Side Hustles That Don’t Require Experience: 20 Beginner-Friendly Ways to Earn (Starting This Week)
You don’t need experience to earn extra money. What you need is a simple service people want and a way to start.
Look for a side hustle that’s easy to learn, doesn’t cost much to start, and you can earn money quickly. Side Hustle School says many people use their existing skills to start their side hustles.
When picking a beginner side hustle, think about your limits. Consider your time, how you feel about meeting people, and if you have the right devices and internet. This guide will show you easy side hustles for beginners, how much they pay, what it costs to start, and how to get your first customer this week.
Key Takeaways
- You can start earning extra income without prior experience.
- Choose a beginner-friendly option with a low learning curve and low startup costs.
- Consider your constraints when selecting a side hustle.
- Many people start their side hustles using the skills they already have.
- This guide will provide 20 beginner-friendly ways to earn starting this week.
What “No Experience” Really Means in the Side Hustle World
The term ‘no experience’ is often used loosely in the side hustle world. But what does it actually imply? When looking into a new side hustle, knowing the experience needed is key to success.
Many side hustles claim to need “no experience,” but this can be misleading. Some might need specific skills or training. Others might just have a low start-up cost.
Low Barrier to Entry vs. Truly No Skills Required
The difference between a low barrier to entry and needing no skills is big. A low barrier means the start-up costs or basic qualifications are small. But it doesn’t mean you don’t need any skills.
For example, becoming a virtual assistant might cost little and need no special qualifications. But having good organizational skills and being tech-savvy can help a lot.
Trainable Skills You Already Have (But Don’t Realize)
You might be surprised at the skills you’ve developed in your daily life or past jobs. These skills can be useful for a side hustle. For instance, if you’re organized and good with people, you might do well as a task runner or local tour guide.
| Skill | Potential Side Hustle |
|---|---|
| Organization | Virtual Assistant |
| Communication | Customer Service Representative |
| Creativity | Graphic Designer |
Knowing these skills can help you find side hustles you can start with little to no extra training.
How to Choose the Right Side Hustles With No Experience
To find a side hustle that suits you, even with no experience, you need to assess your constraints and preferences. Choosing the right side hustle can make a big difference in keeping it up over time.
When looking at side hustles for beginners, you must consider several personal and practical factors. This will help you find options that match your lifestyle and skills.
Assessing Your Time Constraints
Time is a key factor in choosing a side hustle. Think about your current schedule, including your main job, family, and other activities. Be honest about how many hours you can give each week.
If you work full-time, you might only have evenings or weekends. Some side hustles need a lot of time upfront, while others can be done in short bursts.
Transportation Requirements and Limitations
Your transportation options can affect your side hustle choice. Jobs like dog walking or food delivery need a car or local travel.
Remember to consider transportation costs, like fuel, maintenance, or public transport fees, when picking a side hustle.
Your Comfort Level With People
Your comfort with people can also guide your choice. Jobs like virtual assistance or online sales need little human interaction.
Jobs like tutoring, dog walking, or cleaning require more people interaction. Choose based on your comfort level.
Device and Internet Access Considerations
In today’s world, a computer and internet are key for many side hustles. If you lack access, focus on jobs that don’t need them.
| Side Hustle | Device/Internet Required | People Interaction |
|---|---|---|
| Virtual Assistant | Yes | Minimal |
| Dog Walking | No | High |
| Online Surveys | Yes | Minimal |
By thinking about these factors, you can pick a side hustle that fits your life and boosts your success chances.
Local Service Side Hustles Anyone Can Start
You don’t need experience to start making money with local service side hustles. These opportunities are perfect for those looking to earn extra income without prior experience. Local service side hustles can range from house cleaning services to dog walking, giving you many options to choose from.
House Cleaning Services
House cleaning services are always in demand, making it a reliable side hustle. To get started, you’ll need basic cleaning supplies and a willingness to work hard.
Quick-Start Steps
- Invest in basic cleaning supplies and equipment.
- Create a simple pricing structure based on the size of the home and services offered.
- Advertise your services on local social media groups and community boards.
Typical Pay Range
The pay for house cleaning services can vary widely depending on location and the size of the job. On average, you can earn between $25 to $50 per hour.
Startup Costs
Initial startup costs are relatively low, typically under $100 for cleaning supplies and marketing materials.
Time-to-First-Dollar
You can start earning money within a few days of setting up your services, depending on how quickly you can book your first clients.
Dog Walking
Dog walking is another popular local service side hustle that’s perfect for animal lovers. It requires a love for dogs and the ability to be physically active.
Quick-Start Steps
- Create a profile on dog walking platforms or apps.
- Invest in basic dog walking gear, such as leashes and poop bags.
- Advertise your services to local pet owners through social media and community boards.
Typical Pay Range
Dog walkers can typically earn between $15 to $30 per walk, with the possibility of earning more for longer walks or additional services like pet sitting.
Startup Costs
Startup costs for dog walking are minimal, usually under $50 for initial marketing and equipment.
Time-to-First-Dollar
You can start earning money as soon as you book your first dog walking client, which can be within a few days of setting up your service.
Both house cleaning services and dog walking offer flexible and rewarding side hustle opportunities. By following the quick-start steps and understanding the typical pay range, startup costs, and time-to-first-dollar, you can successfully start and grow your local service side hustle.
Online Tasks for Complete Beginners
Looking into online tasks is a smart move for beginners. They offer a flexible way to earn money, even with no experience. You can do these tasks from anywhere, making them perfect for those with busy lives.
Virtual Assistant Starter Tasks
As a virtual assistant, you help businesses or individuals with tasks from afar. This might include managing emails, organizing calendars, or entering data.
Quick-Start Steps
- Identify your skills: List your administrative skills and experience.
- Choose a platform: Join freelance sites like Upwork or Fiverr for virtual assistant jobs.
- Create a profile: Make a professional profile that highlights your skills and experience.
- Apply for gigs: Look for virtual assistant tasks that fit your skills.
Typical Pay Range
Virtual assistant pay varies based on the task’s complexity and the client’s budget. You can usually earn between $15 to $25 per hour.
Startup Costs
Starting as a virtual assistant is cheap. You’ll need a computer and internet, which most people already have. You might spend $10 to $50 a month on software like Zoom or Trello.
Time-to-First-Dollar
With a good profile and active job searching, you can earn money in a few days to a week. How fast you get your first client is key.
Data Labeling
Data labeling means adding notes to data for AI training. It’s essential and can be done on many platforms.
Quick-Start Steps
- Choose a platform: Sites like UserInterviews.com and Respondent.io offer data labeling jobs.
- Sign up: Make an account on your chosen platform.
- Complete a qualification test: Some platforms have a test to check your knowledge.
- Start labeling: Begin working on data labeling tasks as they come up.
Typical Pay Range
Data labeling pay changes based on the task’s complexity and the platform. You can earn between $10 to $20 per hour on average.
Startup Costs
Starting in data labeling is very cheap. You need a computer and internet. Some platforms might ask for specific software, but they usually tell you ahead of time.
Time-to-First-Dollar
You can start earning in a day or two after signing up, depending on task availability.
Resale Side Hustles for Beginners
For those new to the resale market, Facebook Marketplace and thrift stores are great places to start. Resale side hustles mean buying things cheap and selling them for more. This can be done online or in local stores.
Facebook Marketplace Flipping
Facebook Marketplace flipping is about finding cheap items locally and selling them online for a profit. It doesn’t cost much to start and you only need to know a bit about what sells well.
Quick-Start Steps
- Research popular items on Facebook Marketplace.
- Visit local thrift stores, garage sales, or estate sales to find underpriced items.
- Create a listing for your item with clear photos and competitive pricing.
Typical Pay Range
Profit margins can vary, but you can make $10 to $100 per item if you’re smart about it.
Startup Costs
Starting out costs little, around $10 to $50, depending on what you buy.
Time-to-First-Dollar
You can sell your first item in a few days to a week, depending on demand.
Thrift Store Reselling
Thrift store reselling means looking for rare items in thrift stores and selling them online or locally. It takes a good eye for valuable things and knowing what’s in demand.
Quick-Start Steps
- Visit local thrift stores regularly to find rare or in-demand items.
- Research the market value of your finds online.
- List your items on appropriate platforms like eBay, Poshmark, or to local collectors.
Typical Pay Range
Resellers can make $5 to $500 per item, based on its rarity and demand.
Startup Costs
Starting out costs little, just $5 to $20 per item.
Time-to-First-Dollar
With regular effort, you can sell your first item in a week or two.
| Platform | Typical Pay Range | Startup Costs | Time-to-First-Dollar |
|---|---|---|---|
| Facebook Marketplace Flipping | $10-$100 | $10-$50 | A few days to a week |
| Thrift Store Reselling | $5-$500 | $5-$20 | One to two weeks |
As Forbes points out, “The resale market is becoming more popular for sustainable and affordable shopping.” Beginners can start making money by using Facebook Marketplace and thrift stores.
Simple Digital Products Anyone Can Create
You don’t need a lot of experience to make money with digital products. Simple printables and templates are a great place to start. The digital product world is huge and full of chances for beginners to make extra money.
Online marketplaces like Etsy have made selling digital products easy. Many sellers have found success selling printables and templates. It’s a good choice for those wanting to start a side hustle.
Selling Printables with Beginner Tools
Selling printables is a good way to begin. Printables are files you can download and print, like planners or art. They’re useful in everyday life.
Quick-Start Steps
- Choose a niche for your printables, such as organization tools or educational materials.
- Use beginner-friendly design tools like Canva to create your printables.
- Set up a shop on platforms like Etsy or Gumroad to sell your digital products.
Typical Pay Range
The money you can make selling printables varies. It depends on the niche, quality, and demand. On average, sellers can earn between $5 to $20 per sale.
Startup Costs
Starting to sell printables is cheap. You’ll need a computer, design software (some is free), and a selling platform account. Costs can be as low as $0 to $100.
Time-to-First-Dollar
With good marketing and a strong niche, you can earn your first dollar in a few weeks to a couple of months.
Creating Basic Templates
Creating and selling templates is also a good digital product idea. Templates are useful for presentations, resumes, or social media graphics. They meet different professional and personal needs.
Quick-Start Steps
- Identify a need for templates in a specific industry or for a particular use.
- Use software like Microsoft PowerPoint or Google Slides to create your templates.
- Market your templates on your own website or through online marketplaces.
Typical Pay Range
Template sales can range from $10 to $50 or more per template. This depends on complexity and demand.
Startup Costs
Starting costs are low, needing only a computer and software. Costs can range from $0 (using free software) to a few hundred dollars for premium software or marketing.
Time-to-First-Dollar
The time to first sale varies. But, with a good product and marketing, it’s possible within a few months.
| Digital Product | Typical Pay Range | Startup Costs | Time-to-First-Dollar |
|---|---|---|---|
| Printables | $5-$20 | $0-$100 | A few weeks to 2 months |
| Templates | $10-$50+ | $0-few hundred dollars | A few months |
Gig Economy Work for Beginners
Exploring gig economy work can be rewarding. It’s great when you know where to start and what to expect. The gig economy offers many chances to earn money on your own schedule. This makes it perfect for those who want flexibility.
Food and Package Delivery
Starting with food and package delivery is easy. Companies like Uber Eats and DoorDash let you sign up and start delivering food. Amazon Flex also lets you deliver packages.
Quick-Start Steps
- Sign up on the platform’s website or app.
- Provide necessary documentation, such as a driver’s license and insurance.
- Complete any required orientation or training.
- Start accepting delivery requests.
Typical Pay Range
The pay for delivery gigs varies. It depends on location, demand, and the service. On average, drivers can earn $15 to $25 per hour.
Startup Costs
Starting costs are low. You need to set up an account and have a reliable vehicle. Some services might ask for a background check.
Time-to-First-Dollar
You can start earning money in a few days. This depends on demand and how often you’re available.
Task-Based Platform Gigs
Task-based gigs involve doing tasks like household chores or errands. Platforms like TaskRabbit connect you with people who need help.
Quick-Start Steps
- Create a profile on the task-based platform.
- Complete a skills assessment or background check if required.
- Browse available tasks and bid on those that fit your skills.
- Complete the tasks as agreed upon.
Typical Pay Range
Pay for task-based gigs varies a lot. Simple tasks might pay $10 to $20. More complex tasks can pay $50 or more.
Startup Costs
Costs are usually minimal. Some platforms might ask for a small deposit or have a membership fee.
Time-to-First-Dollar
You can start earning in a day or two. This depends on the availability of tasks and your skills.
| Gig Type | Typical Pay Range | Startup Costs | Time-to-First-Dollar |
|---|---|---|---|
| Food and Package Delivery | $15-$25/hour | Low (account setup, vehicle) | A few days |
| Task-Based Gigs | $10-$50/task | Minimal (deposit or membership) | 1-2 days |
“The gig economy is a powerful tool for individuals to take control of their financial lives, providing flexibility and opportunities for extra income.”
Avoiding Scams: Safety and Legitimacy Checks
When you look into side hustles, it’s key to tell real deals from scams. The gig economy has made it harder to spot the difference. Knowing how to spot scams is important for finding real opportunities.
Red Flags: Upfront Fees and Unrealistic Promises
Scams often ask for upfront fees. Real side hustles don’t charge you to start. Watch out for offers that seem too good to be true or promise high returns with little effort. Side Hustle Nation advises to do your homework before jumping in.
Secure Payment Methods for Side Hustlers
It’s vital to use secure payment methods to keep your money safe. PayPal, Stripe, and direct bank transfers are usually safe. Stay away from wire transfers and other unprotected methods. If unsure, talk to financial experts or seasoned side hustlers.
Simple Contracts for Local Work
For local jobs, a simple contract can help protect you. It doesn’t need to be complicated. A basic agreement covering work, payment, and contact info is enough. LegalZoom or Nolo can help with contract templates.
Knowing these safety tips can help you avoid scams and build a successful side hustle.
Side Hustles With No Experience: Finding Your First Clients
Finding your first client is a big step in your side hustle journey. It’s easier than you think. With the right strategies and platforms, you can quickly find clients and start building your portfolio.
Leveraging Local Facebook Groups
Local Facebook groups are great for finding clients. Many groups focus on local services, buy/sell/trade, and community events. Here’s how to get started:
- Search for local groups related to your side hustle
- Join these groups and participate in discussions
- Post about your services, following the group’s rules
Tip: Be genuine and helpful in your interactions. People are more likely to hire someone they trust.
Nextdoor and Community Bulletin Boards
Nextdoor is a social network for neighborhoods where you can offer your services. Community bulletin boards in local coffee shops, libraries, and grocery stores are also great for advertising your services.
| Platform | Description | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Nextdoor | Neighborhood social network | Targeted local audience |
| Community Bulletin Boards | Physical boards in local businesses | Visible to local customers |
Friends and Family Referral System
Don’t underestimate the power of your network. Let friends and family know about your side hustle and ask them to spread the word. You can even offer referral incentives for successful client acquisitions.
For example: If you’re a pet-sitter, ask your friends to recommend you to their friends with pets.
By using these strategies, you’ll be well on your way to finding your first clients and growing your side hustle.
Tools and Resources to Start Your No-Experience Side Hustle
Starting a side hustle without experience is easier than you think. You just need the right tools and resources. There are many options available, so you can start with little to no cost.
Free and Low-Cost Tools for Beginners
Many online platforms offer free or low-cost tools to help beginners. For example, Canva is great for graphic design, with lots of templates and design elements. Grammarly is also a must-have for writing and editing, with grammar and spell checks, plus style suggestions.
Here are some key tools for different side hustles:
- Project management: Trello, Asana
- Time tracking: Toggl, Harvest
- Social media management: Hootsuite, Buffer
Learning Resources to Quickly Upskill
To quickly improve your skills, use online learning resources. Udemy, Coursera, and Skillshare have courses on many topics. YouTube also has tutorials that guide you step by step.
| Platform | Course Topics | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Udemy | Marketing, Design, Development | Variable |
| Coursera | Business, Technology, Arts | Free/Audit, Paid/Certificate |
| Skillshare | Creative Skills, Business | Subscription-based |
With these tools and resources, you can start and grow your side hustle, even without experience.
Your First 7 Days Action Plan
Starting a new side hustle needs a solid first week. This time is key for building a strong base. Focus on important tasks in these first seven days to start well.
Day 1-2: Selection and Research
The first two days are for picking the right side hustle and doing your homework. Start by looking at your skills, interests, and how much time you have. Think about what you can do with your schedule. Look into different side hustles that fit your profile, checking demand, competition, and earnings.
As “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.” – Eleanor Roosevelt. It’s important to believe in your side hustle idea. Good research will help you feel sure about it.
Day 3-4: Setup and Preparation
After picking your side hustle, spend the next two days setting it up. Create a professional profile, get the tools and accounts you need, and prepare any materials like a portfolio. Make sure your online presence looks professional and matches your brand.
You might also need to buy some basic equipment or software for your side hustle. For example, if you’re into graphic design, you’ll need a good computer and design software.
Day 5-7: First Client Acquisition
The last three days should be about getting your first client. Use your network by telling friends, family, and colleagues about your new business. Also, use social media and local groups to get the word out. Make a strong pitch that shows what you offer.
As you near the end of your first week, remember that “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.” – Winston Churchill. Being brave to start and keep going is essential for your side hustle’s success.
Simple ROI Scorecard: Evaluating Your Side Hustle
To know if your side hustle is worth it, you must check its return on investment (ROI). Many side hustlers track ROI to guide their decisions.
Calculating Your True Hourly Rate
Figuring out your true hourly rate is key to seeing if your side hustle is profitable. You need to look at both the money you make and the time you spend.
Here’s a simple way to find your true hourly rate:
- Total earnings from side hustle
- Total time spent on side hustle (including preparation, execution, and administrative tasks)
- True hourly rate = Total earnings / Total hours worked
Measuring Time Investment vs. Return
It’s important to compare the time you put in versus what you get back. Track both the time and money to see your ROI.
Key factors to consider:
- Time spent on tasks
- Expenses incurred
- Earnings generated
When to Scale Up or Pivot
Deciding to grow or change your side hustle depends on its ROI. If your rate is good and you’re making money, it’s time to grow. But if it’s not, you might need to change your approach.
Let’s look at an example with a simple ROI scorecard:
| Side Hustle | Total Earnings | Total Hours | True Hourly Rate | ROI Assessment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Freelance Writing | $1,000 | 20 | $50 | Profitable |
| Virtual Assistance | $800 | 25 | $32 | Moderately Profitable |
With this simple ROI scorecard, you can make smart choices about your side hustle. This way, it stays a good use of your time.
Balancing Your Side Hustle With Full-Time Commitments
Managing a side hustle with a full-time job is tough, but doable. It’s key to use smart strategies for both jobs. This helps you keep up with your main job and side hustle.
Time Management Strategies for Side Hustlers
Good time management is vital for balancing work and side hustles. Start by:
- Creating a schedule for your side hustle
- Sorting tasks by urgency and importance
- Using downtime, like commutes or lunch, for side hustle work
Setting Realistic Expectations
It’s important to set realistic goals for balance. Know your side hustle will have busy and quiet times. Be honest about what you can do in a certain time, and don’t take on too much.
| Expectation | Realistic Outcome |
|---|---|
| Earning $1000 in the first month | Earning $200-$500 in the first few months, gradually increasing |
| Working 20 hours a week on the side hustle | Starting with 5-10 hours a week and adjusting as needed |
Preventing Burnout While Side Hustling
To avoid burnout, keep a healthy work-life balance. Make sure to:
- Take breaks and take care of yourself
- Set clear work, side hustle, and personal life boundaries
- Get support from family, friends, or other side hustlers
With these strategies, you can balance your side hustle and full-time job. This leads to a more sustainable and rewarding entrepreneurial path.
Conclusion: Taking the First Step Toward Side Hustle Success
Starting a side hustle might seem tough, but it’s doable with the right mindset and tools. You’ve looked at easy ways to get started, like local services, online tasks, and digital products.
Remember, the Side Hustle School community is here to help you. Use the tools and strategies from this article to make your side hustle dreams come true. Start small, stay consistent, and be ready to adapt to new things.
Starting a side hustle is more than just making extra money. It’s a step towards financial freedom and happiness. Take that first step today and see how it can change your life for the better.
