The holiday season is fast approaching, and with it comes the financial strain of meeting the costly demands of gift-giving, hosting parties, and enjoying the festivities. Many Americans are realizing that their salaries alone may not be enough to cover all these expenses. As a result, they are turning to flexible work options to supplement their income and ensure they can afford the holiday season.
According to a recent survey by Resume Templates, seven in 10 full-time workers are planning to take on seasonal part-time jobs and side gigs in addition to their main job to cover the expenses of the winter holidays. With 37% of workers planning to spend up to $1,000 and 41% expecting to spend between $1,000 and $3,000 during the Thanksgiving and Christmas period, the need for additional income is evident.
Looking ahead to the next year, the survey indicates that this trend is likely to continue, with 53% of workers stating that they will need to take on extra work to supplement their income. While 40% of workers acknowledge that taking on extra work during the holiday period may impact their productivity at their main job, they are still willing to do so to meet their financial obligations.
To accommodate their holiday budgets, workers are turning to a variety of part-time job options. Delivery services, retail seasonal part-time jobs, freelancing, ridesharing, pet-sitting, social media, restaurant part-time jobs, and babysitting are among the top choices for supplementing income during the holiday season.
Delivery services are in high demand during the holidays, as people prefer to order necessities and food items online rather than going out in the cold weather. Retail outlets hire seasonal workers to keep up with the holiday rush, while freelancers with in-demand skills can find projects quickly on gig platforms. Rideshare services, pet-sitting, social media marketing, restaurant jobs, and babysitting are also popular choices for earning extra income during the festive season.
Taking on part-time jobs, especially in freelancing and other independent services, provides greater flexibility in both life and career. By diversifying their income through side hustles, individuals can avoid financial emergencies and have a comfortable cushion to fall back on when needed. These gigs not only make life less stressful during the holiday season but also contribute to long-term career and financial resilience.
In conclusion, having a side gig or other sources of income to supplement your salary is essential for financial stability, especially during the holiday season. By exploring various part-time job options and embracing the flexibility they offer, individuals can ensure they are financially prepared for emergencies and the expenses of the festive period.
