Inspira Health Network, Inc.

FALL 2017

Spirit of Women magazine is a national publication presented to women by hospitals and their physicians. The magazine provides up-to-date, evidence-based healthcare information and promotes our hospitals as leaders in women's health excellence.

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11 Be realistic Although side gigs can be lucrative, they're generally not a ticket to loads of quick cash. "The reality is that hard work pays off, and that it takes time to build a business," says Thomas Ross. When choosing a sideline business, steer clear of opportunities that boast about soaring income potential, such as making $250,000 in your first year. It's not likely for most people, says Thomas Ross. Don't minimize your business A side business isn't your main source of income, so you can afford to have a little fun with it. Still, don't treat it like it's less than an endeavor worthy of your time and talent. "If you tell potential clients, 'It's just a side business' or 'I'm just getting started,' you'll lose credibility and customers," says Thomas Ross. "If you're just a side business, people may not want to pay you." Instead, "fake it till you make it," she says. Focus on your customers and how you can help them. Don't undersell yourself What to charge for your services is up to you. A common mistake? Not knowing what it truly costs to provide a product or service. With side gigs, there can be lots of incidental expenses, such as the cost of building your own website and the time it takes to write blog promotional posts and emails. "If you want to be a life coach, for example, and you decide to charge $30 per hour, you should probably be charging $120 per hour to factor in the time and expense it takes to get clients," says Thomas Ross. "People will pay for professional services, so be mindful of charging what you are truly worth." A side business isn't your main source of income, so you can afford to have fun with it. Still, don't treat it like it's less than an endeavor worthy of your time and talent.

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