SideGigs – Everything You Need To Know

A sidegig, short for "side gig job" or "side gig work," refers to a part-time job, freelance work, or any additional employment that individuals undertake alongside their primary full-time job or main source of income.

A sidegig is an additional job or income source that someone pursues outside of their primary employment. It's often used interchangeably with terms like side hustle, moonlighting, and passion project. 

Side Gigs History

The concept of side gigs, also known as side jobs, part-time work, or freelancing, has a long history that has evolved alongside changes in economic structures, technology, and societal attitudes. While the term "side gig" may be relatively modern, the idea of individuals pursuing additional work outside of their primary occupation has deep historical roots.

Here is a brief overview of the history of side gigs:

Agricultural Societies:
In traditional agrarian societies, individuals often engaged in multiple activities to sustain their livelihoods. Farmers might have additional crafts or services they offered during seasons with less agricultural activity. This diversification of work was a practical response to the fluctuations in demand and availability of agricultural labor.

Craftsmen and Guilds:
During medieval times, craftsmen and artisans often had primary trades but engaged in side gigs to supplement their income. Guild systems regulated many professions, and individuals might take on additional work beyond their primary craft to make ends meet.

Industrial Revolution:
The Industrial Revolution marked a significant shift in work patterns. While factory work became the primary source of income for many, individuals often pursued side gigs, such as piecework or home-based crafts, to supplement their wages. The rise of urbanization and increased economic activities provided more opportunities for diverse forms of work.

Post-World War II Era:
In the mid-20th century, the concept of side gigs continued to evolve. The stability of long-term employment characterized the post-World War II era, but individuals still engaged in part-time jobs or side businesses to meet specific financial needs or pursue personal interests.

Rise of Freelancing:
The late 20th century saw the rise of freelancing and independent contracting. With advancements in technology, particularly the internet, individuals gained the ability to connect with clients globally and offer their skills and services independently. Freelancers could take on various side gigs, contributing to the gig economy.

Gig Economy and Digital Platforms:
In the 21st century, the gig economy experienced significant growth. Digital platforms and online marketplaces facilitated the connection between those offering services and those seeking them. The term "side gig" became more popular as individuals embraced the flexibility of working on short-term projects, part-time jobs, or freelance opportunities.

Current Trends:
Today, side gigs are prevalent across various industries and professions. The gig economy includes a wide range of activities, from ridesharing and food delivery to freelance writing, graphic design, and consulting. Many people pursue side gigs for financial reasons, career exploration, skill development, or as a way to turn their passions into income.

The history of side gigs reflects the dynamic nature of work and the diverse ways individuals have adapted to economic and societal changes over time. The current landscape of side gigs continues to be shaped by technological advancements, shifting work paradigms, and the pursuit of flexible and fulfilling career paths.

Characteristics of Side Gigs:

Side gigs are often pursued for various reasons, including the desire to earn extra income, develop new skills, or explore personal interests. Here are key aspects of side gigs:

1. Part-Time Nature:
Side gigs are typically part-time or intermittent, allowing individuals to balance them with their primary employment.

2. Flexibility:
They offer flexibility in terms of working hours, enabling individuals to choose when and how much time they dedicate to their side gig.

3. Diverse Roles:
Side gigs can encompass a wide range of activities and roles, such as freelancing, consulting, part-time jobs, or entrepreneurship.

4. Supplementary Income:
The primary purpose of a side gig is often to supplement the individual's main source of income, providing additional financial stability.

5. Skill Development:
Individuals may pursue side gigs to develop new skills, gain experience in a different industry, or explore a passion outside their main profession.

6. Entrepreneurial Ventures:
Some side gigs involve entrepreneurial activities, such as starting a small business or selling products or services independently.

7. Gig Economy Participation:
Side gigs are often associated with the gig economy, where individuals engage in short-term, flexible jobs facilitated by online platforms.

Reasons for Pursuing Side Gigs:

1. Income Diversification:
Individuals may seek additional income streams to diversify their sources of financial support and reduce reliance on a single income.

2. Passion Pursuit:
Side gigs offer an avenue for individuals to pursue their passions or hobbies while generating income.

3. Skill Enhancement:
Engaging in side gigs allows individuals to acquire new skills or enhance existing ones, potentially opening up new opportunities in their careers.

4. Debt Repayment:
Some individuals use side gigs to accelerate debt repayment or achieve specific financial goals.

5. Exploration of Entrepreneurship:
Side gigs can serve as a stepping stone for those considering entrepreneurship, allowing them to test ideas and concepts.

6. Career Transition:
Individuals exploring a career change may use side gigs to gain experience in a new field before making a full transition.

7. Flexible Work Arrangements:
Side gigs provide flexibility, making them attractive to individuals seeking alternative work arrangements that fit their lifestyles.

Examples of Side Gigs:

1. Freelancing:
Graphic design, writing, programming, and other freelance work such as seen on platforms like Fiverr, Upwork etc.

2. Consulting:
Providing expertise in a specific field on a part-time basis.

3. Online Selling:
Selling handmade goods, vintage items, or digital products on online platforms.

4. Part-Time Jobs:
Part-time positions in retail, hospitality, or other industries.

5. Rideshare Driving:
Driving for rideshare services like Uber or Lyft.

6. Tutoring or Coaching:
Providing academic tutoring, coaching, or mentoring services.

7. Event Photography:
Offering photography services for events and special occasions.

8. Virtual Assistance:
Providing administrative support and assistance remotely.

The possibilities for sidegigs are endless and depend on your skills, interests, and available time. The key is to find something that you enjoy doing and that can fit seamlessly into your life.

Here are some additional things to consider when starting a sidegig:

• Identify your skills and interests: What are you good at? What do you enjoy doing?
• Research potential options: Look for sidegigs that align with your skills and interests and that have a low barrier to entry.
• Set realistic goals: Don't expect to get rich overnight. Start small and gradually build your income and experience.
• Manage your time effectively: Balancing a sidegig with your primary job can be challenging. Make sure you have a good system for managing your time and staying organized.
• Stay legal and ethical: Make sure you comply with all applicable laws and regulations when starting your sidegig.

Platforms That Offer Side Gigs:

There are numerous platforms that facilitate side gigs, providing individuals with opportunities to offer their skills and services or to find short-term, flexible work.

These platforms cover a wide range of industries and job types, catering to freelancers, part-time workers, and independent contractors.

Here are some popular platforms that offer side gigs:

Freelance and Gig Work Platforms:

Upwork: A platform connecting freelancers with clients looking for services such as writing, graphic design, programming, and marketing.
Fiverr: A marketplace where freelancers offer services, or "gigs," starting at $5, covering diverse categories like writing, design, and digital marketing.

Ridesharing and Delivery Services:

Uber: A ridesharing platform that allows individuals to earn money by providing transportation services.
Lyft: Similar to Uber, Lyft is another ridesharing platform where individuals can offer rides to passengers.
DoorDash: A food delivery service that enables individuals to earn money by delivering food from local restaurants.

Task-Based Platforms:

TaskRabbit: A platform connecting people who need help with various tasks (e.g., moving, cleaning, assembling furniture) with local freelancers.
Handy: Focuses on connecting individuals with home services professionals for tasks like cleaning, plumbing, and electrical work.

Online Marketplaces:

Etsy: A platform for individuals to sell handmade or vintage items, art, and craft supplies.
Amazon Mechanical Turk: An online marketplace for tasks that require human intelligence, such as data entry and image recognition.

Content Creation and Publishing:

Medium Partner Program: Writers can earn money by publishing articles on the Medium platform through the Partner Program.
Substack: A platform that enables writers to start their own subscription-based newsletters and earn money from subscribers.

Online Tutoring and Education:

Chegg Tutors: A platform where individuals can offer tutoring services in various subjects.
VIPKid: Connects English-speaking tutors with students in China for online English language lessons.
Udemy: An education technology company that provides an online learning and teaching platform for learners, teachers and tutors.

Creative Services and Design:

99designs: A platform for freelance designers to find work in graphic design, logo creation, and other design-related projects.
Toptal: Connects clients with top freelancers in software development, design, and finance.

Pet Services:

Rover: A platform for pet owners to find pet sitters, dog walkers, and other pet-related services.
Wag: Similar to Rover, Wag connects pet owners with dog walkers and sitters.

Virtual Assistance and Admin Support:

Virtual Assistant Platforms (e.g., Time Etc, Belay): Connects virtual assistants with clients in need of administrative support services.

It's important to note that the availability of these platforms may vary based on location, and users should carefully review the terms and conditions of each platform before engaging in any side gigs. Additionally, new platforms continue to emerge, reflecting the evolving landscape of the gig economy.

Side gigs have become increasingly popular, especially with the rise of the gig economy and digital platforms that facilitate flexible work arrangements. While they can provide numerous benefits, individuals need to manage their time effectively to avoid burnout and maintain a healthy work-life balance.