Should I Include Side Hustle on Resume?

In today’s competitive job market, many people engage in side hustles to supplement their income or pursue their passions. But when it comes to crafting your resume, you might wonder: Should I include my side hustle on my resume? The answer is not a simple yes or no. This article will help you understand the implications of including a side hustle on your resume, the benefits, and how to do it effectively.

What is a Side Hustle?

A side hustle is any work or project you do outside of your primary job to earn extra income. Common examples include freelance writing, ride-sharing, e-commerce, consulting, and even tutoring. Many people take on side hustles to gain new skills, pursue passions, or improve their financial situation.

Why Consider Including a Side Hustle on Your Resume?

Including a side hustle on your resume can have several advantages:

• Showcases Skills: Side hustles often require skills that are transferable to your main career. This can demonstrate your versatility and adaptability.
• Highlights Entrepreneurial Spirit: Taking initiative by starting a side hustle shows potential employers that you are proactive and motivated.
• Fills Employment Gaps: If you have periods of unemployment, a side hustle can show that you were still productive and developing your skills during that time.
• Demonstrates Passion: Including your side hustle can illustrate your passion for a particular field, especially if it aligns with your career goals.

When Should You Include a Side Hustle on Your Resume?

Including a side hustle on your resume can be beneficial, but it’s essential to consider a few factors:

1. Relevance to the Job

If your side hustle is relevant to the job you are applying for, it’s a great idea to include it. For example, if you’re applying for a marketing position and you’ve been freelancing as a social media manager, this experience can showcase your expertise in the field.

2. Skills Development

Consider whether the skills you gained from your side hustle enhance your qualifications. Skills like project management, communication, and teamwork are valuable in any role.

3. Length of Experience

If you have been working on your side hustle for a significant amount of time, it may be worth including. Short-term side hustles may not carry as much weight unless they are particularly impressive or relevant.

How to Include a Side Hustle on Your Resume

If you decide to include your side hustle on your resume, here are some tips on how to do so effectively:

1. Create a Separate Section

Consider adding a dedicated section titled “Side Projects” or “Freelance Work.” This can help distinguish your side hustle from your primary job experiences.

2. Use Clear Titles

Label your side hustle clearly. For example, if you are a freelance graphic designer, use the title “Freelance Graphic Designer.” This makes it easy for hiring managers to understand your role.

3. Focus on Achievements

Highlight your accomplishments rather than just listing tasks. Use bullet points to showcase what you achieved in your side hustle. This can include metrics, such as “Increased client engagement by 30% through targeted social media campaigns.”

4. Keep It Concise

While it’s important to provide enough detail, keep this section concise. Aim for 3-4 bullet points that capture the essence of your work.

5. Tailor to the Job Description

Customize your resume for each job application. Emphasize aspects of your side hustle that align with the job description to make your application more appealing.

What to Avoid When Including a Side Hustle

While including a side hustle can be advantageous, there are some pitfalls you should avoid:

• Inconsistency: Ensure that the information you provide is accurate and consistent with your LinkedIn profile or other professional platforms.
• Overemphasis: Don’t let your side hustle overshadow your primary job experience. Your main employment should still be the focal point of your resume.
• Irrelevance: Avoid including side hustles that do not relate to the job you are applying for, as they may clutter your resume.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the question “Should I include side hustle on resume?” largely depends on its relevance to the job you’re applying for and the skills you’ve gained from it. If it showcases your abilities, fills employment gaps, or demonstrates your entrepreneurial spirit, including it can enhance your resume. Remember to tailor your resume for each job application, highlighting the most relevant aspects of your side hustle. With the right approach, your side hustle can be a powerful addition to your professional narrative.

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