The coronavirus pandemic continues to take a financial toll on households across the country. People everywhere are facing layoffs, decreased hours, and pay cuts due to restrictions and social distancing orders, and many are struggling to make ends meet as a result. While this situation is just temporary, it’s still very stressful.
If you’re one of the millions of Americans affected by these changes, consider starting a side hustle to earn some income while you search for your next full-time position. You might be surprised by all the ways you can profit from your existing skills and hobbies. Check out the following flexible gigs for ideas!
Online Freelancing
Whether you’re skilled at writing, marketing, web development, or social media engagement, freelancing can be a great way to make money from home. For example, digital marketing is huge right now, so if you’re needing to fill in a gap and that’s your bag, do some freelancing! Online marketing experts are one of many who can offer their services via job boards, which could lead to a permanent position, improved portfolio, and perhaps even your own full-time agency someday—or it could just get you by until you’re ready for the next role. There truly are freelancers for just about everything these days, from legal services to graphic design, so whatever your field is, consider exploring your freelancing options.
Dog Sitting
If you love animals, pet sitting is a fun way to earn some extra cash. Dog sitting in your own home through pet daycare or overnight boarding can be great for people working from home. Either way, you’ll enjoy having a furry friend around to keep you company if you find yourself sticking closer to home. Just make sure your home is prepared for this job. Get rid of toxic house plants, check for choking hazards, hide or cover power cords, and secure trash can lids.
Insurance
Have you ever considered plugging into the insurance industry? It’s a solid career choice, or it can be just something to get you by. There is something for everyone in the field, from analysis and computations for introverts to sales and outreach for extroverts. Make sure you connect with a reputable company that you’ll enjoy working with, though, and check out employee reviews through sites like Indeed or GlassDoor
Tutoring
According to Education Week, the coronavirus outbreak forced the closure of over 124,000 schools in the United States, impacting at least 55.1 million students. As a result, online tutors are in high demand. Tutors can teach a wide variety of subjects without any specific qualifications—all you need is a reliable internet connection and strong communication skills. If this is up your alley, connect with students on tutoring platforms and job boards, and don’t forget to advertise your services on social media.
Selling Stuff Online
The e-commerce world is another opportunity to make money from home. Whether you want to get crafty and create your own products or dropship items straight from the supplier, selling stuff online can be an exciting and rewarding venture. You could even sell stuff from around your home! Sort through your belongings and look for things you no longer want or use, then post these on marketplaces like eBay to find your buyers. Decluttering your home can also help you stay sane when you’re spending more time at home.
Part-Time Jobs
COVID-19 has caused a huge demand for workers in certain industries. CNN reports that several grocery stores, pharmacies, take-out restaurants, and delivery companies are hiring new employees right now, so this can be an excellent opportunity for part-time work. While these jobs may not match the salary of your full-time position, they can help you pay the bills for now. Just make sure you stay safe out there! Wash your hands frequently, carry hand sanitizer, and practice social distancing.
Whether you’re between jobs, need to take time off to watch the kids at home, or working reduced hours to care for someone who is sick, a side hustle can help you get by. Even if you’re one of the lucky few still working your full-time job, a side gig may be a good idea to help you build up that emergency fund during these uncertain times. One of these hustles might just turn into your new full-time career!
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