The No. 1 rule of personal finance is to spend less than you earn. So if you want to get ahead financially, it’s important to save money where you can.
But if you really want to improve your finances, there’s the flip side of that equation to consider as well – making more money. With a side hustle or money-making hobby, you can give yourself a raise whether your employer wants to or not.
Here’s the truth no one wants to talk about: Learning how to make money can improve your finances in ways that saving money simply cannot. There are only so many ways to save, but there are an unlimited number of ways to earn extra money you can use to pay down debt, save for the future, or actually have some fun.
If you’re eager to boost your earnings but don’t know where to start, this list should provide you with a few ideas that could work.
Offer your skills and services as a freelancer. Platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, and Fiverr connect freelancers with clients seeking various services such as writing, graphic design, web development, virtual assistance, and more.
Before diving into freelancing, determine the services you want to offer based on your skills and expertise. Identify your target market and understand the specific needs and pain points of potential clients in that market.
Explore freelancing platforms such as Upwork, Freelancer, Fiverr, or specialized platforms in your niche. Research each platform's features, user reviews, fees, and the types of services they offer. Select one or multiple platforms that align with your skills and target market.
Start by researching and selecting reputable platforms that offer online surveys, microtasks, or crowdsourcing opportunities. Some popular platforms include Amazon Mechanical Turk, Clickworker, Swagbucks, Survey Junkie, and InboxDollars. Consider factors such as payment methods, user reviews, and the availability of tasks in your region.
Sign up for an account on the selected platforms. Provide accurate information and complete your profile to increase your chances of qualifying for more surveys and tasks. Some platforms may ask for demographic information to match you with relevant opportunities.
Participate in online surveys, complete microtasks, or join crowdsourcing platforms like Amazon Mechanical Turk or Clickworker. While the pay may be relatively low, these tasks can be done in your spare time and can generate some extra income.
Familiarize yourself with the requirements and qualifications for each task. Read the task descriptions carefully to understand what is expected of you, such as completion time, specific instructions, or any necessary qualifications. This will help you choose tasks that align with your skills and interests.
Participate in online surveys by providing your honest opinions and feedback. Surveys may cover a wide range of topics such as consumer preferences, market research, or product evaluations. Be consistent, thorough, and accurate in your responses. This helps survey platforms match you with more relevant surveys in the future.