You may not realize it, but you need a gig job in today’s uncertain economy. Experts are advising that everyone does, insisting that side gigs are not a luxury anymore. American workers worry daily about losing their jobs as the economy tightens and technological advances cause massive layoffs. Business leaders urge that in 2025 full-time employees build a gig job as a safety net, not only as extra income to make ends meet but as career insurance in case your job disappears or you’re laid off.

“In today’s unpredictable economy, a side hustle is no longer just a trendy Gen Z pursuit,” according to Jackie P. Taylor, CEO of Boost Strategy Group & Founder of Business Boost Society. “It’s a risk mitigationtool for professionals across every industry.” And she means everybody.

After watching colleagues laid off, there’s even a trend of worried executives and managers putting plans in place to slowly transition into entrepreneurship. I spoke with Taylor, who told me by email that one senior executive is currently working with her to prepare a transition roadmap in case his division is impacted. He’s not leaving—he’s getting ready, she says.

Taylor refers to “the executive exodus” and characterizes a side gig as a succession plan for executives. "We’re seeing a mass migration of executive talent--not to retirement, but to reinvention. And many are asking, 'What’s next for me . . . if this job ends tomorrow?'"

She says that jobs, as we know them, are becoming more fluid. “As LinkedIn’s CEO once noted, we’re moving from a static job market to a dynamic workforce economy. Side hustles aren’t distractions—they’re financial insurance, creative outlets and a runway to long-term freedom.”

Taylor describes what she calls a tectonic shift in the workforce, adamant that if you’re a full-time worker, you should consider a side hustle, even if you love your job. She gave me five reasons for her recommendation.

She cites stats that show in 2025 alone, over 1,200-plus companies have cut tens of thousands of jobs—including senior roles once thought "safe."

Taylor points out that the average professional now navigates multiple careers, not just jobs. A side hustle creates continuity when full-time roles shift.

She notes that even the federal government isn't immune to cuts. Your title won't protect you—but your skills and audience might.

Taylor believes that having your own revenue stream gives you confidence at the negotiation table, whether you're pursuing a promotion or pivoting industries.

She recognizes that side hustles help people reconnect with what they’re great at—and often, what they love most. Plus, this approach also prevents burnout, she adds.

Many side gigs require no experience and allow you the flexibility of working online from home. Some are supplements for full-time workers, while others can be full-time pursuits that rival full-time wages.

Taylor insists that you need to answer three questions to decide what gig job will best suit you: (1) What does the market need right now, what problems need to be solved? (2) Who will be willing to pay for the solutions? (3) How can your unique skills create those solutions?

“A side hustle doesn’t always start with a business plan. It starts with a gift--and a plan to grow it into something that works for your life,” Taylor explains. The CEO shared with me five steps for full-time employees to get a side gig off the ground.

“Use a discovery tool like the free Passion to Profit™ Assessment to identify what people already turn to you for—whether it’s storytelling, strategy, beauty, baking or advising. Most successful side hustles are rooted in existing skill sets.”

“Decide whether your side hustle is for extra income, a future full-time business or a just-in-case safety net. This determines how you structure it—and how much time to invest.”

“Start by serving one or two people in your target market. Create a simple offer, pilot it and gather feedback. No LLC or website needed yet—just action.”

“Use the hours before or after your job (or even weekends) to refine your service, product or platform. Set clear time boundaries so your side hustle stays manageable.”

“In 2025, visibility is value. Create a digital footprint that reflects what you’re building—even if it’s just a consistent LinkedIn presence or a few posts sharing your journey.” Taylor adds that when you’re findable, you’re fundable and advises that you join supportive communities like Business Boost Society’s Side Hustle Haven to connect with other professionals building in real time. “We help side hustlers get Seen, Supported, and Sourced™—whether they’re seeking customers, contracts or collaborators,” she states.

Taylor advocates for side gigs because they’re safety nets, cautioning that everybody can benefit from being prepared. If you’re thinking about a side gig, she advises that you don’t need to quit to start. You just need to start small and stay consistent. “A side hustle isn’t just about extra income—it’s career insurance in an ever-changing, uncertain economy. Whether it grows into a six-figure business or simply helps cover your bases if things shift at work, it offers something no job can guarantee: control.”

Taylor emphasizes that in today’s volatile workforce many people are feeling trepidation and fear, and lots of this is due to loss of control. “You’re not betting against your job,” she stresses. “You’re betting on your ability to adapt, create and lead—with or without a company badge.”

She declares that a side hustle isn’t rebellion in 2025—it’s risk management. “Gone are the days when starting a business meant quitting your job,” she explains. “Today’s workforce wants hybrid identities: professionals by day, entrepreneurs by night and owners of their time, talent and future.”

Taylor asserts that the smart money is on building a safety net with a gig job before you need it. “Take back control, whether you want to land a new job, grow a side hustle or build a business that can scale," she concludes. “The point is, you don’t have to wait to be pushed. Many of our members are still working full-time jobs, but with growing uncertainty, they’re exploring 'soft landing strategies' now—before layoffs reach their door.”