If you're looking for a way to earn some extra cash while helping out others in your community, taking on odd jobs around town might be the perfect gig for you. From assembling furniture to mowing lawns, these small but valuable tasks are what keep households running smoothly. And thanks to the rise of the gig economy, getting paid to do these odd jobs has never been easier.
This guide will walk you through how to tap into this side hustle opportunity, including the best platforms to find gigs, the skills that are most in demand, and essential tips for success.
The Gig Economy for Handymen and Helpers
The gig economy has exploded in recent years, creating exciting opportunities for people who want flexible work options. While delivery drivers and freelance creatives often come to mind when thinking of gig workers, handymen, and helpers have also found their niche.
Many families and busy professionals are turning to gig workers to help with time-consuming or specialized tasks. Whether it’s fixing a leaky faucet or helping move heavy furniture, odd jobs offer a steady stream of work for those willing to roll up their sleeves.
Some benefits of joining this growing trend include:
Flexibility to choose when and how much you work.
Variety in tasks, keeping your day engaging and different.
An opportunity to build relationships within your community.
Demand for helpers is growing, and if you have the skills and drive, there’s likely a job waiting for you just around the corner.
Apps and Platforms to Find Odd Jobs
One of the easiest ways to get started with odd jobs is by signing up for platforms designed to connect workers with people in need of help. Here are a few of the most popular ones:
1. TaskRabbit
TaskRabbit is one of the most well-known platforms for finding local gigs. It allows you to create a profile highlighting your skills and services, such as furniture assembly, minor home repairs, or running errands. Clients browse your profile, and you can accept tasks that fit your schedule.
Pro Tip: Build a polished and detailed profile to increase trust and visibility on the platform.
2. Handy
Handy caters to professionals offering home cleaning and repair services. If you have a knack for handyman work or specialized skills like plumbing and painting, this is the app for you.
Why It’s Great: Handy guarantees payment for completed jobs and offers tips for improving client satisfaction.
3. Local Facebook Groups and Community Boards
Sometimes the best gigs don’t come from apps but from connecting with people in your local area. Join Facebook community groups, check Nextdoor for job postings, or keep an eye on bulletin boards at libraries and grocery stores. These platforms are often filled with people looking for help with various odd jobs.
Bonus Tip: Networking locally often leads to repeat customers and ongoing work.
4. Specialized Marketplaces
If you have a specific skill, consider platforms tailored to your strength. For example:
Thumbtack for professional services like photography or event setup.
Rover for pet-related gigs like dog walking or pet sitting.
Airtasker for virtually any type of task, including online gigs.
With these tools, you can start finding tasks that suit your skills and availability almost immediately.
Skills That Are in Demand
Not sure if you can offer valuable services? Here are some of the most in-demand skills for odd jobs:
Furniture Assembly: Customers often hire workers through apps for help putting together everything from bookshelves to baby cribs.
Cleaning Services: Home and office cleaning remains one of the most requested tasks across gig platforms.
Minor Repairs: Basic handyman skills, like fixing a squeaky door or a leaky faucet, can be lucrative.
Yard Work: Mowing lawns, raking leaves, and gardening are all seasonal favorites for homeowners.
Moving Assistance: Helping people lift and transport furniture or boxes can lead to larger tips and repeat business.
Technology Setup: If you’re tech-savvy, services like setting up smart home devices or troubleshooting computers are popular.
Pet Care: Dog walking and pet sitting are not only enjoyable but also high in demand.
If you already have expertise in any of these areas, you're off to a great start! If not, consider taking online tutorials or practicing to build confidence.
Safety, Time Management, and Upselling Tips
Getting started is easy, but succeeding in the gig world requires attention to a few key details. To maximize your opportunities and earnings, here are some crucial tips:
Prioritize Safety
Your safety matters. When taking on odd jobs, especially for new clients, keep these safety tips in mind:
Vet clients: Platforms like TaskRabbit usually have a review system to help you identify legitimate and trustworthy customers.
Meet in public first: If possible, arrange to discuss tasks in well-lit public spaces before visiting someone’s home.
Share location updates: Inform a friend or family member of your job location and expected time.
Master Time Management
Working odd jobs requires balancing multiple gigs effectively. Here’s how to stay on top:
Create a schedule: Use apps to organize your work hours and block time for each gig.
Buffer time: Account for travel and unexpected delays when accepting new tasks.
Stay organized: Determine which materials or tools you’ll need for your day ahead.
Upsell Your Services
Once you’ve built some rapport with clients, don’t be afraid to upsell additional services. For example:
After helping assemble furniture, offer to organize the room for a little extra.
If cleaning windows, mention you can also clean mirrors or ceiling fans.
Use your expertise to suggest ongoing services, such as weekly yard maintenance or quarterly cleaning.
Upselling not only increases your immediate income but also positions you as a go-to helper.
A Few Success Stories To Inspire You
Alex, the Handyman: Alex joined Handy to fill days off from his 9-to-5 job. Within six months, he made connections with repeat clients, earning over $1,200 per month on the side.
Karen, the Cleaner: Karen started taking small cleaning gigs via TaskRabbit and posted her setups on Instagram. Her dedication caught the attention of several small businesses in her area, expanding her network and income.
Tommy, the Tech Guy: A passion for gadgets led Tommy to advertise tech setup services online. Now he installs smart home systems and earns over $200 per job.
These success stories show what’s possible if you stay focused and market yourself effectively.
Start Your Gig Journey Today
Getting paid to do odd jobs around town is one of the most flexible and rewarding ways to earn extra cash. With the right tools, skills, and strategies, you can build a thriving side hustle or even a full-time income.
Sign up for one of the platforms mentioned, polish your skills, and put yourself out there. Who knows? You might just become the go-to helper in your town, earning money while solving problems and connecting with the community.
The gig economy is calling. Are you ready to jump in?
