Content creation and freelance writing

The most common entry point into writing side jobs is through content creation. This includes everything from blog posts and website pages to newsletters and long-form articles. It's a high-demand, high-competition space that rewards clarity, adaptability, and an understanding of search engine algorithms. 

Freelance writers who understand how to engage a specific audience (and optimize their content for search engines) are especially valuable to clients. Look for gigs on:

• Upwork: A huge marketplace for hustle jobs like content work and writing.

• ProBlogger Job Board: A curated list of quality blogging and content writing gigs.

• Writers Work: A job finder and writing portfolio platform in one.

Pro tip: Start by choosing a niche, like health, finance, or tech, to stand out among generalists just looking for extra cash. Many content apps allow you to tag your specialties and improve visibility.

AI training and tech writing

This is one of the most exciting remote side hustles for writers. AI training roles require you to create prompts, edit machine-generated text, or evaluate AI responses for quality and tone. 

These roles are ideal for critical thinkers with a creative side who enjoy language structure, research, and nuance. These online platforms often pay above average rates, and the work is typically done on your own schedule, at your own pace.

Mindrift is a pioneering platform dedicated to advancing the field of AI through collaborative projects with writers. Our focus on Generative AI data creation offers a unique chance for freelancers to contribute to AI development from anywhere, at any time. It's not a full-time job, it's an opportunity to do something rewarding, earn extra money, and make your own schedule.

“If you enjoy discussing, writing about, or explaining topics connected to your area of expertise, this can be a great opportunity — not only to explore something new, but also to get paid for it,” says Roman, a QA at Mindrift. 

If this sounds like you, and you have professional experience in any domain, check out our current opportunities to get started. 

Pro tip: Project tasks often involve testing and rating responses. Strong grammar and editorial judgment are valuable here — think like an editor or teacher.

Copywriting

Copywriting is where storytelling meets psychology. The goal? Drive a specific action — whether it's buying a product, signing up for a service, or clicking a link. 

Unlike general content writing, copywriting focuses on brevity, tone, and conversion. It’s one of the most profitable niches for extra income once you master the structure of persuasive messaging. Look for gigs on:

• Fiverr: Ideal for packaging and selling copywriting services by niche or deliverable.

• PeoplePerHour: Great for connecting with small businesses seeking on-demand copy.

• LinkedIn: Tons of copywriting opportunities, both remote and with local businesses.

Pro tip: Track results from your copy (like open rates or conversion stats) and add them to your portfolio. Metrics make your proposals stronger and help justify premium rates.

Technical and scientific writing

For writers with a STEM background or analytical mindset, technical writing offers stable and often higher-paying remote work. 

These roles involve turning complex ideas into digestible, reader-friendly documents like manuals, SOPs, scientific reports, or white papers. Clients may include tech companies, research labs, or universities. Look for gigs on:

• Kolabtree: Great for PhDs and specialists in technical or scientific writing.

• Indeed or LinkedIn: For locating remote technical writing contracts with larger companies.

• Professional networks: Perfect for specialized, niche knowledge-based opportunities.

Pro tip: Did you know you could use your in-demand expertise and background to train AI models? Mindrift offers flexible, paid opportunities for experts in various domains. Check out our current opportunities and see where you might fit in. 

Scriptwriting and ghostwriting

Scriptwriting is ideal for writers who think visually and rhythmically. You could be crafting YouTube scripts, explainer videos, training modules, or podcast outlines for audio or video recordings. 

Ghostwriting, on the other hand, involves adopting someone else’s voice for a blog, a speech, or a full-length book. These roles require adaptability, discretion, and sharp listening skills. Look for gigs on:

• Scripted: A platform for writers to work with agencies and brands needing video scripts or blog posts.

• Reedsy: Especially good for ghostwriters with experience in long-form or book projects.

• Mindrift: Use your creative skills to train AI models on flexible, paid projects.

Pro tip: Ghostwriting clients often require NDAs, so be ready to provide anonymized samples or testimonials. 

Niche writing: Resumes, social media, and more

Some of the most profitable and consistent writing gigs fall into niche categories. If you have a background in HR, resume writing might be a natural fit. If you’re a natural voice on social media, consider offering micro-copywriting or content planning services. Got a talent for Adobe Creative Suite? Package your design or video editing services with written content.

The key is offering a specialized skill to a specific audience. Find your next side hustle on one of these side job apps:

• TopCV / ResumeEdge: For resume writers.

• LinkedIn Services: A great place to advertise niche writing offerings directly.

Pro tip: Niche writers often charge more money because they’re solving a targeted problem. If you can speak the language of a specific industry or platform, highlight that in your profile.

Transferrable skills for other side jobs

Not every side hustle for writers involves pure writing. Your communication, clarity, and storytelling skills can help you thrive in related fields like online tutoring, virtual assistance, and even visual content creation. If you’re versatile, consider blending your writing with complementary freelance opportunities, like:

• Teaching languages or academic subjects.

• Virtual assistant roles that require writing, scheduling, and coordination.

• Content design and UX writing for apps and digital products.

• Digital marketing, graphic design, or social media content creation.

• Translation services, tech support, or data entry roles.

Pro tip: When applying for non-traditional writing roles, highlight your ability to simplify information, organize communication, or craft compelling narratives. These skills are universally useful in all kinds of freelance work.