APU Careers Careers & Learning

Market Your Skills for a Second Income

By Rowe Leathers
Contributor, Career Servicesmoney-work-not-selling-out

I am an enthusiastic believer in volunteering as the best way to gain experience in a new field. However, as some have pointed out, those with busy schedules and tight budgets rarely have free time to give away. For many, the little time that can be carved out needs to be utilized to earn additional income.

If you are one of the many who would welcome a second income, it may be a good time to assess your knowledge and talents. Instead of taking a part-time retail job that may not be related to your current field, consider freelancing to further develop your key skills.

What are your talents that can be parlayed into a money-making venture? Use these examples by major to help start your brainstorming.

  • Education or counseling majors: consider tutoring as a side gig. This is a great opportunity to work on your teaching, communication, and leadership skills, and working with local students is a good way to get referral business.
  • Hospitality majors: parlay your skills as a personal concierge for busy executives as well as busy households. Time is limited and extra help is always welcomed!
  • Information technology majors: segue into a lucrative income fixing minor computer issues for people who are technology challenged. Reach out to local companies that lack an online presence and offer your skills. In fact, income or not, you are probably already doing this for friends and family.
  • Business majors: hone your business skills by helping local companies with daily operations such as marketing, advertising, and accounting. Struggling start-ups would be fortunate to have your guidance.

If your degree doesn’t easily translate, break down your skills to a more granular level.

  • Are you a good writer?
  • Are you a skilled communicator?
  • Are you a born leader?

Whatever your degree may be in, consider both your knowledge base and your talents to determine how you can market your skills. Someone out there may be ready to hire you!

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