A WORD FROM THE AUTHOR:
This week’s article is all about ways to bring extra money into your life. I’ve put together some helpful tips on ways to optimize raking in that extra cash from my own personal experiences.
Some big news - this article is starting the use of paid donations. If you’re interested in supporting the newsletter, check out the link below to buy me a coffee :)
My experience with trying to earn money on the side has been shady at best. I’ve entered every sweepstakes, participated in focus groups, and helped friends move at every corner. Sometimes I’d get lucky but most of the time, you’re left with spending hours working for $5. Here’s more of my experience with trying to earn side money:
Spun signs for a local business
Started a podcast
Charged electric scooters for Bird
Sold items on Facebook
Tested digital products for companies
Started a substack publication ;)
I’m no stranger to an opportunity to make money but I believe there should be a hard balance for exchanging your time with money in these side hustles. Here’s a list of what I’ve found to work and some extra tips to help.
1. Selling Your Belongings on Facebook Marketplace
This one right here is the tip that’s made me the most money over the years. I think it’s easy to forget how accessible selling items is at our fingertips now. No more garage sales and more money in your pocket!
The best thing about Facebook Marketplace is that you’re not bound to selling at garage sale prices, meaning you should sell items for a discount. You have all the time in the world to sell these items and you’re waiting for a potential buyer.
Okay, now here’s the real secret to mastering Marketplace: product descriptions and pricing.
You know how you’re asked to write a brief summary about the item you’re selling? Most people write “Good condition with mild scratches” or “still works.”
That’s not how you should be approaching the product description area at all. Instead, try to hype yourself up. This is the time for your product to shine!
Example:
I’m looking to sell the above guitar. First of all, this picture is great for selling! So clean and crisp. Having a professional product photography shoot can make or break your chances of selling.
Now that that’s out of the way, time for the product description. A big secret of mine is to find how retail stores describe the product. For this Fender Player Stratocaster, here’s how Guitar Center describes the item:
Features
Gloss-finish solid alder body
25.5"-scale bolt-on maple neck with 22-fret, 9.5"-radius maple fingerboard
Three Fender Player Series Stratocaster single-coil pickups, 5-way switch
2-point fulcrum tremolo bridge with vintage-style bent steel saddles, sealed, die-cast tuners
Based on the above description, wouldn’t you agree that this is a better way to sell an item more than writing “good condition?”
The takeaway here is to do your research!
Online Surveys Are Okay
I despise online surveys. I’ve used a multitude of different websites but Survey Junkie was the easiest experience for me. After linking PayPal, you’re able to cash out after receiving a minimum of a $10 balance.
The problem is that surveys can range anywhere from $.25 to $1. Even then, you aren’t qualified for every survey. This isn’t an efficient way to be spending your time.
After what seemed like hours, I would be mentally drained and pushing myself to fill out another survey for another company. I had no enjoyment in this process but wanted to cash out before quitting.
For what felt like putting in a week’s worth of work for $10, filling out online surveys wasn’t the way to go. There has to be a balance between your time and money.
I’d like to do you the honor and say to immediately switch to something else for making money.
Recently, I’ve been getting into online digital product testing for UserTesting.com. This is a viable option that I’ve found to be more sustainable. I’m capable of making $10 in 20 minutes. Doesn’t that sound like a better deal?
When I log into UserTesting, I’m greeted with several surveys that I’m available to choose from. From there, I grant the website access to my screen and microphone and record my thoughts aloud to better describe what’s going on as a user when going through different websites.
Like Survey Junkie, I’m not always capable for every survey but it’s a hit when I am!
Creating Content
I think the most enjoyable way to start making money is to begin focusing on creating content. The intention of Finessing Finance is to provide you with helpful ways to make money while giving me the ability to make money one day.
I’m thrilled to be writing these articles that could one day be used to monetize my lifestyle. One note with creating content is that you’re in it for the long haul. It’s difficult to begin monetizing your content immediately.
Sometimes it takes luck and sometimes it takes persistence. I encourage you to start making your own content without the intention of monetization but to encourage you to find your voice where needed.
These small projects can build up to something greater. You never know until you try.
Have a great week :)