I feel like almost all of my friends are working more than one job right now, which feels crazy because we all have good, full-time jobs. Recently, I came across a report that shows Canada actually leads the world in “poly-employment”, which is basically a fancy word for having more than one job at the same time – so that checks out.
Between rent, tuition and/or paying back student loans, groceries that somehow cost $50 even though you bought two things, and trying to build savings, a single job doesn’t always cut it anymore (unfortunately).
The report I referenced above says 35% of full-time Canadian workers are already juggling multiple jobs, and that number jumps to 50% for those ages 18-24. Aside from it being a necessity for some, it’s actually a really smart thing you can do early in your career, both financially and professionally.
Let’s dive into why and then I’ll share some realistic ways you can make some extra cash without adding chaos to your already very busy life.
Why a side gig is actually a great idea
Even if you’re already working full-time or happen to be slammed with assignments, a part-time side gig can be a huge game changer:
Extra cash: This one is obvious, I know. But it helps to have a second income stream to cover your phone bill, car insurance, iced coffees, whatever you spend your money on. Even if it's just to cover “spending money” it makes a huge difference.
Resume skill building: Side gigs like tutoring, freelancing, social media management, retail or even event jobs all translate into real experience employers value. Plus, if you’re juggling two jobs at once and performing at both it’s even more impressive that you can manage your time so well.
Less stress: For new grads especially, entry-level roles aren’t always long-term or high-paying. A side hustle gives you a financial buffer if your main job isn’t quite enough.
More control over your career path: This gives you the opportunity to test out passions you always wondered about, explore different industries, or build something of your own on the side.
Note: If you’re someone that has a full-time job and are looking to supplement your income, it’s always a good idea to clear it with your employer first. Some employers have a requirement in their employer agreements that state employees are not allowed to have a side hustle, or, if they do, it has to fit within certain parameters (for example, it can’t be a conflict of interest, and can’t take you away from your full-time role, etc.)
Realistic ways to make extra money
Freelancing in what you’re already good at
This could be writing, graphic design, editing, social media, video editing. If you studied it or do it for fun, someone will pay you to do it. I’ve never used them but I know there’s platforms like Upwork or Fiverr that are great starting places (my brother just hired a graphic designer on Fiverr to create a logo for him) or you can start by offering services to local small businesses or even realtors.
Tutoring or helping with academic skills
If you’re great in a certain subject, or just really good at resumes and cover letters, you can easily offer service-based help. Tutoring, especially, pays well and assuming you’d be working with children, you’d never work late hours.
Gig work you can turn on and off
Flexibility is really important, especially when your schedule is full or you don’t always know how busy you’ll be. This can be things like event staffing, delivery apps (like Instacart), pet sitting or dog walking (apps like Rover) or even task-based jobs like helping people move or doing odd jobs.
Selling things you make (or curate)
If you’re creative or just love thrifting but have reached a point where you don’t know what to do with it all this is a great alternative. You can sell art or digital prints, flip thrifted clothes, curate vintage items, or even sell templates for the things you already use and love online.
How to juggle more than one job without going crazy
Balancing more than one job can sound overwhelming but it doesn’t have to be. I think the most important thing is keeping it sustainable. You can start by setting a weekly hour cap (I think 5-10 is good but you know what is manageable for you better than I do), and choose work that energizes you rather than drains you.
My best advice is to look for gigs that fit naturally into your schedule instead of fighting against it. At the end of the day, a side hustle should support your life, not take it over or make it evene harder.
Final Thoughts
Poly-employment doesn’t just reflect rising costs, it also gives you more control. As someone who has had the same side gig as a student and now as a full-time employee, it’s always been a great way to give myself more stability, open doors to new interests, and help shape my career. With the right balance, side gigs can be less about scrambling for extra cash and more about creating opportunities for your future.