How to Start a Beta Reader Side Hustle
A broke girl's guide to making extra cash while doing something you love
Photo Credit: Freepik.com
Back in September 2024 I began looking for ways to finance my dream of writing a book. As a social worker employed by a state agency, I don’t have a lot of time for traditional part time jobs. I knew I didn’t want to enter the service industry at any level—I wanted to do something that I enjoy but also get paid to do. That’s when I discovered beta reading. I know what you’re thinking. How do you get paid for beta reading? Isn’t that something people volunteer to do? And you’re right, some beta readers agree to read manuscripts for no charge because they enjoy helping emerging authors (that’s not to say, people who charge don’t like helping people. We absolutely do!). However, authors rely on beta readers to provide feedback before they publish their books, and while many do it for free, there’s a growing demand for paid beta readers who offer detailed, insightful feedback
Personally, after having some bad luck with beta readers ghosting me, I turned to the world of paid beta readers, and I found that paying someone to read your novel is much more reliable than hoping someone will do it out of the goodness of their hears and provide you with feedback you can use to help make your manuscript the best it can be. After receiving fantastic results from paying someone to read my draft, I wondered if I could start my own beta reading side hustle. I love to read. I spend a small fortune on books every month, I read a few manuscripts as a favor for people, and I knew what worked for me as a reader. So, I decided to give it a try.
That sounds good, Tish, but how do I get started?
Well, first, I think having a love for reading is a must. You have no idea how many people I have come across who volunteer to beta read only to say in the same breath they don’t read often. As a beta reader, you should be an avid reader who is aware of current market trends and has a keen eye for story flow, character development, and pacing. If you don’t read often or particularly enjoy reading, beta reading might not be for you. Authors need people who can provide them with detailed and actionable feedback to help polish their stories whether they are self-publishing or looking to traditionally publish.
If you are an avid reader who can offer constructive feedback, becoming a beta reader could be a great side hustle.
Here’s how you can start and build a beta reading business.
Step 1: Understand What Beta Readers Do
A beta reader is not an editor but rather a test reader who provides feedback from a reader’s perspective. Your role is to:
Identify confusing or slow parts of the story
Point out inconsistencies in plot or character behavior
Highlight what works well and what doesn’t
Give general impressions without rewriting or line editing
Some authors want general feedback, while others may request specific insights (e.g., pacing, character likability, plot holes).
Step 2: Define Your Niche
Not all beta readers are the same. To stand out, figure out what genres or types of books you enjoy and are best at critiquing. Ask yourself:
Do I prefer fiction or nonfiction?
Which genres do I read most? (Romance, sci-fi, fantasy, thriller, etc.)
Do I have expertise in certain topics that would make me a strong reader for niche markets (e.g., historical fiction, medical dramas)?
By specializing, you become more valuable to authors in that space.
Step 3: Gain Experience (If Needed)
If you’re new to beta reading, start by offering free or discounted services to gain testimonials and practice. You can:
Join writing communities on Goodreads groups, or Reddit’s r/BetaReaders
Offer to beta read for writer friends
Join Facebook groups for writers looking for beta readers
After reading a few manuscripts and getting positive feedback, you’ll feel more confident charging for your services.
Step 4: Set Your Pricing & Packages.
Beta reading rates vary depending on experience, depth of feedback, and turnaround time. This is where it can get dicey. Remember, beta readers aren’t editors, so we should not be charging the same prices that editors do. However, our time is valuable, so you don’t want to undersell yourself. If you are providing a detailed report (5-10 pages) of feedback and in-margin comments, then make sure you’re charging what your time is worth.
You can charge per word, per chapter, or per book. Start on the lower end to attract clients and increase rates as you build a reputation.
When I started my Fiverr beta reading gig, I did some market research. First, I looked at what the top sellers were charging and compared it to some of the newer gigs. From there, I started a few dollars less than what some of the new gigs were charging. The beauty with freelancing is that you can always customize your packages depending on what the author needs and charge accordingly. The trick is not to low ball or charge too much. Once you find your sweet spot, the clients will come.
In addition to pricing, it’s also important that the client knows what they are being charged for. Most authors expect a beta reader report. So, you want to make sure your report covers those big picture items that make up a story. I include my overall impression of the story, a section on plot and pacing, characters and development, writing style and dialogue, actionable feedback, and my final thoughts. You can also include a section on world building (this is good for fantasy, romantasy, and sci-fi), themes, and story strengths. It’s up to you how detailed you want to be in your report. But remember your price should match the work.
You can also decide if you want to include in-margin comments as you read the story. Some readers appreciate this extra touch.
Step 5: Create an Online Presence
To attract clients, set up a simple way for people to find and hire you. Consider:
A website or landing page – Use platforms like Wix, WordPress, or Square Space to showcase your services, pricing, testimonials, and contact info.
Social media marketing – Promote your services on Twitter (X), Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook groups where authors hang out.
Freelance platforms – List your services on Fiverr, Upwork, and Reedsy.
A Google Form or email for inquiries – Make it easy for authors to request your services.
Step 6: Build Your Client Base
Network in writing communities – Engage in writing groups and forums without immediately selling your services.
Offer sample critiques – A short free sample critique (e.g., one chapter) can entice clients to pay for a full read.
Encourage referrals – Happy clients are your best marketing tool. Offer discounts for referrals.
Stay professional and reliable – Meet deadlines, provide clear feedback, and communicate professionally to build a good reputation.
Step 7: Keep Improving
Read widely in your chosen genres.
Study storytelling techniques, character development, and pacing.
Take courses on developmental editing or manuscript critique to refine your skills.
Beta reading can be a fun and profitable side hustle, especially if you enjoy books and helping authors improve their work. Once you get started and build your client base, you have the potential to make good side income.
If you have any questions about beta reading, feel free to comment below.
I'd love to see some of your specific numbers when it comes to income, amount of customers, how often you're taking people on, how many books etc. I love the idea and I'm having trouble finding any good details on this!