Earning money while lounging in your pajamas? Absolutely! Whether you want to monetize a hobby or find a side hustle, the Internet offers countless opportunities. You just need to know where to begin and what matches your skill set.
In this article, we’ll explore 26 authentic ways to make money online. For each idea, we’ll share insights on the skills required to get started. Let’s find the perfect online venture for you.
1. Dropship Products
Dropshipping allows you to sell products without the hassle of storing, packing, or shipping them yourself. You list products on your online store, and when someone makes a purchase, a supplier ships it directly to the customer. You can streamline this process using a dropshipping platform like Spocket, which connects you to a variety of suppliers offering a wide range of products.
To succeed in dropshipping, prioritize quality above all. Partner with reputable suppliers known for their reliable service and high-quality products. This approach helps build trust with your customers and encourages repeat business.
2. Become an Affiliate Marketer
Affiliate marketing involves earning money by promoting products from other companies. You receive a unique link, share it online, and earn a commission when someone makes a purchase through that link. Many companies offer independent affiliate programs, providing you with numerous options.
Begin by choosing a niche you’re passionate about, then find companies that align with it and sign up for their programs. Share your affiliate links on your blog, social media, or other platforms where you engage with your audience. The key is to maintain authenticity and transparency with your audience to build trust.
3. Sell Plants Online
If you have a green thumb, selling plants online can be a profitable venture. Focus on specialty or rare plants that are in demand but not commonly found in local nurseries. You can also expand your offerings by selling plant care products, DIY gardening kits, or providing virtual gardening consultations.
To stand out in the plant niche, create detailed care guides for each plant you sell and offer personalized advice through your website or social media channels. By establishing yourself as a knowledgeable source, you attract and retain a dedicated customer base who trusts your expertise.
4. Work as a Netflix Tagger
Want to get paid for watching Netflix? As a Netflix tagger, your job involves watching movies and shows, and then categorizing them based on genre, rating, and other tags. In essence, you get paid to enjoy your favorite content.
To get started, visit the official Netflix careers website and apply for a tagging position. Be prepared to take a test where you’ll tag shows and movies to demonstrate your skills. A strong understanding of different genres and keen attention to detail are crucial for success in this role.
5. Do Amazon FBA
If you’re interested in selling on Amazon, consider their Fulfillment-by-Amazon (FBA) program. With Amazon FBA, you send your products to Amazon’s warehouses. Amazon then stores them, ships orders to your customers with 2-day Prime shipping, and handles all customer support.
Is it that simple? Yes, it is. With the right product and some dedicated effort, you can earn a significant income, potentially reaching tens or even hundreds of thousands of dollars per year.
6. Become a Virtual Assistant
As more entrepreneurs start businesses, the demand for virtual assistants is increasing. A virtual assistant works independently, offering services like writing, bookkeeping, social media management, and customer support—all from a remote location.
Websites like Virtual Assistant Jobs, Indeed, and Upwork list these opportunities. Alternatively, you can directly contact small businesses and startups to pitch your services.
7. Work as an Influencer
Think influencer marketing is just for big names? Think again. Brands today love partnering with people who have close-knit relationships with their audience—hello, micro-influencers! You can start building your personal brand and tap into this opportunity.
Focus on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, where you can showcase your unique style and connect directly with followers. As you grow your presence, brands will take notice, opening up more opportunities for partnerships and sponsorships.
8. Become a Product Designer
If you’re a creative type with a passion for improving products, a career in product design could be perfect for you. To maximize your earnings as a UX/UI designer, consider freelancing or taking on contract work. This approach allows you to choose projects that align with your skills and negotiate your rates directly with clients.
Enhance your income by offering additional services. For example, if you’re hired for a design project, propose adding branding or user experience research. You could also diversify your portfolio by designing unique items, such as custom ugly sweaters, to tap into new markets.
9. Create Webinars
Webinars are online sessions where you can share your expertise or promote your products to an interested audience. Entrepreneurs, students, and professionals can all benefit from webinars. How do you make money with them? Simply showcase your skills or products, and explain to the audience why they need them.
10. Sell Print-On-Demand Items
Print on demand (POD) is an attractive online business model due to its low initial investment and ease of setup. You create designs for items like t-shirts, mugs, and stationery, and a POD service handles printing these designs on the products and shipping them directly to your customers.
Unlike dropshipping, POD allows you to create custom products, helping to build your brand’s identity. It focuses on specific items such as t-shirts, mugs, and tote bags that are ideal for printing, rather than offering a wide range of general merchandise.
11. Sell Unwanted Stuff
You probably have plenty of unwanted items lying around—everyone does. So why not turn them into cash? You can sell your items on platforms like eBay, Etsy, or even set up your own online store. Focus on high-demand items like furniture, toys, electronics, and handmade goods.
To capture people’s attention, take clear, well-lit photos of your items from different angles. Write detailed descriptions that highlight the features and condition of each product. Offering competitive pricing and prompt responses to inquiries can also help increase your chances of making sales.
12. Resell Art Supplies
If you have a good understanding of art, selling art supplies could be a lucrative opportunity. Purchase art supplies wholesale from platforms like AliExpress and resell them to customers. Focus on popular and trending products, such as Posca Pens, Index Finger Knives, and Paint Markers.
When pricing your items, consider the cost of goods, shipping, and your desired profit margin. Research the market to set competitive prices for similar products. Offering competitive prices can attract customers and help establish your brand in the art supply market.
13. Manage Social Media
Nearly every business is on social media, but not all have the time or expertise to manage it effectively. This is where a social media manager comes in.
You can specialize in one or two platforms and become an expert in them, or you can broaden your skills and become a full-stack social media specialist. Join sites like Upwork and Fiverr, and use job boards to pitch your services to businesses in need.
14. Create a YouTube Channel
Starting a YouTube channel is a great way to make money if you’re passionate about creating content. Many people make significant incomes through YouTube.
To get started, sign in to YouTube with your Google account, click on your profile picture, select “Your channel,” and then click “Create Channel” to set up your channel name and customize your profile. You can monetize your channel through YouTube advertising once you reach 1,000 subscribers and by collaborating with brands for sponsored content.
15. Sell Domain Names
If you often buy domain names but never use them, consider selling them for a profit. The domain-selling market is competitive, but owning a one-word .com domain or domains with high search volumes increases your chances of finding a buyer.
You can purchase custom domains through platforms like Shopify’s domain registration service. Once you acquire a domain, list it for sale on GoDaddy’s Domain Auction to attract potential buyers.
