We live in a world where we’re constantly looking for ways to diversify our income streams, be it with second jobs or second businesses. And not just because we need more money but also so that we can hedge against potential losses of income from other sources. It makes sense then that second careers have become such an attractive proposition.
But what second career ideas are right for you? There are countless options out there, which means there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. What second career idea is right for you depends on your goals, your skills, and where you are in life.
Here are six great second career ideas to consider if you’re looking to earn some extra money or diversify your income streams:
1. Tutoring
If you’re an expert in your field, why not offer tutoring services? That could mean teaching classes at a local college or private school. It also means making yourself available to help students with their assignments and projects via online platforms like Skype.
You can even set up shop on Fiverr or other top freelancing platforms as someone who helps people create resumes and cover letters.
You can offer lessons in specific subjects, or you could also do more general tutoring. For example, if you have good speaking skills and a passion for literature, why not become an English tutor?
The good news is that the greater your expertise as a teacher, the higher your pay will be, so put those teaching credentials to good use. And with Fiverr gigs being low-cost but high-volume opportunities (meaning there’s always people who need help), this might work out to be one of the best second career ideas out there.
Tutoring is also among the best second career ideas after retirement.
2. Writing
Writing is an excellent second career idea for many reasons, not the least of which being that you can do it from anywhere.
But beyond that, writing has become so accessible with all the opportunities out there to publish your work without going through gatekeepers or agents and editors who might dismiss you because they don’t “get” what you’re trying to say.
Whether you write fiction or non-fiction, whether you want to focus on blog posts about current events in niche markets or develop an e-book readership over time by publishing Kindle Singles, consider making writing part of your next career move if this sounds like something that will interest you.
You’ll need good writing skills (obviously), good research skills, and the ability to self-edit. Don’t underestimate yourself, though. You might even surprise yourself at how good your writing can be.
If fiction is more up your alley, consider working on a novel during your spare time. Who knows? You could strike it big with that one good idea and end up with a good side income stream.
3. Digital Photography
If you’re good at taking photos, why not make good use of that talent by selling your services to people who need good images? For example, you could specialize in weddings, but there are also lots of other niches out there.
Can’t afford to become a photographer right now? Consider offering “mini-sessions” on Craigslist, where you help brides plan their big day before the wedding.
Or you could get into stock photography if this is more your speed—think iStockphoto or Shutterstock. There’s just so much work available online these days.
So get creative with how you can utilize all those good camera skills to earn some extra money. And don’t be afraid to experiment with different markets.
The good news is that you can get started for very little money if this interests you, so it’s low-risk while also being an excellent second career.
4. Translation
If you’re good at a foreign language, consider translating documents as part of your next good side income idea.
There are countless opportunities for freelance translators who can help companies reach new audiences and connect with more customers. And freelancing is such an efficient way to make money because it allows you to take on projects based on your availability.
You also get to choose what kinds of jobs you want—from big-budget gigs that pay well down to smaller assignments that might be worth doing just for the exposure they bring. There isn’t much downside unless you don’t like having control over your time or if this isn’t something that interests you in particular.
If you have good language skills and good research, writing, and editing abilities to boot, this could be an excellent way of making good money online. So why not give translation a try? It might just lead to your next career move—or even better yet—your own business.
5. Social Media Manager
Social media has become so pervasive in our society that good side income ideas are everywhere.
If you have good people skills and know how to use social platforms, why not make money by working as a social media manager? Yes, there is good demand for this particular service. So tuck it away in your back pocket just in case you need another good income stream.
One thing worth mentioning about good side gigs like these, though—they don’t always pay well or come with lots of perks (or any really). But if nothing else, they can provide enough additional cash flow to help keep you afloat while you work on finding something more stable long-term.
And who knows? You might even discover that good side gigs like this one are more your speed than a full-time job.
6. Car Repairs
If you know how to fix cars, good for you. You can always use those skills as part of your next good side income idea.
Today’s DIY culture has led to a boom in car repair and customization businesses—especially with young people who want the freedom and independence that comes from working on their vehicles.
This is an excellent way of making money because it involves no start-up costs and doesn’t require formal education or training. All you need are good mechanical abilities, some basic knowledge about repairs, plus lots of good old elbow grease.
So why not make this one of your good second career ideas? Just be sure not to neglect to learn more about safety precautions.
Still not satisfied? Discover more here to expand your options.
Practical Second Career Ideas to Earn Some Extra Money
So who says you need to stick with only one career idea all your life? Try out these good second career ideas and see if any of them interest you.
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