How to start a side hustle while working full time

Wear Dogs
BIC Centre Manager Donna Surtees set up her own dog training business Wear Dogs

There’s never been an easier time to start a side hustle, with the rise of technology and platforms readily available for freelancers and contractors, you don’t have to quit your day job to start your own business. And let’s face it, who doesn’t want an extra source of income?

As many people discovered during the pandemic, with commuting less and having more time to think about what they really want, you can actually run a successful business outside of the hours of your day job. In fact, here at the North East BIC, our centre manager, Donna Surtees, did just that and set up her own dog training business.

Whatever your motivation, whether you’re following a passion or simply looking for another revenue stream, starting a business on the side could turn out to be one of the smartest moves you’ll ever make.

First things first, you need to have a solid business idea and a plan of how you’re going to effectively start your side hustle alongside your part or full-time job. We recommend exploring our range of free Start-Up Workshops covering everything from how to create a business plan, understanding the essential parts of planning a new business and how to develop your branding.

Here’s some of our tips and things you may want to consider…

Disclose your side hustle to your employer

It’s important to note that you should check your contract of employment and company policies to ensure your side hustle is not a violation or conflict of interest. If you feel comfortable speaking to your employer and your job role permits, you may even want to request more flexible working patterns.

Find balance and don’t let your day job slip

It’s easy to get carried away with the excitement of being an entrepreneur, but if you’re relying on the income from your day job, it should always take precedence when it comes to the crunch. Finding balance between the obligations of your new business and still performing well at work can be tricky at first, but you can make it work if you really want to.

Learn to sacrifice evenings and weekends

If you’re serious about starting a side hustle while keeping your day job, you’ll have to accept you will need to sacrifice some of your free time. However, it’s important you still get enough rest and don’t let yourself burn out.

Find an organisational system that works for you

From setting up a home office or filing system, to using cloud accounts and online schedules, do whatever you need to do to keep yourself organised and your business separate from your day job.

Take advantage of the business support available to you

If you have an idea for a side hustle but don’t know where to get started, don’t be afraid to ask for advice and support. Here at the North East BIC, our dedicated Start-Up service is designed to properly prepare you to launch your own business, supporting you with everything from the legalities of running a business and earning extra income, to your marketing and branding. You may also be eligible for sources of funding or finance, which our specialist business advisers can talk through with you.

No matter what stage you’re at in your thinking, we can help you get your side hustle off the ground. Get in touch today to find out how! Call 0191 516 6200 or request a call back here

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