Turning Your Hobby Into A Business

Turning your hobby into a business is an idea one needs to explore especially here in Harare.  Here is a step-by-step guide on how that is achievable.

Teach others how to participate in your hobby

This is a great way to make money with your hobby when it does not produce a tangible product. An example of this would be teaching piano lessons if piano playing is your hobby. You can offer frequent lessons on a weekly or monthly basis, or you might prefer more occasional and more in-depth options like workshops.

Sell products that are related to your hobby

For anyone who does not have a finished product to sell or does not want to teach. For example, if you enjoy indoor gardening by creating terrariums, you could collect and sell fun and interesting vintage bottles online. eBay.com is a popular place to sell nearly any product online.

Sell finished products online

This is ideal for those whose hobby results in a great marketable product. If you enjoy making art, crafts or any other tangible good, then a natural outlet is to sell your items online. Consider setting up shop on Etsy.com to sell your handmade products.

Find a job related to your hobby

Finding a job related to your passion is a great way to enjoy a little creative freedom while in the workplace. This applies to almost anyone, including the football fan who gets paid to write a sports column for his town newspaper.

Hone your skills

Although it's just a hobby, those who consume your products expect high quality standards. Further to that, some already see you as a ‘guru' in that field. Don't lower their expectations. Don't lie to them either. Learn more about your hobby and discover how you can get better at it. Visit sololearn, quosera, etc to upgrade your skills.

Create a website or blog about your hobby

These days tech has made it easier to market our talents (although it's a jungle) online. Platforms like YouTube, Tik Tok, Facebook, WordPress, Instagram, etc offer blogging opportunities.

ALSO READ: START-UP BUSINESS: ETHICS YOU MAY BE OVERLOOKING

Learn the business fundamentals

Your business may have grown out of your passion, but once you get going you need to put some time into its financial aspects. Develop a business plan and stick to it. Keep an accurate record of your business expenses, as well as your earned income, to ensure you’re making a profit. Save receipts from business-related purchases. Your earnings from freelance work will be subject to income tax.

Get a mentor

Having a mentor who can offer advice from personal experience is valuable. Learn from the people who already went through the nitty-gritty of starting their own business. These people can provide you things to avoid and improve for you to be successful.