marketing. You’ll be enjoying the extra income in no time!
If you’re planning a move to senior living, visit American Senior Communities to find the ideal living situation.
