If you’re running a side hustle—whether that’s mowing lawns, flipping furniture, or selling handmade stuff on Etsy—at some point you’ve got to promote it. And let’s be honest, that bit can feel awkward.
You don’t want to come off like one of those over-the-top salespeople who spam their mates on Facebook. But you also don’t want your business sitting there like a dusty garage tool—full of potential, but going nowhere.
So what do you actually post? How do you get attention without annoying people? I’ve mucked around with this myself over the years, and I’ll walk you through the basics that’ve worked for me and other hard-working folks just trying to bring in extra coin.
1. Behind-the-Scenes Stuff.
People love seeing how things are made. Or how the sausage is packed, so to speak. Whether you’re baking cookies, fixing gutters, or detailing a car—film it.
What to post:
- A photo or short video of your tools laid out before a job.
- A time-lapse of your work (e.g. before and after a yard clean-up).
- A short clip talking about how your week’s gone in the hustle.
Why it works:
It shows you’re legit. You’re putting in the effort. It builds trust—and trust is gold when you’re small-time and building from the ground up.
2. Before-and-After Shots.
These are dead simple and people eat them up. If you’re doing something visual—cleaning, organizing, painting, flipping—snap a quick “before” photo, do your thing, and then take the “after.”
Pro tip: Always get the same angle. Makes the change pop more.
What to post:
- Before-and-after of a cleaned-out garage.
- Old table you fixed up and made look flash again.
- Messy dog vs. happy clean pup after a grooming session.
People want to see the result. That’s what makes them pull the trigger and book you.
3. Quick Tips That Show You Know Your Stuff.
Don’t hold everything back for paying clients. Share small bits of your knowledge—it makes people realize you’re not just winging it.
Examples:
- “Here’s how to keep your lawn greener in summer with less water.”
- “3 things to check before buying a used fridge off Marketplace.”
- “This one thing ruins paint jobs—don’t skip it.”
That kind of content helps build a bit of authority. And it keeps people coming back to your page, even if they’re not ready to hire you yet.
4. Client Testimonials or Thank-Yous
This doesn’t have to be fancy. If someone messages you saying “Thanks, mate—house looks amazing,” ask if you can screenshot it and share. Or if they post publicly and tag you, share that to your story.
You’re not bragging—you’re just showing that real people trust you. That makes a big difference.
Post idea:
“Big thanks to Sarah for letting me clean up the patio this weekend. Always satisfying to turn a space around!”
5. Special Deals or Open Spots.
Got a gap in your week? Don’t sit around hoping someone notices. Post about it.
Examples:
- “Got two open spots for yard work Friday—hit me up if you want the grass sorted.”
- “Offering $10 off oven cleans this week only. DM me to book.”
- “Have time for 3 more tutoring sessions this month—message to claim a slot.”
Short. Straight to the point. No need to dress it up.
6. A Bit of Your Story.
People buy from people. You don’t have to spill your whole life, but a bit of your backstory goes a long way.
You might post something like:
“Started this side hustle to help cover bills after the shifts at the hospital slowed down. Been loving the work and proud of how far it’s come. Appreciate every one of you who’s supported me so far.”
Honest. Human. No fluff.
7. Funny or Relatable Posts.
You don’t always have to be pushing your service. Post something that makes folks laugh or nod along. Could be a meme about juggling kids and gigs. Could be a funny mistake you made (nothing builds trust like showing you’re not perfect).
Example:
“Me trying to carry a couch solo vs. Me realizing I’m not 25 anymore.”
People remember the personality behind the business. That’s what keeps them engaged long-term.
8. Your Work in Action.
If you’re at a market, setting up an event, working on a car, or out walking someone’s dog—snap a quick pic. Doesn’t need to be polished. Just real.
Caption ideas:
- “Another beaut day for a dog walk. Love this part of the job.”
- “Set up and ready at the Sunday market—come grab a brownie and say hi!”
It reminds people you’re active and working, and it gives them a subtle nudge that you’re open for business.
9. Polls and Questions.
Want to stir up a bit of engagement? Ask a quick question.
Examples:
- “Would you rather pay $60 for a clean oven or just eat takeaway forever?”
- “What’s the messiest room in your house right now—be honest?”
Doesn’t have to be serious. It just gets people talking, and that boosts your posts in the algorithm.
10. Big Wins or Little Milestones.
Celebrate stuff out loud. Got your 10th customer? Made your first $1,000 month? Landed a new tool or signed up for a course? Share it.
It helps people root for you. And it shows you’re not just sitting still.
Final Tips (From a Bloke Who’s Been There)
Don’t post only salesy stuff. Mix it up. Give more than you ask.
Use photos and video more than just words. That’s what gets eyeballs.
If you’re camera-shy, even a photo of your hands working is better than nothing.
Keep it short and punchy. Most people scroll fast.
Promoting your side hustle doesn’t mean becoming someone you’re not. Just show up. Be yourself. Keep at it.
Whether you’re pushing pressure washing, painting fences, flipping thrift finds, or offering resume help—people want to support small, real folks. But they’ve got to see you to remember you.
So get posting. You’re not annoying anyone by backing your own hard work.
Just don’t wait for perfect. Start scrappy, stay honest, and let it grow.
