15 side hustles for introverts

It's the time of year when many people are either looking to earn a little extra income, or thinking about making a change.

Side hustles have become a popular way for people to supplement their income, and pursue passions, outside of their 9-to-5 jobs - and can, if they take off, provide an escape route.

For introverts, remote side hustles can work really well as they provide an opportunity to earn without depleting energy. They're perfectly suited for those who thrive in solitude.

Here are some of the best side hustles for introverts, providing opportunities for financial gain without sacrificing the comfort of personal space:

1. Freelance writing or blogging: introverts often have a talent for expressing themselves through the written word. Freelance writing or blogging allows individuals to leverage their writing skills to generate income. Platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, or starting a personal blog using Wordpress, provide opportunities to showcase your expertise. Blogs can be monetised through paid advertising or affiliate links. A friend of mine has recently been taken on to write regularly for Inc. magazine and he used his own blog as a portfolio; sites like these will pay you to write content.
2. Graphic design: for those with a creative flair, graphic design can be an excellent side hustle. Introverts can work independently to create visual content for businesses, websites, or social media. Websites like 99designs or Fiverr offer platforms to connect with clients seeking design services and Canva can be used to create high quality designs by anyone.
3. Virtual assistant: introverts can thrive in the virtual assistance realm, managing administrative tasks, scheduling, and email communication for busy professionals. Websites like Virtual Assistant Jobs or Upwork provide platforms to connect with clients in need of remote administrative support and usually this role involves only having to deal with one person.
4. Online tutoring: sharing knowledge and expertise is a valuable side hustle, and online tutoring platforms like Chegg Tutors or Wyzant allow introverts to teach without the need for in-person interactions. Tutoring can cover various subjects, catering to the introvert's strengths in focused, one-on-one communication.
5. E-commerce: running an online store, whether through platforms like Etsy or Amazon, can be an ideal side hustle for introverts. It allows you to curate and sell products of interest, managing customer interactions at your own pace.
6. Stock photography: if you have a passion for photography, consider selling your images on stock photo websites such as Shutterstock or Adobe Stock. This allows you to monetise your hobby without having to interact with anyone.
7. Web design: although this is a saturated market, every business now needs a website and this can still be a legitimate side hustle, especially for introverts with coding and programming skills. Set yourself apart by developing a niche, such as SEO optimisation or particular types of websites.
8. Self-publishing: those who love to write can explore self-publishing. Platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing enable introverts to publish and sell their books without the need for traditional publishing channels - this includes lower content books like planners and journals.
9. Transcription services: introverts who excel in their attention to detail can find success in transcription services. Websites like TranscribeMe or Rev offer opportunities to transcribe audio files into written content from the comfort of your own space.
10. Social media management: if you enjoy interacting with others virtually and are organised, being a social media manager may be your jam. You'll likely spend your time managing clients' websites and social media accounts, as well as approving comments and reviews. You may also be able to make and schedule content for your client, tapping into your creativity and copywriting skills.
11. Video editing: editing videos has become easier than ever, and this is another area where you can establish your own niche - you can even leverage AI to help you. Platforms like Splice and Magisto can help you optimise your time, and you can set your own rates and hours.
12. Dog walking/ cat sitting: there are now sites, like wag, rover, cat in a flat and even TrustedHouse sitters where you can sign up and combine your love of furry companions with earning extra money. If you're a dog person you can also get paid to get into nature. Whilst this isn't a remote opportunity, it can be done from anywhere.
13. Podcasting: there are many introverts with successful podcasts. It taps into our comfort with talking about subjects we are passionate about, either alone or in a one-to-one conversation. Podcasts can be lucrative in their own right, but also great marketing for e-commerce or digital marketing businesses.
14. Book reviews: there are actually sites where you can get paid for writing reviews, and as most introverts love to read, this could be a winning way to earn additional income. Sites such as BookList online, Kirkus reviews and BookBrowse all pay for reviews. If you have a blog, sponsored posts and/ or reviews may also be an option.
15. Affiliate/ digital marketing: affiliate marketing is when you get paid to promote other people's products or services; digital marketing is when you promote your own. Forbes announced that digital marketing would be one of the highest paying freelance gigs in 2023 and your income potential with either of these is, essentially, unlimited. It's possible, though much harder, to promote without showing your face online but if you can build a community, or have a podcast or blog, then people are more likely to buy from you. Keep an eye on my Stan Store for the launch of products that can help you if you're interested in either of these.

Introverts can thrive in the world of side hustles by leveraging their unique skills and preferences.

Finding the right side hustle is about aligning your skills and interests with opportunities that allow you to flourish independently - and the possibilities are endless!

Please feel free to share this newsletter with anyone it may help ??

Much love,

Sam

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P.S.?Ways I can help you:

1. Download my resources specially designed to help introverts overcome their biggest struggles here. Some of them are FREE!
2. Book time with me (limited offer) here.
3. Sign up for my email newsletter for monthly inspiration and quarterly freebies here.
4. Connect with me on LinkedIn here or via my website here.
5. Get inspiration on how to escape the 9-5 and build passive income here.

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About Me

I'm Sam ? and I'm on a mission to change the workplace bias towards extroversion, to achieve greater, intersectional, inclusivity for introverts.

As well as help high achieving introverts to thrive without changing who they are.

Companies:

I offer consulting, training and coaching for DEI professionals, leaders/ managers and those involved in hiring.

I am also a keynote speaker.

Introverts:

I can help you achieve your professional goals, feel confident in your introversion and be able to step into your power OR I can help you escape the 9-5 and achieve optimal wellbeing through financial freedom.

DM me for more information!