Starting a Side Gig: 5 Tips for Authors

Whether you are a self-published author or you work with a traditional publisher, you might find that your income from book sales fluctuates. Even if you’ve received positive reviews from outlets like Belladonna’s Books, sales can be fickle. This is perfectly normal for most authors, but it can also be frustrating if you’re trying to stabilize your finances and save for big goals. Launching a side gig that enables you to use your writing skills without sacrificing the time you spend on your creative work might be the perfect solution! Here’s how to make side gigs work for you.

Benefits of Side Gigs

Why start a side gig when you’re already a published author? You’ll be able to increase your income and contribute more to your savings, enabling you to weather times when your book sales dip. Plus, you’ll continue building a positive reputation in your industry by mastering and applying new skills while networking with clients.

Side Gig Ideas for Authors

As an author, you’ve already proven that you’re a skilled writer, giving you lots of options for side gigs. You could write resumes and cover letters, create blog content for small local businesses, write webpages for individuals or companies, or offer to edit or proofread book drafts by other authors. Alternatively, you could start your own blog and offer advertising spots for writing-related products or businesses. You can also look for inspiration in entrepreneurial books.

Finding Side Gigs

You’ve settled on a few potential ideas for side gigs – but how do you find your first clients? You can check out online job platforms for writers to find people who are seeking the services you plan to offer. You can also let your professional network know that you’re accepting your first clients for your side gig, and they can refer people to you. And finally, don’t forget to tell your family and close friends about your side hustle. They could be some of your first clients!

What if you’d like to work with local clients in your area? To connect with potential clients offline, ForwardPush recommends running print ads in local monthly magazines along with complete contact information.

Forming an LLC

Eventually, you’ll probably want to form an LLC for your side gig. You might assume that registering your side business isn’t necessary but doing so will enable you to take special tax deductions and protect your personal assets.

It’s possible to file the paperwork on your own, but the process can be complicated, especially since the regulations vary across different states, so it’s best to seek guidance from https://www.zenbusiness.com/florida-llc/. While you could pay high fees for a lawyer, you could use this budget-friendly online formation service to save money.

Balancing Your Schedule

Naturally, you want to make sure that the time you spend on your side gig does not cut into the time you need to block off for writing books. In order to handle writing books and working on your side gig, you’ll need to create a structured schedule and make a serious effort to avoid distractions during the workday. To manage your time, Hustle and Groove recommends giving your clients realistic expectations for your availability, batching similar tasks so that you can stay focused for longer blocks of time, and recognizing the signs of burnout early so that you can dial things back if necessary.

Authors do not have to deal with unstable finances throughout their careers. Spending time on side gigs can be a great way to boost your income and expand your skillset. With these tips, you’ll be able to start a fun, profitable side gig!

Want to find great new reading selections? Check out the reviews from Belladonna’s Books! Browse our blog today to find your next book.

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Article by Marjorie McMillian

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