According to the New York Department of Labor, the total civilian unemployment rate, steadily increasing since May 2008, is, as of May 2009, a dismal 8.2%. In addition to this vast loss of jobs, declining salaries and reductions in health insurance and retirement benefits have made it increasingly difficult for New Yorkers to keep up with the ever rising cost of living in NYC. Consequently, New Yorkers of all ages have begun to take on odd or side jobs in addition to their primary jobs. Through this, many people have been able to turn their misfortune into an opportunity for engaging in activities which have enabled them to explore their passions, build networks, and utilize their talents.
The internet has proven to be one of the primary places where individuals have been able to garner extra cash. This is certainly true in the case of Diurvi Gomez, a 23 year old from the Bronx, who decided to start buying and selling laptops online. Since March, Gomez has averaged about $70 in profit for each laptop he sells. But how could someone expect to make a reasonable profit from this venture when presumably similar laptops would sell for similar prices? The reason, Gomez explains, is that many sellers are not always interested in selling their product for the greatest price but rather with the greatest celerity. Thus, it is often the case that items are sold for less than their actual value, and the buyer is able to resell them at a profit. Also, because he has read various free tutorials online on how to restore computer hardware, he is able to repair minor damages on these laptops and sell them for a higher price. Though avoiding scammers was initially a trying task for Gomez, with experience, he has learned the rules of the game- such as always buying on Ebay (due to the buyer protection they offer) and always selling through Craigslist to avoid eBay’s fees( which apply whether or not the seller actually sells the item). Gomez recommends this odd job to anybody looking to make some extra cash, as long as they are willing to do their research on laptop pricing (or whatever product they are trying to buy and sell) and potential scams.
“Young people like Gomez, however, are not the only ones looking for a source of supplementary income. “In order to have a larger cushion for retirement, diversify her earning potential and develop a residual stream of income”, Gina Danetti, Elder Law Attorney and Principal of the Law Office of Gina T. Danetti, started a side business as a sales consultant for Arbonne’s line of anti-aging skin care products. Danetti notes that “the great thing about her business as a distributor for Arbonne, aside from their amazing line of all natural skin care products, is that anyone can do it, regardless of education level, financial situation or personality. My Arbonne team provides unlimited support and training.” The only possible downside to this endeavor, she notes, might be the small start up fee, but it’s up to you how much you are willing to invest, “it can be as little as $109.” Lastly, because consultants can work according to their own schedule, make sales via the internet, and develop great networks with those who enjoy natural beauty products, this opportunity seems ideal for those who want a side job that is both “flexible and fun”.
While both young people and established professionals are utilizing their internet savvy and networking skills to land them different odd jobs around the city, others are recognizing the potential of their creative talents. Last May, 21 year old Natalie DeNault of Brooklyn began selling her oil paintings after her friend offered to buy a series of works she had laying in a cramped corner of her bedroom. While DeNault states that she is “by no means the next Monet or Van Gogh”, she still believes her artwork can generate an extra source of income over the summer while she works during the day as elementary school tutor. Natalie has sold 11 pieces since May, totaling $340.
So whether you’re invoking a long lost underappreciated talent or setting up an online shop for laptops, electronics and/or other goods, taking on an odd job can not only be a great way to make up the difference between your paycheck and your rent, but additionally a path to discovering a job that you really enjoy doing.
Photo credit: _nickd
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My sister knits as a hobby. But when she lost her job, she started using her hobby as income. She can’t live off of it yet, but it pays some of the bills.
@ Lois – I had a friend that started doing the same thing. He started knitting beanie caps. Although, he was living in New Orleans at the time and it was far easier for him to make that an integral part of his income.