Working in a regular job does not cut it anymore for some people. They are looking for new ways to make more money. And it does not have to be a method that leads to leaving their regular job. Some ideas are perfectly fine as a form of a side hustle. Once you learn the basics, you can manage a venture or two with just a few hours every week, and the work would only consist of maintenance.
Of course, there are multiple methods, and what might start as a side hustle can also become a full-time job. You may even think about quitting your current position and pursuing a passion project. It all comes down to your willingness to learn and a bit of luck.
Here are some methods that you can consider. And keep in mind that if the first of the lot is not successful, there are other things to try.
1. Print on Demand
Ecommerce continues to grow. Print on demand could be the ticket to financial independence. Even if you do not have the talent for graphic design, you can find a partner and create a joint venture.
Starting is not that difficult as well. Printify has an A to Z print on demand guide on their website. In fact, you will find pretty much everything you need to get started.
Focus on researching the market and looking for a niche that is not too oversaturated. Try to be unique with your designs. Also, make sure that your products are of the highest quality. Otherwise, the business will not last too long.
2. Blogging
Blogging can be a fun hobby. If you feel like you have the ability to write and publish interesting articles on a regular basis, there is money to be made with a blog as well.
Focusing on the content itself is a top priority, but you will need to work on search engine optimization and other marketing channels, such as social media or PPC. Once you have a solid audience that reads your stuff, start thinking about monetization.
Some bloggers stick to ad networks. Others prefer to include affiliate links or promote digital products, such as courses or ebooks. Selling opportunities for guest posts is also a decent option. Finally, crowdfunding platforms. Patreon would mean that you rely on the audience for support, but there are a lot of bloggers that make their money using the crowdfunding method.
3. Online Surveys
It is difficult to find a simpler method. Online surveys vary in length, but none should take longer than 15 minutes to finish. And once you are done, you can expect to receive a small compensation.
There are different surveys for both smartphones and desktop computers. If you run out of them on a smartphone, use a computer, and vice-versa.
The payment might not be the best out of everything that is available, but if you only have less than an hour to spare every day, online surveys are an excellent method.
4. Freelance Gigs
Fiverr, Upwork, and even social media platform groups have plenty of job offers for freelancers. It helps if you have a particular skill set, like proofreading or graphic design. But even those with limited computer knowledge can find work. Data entry positions are a good example.
5. Customer Support
Since more businesses are shifting their focus to the internet, customer support is also becoming more important. You can fill one of the shifts since 24/7 support is expected nowadays.
The work itself is not too complicated. Once you get the basics down, there should be very few issues responding to messages on the website, social media, or emails.
6. Affiliate Marketing
The goal of affiliate marketing is to redirect people via your link and expect them to purchase a product or service when they end up on the landing page.
Amazon is still the best option when it comes to affiliate marketing. They have the widest variety of products, and new stuff is introduced all the time. Their commission rates are also pretty high.
Start a website and work on marketing to attract traffic. Or, if you do not feel like developing a site, try your luck with social media. The goal is to promote your links to the right audience.
7. Virtual Assistant
Virtual assistant work varies depending on who you work for, but it is certainly one of the best options. You get a chance to learn, make valuable connections, and get an increase in pay over time.
8. Online Courses
Online education grows a lot. The trend was present before the pandemic because quite a few people are interested in improving their current skill set or learning new stuff and changing careers.
If you have experience in a particular field, do not hesitate, and create courses that can be sold on platforms like Udemy. You will get to make money and share valuable knowledge with others.