From Side Hustle to Full Time: How to Turn Your Passion Into a Career
For many industry professionals, the silver lining of putting events and weddings on hold is the new wealth of time to work on our businesses. In fact, you may even be considering taking the leap to start a new business or brand based on a longtime passion, just as I did all those years ago.
While this is certainly a risky time to invest in a new project, it’s also a wonderful opportunity to gauge any gaps in the market to see where you can establish your niche. COVID was a tough, humbling roadblock for the launch of my masterclass, but ultimately, I knew that bringing education to the industry was something I was dedicated to.
Likewise, your side hustle can become a reality with hard work, and it could finally be your chance to create a career out of something you love doing.
Determine the Type of Business You Want
The first step in the process is going to be taking a long, hard look at your goals and the potential future of your business. When you think about your idea, can it figuratively grow legs and have the longevity for years to come?
I highly advise outlining a rough business plan draft (whether you’re expanding your existing business or starting from scratch), and researching who your target audience and ideal client would be. From a logistics standpoint, you’ll want to also consider some concepts for naming your business, any permits or licenses you may need, as well as insurance.
Establish Your Team
Next up, I strongly recommend adding some trustworthy and well-qualified members to your team – if you don’t already have employees. Hire like-minded individuals that are going to have the same goals and have your business’s best interests in mind.
Keep your job description detailed and carefully vet potential candidates, whether that’s using your professional network, a posting site such as Indeed, or an employment agency. Once you’ve gone through the hiring process and selected your team, you should set expectations regarding scheduling, defining success for the position, and more.
Let’s Talk Marketing
Marketing is not only a tool to appeal to your potential clients and attract new business, but it can be incredibly effective in storytelling for your brand. Consumers love to have the personal connection with someone they’re considering hiring, and I attribute the majority of my success to nurturing those relationships.
Don’t be afraid to take advantage of all of the tools and resources at your disposal when it comes to social media. Instagram Stories and Reels are quick bites to showcase some of your products or services, and Facebook Groups are always a must if you’re wanting to build industry relationships. Aesthetic is important, yes, but ingenuity is going to really draw clients in.
Should You Diversify?
Now, you may already have an established business, but you’re looking to diversify or even pivot your offerings to adapt to the changing of the tides. If sounds familiar, then it’s high time to look realistically at expanding. Ask yourself if your idea is feasible, if there’s a need in the market for it, and whether or not it could become obsolete once events and weddings resume.
For example, I chose to add design offerings to my floral services years ago as I began to evolve my brand to Eddie Zaratsian Lifestyle & Design. This ultimately opened up a lot of doors for me to take on more clients and expand my company’s overall reach!
Above all, try to look at your new offerings or idea to expand through an unbiased lens. This should make sense regarding your skill set, and it should really showcase your personality and desire to service the industry around you.
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