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Side hustles in India provide you with the extra money that helps you with your finances! Here are a few good opportunities to consider.
The cost of living is on the rise, and it is always better to have a little extra in your bank account! Here is a list of 9 side hustles in India!
Last night, my friend took me out for a treat. We were celebrating for two reasons — her placement, and her side hustle.
Recently, a controversy arose regarding moonlighting — where the same individual worked at two places at once. A lot of debate followed, with sections either defending the idea or slamming it. But regardless, it brings to light a pertinent question about the pay-work ratio and adulting.
As an individual stationed outside their home city, I have always felt the restrictions of limited finances. All the earnings find their way out of our pockets in just clearing the bills. I have wished, often, that there was another option for earning some more money besides the routine 9-5.
And the good news is, there are! They are called side hustles, and they provide you with the extra money that makes your financial struggles a little less exhausting! Here are a few good opportunities to consider.
The side hustle that is gaining rapid favour now is Affiliate marketing. The concept is really simple. You collaborate with a brand and promote its products or services on either your social media or your website. The more amount of products you sell, the more commission you receive as per agreement.
For companies to get you on board as an affiliate marketeer, you need to have a good number of followers on your socials and a public account. If your social reach is considerable enough, only then would a brand want to share its commission with you.
With the modern-day technology boom, the traditional office has been replaced with virtual workplaces. And along comes the revolution of freelancing, an extension of the concept of side hustles in India. It’s the new-age profession that provides the liberty to work at your own pace from the comfort of your home, or a beach in Bali, if you wish so!
From graphic design, content writing, SEO services, to web development, the scope in freelancing is vast. Passionate about something? There’s a high chance you can freelance it! It’s an ideal venture for those yearning to escape the monotonous 9-5 routine, explore diverse domains, and earn that extra buck while they’re at it.
However, freelancing isn’t just a financial decision, it’s a lifestyle choice. It exhibits a sense of freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to express one’s individuality. So, if you’re ready to take charge of your work and life, freelancing might be the side hustle you’re looking for!
In the age of digital consumption, content is king. Brands, businesses, and individuals need well-crafted, articulate, and engaging content to represent them and their philosophies. This is precisely where content writing as a side hustle fits in. If you’ve always had a knack for writing and can play around with words to create compelling narratives, this is the side hustle you’ve been looking for.
Content writing can range from blog articles, website copy, social media posts to in-depth research-based articles. You don’t need a formal degree to dabble into it; all you need is a firm grasp on language, the ability to understand and cater to different writing styles, and a knack for thorough research.
The flexible nature of this job allows you to set your hours, making it the perfect complement to your 9-5 job. Plus, the earning potential is quite rewarding, depending on the quality of your writing and the clients you manage to secure.
Globalization has opened up avenues that are beyond our reckoning. One of those boons has been languages. Owing to such a scenario, one of the most demanded professions that have come to be now is that of a language translator. This is becoming increasingly popular among side hustles in India.
It is a side hustle that pays you handsomely. If you are fluent in more than one language, then you can apply as a translator with any NGO, language-oriented organization, or a media company that seeks content translation.
You can also apply to be a translating intern in any editing or publishing house.
Remember all those phone calls from your friends (and non-friends, alike) just before exams, begging you to explain them chapters or concepts? Well, if you have been one of them, this is the perfect side hustle for you.
A number of ed-tech companies prefer hiring online tutors to expand their business. On the other hand, students and parents, alike, are turning to technology for help with their lessons.
Simultaneously, it also gives teaching experience to the ones who wish to pursue the academic line. Hence, this is one of the best options to consider earning those extra few rupees.
Social media is now the best available way to reach out to the most amount of people. Hence, companies prefer having a strong presence on such platforms. As with any other technological invention, it works on a number of strategies that needs clear planning, thoughtful analysis, and consistency.
So if you have a knack for absurd, creative ideas that you think will be valuable to the companies that align with your interest, you can look into this job.
A multi-millionaire company would most likely look for a full-time employee. But for a side hustle, an Instagram small business account, or a Media house would be the best options to explore.
It’s a plus if you belong from a Marketing background!
There’s a saying in English. Having a fish memory means having a very short-term memory. And not just memories, studies have suggested now that our human attention span has come down to be the same as that of a Goldfish! Amusing, isn’t it?
Therefore, most news media portal now comes with an option of either video snippets, or audio narration of the news article. Because, our clocks are always running (it’s really the decreasing attention span that is to be blamed, but let’s all agree that it’s the time). These audio-video snippets need a lot of editing, and this is where the editors come in.
You can expect people to dump a lot of content on you, trust (or not) your aesthetic sense, cut and add those snippets to make a good bite out of it. Yep, that’s what your job description would look like. This is emerging as one of the popular side hustles in India, where individuals can utilize their editing skills to generate extra income.
While scrolling social media, did you come across this frequent ad by the MyGlamm group, wherein it promises a free product upon completion of a survey? Well, that’s a brilliant strategy by the marketing company. But ever wondered what happens to those data once they are filled?
Not just the cosmetic brand, but several other companies have taken to online surveys because it is the way to hear what the customers demand— from customers themselves. The data collected then gets processed by surveyors hired by the company to gain insight and knowledge about the market, or review of their own products.
This is a good opportunity for a side hustle. It might get a bit tedious, working with a lot of data, but on the flip side, it brings in good money. So, if you are proficient with Excel, Sheets, and a lot of data, this might be for you!
As the name suggests, you attend to your customers, tend to their queries, resolve their issues, and make their experience with your company a smooth one. Again, pointer. Big companies would prefer a permanent profile as their customer service employee.
But, if you are seeking this role as a side hustle, look for smaller companies. Even though the pay would be less, those platforms tend to provide greater scope for flourishing with your skills, and are more flexible with your work hours.
As long as you get the work done, and have good interpersonal skills, it’s a win-win for everyone!
This concept of a virtual assistant, while relatively new as one of the side hustles in India, has been gaining traction. Our general understanding tells us that an assistant is someone who manages the administrative work of their employer. They manage emails, schedule appointments, plan travel arrangements, or make phone calls.
A virtual assistant does the same, except everything is virtual. As in, you do not have to run about in the entire office behind your boss. You can do all the jobs while being in the comfort of your house. Or can juggle this job as a side hustle to another.
This is a dream job for every individual who is driven by administrative tasks, and planning and organizing a team. It is new in India, therefore, might be difficult to look for one. But what’s the harm in trying, right?
With inclusivity being the pivot of society, most audio videos have subtitles to them. Or have written text available for download, in case it is an important subject. The role of a transcriptionist becomes important here.
Your job as one is to either type out a document from a recorded diction or a dubbed video. Sometimes, it also includes translations, as the media content is in one language, and you have to type it out in another language.
Here you either choose to join a company, or freelance on your own. But with limited work, it is good to pay, hence, it is one of those jobs which is gaining rapid favour in the country.
In this digital age, where people spend hours scrolling through content, blogging has not just remained a hobby; it has become one of the effective side hustles in India. If you possess a flair for writing and have something interesting or valuable to share, blogging should be your pick.
Just like affiliate marketing, blogging can help you earn through collaborations with brands. You write about their products or services and get paid! But remember, consistency is the key. The more you blog, the larger audience you get, and the bigger reach, the greater your earnings. You can either start your own blog or choose to contribute as a guest blogger for established platforms.
Here’s a tip, though – if you’re looking for quick returns, this may not be the best choice. Blogging is rewarding, but it takes time to build a loyal audience. So make sure you have a little patience.
An exciting opportunity that’s gaining traction is dropshipping. It’s an e-commerce method where you sell goods directly from the manufacturer to the customer without getting involved in inventory or logistics.
You simply list a product on your online store, and when an order is placed, the manufacturer ships it directly to the customer. It’s a great side hustle for those seeking to dive into e-commerce without the investment and hassle of stock and shipping.
All it requires is a good eye for what sells, a strong marketing strategy, and excellent customer service skills. You’ll also need a reliable supplier, but once you establish the right network, dropshipping can be a very lucrative side hustle.
Do you have a hobby or talent that you can monetize? Turning your passion into a side hustle is a fantastic way to generate extra income, especially in the booming gig economy of side hustles in India. Selling homemade goods online is taking center stage, giving you an opportunity to showcase your creativity and entrepreneurial spirit.
Whether it’s crafting jewelry, baking cookies, making candles, or creating art, there is an audience for almost everything. Websites like Etsy, Shopify, or even social media platforms can serve as your virtual storefront. Remember, quality and uniqueness are the keys to stand out. We see so many startups on Shark Tank India today that started out just as a hobby.
Know your target audience, pricing, and marketing strategies right, and soon you might find yourself turning this side hustle into a full-time business. Here’s your chance to create, sell, and earn from the comfort of your home.
Do you have a knack for transforming ideas into visual assets? Then Graphic Design might be the ideal side hustle for you. As a Graphic Designer, you will get the chance to work on a variety of projects — from branding and advertisements to website design and social media graphics. Thanks to the digital age, many small businesses and entrepreneurs are always on the lookout for talented designers to help them create a distinctive presence online. This is where you come in!
With a good portfolio and a handle on design software, you can start offering your services online. The best part? You can work from anywhere, at any time, making it a flexible and profitable addition to your 9-5! Plus, it gives you the chance to explore your creativity while also earning extra money, making it a win-win for your wallet and your artistic spirit!
Another trending side hustles opportunity in India is in the sphere of web development. In an increasingly digital era, every brand is striving to build a strong online presence, and a well-optimized, user-friendly website is the cornerstone.
If you have a knack for coding and building visually appealing and functional websites, then web development could be your promising path to extra earnings. It’s a fulfilling job, as you turn abstract ideas into tangible realities, creating platforms that enhance user experience drastically. From freelancing to tying up with a digital agency, the opportunities are vast.
Your proficient skills in HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and other programming languages could be your ticket to financial independence outside the 9-5 regime. So, go ahead, use your web wizardry, and turn bytes into benefits!
Just as the world of side hustles in India expands, so does the demand for SEO Consultants. As businesses continue to grow their online presence, having an expert who knows how to make a website rank higher on search engines is crucial. In this digital age, a high ranking website equates to more visibility and thus, more possible clients or customers.
So, if you’ve got the knack for keywords, link building, and creating quality content, this side gig is a perfect match for you. You can help businesses optimize their website, increase their reach, and ultimately, improve their profits.
Plus, as an SEO consultant, you have the freedom to work from anywhere and set your own schedule. SEO consulting is more than just a side hustle; it’s an opportunity to build your own empire in the digital world.
Pushing into the realm of side hustles in India, digital marketing emerges as a prominent choice. This side hustle well suits those with a flair for creativity and analysis. As digital platforms continue to shape our lives, companies are seeking ways to tap into the vast audience online.
Cue the digital marketer, a role that designs and implements marketing strategies tailored for the digital landscape. You might find yourself curating captivating content for social media, analyzing user traffic, or boosting a brand’s visibility through search engine optimization.
If you possess an analytical mind coupled with a knack for imaginative ideas, this field is ripe for exploration. Standout in your 9-5 job and also ride the digital wave to earn that extra buck! It’s not just about posting online content but about creating value and measurable growth in your brand’s digital footprint.
Have a knack for detail, precision, and organization? Then data entry might be the ideal side hustle for you. This role typically involves inputting data into databases, often from written or digital records.
As a data entry professional, you’re helping businesses stay updated and organized – a crucial cog in any corporate machine. It’s an in-demand skill in various sectors, from healthcare to finance.
Most data entry roles offer flexibility, making it perfect if you’re looking for a hustle that fits around your 9-5. A strong command of typing and familiarity with certain software like Microsoft Excel can make you a desirable candidate. So, if you’re organized, detail-oriented and comfortable working in an online environment, diving into data entry can be a rewarding path to extra income.
Ever thought of cashing in on your smooth narration or emotive expressions? Step into the fascinating world of Voice Overs as a side hustle! Digital media’s exponential growth is opening up countless opportunities for talented individuals who can lend their voice to videos, commercials, audiobooks, and more.
From explainer videos to animation, the demand for skilled Voice Over artists is booming. If you’re articulate, expressive and have a clear voice, you can consider this exciting and well-paid option. Record samples of your voice, showcasing different tones and expressions, and upload them on freelance platforms to attract potential clients.
For an advantageous edge, you can also take short courses to polish your skills. Working from your personal space, all you need is a quiet room, a microphone, and a pop filter. Make your voice your asset and earn handsome profits!
Keep fit, and earn at the same time! Fitness coaching is rapidly gaining popularity as a fantastic side hustle. With a shift towards healthier lifestyles, fitness instructors are in high demand. If you have an affinity for health, fitness and teaching others, bringing individuals closer to their fitness goals can be an exciting and fulfilling way to supplement your income.
You don’t have to own a fancy gym or even physical spaces; thanks to technology, you can conduct sessions and consultations online, at a time that fits your schedule. A fitness coach can create workout plans, provide diet guidance, and motivate clients to achieve their fitness goals. If you’re already spending hours in the gym, why not turn that passion into a productive hustle? Just remember to get the necessary certifications!
Cooking is a passion for many, and there’s no better way to make it a side hustle than offering personal chef services or setting up a cloud kitchen. As busy individuals seek convenience, they often turn to personal chefs to provide healthy, home-cooked meals. This option also allows you to showcase your culinary skills and experiment with different cuisines.
Another popular trend in the food industry is cloud kitchens. These are commercial kitchen spaces that cater exclusively to online orders, without a physical dine-in option. With the rise of food delivery apps and demand for diverse cuisines, setting up a cloud kitchen can be a lucrative side hustle.
So, if you have a flair for cooking and want to make some extra cash on weekends or evenings, consider starting your own personal chef or cloud kitchen service. You never know, it might even turn into a full-time gig!
With the increasing demand for visual content in this digital era, photography has become a highly sought-after skill. If you have an eye for composition and attention to detail, consider turning your hobby into a side hustle.
From weddings to corporate events, and product shoots to social media campaigns, there are numerous opportunities for photographers. You can also sell your photographs online through platforms like Shutterstock or iStock to earn passive income.
Invest in quality equipment and build an impressive portfolio to attract potential clients. With the right marketing strategies and networking, your photography side hustle could turn into a successful business venture. So, start capturing moments and making memories while also earning some extra cash on the side!
Do you have some free time on your hands and want to make some extra cash without leaving the comfort of your own home? Then participating in online surveys might be the perfect side hustle for you.
Many companies conduct market research through online surveys to gather feedback and opinions from consumers. By signing up for multiple survey sites, you can earn rewards or even cash by completing surveys in your spare time
You won’t become rich by taking surveys, but it can be a convenient way to earn some extra income. Plus, you get to share your thoughts and opinions on various products and services. Just keep in mind that some survey sites may have specific requirements or demographics they’re looking for, so be sure to read the guidelines before signing up.
If you have a passion for creating content and love being in front of the camera, starting a YouTube channel can be an excellent side hustle. With over 2 billion monthly active users, YouTube is not only a popular platform but also has the potential to generate significant income through ad revenue, sponsorships, and affiliate marketing.
From beauty tutorials to travel vlogs, and cooking shows to product reviews, there are endless possibilities for content creation. You can also collaborate with other YouTubers and participate in brand deals or sponsored videos.
However, building a successful YouTube channel takes time and effort, so don’t expect instant results. But with consistency, quality content, and engagement with your audience, you can turn your YouTube side hustle into a profitable venture.
With the rise of digital media, podcasting has become a popular medium for sharing stories, ideas, and information. If you have a unique perspective or expertise in a particular topic, starting your podcast has become one of the most lucrative side hustles in India.
You can monetize your podcast through sponsorships, affiliate marketing, and even listener donations. With minimal equipment and editing skills, you can record and produce your podcast from the comfort of your own home.
However, like any other side hustle, building a successful podcast takes time and dedication. You need to consistently create quality content and engage with your audience to grow your listenership. But with the right niche and marketing strategies, you can turn your podcast into a profitable source of income.
If you have a knack for numbers and an interest in the stock market, consider starting your own stock trading side hustle. With easy access to online trading platforms and resources, it has become more convenient for individuals to invest in stocks.
However, stock trading involves risks and requires knowledge and research. So, it’s essential to educate yourself about the market and its trends before making any investments. Start small and slowly build your portfolio to minimize risks.
You can also consider day trading, where you buy and sell stocks within a single day to take advantage of market fluctuations. Just keep in mind that stock trading is not a get-rich-quick scheme, but with patience and diligence, it can be one of the profitable side hustles in India for those interested in finance and investing
If you have a great sense of style and love helping others look their best, becoming a personal stylist can be a rewarding side hustle. From wardrobe makeovers to special event styling, there’s always a demand for fashion advice.
You can start by offering your services to friends and family or creating an online portfolio showcasing your work on platforms like Instagram or Pinterest. Consider taking courses or gaining experience in the fashion industry to enhance your skills and knowledge.
You can also earn additional income by becoming an affiliate for clothing brands or collaborating with them on sponsored content. With determination and a keen eye for fashion, you can turn your passion into a profitable side hustle as a personal stylist.
But as important as it is for you to earn the extra amount, do remember, that nothing comes before your mental health. Having to work two shifts will drain you out, and leave you all burnt out and fatigued. In order to avoid so, take control of your work, instead of letting it control you!
Image source for 28 side hustles from banner: Ketut Subiyanto, via pexels free and edited on CanvaPro
The author is a Gen-Z kid who resorts to writing to vent out about the problematic ways of the world. Having majored in Theatre, English, and Psychology, I take a guilty pleasure in complex read more...
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