Side hustles have become increasingly popular among U.S. adults, with more than a third of individuals engaging in extra work to bring in an average of $891 a month, according to recent research from Bankrate. While this additional income is beneficial, many side hustlers aim to make significantly more money, sometimes even enough to replace the income from their full-time jobs or other ventures. Starting an online side hustle remains an attractive option for those seeking flexible hours and the ability to work from home.
There are various ways that individuals can earn extra cash online through side hustles. Freelance writing, tutoring, web development, graphic design, and flipping or selling products are just a few examples of the many opportunities available. People often offer their goods or services through digital marketplaces on platforms like Etsy, eBay, TikTok, Shopify, and Facebook.
Earlier this year, Entrepreneur interviewed four individuals who used Facebook to start and grow their side hustles into million-dollar businesses. Karen Frederick, a mother of two, founded her online jewelry and accessories brand, Kole Jax Designs, in 2012. Teen brothers Kirk and Jacob McKinney started their junk-removal business, Junk Teens, in 2021. Carlos Ugalde launched his print-on-demand apparel brand, House of Chingasos, in 2018.
Karen Frederick’s success with Kole Jax Designs serves as an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs. She started her business to have a fulfilling home-based career while being present for her children. By leveraging social media, particularly Facebook, Frederick was able to grow her brand and achieve significant revenue. Her advice to others is to start without overthinking, embrace change and failures, and invest in oneself.
The McKinney brothers’ journey with Junk Teens showcases the power of simplicity and passion in building a successful business. They started by collecting and selling items on Facebook Marketplace before transitioning into a junk-removal business. Their advice emphasizes the importance of momentum, growth, and aligning the business with personal passions.
Carlos Ugalde’s experience with House of Chingasos demonstrates the potential for rapid growth and success in the print-on-demand apparel industry. Despite starting with minimal knowledge of digital marketing, Ugalde’s trial-and-error approach led to substantial revenue within a short period. His advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is to focus on success as the only option, be flexible in approach, and never stop learning.
In conclusion, side hustles offer individuals the opportunity to supplement their income, pursue their passions, and potentially build lucrative businesses. By leveraging online platforms like Facebook and embracing change, failures, and continuous learning, aspiring entrepreneurs can turn their side hustles into successful ventures. The stories of Karen Frederick, the McKinney brothers, and Carlos Ugalde serve as inspiring examples of how dedication, creativity, and perseverance can lead to entrepreneurial success.
