Broke all the time? Hate your job? Want to have more control over your work schedule? Well, I've got some tips for you.
Doing odd jobs for people in your local community can make you quick cash upfront (typically $10-20/hour) and allows you to connect with your local community members.
I personally spent the summer working full time doing odd jobs for an entire clientele base that I compiled through Craigslist, online job boards (like Springboard and Care.com), and personal fliers. I scheduled jobs when they were convenient for me and was able to work every day when I wanted to, sometimes making around $100 upfront in one day.
People need lots of help, and if you're in need of some extra cash, these are some great options for you!
1. Gardening
If you love being outside, this could be perfect for you. Gardening lets you spend the day in nature. You may learn about local plants and various gardening methods. If you're lucky, your client may give you some freshly-grown vegetables or flowers (this has happened to me many times!).
People searching for help in their garden may want you to do some weeding (don't forget the roots!), raking, planting, trimming/pruning, or excavating already-planted or dead plants and trees. If you are a hard worker and a good listener, you can learn how to do all of the above given some time and practice.
2. Cleaning
Most everyone already has experience cleaning their own houses; why not clean someone else's for money?
Listening to music and mindlessly cleaning can be soothing. It gives you a chance to focus your attention and reflect on your thoughts. Plus, it's always satisfying to see the difference you made when you're done!
Spend a few hours mopping, dusting, scrubbing, vacuuming, etc. and you'll leave with a few bucks in your pocket. Find clients who will provide supplies, or buy your own!
3. House Sitting
Like getting paid to do practically nothing? This may be the perfect job for you.
I have gotten to sit some luxurious homes with great views, nice kitchens, and sometimes hot tubs!. Hopefully you will be so lucky.
As long as you are trustworthy, many people are willing to let you stay in their home for quite a bit of money, in return for you keeping it safe, watering plants, feeding animals, etc. Make sure the house is clean when they return and you're all set!
4. Child Care
Kids are the future and, through babysitting, you may help shape it.
While child care can occasionally be tiring, it is also extremely rewarding. Maintaining a cheery demeanor (fake it til you make it, if need be) and participating in fun activities can make you feel like a kid again. Play some games, help with homework, and make sure their basic needs are met for a happy kid and, subsequently, happy parents.
Overall, have fun and stay safe!
5. Dog Walking/Sitting
Who doesn't love dogs? Some people, but that really doesn't make any sense to me.
If you're in the grand majority of people who love spending time with dogs, seriously considered advertising yourself as a dog walker and/or sitter.
Dogs need daily activity ranging from 30 minutes to two hours, depending on the dog's age, breed and size. It gives you a great opportunity to get some exercise and spend time outside with a pup.
When dog sitting, make sure to pay careful attention to the dog's specific needs (i.e. medicine, allergies), and give the puppy enough attention since dogs can become very sad when their owners are away.
6. Moving
If you have a truck and a strong body, this may be the job for you! Many aspects of moving can be very stressful, so people will pay good money for help lifting and transporting furniture and other household items.
In some cases, people will pay you to move their piles of weeds and garbage, both easy jobs that don't require much work or interaction on your part.
7. Care Taking
If you're the right person for the job, helping older people or people with disabilities by completing some of their necessary tasks allows you to really make a difference in their lives. These tasks may involve picking up groceries and/or medications, cleaning, preparing food, and other basic tasks that many of us take for granted.
Sometimes they may simply be looking for some company. Hanging out and listening to older people, you may learn some important wisdom that they've accumulated over the years.
Either way, care taking is a very fulfilling job that will likely leave you and your client satisfied.
8. Painting
People looking for painting help typically (but not always) require some experience. These jobs always pay very well and are great for people who like to see obvious results.
Cover up the floor and trim with some tape and paper, clean the surface, and roll even amounts of paint in equal strokes until the wall is covered; repeat as necessary. Easy enough.
Odd jobs are a great way to generate revenue on your own schedule. You never know who you're going to be working for, and you may even make some connections that will further other areas of your life.
Always make sure to inform your client if you are inexperienced; this may occasionally cost you the job, but at least you won't be in over your head.
Check out local job postings and contact some people (or post your own fliers around town), and you can start making money immediately. I promise you won't regret it.
