Doing that you are passionate about is an incredible feeling, but for many of us our passions are just our hobbies. They are only something we get to do in our free time.
However, turning your hobby into a side job might be easier than you thought. It can seem overwhelming to get started, but once you start earning you’ll realize you’re capable of supporting your family through your passion.
No matter the field you decide to break through, here are 3 tips you’ll need to transform your passion into a money maker:
Get Certified
Most likely, you’ll need some kind of license and accreditation to run your side business. It’s very important to stay current on what qualifications your state requires to become professional. So, after you figure out your business plan, find out how to go legit.
Each business is going to need different licenses. For your new business that might mean getting a business or contractors license, as well as registering with your city, or even filing for an LLC. Whatever it is, choosing to avoid licenses is a bad move. You could face heavy penalties, so make sure to do what you need to get your operation running smoothly.
Many business licenses and accreditations require exams, and preparing for them can be easy with some help. Whether you need to pass the Maryland Home Improvement Contractor (MHIC) exam, or just a simple Google Adwords certificate, a local training center will guide you through how to pass your exam.
If you ever have trouble finding out exactly what you need to do, get educated on the regulations in your state. Follow that up by researching business regulations in your city.
By staying up to date, you’ll know that you’re ready to open your doors.
Keep Quality Records
Once you’ve got your business accredited you are on your way to making it a success. Although, don’t forget to document all that you have done. Keeping records from the start of your business’s formation is incredibly helpful. Have your licenses on hand so you can prove your legitimacy.
When you keep good documentation of your business dealings from the beginning you’re not wasting time down the line trying to remember exactly what you did at the start. This is especially relevant when it comes time to pay taxes. Keeping records of your finances and licenses is a really important part of any business you run, the same way it is for your family.
Brand Your Business
After you’ve sorted out the legalities, and kept your paperwork in check, the most fun part of your business comes to the forefront: branding. Branding what you do is imperative to help your business grow. Branding your business is giving it an identity. So basically, branding means giving your business a name and way for people to remember it.
Develop a social media presence for your business targeted towards those most likely to follow you back. Reach out to family and friends and ask if they’d be willing to share your business’s info. See if they’d be willing to become your first clients, and then recommend your business through word of mouth. Clear branding and early marketing will set up a stable client base to draw upon. You won’t be struggling to get people to notice you. Instead, you’ll have trusted clients you can count on, and that will recommend you to friends.
Turning your passion into your job is already awesome, but as a mom it comes with an added bonus: you’ll be able to set a good example for your kids. When you turn your hobby into a job you show them they can chase their dreams, and be practical about making money at the same time.