Why should I work online?
Take a look at some of the reasons why people around the world are flocking to online work:
Advantages:
- Location independence
Whether you decide to work at home or take your laptop to the local coffee shop you can make some extra cash wherever you are.
- Set your own schedule
Another wonderful part about making money online is that you can choose the working hours that suit you. Can’t sleep at 3 am? Put in an hour’s work. Want to work in the mornings and take the afternoons off? You can do that.
- Choose what interests you
With the internet being as vast as it is, there are boundless opportunities and people seeking your skills.
- Build a second source of income
Having a second income source not only puts you in a better financial situation, but provides an extra safety net for when the unexpected crops up (I’m looking at you, flat tyre!).
- Network with people around the world
The internet connects us and puts us in touch with like-minded people from across the world. You can expand your network of friends and colleagues as you spend time developing your business.
How do I make money online?
Let’s get down to business. We’ll start off by looking at the requirements you’ll need to start your online work (p.s. it’s not much at all!), before moving on to 10 money making ideas to get your imagination rolling.
Earn money online: The requirements
You’ll be relieved to know that the list of requirements to begin your online working dream is very small, helping you save money. It does depend on the nature of your work, with some professions and business models requiring extra equipment – a high-quality microphone for a voice actor, for example – but here are your core essentials:
Laptop / Computer
The heart of the office and your method of connecting to the world wide web, your laptop or computer will quickly become your best friend. As you venture forth on your money making journey, you may want to upgrade your computer over time, however most laptops/computers are more than adequate, as long as they have –
For some jobs, you can even start with only your smartphone.For example, social media posts can be created and posted with apps on your phone, and a bluetooth keyboard can allow you to work as a copywriter with your smartphone.
Internet access
The lifeline of your online business, it’s important that you have a solid internet connection. While some money making methods require a more stable internet connection than others, you won’t be getting far without internet
(Optional) Second monitor/screen
For those of you looking to set up a home office, we highly recommend a second monitor. You’ll be able to use both screens to better organise your work, as well as cut down on the amount you need to switch between tabs. This is optional, however.
(Bonus) Patience
Well, we have to add this too! It goes without saying, but it’s unlikely you’ll be making a six-figure salary on day 1. Patience is key when it comes to making money online, as you work to land your first clients.
10 money making methods
It’s time for the part you’ve all been waiting for. Below is a list of 10 different ways you can make money online. Have a read-through and see what interests you. There are many more ways you can make money online – it all comes down to the interests and skills unique to you.
1) Online tutor
From languages to musical instruments, the world of online courses is varied and diverse. If you have a skill, such as speaking a second language, or have spent time playing the guitar – there are people out there who want to learn from you.
You don’t have to be an ‘expert’ either, many people teach beginner classes that are less than an hour and learn as they go. You’ll need a microphone and ideally a camera too, this will help when connecting with future clients.
Top websites for online tutoring:
- etutorworld: https://www.etutorworld.com/
- Tutor.com: https://www.tutor.com/
- Preply: https://preply.com/
2) Data entry
Data entry workers take information from data processing systems and document them within a database. For many data entry jobs, the bar for entry is quite low, with many employers only requiring basic computer use. This is a great choice for those interested in online work and are not sure where to start.
Where to begin:
- Freelancer: https://www.freelancer.com/
- Upwork: https://www.upwork.com/
3) Copywriter
From writing sales copy to local guides, there are many different ways you can earn money writing online. If you have a passion for words and want to work on your writing skills, this is a great money making idea. You can even earn money from advertising revenue should you decide to start a blog on your own website.
Where to start:
- Freelancer: https://www.freelancer.com/
- Upwork: https://www.upwork.com/
4) Online course
Do you have a passion that you want to share with the world via an online course? From sewing to local crafts to music, the possibilities for course content are endless.
Creating an online course is somewhat similar to becoming a tutor, however the majority of the work is completed once you have compiled and made the course materials. Creating an online course is a great way to earn cash through passive income, meaning that once you create the content, you no longer need to work on it and can let it generate revenue.
Popular websites for courses:
- Skillshare: https://www.skillshare.com/
- Udemy: https://www.udemy.com/
5) Online surveys
Filling in online surveys can be a way to make quick cash online and is available to everyone with an internet connection. While this is by no means the most profitable way of making money online, many people who complete surveys regularly make approximately $100-200 per month.
Top survey sites to try:
- Swagbucks: https://www.swagbucks.com/
- Survey Junkie: http://www.surveyjunkie.com/
- Opinion Outpost: https://www.opinionoutpost.com/
6) Sell online
Another way you can earn good money online is by running your own online store. There are two primary options available here, either creating and distributing items created by yourself, or by acting as a sales middleman between the seller and consumer.
The items you sell can also be digital – digital products do not require any shipping involved, providing an instant sale. Examples of digital products include graphic design templates, mobile apps, and music.
Websites like https://www.etsy.com/ are great for those looking to make their own assets and sell them worldwide.
7) Photography
If you have a knack for taking stunning photographs, you can be making money selling these as stock photos to stock websites. These websites are always looking for fresh content, so if you take photos of areas local to you, chances are you’ll be taking something unique.
Popular websites for stock photos:
- Shutterstock: https://www.shutterstock.com/
- iStock: https://www.istockphoto.com/
8) Create viral videos
It doesn’t matter how old you are, if you come up with a creative idea and have a knack for using social media, you can create content and upload it online. It takes only a few minutes to set up a social media account and if your content is popular enough you can earn extra money through advertisements.
Millions upon millions of people are watching videos online. Make your mark in your spare time by developing your online presence with viral content. With many hits, you’ll be able to develop your personal brand and make more money by partnering with websites offering sponsored advertisements.
Common platforms for social media:
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/
9) Translation
If you speak more than one language, your skills are in need. Businesses across the world are looking for competent language speakers to translate their materials. You already have all of the skills required – earn cash online by turning your talent into a viable business model.
Websites to find translation work:
- Upwork: https://www.upwork.com/
- Freelancer: https://www.freelancer.com/
- Fiverr: https://www.fiverr.com/
10) Affiliate marketing
If you have expertise in a subject, you can create a website and use affiliate links to make money. These affiliate links are links to websites that sell products, such as Amazon. For example, if you enjoy reading books, you can create a blog that links to book sales pages to earn a commission.
Popular affiliate websites:
- Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/
- eBay Partner Network: https://partnernetwork.ebay.com/
FAQs
Take a look at some of the most popular questions about making money online – spot the making money online FAQ that appeals to you.
- How can I make $100 a day online?
- How do I make quick money?
- What does remote work mean?
- Is remote work the same as work from home?
