Best Side Gigs for 17 Year Olds
Earn Extra Money in 2024
Finding side gigs as a 17-year-old can be both rewarding and educational, providing valuable experience and extra income. One of the best opportunities for teenagers is online tutoring, with national averages showing potential earnings upwards of $39,000 per year. This is particularly appealing for those who excel in academic subjects and enjoy sharing their knowledge with peers.
Another creative option for teens with artistic skills is graphic design. Teens with a flair for digital art can find freelance work designing logos, social media graphics, and other visual content for clients. Starting on platforms like Fiverr, where the minimum age requirement is just 13 years, can be a promising way to build a portfolio and gain professional experience.
Taking surveys online is a simple and accessible side hustle. Teens aged 16 and over can make a decent income by completing high-paying surveys through platforms like Swagbucks or Survey Junkie. These platforms offer flexibility, allowing teens to work according to their schedules while earning extra cash.
Understanding Side Hustles
Side hustles offer an excellent way for 17-year-olds to make money while developing valuable skills. These gigs can range from online surveys to freelance work, each with different earnings potential and skill requirements.
The Side Hustle Phenomenon
A side hustle differs from a traditional part-time job by providing more flexibility. It allows teens to pursue a passion or interest while earning extra income. Common side hustles include freelance writing, pet waste removal, and selling old items online.
The rise of the gig economy has fostered new opportunities for young people. Many platforms now allow teens to register with parental consent, opening doors to various avenues for generating income. It’s important to choose a gig that aligns with the teen's interests and time availability.
Key Skills for Success
Successful side hustles often require specific skills. Time management is crucial to balancing school responsibilities with a side hustle. Organizational skills help in tracking earnings, managing schedules, and meeting deadlines.
Communication skills are equally important, whether dealing with clients, customers, or team members. Technical skills can also be valuable, especially for gigs like graphic design or social media management. Finally, a passion for the work can significantly enhance the experience and the quality of the output.
Investing time in skill development can lead to better opportunities and higher earnings potential in the long run. For instance, honing writing skills can open doors to lucrative freelance writing jobs.
Online Opportunities
There are numerous online opportunities available for 17-year-olds to earn money. These include freelancing on platforms like Fiverr, creating and monetizing content on social media, engaging in online tutoring, and participating in surveys and user testing.
Freelancing Platforms
Freelancing platforms such as Fiverr and Upwork offer teens the chance to provide services like graphic design, writing, and digital marketing. By creating a profile showcasing their skills, teens can bid on projects or set up gigs. Fiverr is particularly accessible since its services start at $5, making it a popular choice for young freelancers.
Platforms:
Fiverr: Ideal for quick gigs in various categories.
Upwork: More professional, suitable for ongoing projects.
Freelancer: Competitive but offers a wide array of job opportunities.
Content Creation and Monetization
Teens can leverage their creativity by starting a YouTube channel, blog, or engaging on social media platforms. They can create videos, write articles, or develop engaging content. Monetization strategies include ad revenue, sponsored posts, and affiliate marketing. YouTube's Partner Program allows creators to earn money from ads once they reach certain thresholds.
Methods:
YouTube: Ad revenue and sponsorships.
Blogging: Affiliate marketing and sponsored posts.
Social Media: Brand partnerships and promotions.
Tutoring and Educational Assistance
Online tutoring platforms such as Chegg Tutors and Tutor.com offer opportunities for teens to help others with school subjects. This is an ideal option for those who excel academically and can provide educational assistance in areas like math, science, or languages. Setting up profiles on these platforms allows teens to connect with students who need help and earn money for their expertise.
Platforms:
Chegg Tutors: Flexible hours and various subjects.
Tutor.com: High demand for subjects like math and science.
Wyzant: Allows setting personalized tutoring rates.
Surveys, Reviews, and User Testing
Participating in online surveys and user testing can be an easy way to make money. Websites like Swagbucks and Survey Junkie pay users to complete surveys, watch ads, or review products. UserTesting offers payment for testing websites and providing feedback on user experience. While this isn't the highest-paying option, it's straightforward and requires minimal commitment.
Platforms:
Swagbucks: Earn points redeemable for gift cards or cash.
Survey Junkie: Rewards for completing surveys.
UserTesting: Payment for testing websites and apps.
Local and Community-Based Jobs
There are many job opportunities for 17-year-olds within their local communities. These roles can help teens gain valuable skills, experience, and some financial independence.
Traditional Part-Time Roles
Part-time jobs like working in retail stores or at local restaurants are popular among 17-year-olds. These jobs often involve tasks like handling customer service, stocking shelves, or food service.
Working in a retail store, for example, can help teens develop strong communication and teamwork skills. Local businesses, such as cafes or shops, provide an environment where teens can learn about the operations of small companies.
Becoming a camp counselor during summer months is also an enriching option. It’s common for camps to hire teens to assist with activities and guide younger campers. These roles offer leadership experience and the chance to develop mentoring skills.
Neighborhood Services
Many teens also earn money by offering services to their neighbors. Babysitting is a classic job that allows teens to manage responsibilities and care for children. It requires a great deal of trust and can help develop patience and organizational skills.
Pet sitting and dog walking are perfect for animal lovers. These tasks typically involve feeding, walking, and playing with pets, making them ideal for teens looking to spend time outdoors.
Lawn care services, like mowing lawns or gardening, are in demand during warmer months. This kind of work teaches responsibility and can be done in flexible hours, often leading to repeat business from satisfied neighbors.
Creative and Artistic Gigs
For teens with creative talents, offering artistic services can be both fulfilling and lucrative. Graphic design, for example, lets teens create logos, social media graphics, and other visual content for local clients.
These gigs can be advertised through flyers or local online community groups. Teens with musical abilities might give instrument lessons to younger kids or perform at community events, providing both experience and exposure.
Art-related tasks aren’t limited to digital work either. Creating custom artwork, painting murals, or crafting handmade items to sell at local fairs are great ways for artistically inclined teens to make money while doing what they love.
Crafting a Professional Image
To succeed in side hustles, 17-year-olds must present themselves professionally, effectively manage finances, and be aware of legalities and safety. These elements contribute to future success and skills development.
Navigating Legalities and Finances
Understanding legal requirements is crucial. Minors often need parental consent for contracts. Obtaining necessary permits or licenses, if applicable, is also essential. Implementing personal finance management practices ensures earnings are well-handled.
Side gigs often mean irregular income, so setting aside money for taxes is vital. Using tools like budgeting apps helps in tracking expenses and income. Thinking ahead about college tuition, taxes, and saving strategies can alleviate future financial stress.
Maximizing Earning Potential
Using skills such as app development or graphic design can increase earnings. Building a strong resume by listing side hustles and acquired skills appeals to future employers.
Providing excellent service leads to repeat clients and referrals. Teens should price their services competitively but fairly. Learning negotiation skills can also help in securing better rates. Diversifying income streams by exploring different side hustles helps in achieving financial goals quicker.
Health and Safety Considerations
Teens should prioritize health and safety while working. Taking breaks and managing time to avoid burnout is crucial. Ergonomic workspaces prevent strain from long hours on tasks like graphic design or app development.
For physical side gigs, like yard work, appropriate safety gear is mandatory. Parents should guide teens in understanding these aspects without being overbearing or engaging in helicopter parenting. This creates a balance between supervision and independence.
Preparing for the Future
Skills gained from side hustles such as entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and communication are valuable for college applications and future careers. Documenting these experiences on a resume shows initiative and responsibility.
Exploring various side hustles helps in identifying career interests. Using earnings to invest in education or other personal development initiatives is advisable. This preparation builds a foundation for future success in both personal and professional life.
