In a world dominated by outgoing or extroverted individuals, where can the introspective and reflective ones thrive?
When the time came for that selection process, which faction in the community did you choose?
Several studies reported that extroverts are most likely to succeed in their career or in life in general due to their unique personality traits, allowing them to cope in various social settings.
However, it's not entirely true.
For someone so introverted like me, I simply can't agree with that statement. Come on! Where my fellow introverts at?
Well, the point here is that whether you're introvert, extrovert, or even ambivert, any side of the spectrum shouldn't define your capacity nor your overall life.
It's not about a battle between introverts and extroverts as to who's more or less—neither who will succeed nor failed.
This is about knowing yourself and capitalizing on your strength.
In this post, let's talk about the best side hustles for introverts and whether they can really have a special place in the freelance, gig economy, and side hustle universe.
Read more: Easy Freelance Jobs Online for Beginners to Get Started With Today.
How can an introvert make extra money?
Even as an introvert, one can make extra money to pay off bills, debts and go towards a savings fund. With the internet ever so free, plus one's skills, it's so easy for introverts to jump into the labor force and make space for their names.
For starters, let's have a quick roundabout with the definition of the terms.
When you say a person is an extrovert (or you believe this is your personality and characteristics), he/she is a social butterfly.
A social butterfly enjoys networking, social events, and having fun being surrounded by different people. They wouldn't mind loud parties as they're socially dynamic and get pumped up whenever there's an occasion without worrying about the people in there.
On the other hand, introverts are the reflective ones. They are not totally anti-social or anything like that.
Introverts simply enjoy solitude and unlimited “me-time.” Besides, It's like their form of self-care. Ultimately, they wouldn't mind spending time with themselves, often self-aware and a good listener. Furthermore, they are more friendly with people they know.
Many people concluded that extroverts are more likely to thrive in their careers than introverted peers. It's because of their ability to communicate with other people. Since they are a “people-person,” the tendency is, they win social activities, interactions, etc.
Most of them have the potential as well to become a leader. Hence, if you like working with people, then probably you are an extrovert.
However, where will the introverts can claim their spot?
Introverts vs. Extroverts
Despite the research and studies published before about the unique difference between the two personalities, success is not only measured by how introverted or extroverted you are.
I think it's high time we debunk all that misconceptions about being an introvert. Just because you're one doesn't mean that things wouldn't go well with you or your life suck.
More importantly, there's nothing wrong with whatever spectrum of personality you end up with.
Did you know that the multi-millionaires and wealthy entrepreneurs around the globe shared that they are an introvert? For instance, Bill Gates, Mark Zuckerberg, Warren Buffett, Elon Musk, among the few.
Know this: Introverts can make money even without talking to anyone. There's no need for another human being interaction, it's less stress, and there are side-hustles perfect for any introverts out there that pay decently.
Again, this is not about who's better or who will make the most money. Introverts have as many strengths as their counterpart extroverts are.
Thus, if you know how to play your cards right, you might just be the next successful introvert entrepreneur, CEO, or the next multi-millionaire out there!
21 Best Side Hustles for Introverts
A long time ago, I was devastated when I discovered that I am an introvert. I was taking a business degree. I can't forget one management professor who told us that if we want to become successful and master the craft of doing business, especially since we were taking a marketing course, he said we should refrain from business shyness and timidness.
“If you're an introvert, marketing and business are not for you.”
Point taken, but marketing is so much more than that. I daresay that no matter if you're introvert, extrovert, or even in between these two complicated classifications; you have a place in this world, you can make and earn money for a living.
Besides, introvert thrives when they can focus in silence and usually alone. As great listeners, they are also good communicators, so work from home jobs is ideal.
These side gig jobs exist for introverts who don't want to work with any single soul. With a mere internet connection and electronic device, as an introvert, you can make money.
Here are the 21 best side hustles for introverts like you and me (with average salary estimate figures).
1. Blogging
Average income: $15/hour or $38,440/yearly
This will never get off the list, plus it makes sense that it's the number one on our list.
As you probably have imagined, introverts can work alone and may function even more independently. So someone working cozy from home with a laptop and WI-Fi is the ideal picture in mind.
What you think as a hobby can earn you even a passive income in the long run. It's easy to get started; besides, it may take a while to see the money crashing down, but it's all worth it.
If you're excellent at creating content on microblogs or websites, you can start offering your service and earn money. Usually, you must narrow down your content niche so that when people search on the internet, they can see and click on your article content to help them find solutions and solve their problems.
The initial investments you have to accumulate if you want to start your career as a blogger are time management, writing skills, domain web hosting, laptop or desktop computer, and internet connection.
To monetize your blog, here are some ways you can incorporate:
- Sponsored post
- Membership site
- Digital prints
- Selling merchandise
- Digital space display and advertising
And so much more! If you managed to establish solid followers and readership, use that to leverage and make money blogging.
Related reads: How Do Bloggers Make Money? Bogging For Beginners 101
2. Freelance Writer
Average income: $30/hour or $63,213/year
I noticed that most introverts are good at writing. Not that extroverts are not, but the former mostly preferred written messages compared to talking or initiating a conversation, right?
Is it just me, or do you also preferred emails and text instead of a phone call?
Well, that makes us good in the writing and communications department.
If you have a knack for writing beautifully constructed sentences and phrases, you can opt for freelance writing gigs. (If you want to improve your writing skills, you can check out courses or workshops online).
Moreover, you can become a copywriter. A copywriter is someone who can write words that sell. For every customer converted of each copy, a copywriter earns a commission from the sale.
Another career path you can take as a freelance writer is:
- Content writer
- Author
- Copywriter
Where to offer services:
- All Freelance Writing
- Blogging Pro job board
- Contena
3. Virtual Assistant
Average income: $19/hour or $39,972/year
With the pandemic isn't going anywhere, remote works are prevalent. However, this shouldn't prevent you from becoming one and earning decent pay!
A virtual assistant can work from home anytime and anywhere. Depending on if you will make it a full-time or part-time career, you can earn a reliable income while working as a virtual assistant.
As you work remotely, you can save money from transportation expenses, eating out, vehicle costs, and more. This then can get allocated towards your funds or any savings goals in mind. Above all, you get the flexibility to work any time and anywhere you want.
If you're an introvert, you will absolutely love this remote job.
Aside from that, as a virtual assistant, all interactions with fellow human beings can be done via skype or any messaging platform, so there's no need to panic and get social anxiety.
- You can become a virtual assistant and help small businesses manage their back-office operation.
- Executive or personal virtual assistant- manage executive business owner's calendar, email, and set appointments.
- VA for start-ups- like becoming a virtual assistant for small or medium enterprises, you can also offer your expertise to start-ups. It can be a good starting point for your VA career which then can be added to your portfolio. (If you want to test the water, you can enroll in an online VA Bootcamp or have an internship so you can experience firsthand what it's like to become a VA, and decide for yourself whether this is a good side hustle fit for you).
4. Online course instructor
Average income: Varies
It's one of the easiest and best side hustles for introverts.
The online course instructor is suitable for introverts because all you have to do is build a course outline, record a video of you explaining or teaching how to do or achieve the result for your course, say, for instance, a course for writing fiction workshop.
And then, upload it on Udemy or Skillshare. Price your course and offer workbooks, one-on-one coaching as it progress, or an upgraded masterclass course.
Becoming an online course instructor can also be your source of passive income. Promote it on social media or your website, and then wait for someone to click that “enroll now” button and claim your payout instantly.
Just make sure to offer a reasonable price course, and there must be something of value that potential customers can acquire from you.
You can teach almost anything!
- Cooking class
- Calligraphy
- Art workshop
- And many more!
5. Book reviewer
Average income: Varies
Have a passion for reading and hoarding books? Calling all introvert bookworms out there! This is the best side hustles for introverts who also love books and reading!
Typically, pay varies for this type of side hustle. Some publishers or self-publish authors hire a book reviewer or early reader to instigate a fad for their stories or test the current market reader's eyes and perspective.
Furthermore, some publishers even send out free books in exchange for honest reviews on top of the monetary payment. This could help independent authors alike.
Book reviewers post the reviews of the books they read on Goodreads or on their book review blog. So you can start pumping your blog and make free review content to include in your portfolio.
Now, you could get paid by reading your favorite books! You can make money:
- Writing book reviews
- Becoming a freelance copy editor
- Hosting book features and new author launch online
- Narrating audiobooks
- Formatting ebooks for publication
- Book translation to a different language
On the contrary, you can sign up on these sites that will pay you for your reviews on select books:
Monetize your creative hobby and make money doing what you love and enjoy!
6. Pet sitter/walker
Average income: $14/hour or $29,921/year
If you're an introvert, you probably quickly get drained by social activities with too much human interaction. I get it; yes, we do need to recharge every now and then.
However, if you don't like working with another human soul, why not try the heaps of your friendly neighbor pawsy pets?
Therefore, if you're more of an animal rather than a people person, you can instead try to sit or walk pets within your neighborhood. Better yet, sign up (for free) as a pet walker and build a lucrative side hustle by taking care of our furry friends at these websites:
7. Online Survey Taker
Average income: Varies
Are you a survey junkie? Then, if you want legit easy money hacks, this one is for you.
Online survey taker precisely does what it says. Apparently, there are a bunch of companies and brands seeking perspectives from their customers or potential leads. This, in turn, helps them create sound decisions to further enhance their products and customer service.
If you would like your voice to get heard and offer your opinions, sign up to one of these sites and get paid for your thoughts.
Some offer exciting rewards points convertible to e-gift cards or cash too! You can earn money working from home by simply answering surveys, watching videos, playing games, reading emails, or simply surfing the web!
Start to get paid by doing what you already know in the comfort of your home and mobile devices.
8. Scopist
Average income: $19/hourly or close to $60,000/yearly
Think of a scopist as someone close to doing proofreading and transcripts.
Essentially, a scopist or scoping is a specialized form of transcription. For example, when a court reporter takes down notes of a proceeding in shorthand, a scopist takes that document and translates it into a properly written form.
To know more about scoping, how does it work, and where you can enroll to gain knowledge and experience, read:
9. Online Seller
Average income: Varies
Are you an entrepreneurial introvert? Well, there is one of the best side hustles for introverts like you (and me).
It's none other than becoming an online seller! Yes, you read it right.
If you have unique products or services to sell and offer, pitch it out from the internet; it's free and a low-cost way of starting a business.
Moreover, if you love creating stuff, you can sell your creative arts via Etsy. You can also buy and sell through the Facebook marketplace or retail arbitrage and dropship on Amazon.
10. Transcriptionist
Average income: $28/hour or $58,441/year
Are you a keyboard warrior introvert? Then, transcription is the best side hustles for introverts alike!
If you longed for zero human interaction, becoming a transcriptionist is a pretty easy job.
You could choose which categories you will focus on:
- General (as in business meetings, lectures, interviews, radio shows, podcasts, videos, etc.)
- Legal (court proceedings)
- Medical
Online transcriptionist jobs can pay well, and you don’t need a ton of experience to get started.
Read more:
- Best Online Transcription Jobs In 2021 That Hire Internationally
- Transcribe Anywhere Review – How to make money as a transcriptionist
11. Graphic Designer
Average income: $18/hour or $48,958/year
If you have your way for creative designs or digital arts, you might consider being a graphic designer.
You don't have to worry about physical interaction because being a graphic designer can be a remote or freelance job. Communications can be done via the internet on any messaging platform, plus you can get as many premium clients as you like.
Aside from that, you can also do commissioned arts for every design, digital or for printing, that you made. That's one way to make money.
Typically, employers preferred someone who has a bachelor's degree for this type of job or at least a relative experience.
In case you've got none, you can always check out free tutorials on Youtube or enroll in an online course; it's worth all the penny!
12. Video Editor
Average income: $40 per hour or $47,003 per year
Another best side hustles for introverts is video editor!
Video editing has become an in-demand skill today with the proliferation of vlogs, video marketing, content, and so much more.
If you know your way around moving pictures and knows how to use a video editing tool or software, try a video editor job post now.
Apart from that, it can be arranged as a work-from-home set-up as there's no need to actually meet each other, your boss, or anyone who tasked you with it.
Ensure to always keep your lines open and further develop your skills to upgrade yourself and catch premium clients you can work with.
13. Podcasting
Average income: $42/hourly or $87,274/yearly
Podcasting is a whole new breed of freelance work.
It is also one of the best side hustles for introverts because of zero to minimal human or face-to-face interaction. All you need here is your golden voice.
Becoming a podcaster or podcast host is like a radio disk jockey or DJ. There's no limit to what niche you want to pursue or the topic you want to share on your podcast.
Here's how you can make money podcasting:
- Sponsorships, Ads
- Donations, funds, or direct support from your fans
- Affiliate marketing
- Selling products or online merch
In podcasting, you need to invest in audio equipment like microphones or speakers, an up and running laptop, or any computer device.
Podcasting is an excellent way for those on the shy side to still make and earn money. Of course, people won't see your face, so you don't have to worry about making casual conversations, but you do need your voice because that's how your listeners can connect with you.
14. Food/Grocery Delivery
Average income: $22/hour or $45,513/year
I know it may look odd; the delivery side gig still requires minimal human interaction. But, at least, you can make money without talking to anyone (well, except for saying “thank you” or “have a great day”)
However, you can place deliveries even without vehicles say on foot. Plus, you can simply put it outside the client's door or designated place, less contact with them too due to pandemic restrictions.
Food or Grocery Delivery is one of the best side hustles for introverts who also want to use their vehicle to produce money for themselves.
Not to mention if you're the traveling type and loves exploring different places, likes driving alone with your thoughts, or if you're a foodie!
Sign up on Lyft or Instacart today to start your delivery gig come to life.
If you're going grocery shopping anyway, why not make money while on the way? But, of course, this is also ideal for our moms out there looking for extra ways to make money.
Related reads: DoorDash vs Grubhub vs UberEats-Which is the best delivery gig? and How To Make The Most Money As An Instacart Shopper
15. Product User Tester
Average income: $18/hourly or $38,113/yearly
Have you ever heard of companies or brands sending out free products to their leads just to listen to their thoughts and opinions about it?
If you're in doubt, well, I hate to say this to you, but it's a real thing.
There are companies or brands out there searching for product user tester and pays them for their thoughts. Sometimes, they even let you keep the product for free!
Talk about shaping brands! Testing products at home is an excellent side hustle even for working moms because it is practical. Besides, you can choose items that make your life easier and save more money.
User testing is not only limited to physical products; you can test a website too. Some companies seek out user testers to hear what people perceive once they launch their website or business., even for upcoming or unreleased products.
Often, this is for them to gauge if the website or app they are developing appeals to the mass market with its ease of use and other product-friendly features.
16. Social Media Specialist
Average income: $15-$100/hour or $43,317/year
If you're on your phone almost 24/7, scrolling through social media, why not earn money out of it?
A social media specialist might be the perfect side hustle for you. It's also completely online and can be remote work since all processes are done via the web.
Therefore, if you're someone who knows his way around Facebook Advertising, Youtube, Maintaining Social Media Pages and website, then a social media specialist role will come easy for you.
You can offer your services to business owners who need help boost or promote their products online or establish an online presence for their new brands. Usually, they outsource people who can do the online work to focus more on the core business planning.
17. Web Developer
Average income: $36/hour or $75,073/year
For the tech-e introvert, a web developer is the best side hustles for introverts like you.
A website or application developer is someone who enhances a website or app. They are responsible for designing the website, developing security measures, optimizing the site, and making its functionalities serve their purpose.
Usually, website developers have a basic foundation in coding and programming. However, if you don't like to work with any single soul ever again, tune into the tech-e side, and you can have your laptop, code, and programming language with you all day forever!
18. Vlogger
Average income: Varies
Some introverts are very awkward or extremely shy, private people, while others are possessed by a different personality in front of a camera.
If you think you are like this or know someone who describes the same way above, you can make money as an introvert through video blogging or vlog!
As a vlogger, you create content, hence also called content creator. As such, you produce quality videos that help people solve their everyday problems, offer entertainment, or simply share your lifestyle.
You work with your camera or any video device, shoot a video, edit it, and upload it on Youtube or any platform you can work with.
Most vloggers are making a handful of money from different sources of income, such as:
- Sponsorships
- Affiliate marketing
- Google Adsense
With so many people nowadays turning into vloggers or using influencer marketing, you'd also get fame from being an internet sensation or Youtube craze. Moreover, the various lockdowns and travel restrictions demanded things to binge-watch in consuming content.
Therefore, if you're the traveler or someone who has something to share with the world and don't mind becoming a public figure sometimes, this might be the gig for you.
19. Proofreader/Editor
Average income: $30/hour or $45,852/ year
Do you have your way of words? Then, becoming a proofreader or editor might just be the best side hustles for introverts like you!
All you have to do is deal with the paperwork and correct or format grammar, punctuation, correct any misspellings, and appropriate sentence construction.
It is ideal for introverts because you don't have to make or initiate any form of interactivity other than yourself. But, of course, you have to communicate with your client.
Aside from that, you can learn this skill on Poynter or Writers Online Workshop. Then, you can offer services at MediaBistro, Upwork, and Reedsy.
If you're a wordsmith and have experience in proofreading and checking paper documents or technical papers, consider becoming a proofreader or editor. After all, people need a second pair of eyes to see their work.
20. E-commerce Consultant
Average income: $40-$50/hour or $60,841/ year
With the rise of online shopping, the e-commerce industry is undoubtedly booming. You can take part in it by becoming an e-commerce consultant.
The best way to learn more about this job or skill is through Shopify Academy and Udemy. Moreover, you can offer your services at Upwork, Flexjobs, and Freelancer.
An E-commerce consultant is responsible for planning and designing a plan for the business e-commerce launch. They are also involved in almost every aspect of the business. For instance, marketing and advertising, inventory, product sourcing, negotiating with suppliers, among a few.
21. Creative POD
Average income: Varies
Print-on-demand or POD is also a good side hustle if you want to work from the comfort of your home.
Most significantly, creative POD is when you make a digital design for print and then offer it in the marketplace. Once a potential customer likes it, then you do the printing work and viola! Get paid on demand.
To give a clearer view, think of it as a customized printing business. First, however, you test the market for the potential demand of the design you will print, and then you will only launch or print the design once the deal is closed or agreed upon.
It's easier to enter this type of business endeavor, plus, it's also a low-cost business venture. You don't have to maintain expensive inventory, and you only work once there's a customer interested.
However, payment will vary because you only have the money when you have a sure customer who will pay.
Moreover, you can prepare a template or your personal design and then see if customers will catch the bait. Furthermore, you can also offer a customization printing service.
FAQs
What are the most profitable side hustles?
The most profitable side hustles are the ones that are work from home or remote jobs. Some of the most profitable side hustles are freelance writing, virtual assistance, web development, e-commerce consultant, to name a few.
This means facing the computer or laptop and working with an internet connection. For introverts, freelancing is an ideal set-up since you can work as flexibly as you can and alone.
How can I make money without talking to anyone?
There is a way for you to make money even without talking to anyone: Proofreading or editing, writing, graphic designer, blogging, podcasting, course creator, scopist, and many more.
If you'd still prefer to work with minimal human interaction, food delivery, and ride-sharing services gig, vlogging and influencer marketing are ideal.
What are the best side hustles for 2021?
The best side hustles for 2021 are all the above mentioned, plus SEO expert, e-commerce consultant, video editor, freelance writer, proofreader/copywriter, transcriber, and social media manager.
These are all high-paying and in-demand jobs this 2021. Furthermore, 33% of Fortune 500 companies turn to freelance sites to outsource their work. So if you're looking to earn extra income, pick up a freelancing skill and offer your services.
Final thoughts
There's a prevailing misconception about introverts for years now. They say that an introvert is super shy, loner, isolated, and even anti-social.
Well, it couldn't be farther from the truth! Years ago, when I discovered that I am an introvert, it took a toll on me to accept my personality. I thought I can't be good at any extracurricular or social activity, but I was only jailed by my self-limiting beliefs.
I failed to realize that being an introvert can work to your advantage once you recognize your hidden strengths.
More significantly, being an introvert is equal to an extrovert as a leader, a simple person, even a freelancer and hustler! Ultimately, you can succeed as an introverted freelancer. Learn how to use your personality to your absolute advantage.
Above all, you do you! So you're an introvert, so what?
The world is more comfortable now with freelance and remote jobs. Which side hustle gig are you eyeing?
0 Comments