10 Recommended Side Hustles You Can Do from Home

A side hustle is an activity that allows you to work and earn money outside of your regular job. It is mostly freelance but can also include flexible schedules or gig-based work in various industries. Starting a side hustle from home can be time-consuming but still profitable.

Here are some recommended side hustles you can do from home.

Writing

If you have a way with words, freelance writing could be a lucrative side hustle. Freelance writing involves creating professional writing on a contractual basis for a company. Freelance writing includes article writing, blog writing, SEO writing, UI/UX writing, copywriting,  ghostwriting, technical writing, email writing, etc. Freelance writers often have different clients and can write on a variety of topics in a variety of genres from creative writing to technical writing. You can start by looking for writing gigs on websites like Upwork, Fiverr, Remote4Africa, and so on.

Skills required

• SEO
• Proofreading and editing
• Research skills

Content Creation

A content creator is someone who is responsible for creating entertaining or educational material to be expressed through any medium or channel. It involves writing, editing, blogging, and updating content for everything from brochures and marketing and promotional materials to email, websites, blogs, and more. Freelance content creation is great for those who value their freedom over a steady flow of work and income. Freelancers can do work for others or find ways to promote their own media channels and monetise them for some extra income.

Skills required

• Social media management skills
• SEO
• Communication skills

Online Tutor

Online tutoring is the process of teaching in an online, virtual, or networked environment. An online tutor provides academic or professional assistance to someone over the internet. They often assist students via mail, podcasts, webcasts, or video chat sessions.

This hustle offers flexibility, allowing you to schedule classes during your free time. Although those who work for a company are usually available during established business hours, many students also have the option to schedule an individual session at a specific time or to drop in when they have a question.

Skills required

• Communication skills
• Active listening skills
• Problem-solving skills

Graphic Design

A graphic designer creates visual concepts, using computer software or by hand, to communicate ideas that inspire, inform, and captivate consumers. Freelance graphic designers are self-employed and run every aspect of their business, from the actual design work to managing clients and issuing invoices.

To start freelance graphic design, you should first gain knowledge on how to use graphic design tools like Adobe Photoshop, Canva, Sketch, Coreldraw, and so on. Enrolling in a graphic design course will help in the development of your skills and give you a basic understanding of how to run a business.

Skills required

• Editing skills
• User experience design
• Creative skills

Freelance Chef

A freelance chef meets the culinary needs of a variety of clients. You could either work as a personal cook, a caterer for special events, or a menu designer. Other duties may include buying groceries, cleaning cooking equipment and supplies, and making food that the customer can reheat at a later time. This side hustle is flexible, as you and your customer can arrange your cooking schedule to fit into your free time, allowing you to have extra time to do another job.

Skills required

• Culinary skills
• Time management skills
• Hospitality skills

Dropshipping

Dropshipping is an easy way to sell various amounts of unique and popular products without the need to contend with the storage or management of inventory.With dropshipping, you will have a partner that fulfils orders on your behalf, allowing you to outsource inventory and  fulfillment. If you want to start, you have to choose a niche, research competitors, choose a supplier, and get to understand the business better through research or courses.

Skills required

• Marketing skills
• Website design
• Ad management skills

Virtual Assistant

A virtual assistant is an independent contractor who provides administrative services to clients while operating outside of the client's office. A virtual assistant operates mainly from a home office but can access the necessary planning documents, such as shared calendars, remotely. They handle clerical and bookkeeping tasks, while others may post regular updates to social media or write articles for a blog. A well-rounded virtual assistant may also handle travel arrangements, appointment scheduling, data entry, and online file storage.

Skills required

• Bookkeeping skills
• Computer skills
• Business skills

Digital Marketing

Digital marketing is the use of websites, apps, mobile devices, social media, search engines, and other digital means to promote and sell products and services. To begin a career in freelance digital marketing, you will need to follow several steps, including building an audience and connecting with brands.

Skills required

• Marketing skills
• Advertising skills
• Search Engine Optimisation (SEO)

YouTuber 

Becoming apart-time YouTuber is a very good option for extra income. With diverse content options ranging from tutorials and vlogs to reviews and educational videos, content creators can attract subscribers and monetise their channels through ads, sponsorships, and merchandise.

Skills required

• Consistency
• Video editing skills
• Time management skills

Transcription services

This offers a flexible side hustle opportunity for those with strong listening and typing skills. Many businesses, podcasters, and content creators require accurate transcriptions of audio or video files, making this a high-demand service. Freelancers can work on platforms like Rev or Upwork, choosing projects that fit their schedules. This side hustle not only provides a source of income but also allows individuals to enhance their language and typing proficiency. With minimal startup costs and the ability to work from anywhere, transcription can be an ideal complement to other commitments.

Skills required

• Attention to detail
• Time management
• Listening skills

Conclusion

The opportunities for side hustles from home are abundant and varied. By leveraging your skills and interests, you can find a side gig that fits your lifestyle. Whether you seek to supplement your income or pursue a passion project, these options provide the flexibility to help you achieve your financial goals.