NINE GIG JOBS TO MAKE MORE MONEY
by: Remie Longbrake | published: June 30, 2024
Gig jobs come be undertaking for a variety of reasons. You may be a student looking to support yourself through a degree or gain valuable work experience; a stay-at-home parent working weekends to boost the family’s income, or someone looking for additional work alongside existing employment.
Whatever your reasons, there are now more options than ever. Traditional roles of the past, such as hospitality and retail, have been supplemented by work-from-home opportunities and the rising gig economy, where workers are hired on a temporary or freelance basis.
The most appropriate jobs for you will depend on whether you’re looking for ways to make money on the side, for weekend work, or possible build your experience in preparation for a future career.
The following list offers 10 of the best weekend jobs around, each with individual benefits suitable for a range of circumstances.
1. Food delivery
The rise in popularity of companies such as DoorDash and UberEats and makes food delivery one of the best jobs for those looking for maximum flexibility. These companies hire people on a self-employed basis, meaning you are free to choose your hours. Work-wise it’s pretty simple, however you’ll need a car
2. Hospitality work
Restaurants, hotels, pubs and clubs all receive a higher footfall at the weekend, and so expect demand for labor to be higher on the weekends. The type of roles available range from waiting and bar staff to front of house and security.
Hospitality requires excellent customer service skills and can often be a demanding environment to work in, so is best suited to outgoing, patient and friendly individuals. You will likely spend long periods on your feet, so a good level of health is generally required.
3. Tutoring
If you think you have valuable skills and knowledge to share, tutoring can be one of the most rewarding side jobs for extra money. There are several options available, most of which do not require a formal teaching qualification, though you will need to prove suitable knowledge of your chosen subject.
You could also find private tutoring opportunities by advertising your services in the local community, on social media or by joining a private tuition agency. Be aware that the latter will usually involve working with children and, as such, will require you to undergo a background check at a minimum.
4. Freelance work
If you’re looking for ways to make money on the side while building a professional portfolio, one of the best jobs is to offer your skills as a freelancer. There are many skills commonly sought on an ad-hoc basis, such as copywriting, proofreading, graphic design, digital marketing, photography and web design.
Websites like Upwork and Fiverr allow you to pitch for advertised freelance opportunities. Earning potential for beginners is generally quite low but the more experience you gain, the more likely you are to land the higher-paying jobs.
5. Brand ambassador
If you’re social media savvy with a large following, becoming a brand ambassador is one of the best part-time jobs for developing your networking and marketing skills. The role generally involves social media promotion, organizing events and creative marketing.
6. Online surveys
If you’re looking for side jobs for extra money that don’t require leaving the house, some websites and apps offer cash rewards for completing market research surveys.
You may be asked to provide your opinion on topics such as travel, electronics, health and beauty, and digital technology. The value of each survey generally relates to the time it takes to complete – it can range from $5 for quick questionnaires, up to $50 for more in depth surveys.
7. Retail work
As with hospitality, retail establishments generally see higher business across Saturdays and Sundays, making them another popular option for weekend jobs. Again, as with hospitality, retail requires strong customer service skills and the ability to cope in a demanding environment.
8. Selling online
Savvy bargain hunters can create their own weekend jobs by picking up items at car boot sales and charity shops and selling them online for a profit. Whilst this is rarely a big money-spinner, it is still one of the most popular ways to make money on the side.
Many sellers use Ebay, however other options could include, Facebook Marketplace, OfferUp or Craigslist as well. Just be safe and if decide to meet in person, try not to meet at your own home and choose to meet up and a police station or other safe spot with others around.
9. Working events
Another popular choice with people looking for part-time jobs is to work in the events sector. Sports venues, concert halls, theatres, stadiums and exhibition centers all take on additional staff at the weekend.
The events sector offers many roles including catering, food and beverage service, ticketing, merchandise sales and marshalling. As well as approaching any local venues directly, you could also register with any one of the many agencies that specialise in supplying events staff.
In closing
If you’re interested in part-time work be sure you’re up to speed with all the job requirements and time commitments required. Good luck and happy gigging.