Office Workers Turn to Cleaning for Side Hustles

In Vietnam's bustling urban centers, particularly Ho Chi Minh City, a growing number of office workers are turning to cleaning services as a side hustle to supplement their incomes and enhance their quality of life. This trend is driven by the need for additional funds for language courses and professional training, as well as a desire for mental fulfillment beyond demanding office jobs. Mai Tram, a 24-year-old corporate marketing professional, works house-cleaning shifts through an online platform. She attends language classes twice a week and cleans homes three evenings a week. Each three-hour cleaning shift earns her over VND200,000 (approximately $8), and she picks up extra shifts on weekends, aiming for an additional monthly income of about VND4 million (around $150). This significantly contributes to making ends meet in Ho Chi Minh City, where the cost of living is notably high. The demographic of applicants for hourly cleaning shifts is becoming younger, with many under 45. According to a representative from JupViec, an app for booking hourly cleaning services, participants include office workers, teachers, real estate agents, small business owners, and students. They typically take three to five shifts a week, working evenings or days off. Each shift lasts two to three hours and involves housecleaning, excluding cooking. This flexible schedule allows them to earn extra money around their work or studies while still having time for social activities and family. Additionally, individuals aged 35 to 40 are increasingly viewing cleaning as a "backup plan" to finance a potential career change. They are preparing for a future where they might find it harder to stay with a company long-term due to age. Some workers see hourly cleaning as a practical way to monetize daily household chores. Khanh Huyen, a 38-year-old corporate accountant, began cleaning homes nearly four months ago as a way to stay physically busy and alleviate stress after a decade of desk work. While initially a race against the clock, she has settled into a routine and now earns an extra VND3 million to VND5 million ($115-$190) per month. She notes that the work has provided her with a new perspective on the service industry and taught her skills beyond accounting. Beyond income, these side jobs offer opportunities for personal growth. Regular conversations with homeowners have helped Tram become less hesitant to talk to strangers, and she sometimes finds enjoyment in chatting with clients while assisting with meal preparation. Working alongside older female colleagues has also taught her about cleaning chemicals and household chore techniques. This rise in supplementary work reflects the economic pressures in Vietnam's rapidly developing urban areas. While it empowers individuals to diversify their income streams, it also highlights evolving labor market dynamics and the ongoing need for skill development and career adaptability in a country governed by a one-party system that prioritizes economic growth.