Find a Job You Really Want In
In today’s gig economy, small tasks and micro jobs are becoming increasingly popular for those seeking flexible work opportunities. Whether you’re looking for a side hustle, in between jobs, or exploring new career paths, these short-term jobs can help you earn extra cash without the commitment of a full-time position.
This article will guide you through the concept of small tasks and micro jobs, how to find them, and provide examples to inspire your job search.
Key Takeaways
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Small tasks and micro jobs are short-term employment opportunities that require only a few hours of work at a time.
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Discover legitimate micro jobs by networking with your community or utilizing platforms like Fiverr, Gigwalk, or TaskRabbit.
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Common examples of micro jobs include dog walking, freelance projects, and data entry.
What Are Small Tasks and Micro Jobs?
As the terms imply, “small tasks” and “micro jobs” refer to short-term employment opportunities where you work as an independent contractor. Unlike traditional full-time roles that demand 40 or more hours a week, small tasks and micro jobs typically require only a few hours of your time, making them perfect for individuals with busy schedules or those seeking additional income.
These opportunities provide a flexible and enjoyable way to earn extra money, even if you’re currently employed or actively searching for a long-term position.
Where to Find Legitimate Small Tasks and Micro Jobs
When you think of “small tasks” or “micro jobs,” you might assume they can only be found through word of mouth. While networking with neighbors, family, and friends is often effective for local gigs like babysitting or dog walking, there are numerous online resources available to help you find temporary work from the comfort of home.
With various apps, websites, and search tools, you can quickly discover opportunities in your area. Here are sixteen excellent online resources to connect you with small tasks and micro jobs tailored to different skill sets and backgrounds:
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Swagbucks. Earn cash or gift cards by completing surveys, watching videos, and more. The Swagbucks app allows you to earn on-the-go.
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Fiverr. A platform for freelancers to offer services and connect with clients seeking temporary gigs. Create an account to showcase your skills.
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Branded Surveys. Share your opinions and earn points redeemable for cash or gift cards. A straightforward way to monetize your feedback.
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Slicethepie. Get paid for writing quick reviews on music, clothing, and more. Sign up and start sharing your insights.
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InboxDollars. Complete surveys, watch videos, and earn cash back for online shopping. Payments come in the form of cash or rewards.
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Clickworker. Contribute to improving AI by performing tasks like writing, editing, and data analysis as an independent contractor.
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Gigwalk. Connect with local gigs that match your availability and skills, ranging from simple tasks to more involved projects.
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TaskRabbit. A platform that connects you with local gig workers to provide services like handyman work, delivery, and more.
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Fancy Hands. Ideal for virtual assistants, this platform matches you with clients needing assistance in various tasks.
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Appen. Work on flexible online tasks like surveys and data collection. Long-term projects may also be available.
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EasyShift. Earn money by exploring and reviewing local businesses, contributing to community support.
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ySense. Complete simple online tasks and surveys to earn money without limits on your earnings.
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Field Agent. A free app that pays you for completing micro jobs like retail audits and market research tasks.
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Scribie. An online transcription service offering flexible paid opportunities for audio and video transcription.
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Skyword. Connect with temporary job opportunities in writing, photography, and design, with varying pay rates.
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Amazon Mechanical Turk. A platform where employers post tasks for “crowd workers,” making it easy to find micro jobs that suit your skills.
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Your Family and Friends. Often, those close to you may have gigs they need help with. This is a trustworthy way to find work and build your client base.
Examples of Small Tasks and Micro Jobs
When searching for small tasks or micro jobs, it’s essential to find opportunities that align with your interests and skills. While these jobs may be short-term, your satisfaction and enjoyment are crucial for a successful experience. Here are some common examples of small tasks and micro jobs:
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Dog sitting or dog walking. If you love animals, consider offering your services as a dog sitter or walker. These jobs provide exercise and companionship, but require patience and care.
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House sitting. House sitting offers a way to earn money while enjoying some private space, making it ideal for those who work remotely.
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Babysitting. A common micro job, babysitting connects you with parents in need of reliable childcare. Ensure you understand the child’s needs before committing to a job.
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Freelance graphic design. Use your creativity and design skills in temporary gigs that enhance your portfolio and help businesses with their branding.
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Freelance writing and blogging. If you have a knack for writing, explore opportunities to assist businesses in crafting content and improving their messaging.
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Lawn or home maintenance. If you enjoy working outdoors, consider offering your services for lawn care or home repairs, which are often in demand.
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Data entry. Many companies outsource data entry tasks, which require attention to detail and can often be done remotely.
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Administrative tasks. Seasonal or temporary administrative support, like payroll or customer service, can provide flexible work opportunities.
Final Thoughts
Navigating the job market can feel overwhelming, especially with the myriad of industries and roles available. It’s essential to regularly evaluate and refine your personal and professional goals. You don’t need to have a clear career path immediately, especially as a recent graduate or a young professional exploring options.
While your 20s are a time for growth and exploration, they also come with responsibilities, including financial obligations. Even if you’re still searching for your “dream job,” maintaining a reliable income is crucial. Micro jobs and small tasks can provide the flexibility and financial support you need during this transitional phase of your life.
Author
Chris Kolmar is a co-founder of Zippia and the editor-in-chief of the Zippia career advice blog. He has hired over 50 people in his career, been hired five times, and wants to help you land your next job. His research has been featured on the New York Times, Thrillist, VOX, The Atlantic, and a host of local news. More recently, he's been quoted on USA Today, BusinessInsider, and CNBC.
