One of the less expected side effects of the digital age is the rise of the side hustle. Whether you're passionate about turning your hobby into a part-time job, looking to diversify your income streams, or just want some extra spending money, side hustles offer a wealth of opportunities.
But did you know that subscriptions can play a vital role in this exciting journey? In this blog, we'll delve into the world of subscriptions and how they fit perfectly into the age of the side hustle. So, grab your coffee, get cozy, and let's explore how subscriptions can help you make the most of your side gig.
The Side Hustle Revolution
Side hustles aren’t new, exactly – side jobs have been a part of life for as long as jobs have existed, surely. But the new millennium has seen an absolute explosion of the practice.
The rise of the side hustle is tied directly to the modern digital ecosystem. Social media has made it easier than ever for those interested in pursuing a side job to find flexible, freelance-style work. Alongside that, we’ve seen the birth and growth of the gig economy – this is defined by a whole bundle of platforms dedicated to quick, small-scale jobs. Remember Fiverr?
The upshot of all this is that there are so many more opportunities for people to find side hustles that suit their lifestyles and can work around their primary career. And it’s allowed more and more people to supplement their income, pursue their passions, or explore new opportunities.
How Subscriptions Fit In
Subscriptions aren't just about receiving curated boxes of goodies; they're a versatile tool that can boost your side hustle.
For instance: Many side hustles require specific software or tools. Instead of making a hefty upfront investment, consider subscription-based options. You'll get access to the tools you need without the financial burden.
Rentoza’s product subscriptions are an ideal example of this. Need a drone for a photography project? You can subscribe to one on Rentoza, then upgrade, downgrade, or cancel when you need to. That means you get the equipment you need, with the flexibility that actually buying a drone simply won’t give you. The same logic applies to everything from laptops to smartphones – if you’re not sure how long you’ll need it for, a subscription offers a no-commitment option that will work with your side hustle.
Here are some other ways subscriptions can support your side gig:
- If your side hustle involves creating physical products, there are subscriptions that can provide a steady supply of materials, whether you need wood or baking ingredients. This keeps your production line running smoothly and ensures you never run out of the essentials.
- Many service-based subscriptions include branding and marketing support. From design services to social media management, these services can boost your side hustle's visibility and professionalism.
- Subscriptions come with fixed monthly or annual costs, making it easier to budget for your side hustle expenses. No more unexpected surprises in your finances.
- Many subscription services come with customer support and expertise. If you're navigating the challenges of your side hustle, these services can offer guidance and solutions.
Getting the Best From Subscriptions
Subscriptions offer massive opportunities for improving your side hustle, but using them effectively does take a little planning.
Here are our tips to get the most from your subscriptions:
Budget Budget Budget
Keeping control of your spending is always important, but it’s even more vital when you’re spending money as part of a side hustle. It’s a separate budget just to track your expenses as they relate to your side gig, and compare this to the money you’re getting in. If you’re using a subscription exclusively for your side hustle, it shouldn’t cost more than you’re making.
Know When to Let Go
This is a big one: Just because a subscription seems to be working out for your side gig, doesn’t mean it’s worth continuing with.
Knowing when to let go can mean understanding that switching or upgrading (or even downgrading) your subscription can open new opportunities for your side hustle. For instance, upgrading a laptop at the right moment can help a designer go from working with small businesses, to major brands.
At the same time, if you’re not using a subscription much, let it go.
Understand Your Tools
We think of subscriptions as services, but from the perspective of the side hustle, they’re just another tool. And if you don’t understand your tools properly, you won’t be able to use them effectively. Dig into the details of the subscriptions you’re using, so the you can get the best value from them.
Subscription Hustle
In the age of the side hustle, subscriptions are a sidekick you didn't know you needed. They're a practical and cost-effective way to access the tools, materials, and expertise that can take your side hustle to the next level.
Whether you're a digital artist, an aspiring chef, or a self-care guru, there's a subscription out there waiting to simplify your side hustle journey. Embrace the power of subscriptions and watch your side hustle thrive.