Looking for some side jobs to supplement your income as a stage manager? Finding flexible gigs that fit around the erratic work hours in theater can be tricky, but here are four options that don’t tie you down to a specific location.
1. Blogging: This is my personal favorite. All you need is around $30 and a subject you’re passionate about to get started. You could blog about a hobby, or even about the places you visit if you’re traveling. Just keep in mind that it usually takes a year of consistent effort before seeing any income. You’ll need to spend a bit on a domain name and hosting, stay disciplined in your writing schedule, and handle your own taxes and income tracking. On the upside, you can write whenever and wherever it suits you. And who knows, you might end up earning a healthy bit from it – I managed to earn over $600 in one month from my own blog.
2. Freelance Writing: Don’t fancy maintaining a blog? Consider freelance writing. Start by creating a portfolio of your writing. If you don’t have any, contribute guest posts to established blogs related to topics you’re an expert in. Remember, you should only work for free initially to build your portfolio. After that, charge for your work: $20 for a 500-word blog post is a reasonable starting rate. Of course, this field is competitive and building a client base might take some time. And like blogging, you’ll have to keep an eye on your own finances and taxes.
3. Virtual Assistant: With the rise of online businesses, virtual assistants are in demand. Duties can range from social media management and website maintenance to personal assistant tasks. Starting out requires no cost, and you’ll be able to work from anywhere and set your own hours. However, since you’ll be working for others, you’ll have to adhere to their deadlines and manage your taxes and income tracking.
4. Transcription Work: If you’re looking for immediate cash flow and don’t mind working for a company, transcription might be your thing. Usually, you’d need to clear a grammar test and do a couple of free transcription tests. You’ll need internet access, preferably in a quiet spot. Though the work can be time-consuming and the pay structure is firm, you could make an extra few hundred dollars a month.
Whichever option you choose, all can be a reliable source of supplementary cash flow. So why wait? Start exploring these side hustles and add an extra stream of income in your life as a stage manager!