Part-Time headhunter for a few select searches

Employers in your own industry who know you and need a senior hire, often through a referral from a contact.

A success fee for each placement, often a percentage of first-year pay. A single placement may bring in a lump sum, but placements are infrequent.

• A strong professional network
• Discretion with confidential searches
• Clear writing and phone manner
• Time management around another job

• Check your employer's rules on outside work before you start
• Check whether your state requires an employment agency or search firm license
• Use a written fee agreement and spell out when the fee is due and what happens if the hire leaves early
• Do not use confidential information from your day job to find clients or candidates
• Follow equal opportunity and privacy rules when screening candidates
• Expect long gaps between fees, and don't count on regular monthly income

Startup costs are typically around $300 to $2,500, depending on your tools, website and any insurance you choose. These are estimates. Because you rely on your existing network, spending on advertising can stay modest.

Monthly revenue is typically around $0 to $5,000, depending on whether you complete a placement. These are estimates, and you should expect long gaps between fees and not count on regular monthly income.

Check your employer's rules on outside work, and whether your state requires an employment agency or search firm license. Use a written fee agreement, and do not use confidential information from your day job to find clients or candidates.