Four skills you will master running a side hustle
There are certain skills that you master at a quicker pace when you start a side hustle. And these skills are extremely valuable if you are also working full time in corporate America. Below are four skills that you will acquire when you start the side hustle you’ve been dying to get started on, making it 100% worth it.
1. The art of iterating
“Great design is iteration of good design” — M. Cobanli
Iterating is arguably one of the most important skills in today’s rapidly changing business environment. It helps get you started, and not let perfection get in the way of greatness. Whether it’s creating a presentation, writing an email or even developing a business model. A strong iterating approach or skill will empower you to tackle any goal (large and small) without over-thinking it. I plan to cover this topic in future posts to help you refine this vital skill.
2. How to tell a story
“Great stories happen to those who can tell them” — Ira Glas
Story telling happens ALL the time. And if you’re good at it, it will make a huge impact in all aspects of life (work, social, and everything in-between). Running a side hustle forces you to get better at it. Why? You are forced to tell stories about your idea, business and challenges ALL the time. From onboarding team members, selling customers and everything in between. Side hustles will give you a LOT of opportunities to tell stories (and get better at doing them). It is an art. And if it’s not obvious, story telling is just as important in corporate America.
If you’re looking for a good read on how to improve your story telling skills, check out Stories that stick
3. Strategic Networking
"Your network is your net worth." — Porter Gale
We’ve all heard the importance of networking since college. But startups force you to be more strategic about it. Every connection you build can make a huge impact on your startup. Need a strategic business partner. You’ll be forced to think creatively on how to connect with one.
In summer of 2020, I sent Nick Bayer, CEO/founder of Saxbys Coffee, a message on Linkedin. I asked him if he would be willing to have a 45 minute video conference session, sharing his Saxbys experience with a team of interns working on Philly Member. He not only replied, but accepted the offer. Side hustles will force you to be bold and put yourself in uncomfortable situations. This skill translates perfectly into corporate America and help you be just as bold to get ahead.
4. How to write better
"Your network is your net worth." — Porter Gale
We write 24x7 and yet how often do you actually work on getting better at it? Running a startup will force you to get a lot better at writing a lot quicker than corporate America (for most jobs). Why? Because you are most likely in charge of writing all the stuff for your business.
If you’re looking for a good read on how to improve your story telling skills, check out How to be a better writer Everybody Writes