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Is Working a Retail Job a Good Way to Earn Extra Money?


Many people are looking for a way to make more money. Frugality is also an important part of the personal finance equation, but some people just don’t want to cut back on life’s comforts.

One of the easiest ways to earn extra cash is to get a part-time job. And since retail is always hiring, it’s often the first place a prospective employee will look.

Retail has a lot going for it. Stores need people who are willing to work evenings and weekends, which is a great fit for someone who already has a full-time job. Expectations are low as well, since bosses are used to dealing with unmotivated high school kids.

Often, retail jobs will even pay a little more than minimum wage, and raises will come for those who do a good job.

But retail isn’t all pluses. There are many negative things about working in a store.

One is dealing with customers. Even though something may not be a front-line employee’s fault, they’ll still get blamed. All an angry customer cares about is being heard.

Retail usually involves a lot of standing and walking. That might not be a big deal for a younger person, but it can be a deal-breaker for many, especially those used to a desk job.

And finally, the money in retail will never be great. Some people may end up making much more bartending or using current skills to build a side business.

The bottom line? Retail can be a decent way to earn extra money, but many people should focus on other things instead, including picking up overtime at their current job.