35 Best Online Money Making Methods

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35 Best Ways to Make Money Online in 2022

Many people today turn to digital solutions to save operational costs,


expand their reach, and make money online.

Not only that, but various new job opportunities have also taken the
spotlight thanks to the rapid growth of technological advances and
remote work trends. As a result, practically anyone can get a
supplementing income by offering services or selling their creations
through various online platforms.

The opportunities to make extra cash today are more generous than
ever. In this article, we’ll show our picks of 35 short and long-term
ways you can make money online.

By the end of it, you’ll learn how to make money on the side via your
online business, whether it’s a side hustle or a long-term venture.
Top 10 Ways to Make Money
Online Quick
The internet makes nearly everything accessible, regardless of location or
device. So, if you’re looking for ways to make easy money online in a
relatively short period of time, consider our top picks:

1. Review websites. Give feedback on people’s websites to improve their


usability.

WANT TO GET PAID WHILE USING TWITTER,FACEBOOK AND YOUTUBE?

2. Do voice-over work. Lend your talents to commercials, trailers, and


audiobooks.
3. Complete online surveys. Make money online by sharing your
opinions.
4. Be a mystery shopper. Get paid to review businesses and share your
experience as a customer.
5. Test games and software. Provide developers with insights into their
softwares’ user experience.
6. Sell stock photos and footage. Ideal for photographers and
videographers looking for a way to make passive income from home.
7. Sell second-hand items. Declutter your home and sell anything from
clothes, appliances, and vehicles.
8. Sell school notes. Popular among students wanting to maintain good
grades while making money on the side.
9. Carry out small jobs. Excellent for people with limited technical skills
and who don’t have much free time.
10. Monetize your art and designs. Sell products bearing your
designs or do art commissions.

Let’s look at how these methods to earn money from home work and
discuss some tips to make your online business successful.

1. Test Websites and Give Feedback


If you have basic technical skills or a keen eye for website design and
development, consider becoming a website tester. It’s a great freelance job
to make fast cash and a good starting point for newbies looking to enter the
web development industry.

As a website tester, it’s necessary to have critical and logical thinking skills,
excellent communication skills, and knowledge of website functionality and
design. These factors can help improve your job prospects and test-
reporting quality.

Payments are project-based, and rates differ based on testing methods and
the marketplace’s policy. For example, UserTesting offers between $4-
$120/test, where the higher earnings threshold is for people who do live
conversation tests with clients.
GET PAID TO DO SIMPLE WRITING JOBS ONLINE. HOW?

2. Do Voice-Over Work
Doing voice-over work is an excellent way to quickly make money online.
Most voice-over jobs are project-based, so long-term commitment isn’t
required.

Best of all, companies are always looking for new voice-over talent. Here are
just a few examples of how to use your voice to make cash:

• Audiobooks. Help bring a story to life by lending your voice to


children’s storybooks, novels, and everything in between.
• Advertisements and commercials. Ads with voice-overs are still a
primary way for companies to market their products and services.
• Trailers. Movies, shows, and even events create trailers to build
anticipation.
• Demonstration videos. Some companies create how-to videos and
hire voice-over talent to help demo their products.
• Guides. Audio guides are popularly used by museums, galleries, travel
agencies, and tourist destinations to help enhance visitors’
experiences.

The amount you earn from doing voice-overs depends on your experience,
the type of project, and the length of the script. For example, the average
salary for a voice-over artist doing small to medium projects is around
$30/recording hour.

On the other hand, audiobook voice talent can earn up to $125/recording


hour, while veterans may charge up to $500/recording hour.

One of the easiest ways to get started is by creating a profile on Upwork and
responding directly to job ads looking for voice-over talent. Signing up for
freelance websites is an excellent way to test the waters and compare voice-
over jobs currently available.

Alternatively, sign up for sites like Voices or ACX, which connect voice-over
talent with clients, and audiobook narrators with authors.

Despite sounding like an easy job, good voice-over talents are flexible,
dynamic, and can bring a script to life no matter the topic. With audiobooks,
for example, a consistent narrative voice, excellent articulation skills, the
ability to voice different characters, and good pacing abilities are crucial to
master.

To prepare for voice-over work, try out some sample scripts and see which
niche fits your voice and style the best. Knowing your strengths helps
market your services to the right clients.
We also recommend investing in a good microphone and recording software
since clarity and good quality audio are crucial factors when recording
samples. Also, try to control your surroundings when creating audio
samples, such as minimizing background noise.

3. Complete Online Surveys


It might sound too good to be true, but you can earn some money by
completing online surveys.

Today, many companies pay people to participate in their surveys, which are
typically used for general market research and analyzing consumer behavior.
They might also help take business decisions, like what types of products to
launch or where to publish advertisements.

However, note that not everyone can do online surveys. Take a look at
some of the reasons we list below:

• Limited demographic. Some surveys aren’t open for everybody and


instead target a specific group of people. This can be based on gender,
age, occupation.
• Low pay. Many online survey websites use a point system. You’ll
accumulate points after completing surveys and can cash out after
reaching a certain earnings threshold.

For example, you can earn anywhere between $0.50-$3/survey.


However, you won’t see this money unless you reach the earnings
threshold, which could be between $10-$25.
• Time-consuming. Due to the payout systems of most survey websites,
you’ll have to dedicate a lot of time to see real returns. Some surveys
can even take up to one hour to complete.
• Not for the long-term. Unlike some of the other entries in this article,
you won’t be able to transition this into a full-time job for the reasons
stated above.

If the above drawbacks don’t phase you, here are some popular websites
that pay you to complete online surveys:

• Swagbucks. Earn points, cash, or gift cards by watching videos, playing


games, and completing surveys.
• Survey Junkie. Help brands deliver better products and services by
participating in their market surveys.
• Harris Poll Online. Enter a rewards program by participating in polls
run by this survey platform.

4. Become a Mystery Shopper


If you’re an avid shopper, becoming a mystery shopper is an excellent way
to make some extra money.

Retailers or market research companies hire mystery shoppers to shop at


specific locations and report on the overall consumer experience. It’s a way
to monitor customer service, store conditions, and product quality without
employees knowing that they’re being examined.

Although this option isn’t fully online, there is also remote mystery shopper
work. These jobs, for example, require testing service quality at call centers
or evaluating an online shopping experience.
Here are a few of the most popular companies where you can sign up online
to become a mystery shopper and make money from home:

• Market Force. Get hired by grocery stores, restaurants, pharmacies,


and even gas station convenience shops to try out their products and
services.
• BestMark. Become a field representative or evaluator to help
companies improve their business operations.
• Secret Shopper. Go out for lunch or visit a resort and get reimbursed
for your assessment.

Payments for mystery shoppers vary depending on the company. For each
job completed, you either get reimbursed for the items purchased, receive
vouchers and gift cards, or earn between $10-$25 on average.

To avoid scams, keep in mind that you should never pay to become a
mystery shopper. Note that you’re also an independent contractor, so
companies can’t force you to take on a certain number of jobs even after
signing up.

5. Test Games and Apps


In 2020, the online gaming industry grew by a record 21.9% compared to
the previous year, generating $21.1 billion in revenue.

GET PAID TO REVIEW APPS ON YOUR PHONE IN THIS WAY

It also holds the largest share in the global digital media market. As a result,
many opportunities have appeared for users to make money online in their
spare time, testing games and gaming apps in exchange for rewards.
Some games or apps, like Mistplay, require you to perform specific tasks
and collect rewards in gaming currencies to be redeemed as dollars later on.
Other platforms such as Givling and Gamesville offer sweepstakes and
giveaways.

While these games and apps provide an easy way to make money online,
make sure to check reviews before installing or signing up for them. Some
use these platforms as a front for scams, stealing personal information and
bank details.

The rule of thumb is to avoid pay-to-play games. You want to make money,
not spend it.

6. Sell Stock Photos and Footage


If you’re an avid photographer or videographer, consider selling photos
online and footage to generate a passive income from home. It’s a great way
to practice your passion while earning a few bucks on the side.

Many companies and business owners use stock content in their marketing
campaigns, ads, and websites. In addition to the standard stock photo
format, buyers also look for fresh ideas and unique perspectives to make
their company stand out.

You can make a photography website and sell photos there. At the same
time, it’s a good idea to sign up for a few online marketplaces and list your
digital downloads. That way, you’ll get a head start at cultivating your
personal brand while promoting it to potential buyers.
Some of the biggest stock websites that pay you for photography and
videography include:

• Shutterstock. Offers multiple earning levels based on the number of


downloads sold.
• Getty Images. Pays between 15%-45% in royalties depending on the
license exclusivity agreement.
• VideoHive. As part of the larger Envato ecosystem, this platform deals
in stock videos and photos with author-driven pricing.
• Dissolve. Specializes in selling high-quality curated stock videos and
photos.

7. Sell Second-Hand Items


Selling or renting second-hand items is another excellent way to make
money quickly and a great motivation to start decluttering your space.

Once you inventory the items to sell, make sure to take high-quality images
before listing them on online marketplaces. If you plan to do this in the
longer term, also consider building a website to host your own online store.

One of the most popular categories to sell online is clothing. The market
value of the second-hand clothing industry is predicted to reach $77 billion
by 2026.

There are plenty of online marketplaces that specifically cater to the second-
hand clothing and accessories market. Here are just a few examples:

• Tradesy. Specializes in women’s clothing and accessories.


• Etsy. An excellent marketplace to sell unique, handmade, and vintage
items and redeem money through Etsy Wallet.
• Rebelle. Sell clothes and accessories on this second-hand luxury online
retailer.
• Depop. A popular platform for both vintage and designer goods.

Other than clothes and accessories, make money online by selling used
items such as furniture, gadgets, sports equipment, and art tools. The used
car market also saw a rise in demand in 2020.

Some of the best online marketplaces to sell used items of all categories
include:

• eBay. A popular choice for various types of products, including


collectibles and vehicles.
• Gadget Salvation. Focuses on used gadgets like laptops, cellphones,
and tablets.
• Facebook Marketplace. An ideal option for targeting local buyers.
• Reverb. A great place to sell musical instruments and gear.
• Fat Llama. An excellent alternative for those who don’t want to sell.
This is a unique rental website where you can list equipment like
sewing machines and DJ turntables for people to lease.

8. Sell School Notes


Selling copies of your school notes is one of the easiest ways for students to
make money online. Additionally, you can sell second-hand textbooks to
new students.
When selling school notes, however, make sure that you aren’t committing
plagiarism or academic misconduct. For example, do not disclose homework
assignments or tests. Similarly, never sell or distribute copyrighted material.

A safe bet is to sell the notes that contain general but insightful information
about a subject, such as modules, flashcards, and study guides. Also, be
careful not to present your notes as facts but simply as supplementary study
documents.

Aside from student or alumni message boards and community forums, here
are some of the best places to sell school notes:

• Nexus Notes. They offer a 50% commission per set of notes sold.
• NoteXchange. Sell your notes for $5-$40 and earn a 100% commission
if you join their affiliate program.
• Notesgen. With over 5.5 million users, this platform based in India
accepts handwritten notes and presentation slides.
• OneClass. Earn up to 20% of revenue when someone subscribes to
your content.

9. Carry Out Micro Jobs


A micro job is a short-term, temporary job that pays per task completed.
Earnings vary, averaging from a few cents to $50/task.

Micro jobs generally take just minutes to a couple of hours to complete,


giving you the freedom to do multiple tasks in your spare time. It’s a great
option for freelancers, new graduates, and students since micro jobs also
help you gain experience and build a portfolio.
The most common online micro jobs include blogging, short translations,
data entry, and administrative tasks. Popular offline micro jobs are
babysitting, dog walking, and lawn mowing.

Here are some great micro-job websites that pay you through gigs:

• Fiverr. One of the most popular platforms for a variety of small jobs,
from logo designing to translations.
• Amazon Mechanical Turk. An excellent platform for users with video,
image, and data processing skills.
• Appen. A great option for doing small jobs like transcribing or
categorizing data.

10. Sell Art and Designs


Selling digital products is one of the best ways for artists to earn extra
money online.

List your creations on art marketplaces like DeviantArt and ArtStation, and
they’ll help manage the transactions. This is a great way to gain exposure in
the online creative community and reach potential clients.

Alternatively, sell your artwork and designs independently via social media.
Platforms like Facebook and Instagram have over 2 billion monthly active
users on average, so there’s an excellent chance for exposure.

Selling on social media is a good way to sell quickly, especially if you


promote your art among specific networks. For example, sell on Facebook
Marketplace and promote your products by joining groups and interacting
with potential buyers.
Or, sell via Instagram by activating the Instagram Shopping feature on a
profile specifically dedicated to your artwork.

Improve the chances of selling by posting your artwork often, creating


engaging captions, utilizing hashtags, interacting with bigger channels, and
following users with similar interests.

If you opt for a marketplace like ArtStation, it’s possible to earn up to 95%
from sales. On the other hand, if you’re selling on your own social media
profiles, you can keep up to 100% of the profit.

Top 25 Long-Term Strategies to


Make Money Online
Now that we’ve covered some of the best short-term ways to make extra
cash, it’s time to explore some long-term strategies to make money online.

Unlike the previous section, the entries in the following list require some
initial investment in terms of time, and in some cases, money. Even so, they
are worth considering if you’re looking to expand your skills and work
portfolio.

1. Make Money Blogging


Blogging is an excellent way for avid writers to earn a source of
supplementing income from home. Many people start a blog to share
insights, express their views, and establish a brand.

Popular blog examples include Say Yes and Anywhere We Roam.


You can start a blog about anything, like a travel blog, food blog, or book
blog. Researching some of the most popular blog ideas can also help you
find a profitable niche.

Some of the most common ways to make money blogging are through
advertising and affiliate marketing. Selling products and doing brand
sponsorships are other popular monetization methods.

To have a profitable blog, it’s essential to find a niche and be consistent with
posting content. These factors are also crucial when building an audience
and having successful marketing and search engine optimization (SEO)
strategies.

2. Join an Affiliate Program


Joining an affiliate marketing program is a great way to make money online.

Earn a commission as an affiliate by promoting products, services, or


businesses on different platforms. When a customer clicks on an affiliate link
and completes a purchase, you earn a percentage.

Many affiliates have found success in this industry, with 35% revealing that
they earn at least $20,000/year. Signing up to more than one affiliate
network is one way to gain more opportunities and make additional money.

With so many affiliate programs and networks to choose from, make sure to
join the ones that fit your niche. For instance, if you have a blog dedicated to
computers and technology, you can become a Hostinger affiliate.

Here are some of the most profitable affiliate programs and networks to
make money from:
• Amazon Associates. One of the biggest affiliate networks, it offers
rates between 1% and 10%.
• SEMrush. A great option for content marketers, this program provides
a 40% monthly commission rate for all subscription plans.
• CJ Affiliate. A popular choice for affiliates with established platforms
wanting to work with large and reputable brands.
• eBay Partner Network. A good starting point for all affiliate niches and
levels.
• Tripadvisor. Perfect for affiliates within the travel industry.
• GetResponse. A platform offering one-time referrals and recurring
commissions for affiliates in the marketing niche.

Like any other business model, affiliate marketing takes trial and error.
Some of the biggest mistakes to avoid in affiliate marketing include choosing
the wrong niche, not producing quality content, and ignoring website
performance.

3. Build an eCommerce Website


Selling products online is one of the best ways to make money from home,
especially since retail eCommerce sales continue to rise and is expected to
surpass $7 trillion in 2025.

More and more brick-and-mortar stores are also turning to eCommerce due
to its advantages. Apart from having a broader market reach, eCommerce
stores require lower startup costs. For example, you don’t need to rent
different retail locations to scale operations.
Before launching an eCommerce business, it’s essential to decide the store’s
niche. If you’re unsure, researching trending products helps to narrow down
which types of products to sell online.

Creating an online store today also couldn’t be easier, even for beginners,
thanks to the growth of eCommerce platforms. However, picking the right
one is an important decision since the platform will contribute to your and
your customers’ overall experience.

Here’s our compilation of the five best eCommerce platforms to build an


online store:

• Zyro eCommerce. A beginner-friendly website builder offering free


themes and multiple AI-generated tools.
• WooCommerce. An open-source platform built for WordPress that
provides all the necessary site functions to create your dream store.
• PrestaShop. An open-source eCommerce software offering robust
product management functionality and analytics tools.
• Shopify. A popular option with a built-in abandoned cart recovery
feature and SEO tools.

In addition to selling high-quality products, you’ll need to consider factors


such as inventory, warehousing, packaging, and shipping. Make sure to take
these into account when formulating a business plan.

Note that you may also need to obtain a business license depending on the
type of business model you opt for. These may include registration
certificates, local and federal permits, and a sales tax permit.
4. Start Dropshipping
Dropshipping is one of the most profitable business ideas you can start out.
It’s a B2C business model where you sell products via an online store but a
third-party supplier processes and fulfills the order.

It’s an easier alternative to running a standard eCommerce store since


dropshipping doesn’t require the hassle of dealing with inventory and
shipping.

Starting a dropshipping store is similar to a typical online store and involves


choosing a niche and a platform to sell on. The key difference here is that
dropshippers have to find the perfect supplier since this decision can make
or break the business.

To help get you started, here are some websites where you can connect to
reliable suppliers to start a dropshipping business:

• Spocket. Choose from thousands of suppliers worldwide and enjoy


easy integrations with platforms like WooCommerce and Shopify.
• Modalyst. Curate your online store with products from different
global suppliers and use their profit calculator to set prices.
• SaleHoo. Find low-cost dropshippers in different product categories
and explore their community forum for dropshipping tips and tricks.

5. Create a Digital Course


Projected to reach $336.98 billion by 2026, the eLearning market is an
excellent industry to enter if you excel in a particular subject and enjoy
curating learning material.
Digital courses can come in different formats, from simple PDF downloads to
YouTube videos. The most popular online course topics include computer
skills, business and entrepreneurship, education, and personal development.

There are two primary ways to sell digital courses – by joining an eLearning
platform or creating an eLearning website. The former is easier to do, but
the latter provides more opportunities to experiment with different course
formats and monetization methods.

Create an eLearning website with a WordPress LMS plugin, for example.


Then, sell your online courses as digital products or create a membership
system to lock them behind a paywall.

If you want to try out a few eLearning platforms before creating an


eLearning site, consider the following options:

• Udemy. Supports quizzes, coding exercises, and discussion forums.


• Skillshare. Excellent for selling courses on digital art and creative skills.
• Uscreen. Ideal for video-based courses, like exercise and cooking
tutorials.
• OpenSesame. Supports integration with many learning management
systems (LMS) for better accessibility.
• Pathwright. Focuses on result-oriented courses with actionable steps.

6. Tutor Students Online


If selling digital courses isn’t your thing, but you’re still interested in
teaching, consider becoming an online tutor.
Many students today actively look for remote lessons. That’s why many
independent tutors offer their services via video communication apps like
Zoom and Skype and accept payments through PayPal.

Earn money from home by giving on-demand lessons and providing


personalized feedback. Note that being an online tutor means that you not
only create lesson plans and learning modules, but you also need to keep
track of the student’s progress.

Popular tutoring subjects include math, languages, and computer science,


but make sure to evaluate your expertise when choosing a topic to teach.
Also, consider obtaining certification to enhance your credibility as a tutor
and improve the hire rate.

When you’re ready, join an online tutoring platform to start promoting your
services. Here are five popular online tutoring platforms to make money
from home:

• BitDegree. Create unlimited courses and manage your students’


progress easily.
• Skooli. Schedule lessons in advance or accept them whenever you’re
online.
• TutorMe. Connects students with tutors based on their needs and
preferences.
• TutorRoom. Offers virtual classroom features, like an online
whiteboard, scheduling system, and modules.
• Preply. Tutor in different languages and set custom rates for your
services.
7. Create a Membership Site
Creating a membership website is another great way to earn money from
home if you want to run your own platform.

Membership sites make money by selling access to exclusive content


through subscription plans. By having a tiered membership system, you
divide each member’s privileges and determine which content they can
access.

The subscription system makes for a robust revenue source, as members


have to renew their plans to maintain access privileges. If you’re building a
brand, a membership site can also help foster a potential customer base for
upselling.

There are plenty of niche membership websites to take inspiration from. For
example, Mark Manson and Magnetic Memory Method focus on self-
improvement. Meanwhile, Smart Blogger offers tips on blogging and
content writing.

After finding a niche that suits your interest, start developing the
membership website. The easiest way to do this is with WordPress. Many
excellent membership plugins offer all the tools necessary to create plans
and accept transactions online.

8. Sell Advertising Space


Selling digital advertising space is one of the most common ways to
monetize a website and earn passive income.
Ads are popular for high-traffic sites since revenue is measured based on
clicks or user impressions. However, websites with low to medium traffic
can also benefit from selling ad space.

Other important factors that advertisers look for include a website’s content
category, audience demographics, and user devices. So, it’s vital to dedicate
time to creating quality content and improving your site’s SEO strategies to
attract advertisers.

To start selling ad space, sign up with an ad network like Google AdSense


and simply embed the ad code in the site.

When choosing ad placements, keep in mind not to oversaturate the site


since this can negatively affect user experience. Instead, we recommend
using a heatmap software tool to determine the best ad placements for
optimal conversions.

Here are some other advertising network options that you can sign up for:

• Adcash. Use an anti-block feature to bypass users’ ad blockers and


obtain higher earnings.
• Propeller Ads. Supports multiple ad formats, including interstitial and
push notifications.
• Media.net. Get exclusive access to the Yahoo! Bing network for
keyword-targeted ads.
• Carbon Ads. A great option for technology and design-based ads.
9. Create a Subscription Job Board
With more and more employers turning to online hiring, job boards have
great market potential.

There are two main ways you can make money online when creating a job
board website. The first is to rent out space for employers to advertise their
job listings. The second is to sell access to exclusive job listings to job
seekers via a paid membership system.

For example, popular job board websites like Indeed, Glassdoor, and
ZipRecruiter charge employers fees for premium job post placements. Most
of these sites base their pricing plans on factors such as posting period, in-
depth company information, or reviews.

The easiest way to create this type of website is with a WordPress job board
plugin. For example, WP Job Manager offers tools to submit and manage
job listings code-free. If you want to restrict access to job postings, consider
installing a membership plugin.

10. Buy and Flip Websites


The process of buying and selling websites is relatively simple.

After purchasing a site, optimize its content for search engines, generate
revenue, then sell it for a profit. It’s an ideal money-making project for
anyone who enjoys doing website design, improving SEO, and curating a
great user experience.

Knowing which websites to buy and grow is essential since not all of them
have future value. A good rule of thumb is to opt for ones that already
generate revenue and traffic. Similarly, websites with a popular niche and a
premium domain name are easier to sell at higher prices.

Here are a few marketplaces where you can find and purchase websites:

• Flippa. Offers a wide range of niche websites and a global network of


buyers and sellers.
• Latona’s. Mainly promotes websites and online stores no younger
than a year and with a minimum annual revenue of $20,000.
• Empire Flippers. Sells profitable websites that make over
$1,000/month.
• SideProjectors. A platform to buy websites, eCommerce stores, apps,
and domain names.

To avoid a bad investment, there are a few things to consider before


purchasing a website.

The first is to ask for proof of concept and revenue and enquire about its
current monetization methods. Then, check the site’s source of traffic and
traffic volume – this is a good indicator of a website’s potential.

It’s also a good idea to ask about existing site issues and verify why the
original website owner sold it in the first place. Also, ensure that you
double-check the seller’s background and avoid buying sites from
anonymous brokers.

11. Start a YouTube Channel


Starting a YouTube channel is one of the most popular ways to make extra
money online. As the largest video-sharing platform worldwide, YouTube
has a vast market of over 2 billion active users located in more than 100
countries.

There are multiple ways to earn from your YouTube channel, but the first
step is to sign up for the YouTube Partner Program and ensure you’re
eligible for monetization.

The most popular way to make money is through advertising, but


alternative monetization methods include channel memberships, Super
Chats and Super Stickers, merch, and YouTube BrandConnect.

YouTube allows almost all types of content in various niches, from gaming
reactions to daily vlogs. If you want to make money, however, you’ll have to
invest some time and effort.

Growing a YouTube channel is similar to a blog, meaning you should publish


content consistently to generate traffic and build an audience base.
Investing in a good camera and video editing software to improve your
video quality can also attract more viewers.

Also, don’t forget to practice YouTube SEO. It includes adding relevant


keywords and tags to the video titles and optimizing video descriptions for
search engines.

Aside from being a profitable venture, starting a YouTube channel can be


beneficial for building a brand. Videos can generate leads, help redirect
traffic to your website, and have a better return on investment than
images, making them a great marketing tool.
12. Pick Up Freelance Gigs
Freelancing is a great way to make money at your own pace. As a freelancer,
you have the power to choose clients as well as set your own work schedule
and rate.

It’s a popular way to earn an extra stream of supplementing income from


home – 35% of the global workforce consists of freelancers. AbdulGaniy
Shehu and Kelly Vaughn are two among many with success stories in the
industry.

You can offer all kinds of freelance services. Some of the most sought-after
freelance skills include web design and development, translating,
accounting, and video production.

To help get you started, sign up for some of these best freelance websites
and start scouting for gigs:

• Upwork. Focuses on large projects that require freelancers with


specific skills.
• Freelancer. Ideal for freelancers looking for long-term projects.
• Guru. Find projects from small to middle-sized businesses.

If you want to improve your chances of landing high-paying projects,


consider creating an online portfolio to supplement your profile on job
marketplaces.

Additionally, make sure the pricing structure aligns with the time and effort
required to finish each project.
13. Become a Website Developer
The average salary for a freelance web developer is $75,430/year. As
employment is projected to grow by 13% between 2020-2030, now is a
great time to jump into the information technology industry.

The first step to becoming a web developer is to choose a web development


specialization. Doing so will save you time, money, and energy to learn the
required skills and help you stand out from the competition.

Once you know which specialization to pursue, it’s time to learn how to
code. Plenty of websites and courses can help you get started, such as:

• BitDegree. Offers beginner and advanced courses as well as


scholarship opportunities.
• Coursera. Provides certified courses and specializations.
• Codecademy. Perfect for beginners who want short and interactive
courses.
• Udemy. Choose from a wide range of on-demand courses in many
languages.

If you’re thinking about transitioning to becoming a full-time web developer,


consider participating in a coding boot camp like Alchemy Code Lab and
Rithm School to enhance your career advancement opportunities.

14. Become a Graphic Designer


An average base salary of $48,283/year makes graphic design another high-
paying career worth pursuing. Graphic designs are some of the most
lucrative things you can make and sell online, especially for creative
individuals.
The career path of a graphic designer is similar to a web developer. After
narrowing down a specialization to pursue, the next step is to learn the
required skills and software. Plenty of design courses are available on
various eLearning platforms to help you get started.

For example, a web designer will need to study user experience, user
interface, and the basics of HTML and CSS. Meanwhile, a logo designer
should master color theory, typography, and design tools like Adobe
Illustrator and CorelDRAW.

There are many online graphic design gigs circulating job boards. Here are
some of the best places to look:

• DesignCrowd. Offers a wide range of projects for various mediums


from logo and website to billboard design.
• Minty. Ideal for professional artists looking for collaborative projects.
• We Work Remotely. Find different types of remote design jobs.
• 99designs. Join other skilled freelancers providing high-end services.

15. Become a Content Writer


If you have a knack for writing, becoming a content writer is one of the best
ways to earn money online. With an average pay of $50,109/year, content
writing makes for a profitable side hustle or even full-time remote work.

In addition to writing skills, this career path requires SEO knowledge.


Knowing the basics of HTML and CSS can also help format your writing,
especially when working with a content management system like
WordPress.
Many content writers have a website to showcase their writing skills and
work portfolios. If your blog takes off, it’s also possible to make money by
monetizing it.

Additionally, try your luck on job boards like Fiverr and Freelancer, where
tons of freelance content writing gigs are available. Alternatively, join a
content writing agency to get a steady flow of work.

Four of the best content writing agencies to work with are:

• Verblio. Offers all kinds of content types, from blog posts to press
releases.
• SEOButler. This company seeks US and UK-based freelance writers.
• Express Writers. Has a massive network of clients worldwide.
• WebFX. Provides SEO, digital advertising, and social media advertising
services.

16. Become a Video Game Streamer


Streaming has taken off in the past few years, attractinfg an average of over
2,700,000 viewers per week on Twitch alone. It’s one of the fun ways to
make extra money if you’re good at playing video games and enjoy being in
front of a camera.

Streaming platforms like Twitch, YouTube, and Facebook offer partner


programs that enable streamers to accept ad revenue and tips from their
audience. Therefore, the amount of money you make depends on your
following’s size.
Streamers with over a million followers can earn millions of dollars every
year. For example, the Canadian streamer Shroud has an estimated net
worth of between $8-12 million, with 9.8 million followers on Twitch.

Outside of streaming, video game streamers can also earn money from
brand deals, sponsorships, and merchandise sales.

17. Become an Influencer


The continuous rise of social media has made influencer marketing a
popular choice to make money online.

Like affiliate marketing, companies pay influencers with a large following to


market their brands, products, and services. The main difference is that
influencers aim to impact others’ buying decisions instead of simply bringing
leads.

Like streamers, how much money influencers make significantly depends on


their following.

However, the most critical aspect of being a profitable influencer is


cultivating a personal brand and becoming a voice of authority and
trendsetter within your niche. This will help attract sponsors and
advertisers.

While many influencers originate from Instagram, you can take advantage
of other platforms like YouTube and Twitter to build a following and create
different types of content.

Smosh and Babish Culinary Universe are two examples of popular


influencers that made their careers on YouTube.
18. Offer Digital Marketing Services
Help business owners attract their target audiences and improve sales
performance by offering marketing services, such as SEO strategies and
social media management.

It’s a great way to make money from home if you’re already familiar with
these concepts or want to develop your skills further.

SEO services, for example, can help site owners rank higher in search engine
results pages (SERP), receive more traffic, and possibly generate leads. Some
skills you should have to offer these services include copywriting, link
building, and keyword research.

On the other hand, providing social media management services means


you’re responsible for planning and executing marketing plans for better
audience interaction and higher brand recognition.

An excellent social media manager should keep up with trends, identify a


brand’s target audience, and track social media data for better campaign
results.
Plenty of resources are available to help people learn SEO. Consider getting
an SEO certificate from reputable platforms like SEMrush Academy or take a
Google Analytics course to deepen your knowledge. When you’re ready to
monetize your skills, offer your services on job marketplaces like Fiverr and
Freelancer. If you’re looking to do this in the long term, consider applying to
a marketing agency as a digital marketer. 19. Create an App
The world has gone mobile, and creating an app is one of the ways to profit
from this rapid digitalization. Make money online by creating paid apps or
selling them to other companies.
Alternatively, launch a free app and make money via in-app advertisements.

Creating an app as a side-hustle is also an excellent way to expand your skills


if you already have some coding and web development knowledge.

These days, however, you don’t need specific technical skills to create an
app. Here are a few picks of beginner-friendly app builders:

• Appy Pie. With over 3 million customers worldwide, this app builder
has a simple three-step process to help you create an app with a great
user experience. Pricing ranges from $16-$60/app/month.
• AppInstitute. Dubbing itself as an app builder for busy small business
owners, this platform makes it easy to get started without coding
knowledge. Pricing ranges from $59-$400/month.
• Mobincube. An intuitive app builder that enables you to launch an app
in a few easy steps. They’re also one of the few that offer a free plan,
but premium ones are also available.

To make a great app that people will want to use, follow the steps below:

11. Get inspired. Consider creating surveys, conducting interviews,


or running a focus group to find out what people are looking for in a
new app.
12. Conduct competitor research. Search existing competitor apps
and read their reviews. Take note of what users like and dislike about
them.
13. Start building. Start coding or use an app builder to help with
the process.
14. Launch. Submit your app to the Apple App Store or Google Play
Store and wait for approval.
15. Market and monetize. Follow some tried and tested marketing
strategies and start making money.

20. Create a Podcast


Starting a podcast is one of the most profitable online business ideas today,
especially with over 155 million people listening to podcasts every week.

If you already own a laptop or device with a built-in microphone, starting a


podcast is easy. However, we do recommend investing in good audio
equipment and software to improve recording quality.

All you need now is a topic to talk about and engaging communication skills
– you can make a podcast about anything, from financial tips to true crime.

After recording and editing the first few podcast episodes, find a podcast
hosting platform to make them available online. Some of the best ones
include Buzzsprout, Resonate, Anchor, and Spotify.

One thing that most podcasts have in common is that they primarily make
money from sponsorships. Once your podcast has generated a following,
consider signing up to production agencies like Podfly and Pacific Content to
monetize it with ads.

Make sure to also promote the podcast on social media and other platforms,
like your website. Using a podcast theme and an audio player on your site
can further boost the podcast’s brand identity and discoverability.

21. Become a Travel Consultant


As soon as the pandemic border restrictions ease, people will want to start
traveling again. The tourism industry will inevitably surge, resulting in higher
demand for travel consultants.
A travel consultant makes arrangements for individuals and businesses by
curating their clients’ ideal travel experience. It’s a job that can be done
entirely online and is a great money-making option for well-traveled
individuals or locals who love sharing the best spots in town.

The average base salary for a travel consultant is $75,992/year in the US,
excluding tips. The benefits of this job include a flexible working schedule
and opportunities to travel and network.

Start your career by getting familiar with popular travel platforms and travel
management software. If you have the time and budget to spare, consider
taking courses in tourism, hospitality, or even foreign languages to improve
your opportunities.

Promote your services with a website and take inspiration from consultants
like Wanderlust Travel Consultants and TravelBoecker Adventures.
Alternatively, sign up to be a travel consultant or trip designer on platforms
such as Reco.

22. Publish eBooks


The rise of self-publishing has made it possible for anyone to publish
eBooks. It’s an excellent option for budding writers since eBooks are easy to
produce and distribute since there are no printing or shipping costs.

To publish an eBook, submit your writing to a self-publishing platform. There


are two types of publishing companies ‒ retailers and aggregators. The
former sells books directly to customers, whereas the latter distributes them
to retailers at additional costs.
The revenue you generate from eBooks depends on the publishing
company’s royalty policy. For example, Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing
pays up to 70% royalties for books sold on Kindle stores worldwide.

Here are other eBook publication alternatives along with their royalty rates:

• Barnes and Noble Press (retailer). Offers 70% royalties for eBook
sales.
• KOBO (retailer). Pays 70% royalties for eBooks priced $2.99 or more.
• Apple Books for Authors (aggregator). Offers 70% royalties for your
eBook sales.
• Smashwords (aggregator). Takes a 10% commission when selling to
other retailers and 15%-18.5% when selling on their website.
• Draft2Digital (aggregator). Earn 60% royalties from your eBook sales.

Before self-publishing an eBook, ensure that the formatting is correct and


that your work is free from typos, grammatical errors, and plagiarism. You
might also consider hiring a graphic designer to help create an appealing
eBook cover.

23. Start Email Marketing Campaigns


‘As the number of email users is projected to surpass 4.5 billion in 2025,
email marketing is a powerful tool to generate leads and turn your audience
into customers.

The key to executing a successful email marketing campaign is to first build


an email list. If you have a website, add a pop-up form with a personalized
call-to-action on its landing page.
Other methods to encourage subscriptions include incentives like discounts,
free shipping, giveaways, and pop-up surveys. The goal is to make visitors
want to receive email updates about your business.

The next step is to start formulating and sending email newsletters.


Platforms like Mailchimp and Constant Contact help curate and manage
your campaigns while offering tools to track sales, engagement, and
audience growth.

If your website runs on WordPress, try installing a newsletter plugin for


better email automation and a more straightforward email-building process.
Also, consider conducting periodical A/B testing to determine the best
elements that’ll make an engaging email campaign.

24. Become a Virtual Assistant


If you enjoy organizing, planning, or doing administrative tasks, becoming a
virtual assistant is another one of the ways to make extra money online. As
an independent contractor, a virtual assistant provides support services for
individual clients or businesses.

Besides having the freedom to work remotely, becoming a virtual assistant


requires minimal startup costs. Plus, you can earn an average annual pay of
around $67,000/year.

Some skills to master as a virtual assistant include communication, time


management, and writing.

Knowing how to operate tools and software for bookkeeping and project
management are also important points. Some popular platforms that virtual
assistants often use include Google Drive, Quickbooks, and Asana.

The easiest way to market your services is through online platforms like
Fiverr and Freelancer. Alternatively, sign up with a virtual assistant
company and work with verified clients.

25. Invest in Stocks


Investing in stocks is a great way to make passive income. Start by
purchasing a share in a company and selling it back to the market once the
stock’s value increases.

It can be tricky to start, but there are plenty of blogs, podcasts, and YouTube
channels to help. They often provide insights, tips, and tricks into the best
stock trading strategies.

Some popular learning sources include Collaborative Fund, A Wealth of


Common Sense, and The Investor’s Podcast Network.

You can also watch videos of stockbrokers reviewing trades and market
news on YouTube. Rayner Teo and WhiteBoard Finance are among the
many stock trading channels to follow.

The easiest way to buy stocks is through an online stockbroker, which


facilitates transactions. Here are some top picks:

• E*TRADE. Ideal for long-term investors looking for zero minimum


deposit.
• TD Ameritrade. A commission-free trading platform with excellent
customer support.
• Fidelity Investments. Provides fractional shares, which enables
investors with limited capital to partake in the stock market.
• Charles Schwab. Offers access to international markets.

How to Choose the Best Way to


Make Money Online
Now that we’ve explored the 35 best ways to make money online, it’s time
for you to narrow down the options.

Realistically, most people won’t opt for more than three choices. To help
you make a decision, evaluate the following factors:

• Effort. Consider how much time it’s necessary to invest into this new
venture and whether you have the required skills or experience.
• Cost. If you’re thinking about choosing one of the long-term options,
consider whether you have the budget to launch an online business.
• Interest. Don’t choose what to sell online just because it seems like
easy money ‒ it’s important to opt for a venture you have a genuine
interest in.
• Potential. Consider the monetary potential of your chosen idea and
whether it can be truly profitable in the long run.

Conclusion
In this article, we covered several options on how to make money online. As
there are plenty of business ideas to choose from, be sure to pick the one
best suited for your financial situation, skills, and passion.
If you want to sell products online, consider starting an online store. Auction
second-hand clothes, self-made designs, and stock photos if you only have
limited capital. Alternatively, adopt the dropshipping business model and
source products from a third-party supplier.

Professionals wanting to monetize their skills may offer tutoring services


and online courses to gain profit. Web development, graphic design, content
writing, and SEO are a few among many competencies with high
employment and salary rates.

Since not everyone can commit to a full-time job, freelance gigs may suit
your preferences better. Start a podcast or become a streamer if you love
engaging with the audience, or try doing voice-over work.

Alternatively, experiment with blogging and monetize the website with ads
to generate passive revenue.

Regardless of your choice, be ready to work hard and dedicate yourself to


your goals. Good luck.

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