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Have you started the Side Hustle Challenge yet? If not, now is a great time to get started!
One of the things we talk about in the challenge is all the different side hustles that are out there. The Side Hustle Spotlight series are interviews with people who share their side hustles, how they got started, and how their side hustle has helped them achieve their travel dreams. Side hustles are not one size fits all, so these spotlights give a glimpse into the pros and cons of those side hustles.
Previous Side Hustle Spotlights
- Jessica- Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA)
- Jeremy- Reserves and National Guard
- Jenifer- Seasonal UPS Delivery Driver
Our next interview is with Rod, who delivered pizzas for a number of years. These days there are a number of delivery positions you can look into (pizza, UberEats, Instacart, and more), but a lot of the things Rod shares apply to all delivery positions, regardless of the company. So let’s hear about Rod’s experiences delivering pizzas.
What was your side hustle?
Pizza delivery.
How did you decide on this particular side hustle?
Several coworkers had mentioned that they had done it before and they indicated that $50 a night in tips was common. I found I could usually best that on any given evening. Today though it’s a different world, with more competition and many more dining options.
How long did you do it?
20 years: from January 1996 to December 2015.
How many hours a day/week did you spend on it in the beginning?
I was on the company’s schedule, but initially about 30-40 hours a week.
Was the money you earned worth the time you spent on it? Why or why not?
Hard to say, even today. The money was good, and filled in the necessary gaps, but looking back at the things I missed, things would be different if I had paid more attention to some other items.
How long did it take to earn your first paycheck?
Since it’s a tipped position, pay was immediate. Until I found a rhythm and got faster, learning tips and tricks along the way, it was slower.
Are there any requirements or restrictions that might keep others from starting this side hustle?
Dependable car is a must, but to make the most, as always, minimum requirements are only a stepping off place.
Did you do any training or take any courses before you started?
No
Were there any other costs associated with starting your side hustle?
Vehicle maintenance is the biggie.
What did you like best about what you did?
Being outside, and as long as you’re not late, customer interaction; because who’s not happy to see a hot pizza?
What was your least favorite part?
Rain: sympathy tips weren’t generally there. More than once I heard, “I can’t believe they’re making you drive in this.” (usually that was with blizzards.) I would loved to have been able to say, “Well, if you hadn’t called, I wouldn’t have come,” but that doesn’t encourage good customer interaction.
Would you recommend this side hustle to others?
It’s a good fit for many, but they’ve got to have drive. A lackadaisical attitude wouldn’t make the time worth it I believe.
How did this side hustle help you achieve your travel goals?
Initially it helped with expenses around the house, which freed up money for our annual family reunion trips. Over time, it also helped us to become debt free other than our mortgage, and further reduced the stress related to travel expenses.
Any tips or words of encouragement to share with my readers?
There are times to sacrifice family time, but there also times when family must be #1. Weigh your choices carefully, the next generation will be affected by your decisions. Should the outside choice be necessary, hustle and focus to meet the familial needs and then adjust goals as necessary.
