Can you work a full-time job and a side hustle? The short answer is yes. We unpacked how you can start a side hustle while still holding down a full-time job in our recent post. In this one, we’re going into tools to help you start and grow your side hustle.
It may seem like a mountain to climb, but you can do it. Thousands of people do it every day. But it won’t be easy. That’s why you must plan as best you can and use the right tools to help you succeed.
Not sure where to start? Here are 8 tools that’ll help you get more done in less time.
1. Project Management
No matter what your side hustle may be, at some point, you’re going to find yourself juggling multiple tasks at once. Project management tools can help you manage your workflow efficiently and improve your productivity so you can get more done. Some of the best project management tools are Trello, Todoist and Teamwork. Explore more project management tools here.
2. Filing and Storage
While balancing your side hustle and main job, you’ll likely have files cluttered on your desktop. To keep your desktop (and yourself) organised, make use of the cloud to help you work better and keep your work safe. Popular examples of cloud storage tools are Google Drive, Dropbox and Microsoft OneDrive.
3. Communication
Building meaningful relationships will open up many opportunities in the future for collaboration, cross-promotion and even mutually beneficial relationships. Take advantage of networking tools, such as social media, to connect and build your audience. Similarly, you’ll need to keep in touch with your team and clients. Tried and tested apps like WhatsApp and MS Teams are great for staying in touch!
4. Finances
When running a side hustle, you’ll need to know how to keep track of, manage and improve your finances. The great news is you don’t need to be a maths boffin to get it right. There are various apps and platforms that can help you manage your money better. These include 22seven, Fresh Books and Goodbudget.
5. Design
If you want to attract new customers to your business, you’ll need eye-catching collateral to grab their attention. Whether it’s business cards, images for a blog post or social media post designs – you’ll find that graphic design tools are a must-have. A few good (and mostly free) platforms are Freepik, Canva and Pixlr.
6. Learning
Knowledge can transform your life and accelerate your career. You’ll find yourself consistently growing and improving within your skillset and business when you have a desire to learn more. And learning doesn’t have to be expensive; platforms such as Skillshare, Udemy and Teachable offer free and paid courses.
7. Payment
Every side hustle needs an effective way of making and getting payments. Thanks to the ongoing evolution in the payments industry, there are plenty of options available to help accept and process payments. Some safe and convenient payment tools include iKhokha, PayU and PayFast.
8. Stress Management
Stress is a part of everyday work life that can help motivate you to get things done. But, it can get too much and start to interfere with your personal or work life. You need to find a way to manage your stress to feel and function at your best. Apps like Calm and Headspace can help you relax and unwind.
The truth is, running a side hustle can be tricky, but the rewards are worth it! If you’re looking for some real inspiration, why not take a look at our free eBook: 7 Side Hustles That Became Multi-million Rand Businesses.
