Starting a side hustle can be life-changing, but many people hesitate because they think they need special skills or years of experience. The truth is, there are plenty of opportunities you can start today, even if you’re a complete beginner. Whether you’re looking to earn extra income, pay off debt, or eventually transition to full-time self-employment, this guide will show you the best side hustles that require no prior experience and how to get started.
Key Takeaways
- Discover 10 profitable side hustles that require zero experience.
- Learn step-by-step how to start each hustle with minimal investment.
- Find out how to turn these side hustles into a long-term income source.
- Explore online and offline opportunities for beginners.
1. Online Surveys and Market Research
Companies pay for consumer opinions, making online surveys one of the easiest side hustles.
How It Works:
- Sign up for legitimate survey sites like Swagbucks, Toluna, and Pinecone Research.
- Answer simple questions about products, services, and trends.
- Earn cash, gift cards, or points that can be redeemed.
How Much Can You Earn?
- Earnings vary, but you can make $50–$300 per month in your spare time.
Pros:
✔ Easy to start with no skills required.
✔ Work from anywhere, anytime.
Cons:
✖ Surveys pay low per task, requiring volume to earn more.
✖ Some sites have minimum payout thresholds.
2. Selling Print-on-Demand Products
Print-on-demand (POD) is a low-risk way to start an e-commerce business without managing inventory.
How It Works:
- Use platforms like Redbubble, Teespring, or Printful.
- Upload designs for t-shirts, mugs, hoodies, and phone cases.
- When a customer buys, the company prints and ships the product for you.
How Much Can You Earn?
- Some sellers make $100–$5,000+ per month, depending on demand.
Pros:
✔ No upfront costs or inventory needed.
✔ Passive income potential with a growing catalog.
Cons:
✖ Competitive market; requires marketing for visibility.
✖ Limited control over pricing and product quality.
3. Freelance Writing
If you can write, even at a basic level, freelance writing is one of the most lucrative beginner-friendly side hustles.
How It Works:
- Sign up on platforms like Fiverr, Upwork, or ProBlogger Jobs.
- Offer content writing, blog posts, or social media copy services.
- Improve your skills with free tools like Grammarly and Hemingway Editor.
How Much Can You Earn?
- Beginners make $20–$100 per article, while experienced writers earn much more.
Pros:
✔ No degree required, just practice and research.
✔ Flexible work schedule.
Cons:
✖ Can be time-consuming at first.
✖ Clients may have different writing preferences.
4. Virtual Assistant (VA) Work
VAs help businesses with admin tasks like scheduling, email management, and social media.
How It Works:
- Create a profile on Belay, Time Etc, or Upwork.
- Offer general admin support, data entry, or calendar management.
- Specialize in social media, customer support, or bookkeeping to earn more.
How Much Can You Earn?
- Entry-level VAs make $10–$25 per hour, while specialized VAs earn up to $50 per hour.
Pros:
✔ No formal training needed.
✔ Steady work opportunities.
Cons:
✖ Requires good time management and multitasking skills.
✖ Some tasks can be repetitive.
5. Dropshipping Business
Dropshipping lets you sell products online without handling inventory.
How It Works:
- Set up an online store using Shopify or WooCommerce.
- Partner with suppliers from AliExpress or Spocket.
- When a customer orders, the supplier ships the product directly.
How Much Can You Earn?
- Successful dropshippers make $500–$10,000+ per month, but it takes effort.
Pros:
✔ No upfront stock or warehouse needed.
✔ Scalable once you learn marketing strategies.
Cons:
✖ Competitive and requires good marketing skills.
✖ Finding high-quality suppliers can be a challenge.
6. Social Media Management
If you enjoy Instagram, Twitter, or TikTok, you can manage social accounts for businesses.
How It Works:
- Offer services on Freelancer, Fiverr, or LinkedIn.
- Create engaging content, reply to messages, and track growth.
- Use free tools like Canva and Hootsuite to schedule posts.
How Much Can You Earn?
- Beginners make $15–$30 per hour, while experts earn $50+ per hour.
Pros:
✔ No experience required—just creativity.
✔ Businesses always need social media help.
Cons:
✖ Requires consistency and content planning.
✖ Can be time-consuming to grow accounts.
7. Affiliate Marketing
Earn commissions by promoting products through blogs, YouTube, or social media.
How It Works:
- Sign up for affiliate programs like Amazon Associates or ShareASale.
- Share links to products on your blog or social media.
- Earn commissions when people buy through your link.
How Much Can You Earn?
- Some affiliates make $100–$10,000+ per month, depending on traffic.
Pros:
✔ Passive income potential.
✔ No need to create products.
Cons:
✖ Takes time to build a following.
✖ Requires content creation or advertising.
8. Online Tutoring
If you’re good at a subject, teach others online.
How It Works:
- Join tutoring platforms like Chegg Tutors, VIPKid, or Wyzant.
- Teach subjects like math, English, or test prep.
- Set your own schedule and rates.
How Much Can You Earn?
- Tutors make $15–$50 per hour, depending on the subject.
Pros:
✔ No teaching degree required.
✔ Flexible work-from-home option.
Cons:
✖ Some platforms require a degree for advanced subjects.
9. Pet Sitting or Dog Walking
Love animals? Get paid to care for pets!
How It Works:
- Sign up on Rover or Wag!
- Offer dog walking, pet sitting, or boarding services.
- Set your availability and work locally.
How Much Can You Earn?
- Pet sitters make $15–$30 per hour or $50+ per night.
Pros:
✔ No experience needed—just love for animals.
✔ Flexible schedule.
Cons:
✖ Requires local clients.
✖ Some pets need special care.
Final Thoughts: Choose Your Side Hustle and Get Started
Starting a side hustle with no experience is easier than you think. Choose one from this list, take action, and build a steady income stream. The sooner you start, the faster you’ll see results!