10 Side Gigs and Side Hustles for Product Managers in 2023

As a product manager, you have a unique set of skills and experiences that can be leveraged for a variety of side gigs. Whether you're looking to earn extra income, gain new experience, or explore a new industry, there are plenty of opportunities out there for product managers to earn extra money on the side.

From consulting to starting a company, from freelancing to online courses, there are a lot of options available to you. In this article, we will take a look at 10 side gigs that product managers can explore in order to supplement their income or gain new experience.

1.  Consulting: Product managers often have a wealth of experience and knowledge that they can share with other companies. Consulting can be a great way to leverage that expertise, while also earning additional income.

2.  Freelancing: Similar to consulting, freelancing allows product managers to use their skills to help other companies or entrepreneurs. Some common freelance opportunities for product managers include market research, product development, and user experience design.

3.  Online Courses: Product managers can create and sell online courses on topics such as product development, agile methodologies, and marketing.

4.  Writing: Product managers can write blog posts, articles, and even books about their experiences and knowledge.

5.  Speaking: Product managers can also give speeches and presentations at industry events and conferences.

6.  Coaching: Some product managers enjoy working one-on-one with others to help them develop their product management skills.

7.  Starting a company: Product managers may be interested in using their skills to start their own company and bring a new product or service to market.

8.  Online marketplace: Creating and managing an online marketplace allows product managers to leverage their skills in product development and marketing to create a successful online business.

9.  Affiliate marketing: Product managers can leverage their skills in digital marketing and partnerships to earn commissions by promoting other people's products.

10. Stock Investing: Some product managers use their knowledge of market trends and industry to make informed investments in the stock market, becoming an investor can be a great side gig for a Product manager.

It's worth noting that it's important to manage your time and energy when starting a side gig, so that it doesn't negatively impact your full-time job as a product manager. It's also important to check with your employer to see if there are any restrictions on side gigs before you start.

What are the benefits of starting your own part-time business as a product manager?

1. Financial: One of the most obvious benefits of starting your own business is the potential for financial gain. As an entrepreneur, you have the opportunity to grow your business and increase your income over time.

2. Flexibility: When you start your own business, you have the flexibility to choose when and how you work. This allows you to better balance your work and personal life, and can also allow you to take on other side gigs or opportunities.

3. Autonomy: Starting your own business gives you the freedom to make your own decisions and control your own destiny. As a product manager, you already have the skills and knowledge to develop and market a product or service, so you're well-positioned to succeed as an entrepreneur.

4. Experience: Starting a business can also provide you with a wealth of new experience and knowledge. This can help you grow as a product manager and can also make you more valuable to other companies in the future.

5. Creativity: Entrepreneurship encourages creativity and innovation. It allows you to think outside of the box and explore new ideas, rather than being limited by the constraints of a traditional 9-to-5 job.

6. Personal satisfaction: Starting your own business can be a very satisfying experience. It can give you a sense of pride and accomplishment and also help you develop new skills and gain more experience in the field of product management.

7. Networking : Running your own business will expose you to new contacts, opportunities, and networking that can help you grow and expand your business.

It's worth noting that starting your own business also comes with its own set of risks and challenges. It's important to carefully consider the potential risks and rewards before making a decision, and also make sure to have a solid business plan, financial plan and a idea that is well researched and thought through.

Good luck with your side gig!