If you currently have a hobby that you are passionate about, read on to learn 7 creative ways to use your hobby to make money.
Are you ready to get started? Let’s go!
- First, think about where you see your business going. Ask yourself questions like, “How much money do I want to make?” and “Where do I see this business in 1 year and 5 years?” Also, be sure to think about how much time you have to invest in your new business. Writing up a business plan is a great way to help you answer these questions.
- Next, you’ll want to look around and check out others that are doing the same thing you want to do. Watch them to learn what makes them successful. Research online, attend shows and join forums to get insight into the business you want to start.
- Do lots of research to determine how much you are going to charge for your goods or service. Take into account how much time it takes to get the job done to make sure it is worth your time.
- When starting your business, keep operating costs as low as possible. Only buy supplies when you need to use them rather than just buying them to have around. Consider working extra hours to save up start-up costs instead of taking out a loan.
- Identify different places to sell your product-try online stores, outdoor markets, stores and fairs.
- The best way to increase exposure to your business is to market yourself. Business cards, logos, websites and blogs are ways to help you expand. Always be ready to talk about your business. If you make something, wear it or have it with you to spark a conversation. When someone comments on the item, thank them and give them one of your cards. If you sell a service, find unique ways to showcase your business.
- Once you are ready to open shop, be sure to register your business with the county or state agency. If you earn more than $400 per year you will have to pay taxes on your income, so be sure to keep accurate records. Check out The U.S. Small Business Administration for free advice on starting a business.
Do you currently own a business? If so, was it difficult to get started? Do you have any advice for those who may want to learn creative ways to use their hobby to make money? Leave comments in the section below!
Related Posts:
Great tips, especially to watch and learn from how other successful people are doing things. I think the hardest part is deciding what to charge, you don’t want to price yourself out of what people will actually spend. I tend to think a lot of stuff online is priced higher than I would spend on it, so I wouldn’t want to do the same with anything I sell.
Hi Julie, I’m glad you liked the post. Deciding what to charge is always hard, especially because we tend to undervalue ourselves. However, I like to start my prices lower than average and increase them as I gain more experience. Thanks so much for stopping by and commenting! 🙂
When thinking about starting up a business, time is a big factor. I started out blogging as an outlet and a way to share our homeschool activities. I never would have guessed what a blessing it would turn into, but it took time to get there. I loved your amazing list of ideas and what goes into starting a business. Thanks for sharing with #SocialButterflySunday! Hope to see you link up again this week 🙂
Hi Kelly! Yes, you’re right. Time is a huge factor when starting a business. It takes a lot of patience also! I’m so glad blogging has worked out for you…it’s great to do something you love! 🙂
These are great. My blogging definitely turned from a hobby to a passion. I’d love for it to make money! Thanks for sharing with Small Victories Sunday Linkup. Pinned to our linkup board, hope you join us again this weekend.
Hi Tanya, Thanks so much for pinning my post to your linkup board. I so appreciate it and will definitely be back to discover more blogs. Thanks again! ~Leigh
This is gradually happening with my blog. I have so much to learn!
So do I! We’re in this together! 😉
Great advice, and I will refer my friend who asked about starting her own business to your post! I took a bunch of books out of the library before I started my Etsy shop too to get ideas https://www.etsy.com/shop/tierneycreates
Thanks for the referral. I really appreciate it! Going to take a look at your shop now! 🙂
Great tips! I didn’t make an official business, but when I lost my job I started pet sitting for neighbors who were traveling over the summer. I love animals and I had the time, so it was fun and easy money! There is an app called Next Door that is like Facebook for neighborhoods, and I posted something on there and emails started rolling in!
That’s great! I’ll have to check out Next Door. Thanks!
Ooh, another good post! I started my Etsy shop not too long ago, these are good tips to help me make it that much better!
Glad you liked it. What’s the link to your store?
My store is http://www.etsy.com/shop/sngcrafts — I sell fabric flip flops, which comes in very handy in Florida. 🙂
Thanks! I’ll take a look around. 🙂
Interesting article. – You should check us out and join us in our business. Low money entry with FANTASTIC money making opportunities!
Reblogged this on Cookie Jar Club and commented:
Here’s some advice from SimpLeigh Organized on how to make money….always a fantastic addition to the Cookie Jar Club