5 Steps to Finding Your First Gig: A Beginner’s Guide for Adults Over 50

Looking for a way to earn extra money on your own time? You’re not alone. Many people over 50 are now working part-time or freelance jobs — even during retirement — to help pay the bills. Our free 5-step guide shows you exactly how to get started and find your first gig.

Why Start a Side Hustle After 50?

If money is tight, a side job can help. Here are the top ways it makes life easier:

• Help Pay the Bills: Get some breathing room by earning extra money to help cover the cost of gas, food, and your monthly bills.
• Work When You Want: Pick your own schedule, whether a few hours a week or more.
• Build a Safety Net: Earn extra money now so you can feel more secure about your future.

Learn How to Get Started

With help from AARP Foundation, you can use your years of experience to find a flexible side job and put more cash in your pocket. This free guide gives you simple tips to help you get moving. Here’s what’s inside:

• Take Inventory of Your Lifetime of Skills: Recognize the value of what you already know — and discover which services people will pay for.
• Reach Out to the People You Know: Find your first clients through the network you’ve already built.
• Keep it Professional: Learn simple habits that build your reputation and lead to repeat work and referrals.
• Set Your Rates and Put Agreements in Writing: Price your services fairly, use simple contracts, and protect your time.
• Get Paid and Stay Safe: Invoice clients clearly, keep records, and spot scams.