More and more people are starting secondary occupations. There are now more than 1 million self-employed people in Belgium. For some, it is a way to make their dreams come true, while for others it is an opportunity to earn some extra money or develop new skills. Perhaps you are also thinking about starting a side business next to your regular job?
But what if you don’t have any idea of what you want to do? We’re happy to help! In this blog, we share 22 feasible ideas for secondary occupations that you can get started with right away.
Why choose a secondary occupation?
Secondary occupations offer flexibility, a financial buffer, and the opportunity to be an entrepreneur with less risk. You retain the security of your regular job, but at the same time make your dream of self-employment come true. What’s more, many secondary occupations can be set up with limited start-up costs.
But what if I don’t have a good idea for a secondary occupation?
Many people would like to start their own business, but wait endlessly for that one “brilliant” idea. There’s no need for that!
You don’t have to reinvent the wheel to get started. Many self-employed people offer similar services or products, and that’s fine. Imagine if there were only one photographer or accountant in the whole of Belgium…
A good idea for a secondary occupation is often nearer than you think:
1️⃣ Consider your own talents: what are you good at, and how can others benefit from this?
2️⃣ Think about the challenges people face on a daily basis. If you can offer a solution, they are often willing to pay for it.
Top 22 ideas for a secondary occupation
1. Virtual assistant (VA)
Many entrepreneurs are too busy to deal with administrative tasks. This is where you can easily offer your help.
Help entrepreneurs by answering emails, scheduling appointments, doing administration, or managing social media. VAs are in high demand, even internationally.
Perhaps you know an entrepreneur in your area who could use some assistance?
2. Social media manager
Companies often don’t have time to post on Instagram, Facebook, or LinkedIn themselves. If you are creative and strategic, this is a perfect opportunity.
Other companies are experts in their field but are clueless when it comes to social media. And who knows, maybe that’s where your skills lie? Take a look at the Instagram or Facebook pages of companies in your area. Found one that could use some improvement? Stop by and show them what you can do!
3. Rent out a room in your house
Got an spare room in your house? Then that’s the perfect opportunity to earn some extra cash. Rent out a room on Airbnb and earn a little extra income.
4. Photographer or videographer
Everyone wants great photos! And maybe you can help with that?
From family portraits to weddings or corporate events: with basic equipment and a good eye for composition, you can get started quickly.
Dare to think out of the box!
Couples are even willing to hire a “smartphone videographer” for their wedding. That way, they have photos and videos they can share right away. This allows you to get started without large start-up costs.
5. Web designer
Are you not (yet) a web designer? Even then, you can work as one!
More and more small business owners are looking for an affordable website. Use tools such as WordPress, Wix, or Webflow to easily build a website.
6. Sell homemade products
Are you creative? Maybe you can make something nice to sell. Think of jewelry, candles, clothing, ceramics… You can easily offer your products through Etsy, bol.com, or your own webshop.
7. Interpreter or translator
Do you speak multiple languages? Then you could take on translation or interpreting assignments. Perhaps you have a mother tongue for which there are few translators?
8. Courier for Deliveroo or Uber Eats
It doesn’t have to be difficult! As a bicycle courier, you can work when you want and get started quickly without any start-up costs. This secondary occupation is great if you’re looking for physical work that you can schedule yourself.
9. Graphic designer
Are you creative and comfortable using tools such as Canva, Photoshop, or Illustrator? Logos, flyers, and social media visuals are always in demand.
10. Dog walker or pet sitter
A perfect secondary occupation for animal lovers. Pet sitting services during vacations are also very popular. You can find clients through various platforms.
Marketing doesn’t always have to be online
Paying a visit to companies can leave a lasting impression. They will remember you much better than if you just send an email!
11. Copywriter
Do you have a way with words? Then you can write texts for websites, blogs, or social media. Start with a portfolio and offer your services through networks or platforms such as Malt or Upwork.
12. Online coach or trainer
Are you an expert in nutrition, fitness, mindset, productivity, or finance? Start with one-on-one coaching or online courses.
Think about your own skills. You undoubtedly have knowledge that others don’t have. Are you a construction worker in your main job? Then you could perhaps advise people who are renovating their homes through video calls.
13. Give creative workshops
People love original activities. Are you good at flower arranging, cooking, or painting? Organize workshops in your neighborhood or online. Make sure you also offer gift vouchers.
14. Children’s entertainment or clown
Do you prefer children to adults? Many events are looking for entertainment. Think of birthday parties, schools, or events.
15. Dropshipping or e-commerce
Opening a store is very expensive, especially because you have to buy a lot of stock. An alternative is to launch a webshop without stock, using dropshipping. Platforms such as Shopify make it easy to create your own webshop.
16. Start a podcast
Have you got something to say? A podcast can generate income through sponsors or its own community. It will take a little longer to generate income compared to other secondary occupations, but it’s always a good idea to follow your passion.
Maybe you can even record podcasts for other companies?
17. Affiliate marketing
Are you familiar with affiliate marketing? This involves promoting other people’s products on blogs or social media and receiving a commission per sale. You can easily start with products you already have at home.
18. Childcare at home
Do you have a soft spot for children and a home that lends itself to this? Then you can start with occasional childcare or as a childminder. Reliable childcare is in high demand, so you’ll certainly have no shortage of work.
19. Party planner or event coordinator
Perhaps you are very organized and great at event planning? Organize baby showers, communion parties, or small corporate events in your spare time. Find your first customers through family and friends, and you’ll be up and running in no time.
20. E-book author
Prefer a side job without much interaction with people? Bundle your knowledge and sell an e-book online. You can do this through your own website, but also simply on Amazon.
Not sure what to write about, but are you a born illustrator? Children’s books often do very well.
21. Garden maintenance
A seasonal secondary occupation that quickly brings in customers in your own neighborhood. Finding clients isn’t difficult: look around for overgrown gardens and offer your services.
22. Teacher as a secondary occupation
Are you an expert in your field? Offer tutoring, language, or music lessons at your own pace and location. This is a great secondary occupation for master’s students, for example. You can often earn a lot more than you would as a student worker, and you can also claim expenses such as your textbooks and laptop. It’s a win-win!
Feeling inspired to start a secondary occupation?
Getting started is much easier than you think. You can set up a sole proprietorship online, meaning you can start running your business tomorrow.
Getting started is easier than you think!
In this article, we walk you through 10 clear steps so you can be up and running tomorrow.
