The DU Lounge
Related: Culture Forums, Support ForumsI need some suggestions regarding ideas on making some fast money...
(I'm in L.A.) I'd been substitute teaching since March of this year (the job I had before then was at a company that I feared was going to close and I wanted to get out before that happened.) I've subbed off and on in the past and have actually enjoyed it, have gotten assignments everyday, and the money has been what I've needed it to be. I consider teaching as a sub my "permanent temporary" job (until I can find something permanent in my field) but the schools are out for the summer and won't be back in session until mid to late August.
Since June, I've been doing odd jobs to bring in some money. I'm really looking for some ideas from those of you that may have either first-hand experience or have friends or family member who have worked to bring in extra cash. I've been on Craigslist and that's where I got the assignment I'm at now so I know the hiring can happen fast (depending on position). There are a couple of issues where I am now and I could probably make it last until the school year starts but I just want to put my feelers out.
One of the things I've wondered about it Uber. Can folks really make money this way or is it a saturated market? I'm not in a position where I can be involved in any kind of long-term process. Also, other than Craigslist, are there any other websites that anyone can direct me to where positions may be listed that are available right away? Once the school year starts back up I can then start subbing again and focus on my permanent job search.
Thank you all so much for any feedback you may provide.
trev
(1,480 posts)I worked for Lyft for a while. Hated it. Long hours, poor pay, no benefits. Car wear-and-tear. Gas costs. I think I actually lost money doing that.
OTOH, I have a friend in Florida who has been working for Uber for several years. So maybe it all depends on where you are.
Something else to think about: Your insurance company may require you to change your policy if you use your car for business.
CottonBear
(21,596 posts)I work in in the department of my area of expertise. They pay me the highest rate for seasonal employees because of my experience. I told them my available days and hours and they schedule from that information. I have another part time job and private clients in addition to the seasonal job.
Ive worked since March and made enough to pay for my kids braces.
Edit: My work is enjoyable and fulfilling. I am considering full time employment with the company.
yewberry
(6,530 posts)She works from home (business travel agent). She's found several people in her neighborhood who need daytime and evening dog walking. She walks her two dogs locally, and neighbors started asking. Pretty organic for her.
I used to edit dissertations as a side gig. The pay is pretty good but it's very close work & you have to come into it with some knowledge, and you have to have an in.
I know people who pay to have someone come and scoop dog poop out of their yard 2-3 times a week. No idea what they charge, but it's a low-overhead startup.
Also errand services. That's pretty huge. If you know anyone who works with senior services or in a senior residence, you could spread your name around that way. Be the errand and car service for one or two days a week.
redstatebluegirl
(12,265 posts)LuvLoogie
(6,992 posts)Monetize your skill set. If you're looking for gigs. Package your set of tools and network. Meet Up L. A.
keithbvadu2
(36,775 posts)A fast car, driver accomplice, and a machine gun have been known to work in the banking industry.
Really bad retirement plan, though.
mia
(8,360 posts)My grandson (now 24) started cleaning airbnbs part time a few years ago. At first he was driving all over town in the Orlando area as he did all of the work himself. As he got more clients, he hired others to help. His business expanded quickly...
Revanchist
(1,375 posts)Not sure what your teaching qualifications are but it might be a possibility. I know when I was getting my master's online the classes didn't stop for the summer.
emmaverybo
(8,144 posts)Kaleva
(36,294 posts)Iggo
(47,549 posts)Grasswire2
(13,568 posts)Most households have stuff to sell.
And you could become a picker real fast -- go to estate sales, rummage, etc., and buy old tools, 78 records, whatever interests you and you know something about.
Turn around and sell it on eBay. It's open 24/7/365 all over the world. You can make money while you sleep.
Marthe48
(16,935 posts)You can google and find companies who hire. I read that the companies in general prefer college grads. The same article said mostly phone, skype, facetime and you basically chat with students learning English vernacular.
Also, pet sitting. House-sitting.
Good luck.
Upthevibe
(8,038 posts)that I was hoping could be tolerable for a few more weeks but it just wasn't. Soooooo I"m going to check out some of these suggestions and if anyone has additional ideas please post