The modern economy is constantly changing, and after such a significant event for humanity as the COVID-19 pandemic, that aspect of life underwent a 180-degree turn, allowing us to realize that to make money and economic gains is possible without investing as in a normal business, and not only can it be achieved in a traditional way, such as paid or even in-person jobs. The borders have blurred.
Whether you are looking to meet a financial goal, save for a dream trip, or simply have an economic cushion, there are options for you. In this article, we will provide you with practical and creative ideas to make money without the need of an investment. From leveraging your existing skills and resources to exploring online opportunities, you will discover effective ways to make money without risking your capital.
If you are ready to discover how to boost your personal finances, keep reading to the end and get ready to take note of these valuable ideas!
Side jobs and activities to make money
One of the easiest ways to make money is to have a side job or do some simple activities online to earn extra income. Here we will show you some of the best options that can help you make money faster.
Luxury personal shopper
A luxury personal shopper specializes in exclusive purchases at high-end boutiques, both in their city and nearby areas. Their workdays are usually short and sporadic, approximately 2 to 3 hours a week, during which they are responsible for buying the entrusted item.
The payment they receive is significant, given the nature and economic value of the products they work with. This activity is not only entertaining but also has the advantage of not requiring any investment, making it an attractive option for those looking to make money without investing.
User-generated content creation
User-Generated Content (UGC) creation involves producing material that is generated directly by users or customers, rather than being created by the brand or company. This type of content can include reviews, testimonials, photos, videos, social media posts, and any other form of expression that users voluntarily share, reflecting their experience or interaction with a product or service.
You can start by using products you already have at home, all you need is your phone and internet. Remember, consistency is key and is rewarded. Start by creating product review videos of items you already own, without spending any money. Post these videos on your social media, especially on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, where this practice is common and there are always available market niches.
By being consistent and continuously generating content on social media, brands will approach you. They will send you their products to create more audiovisual material, and they will start paying you for this content.
Translator
Being a translator involves converting written texts from one language to another while maintaining the accuracy, meaning, and style of the original. Translators can specialize in various fields such as literature, technical, scientific, legal, medical, among others.
This profession can be lucrative due to the growing demand for translation services in a globalized world, where companies and organizations need to communicate effectively in different languages. Furthermore, being a translator does not require investing money to start, as it can begin with linguistic skills and knowledge in specific areas that you already possess.
Over time, with experience and building a good reputation, translators can increase their rates and earn substantial income. The flexibility to work independently or freelance also allows adapting the workload to personal needs, making translation an attractive option for many professionals.
If you are proficient in languages other than your own, this profession can be very lucrative for you. It is not just about translating between English and Spanish, there is an increasing demand for translations into Italian, Catalan, and even Arabic.
Answer surveys online
To make money by taking online surveys, follow these steps:
- Research and choose reliable platforms: Look for reputable paid survey websites or apps. Some popular options include Swagbucks, Toluna, Survey Junkie, and MyPoints. Make sure to read reviews and verify the legitimacy of each platform.
- Sign up and create a profile: Complete the registration on the sites you choose, providing accurate information about yourself. Some platforms may require you to complete a detailed profile to match you with relevant surveys.
- Complete surveys: Once registered, you will receive invitations to participate in surveys. Make sure to answer them honestly and thoroughly. The length and complexity of each survey may vary.
- Accumulate points or money: For each survey you complete, you will accumulate points or money directly, depending on the platform’s reward system.
- Redeem your rewards: Once you reach the minimum withdrawal threshold, you can redeem your points for cash, gift cards, or products.
The amount of money you can earn by taking surveys varies depending on the platform, survey length, and your demographic profile. Additionally, it is important to be patient, as it may take time to accumulate enough rewards for a significant withdrawal.
Online gaming
- Streaming on platforms like Twitch or YouTube: If you have charisma and skills in popular games, you can stream your gaming sessions live. By gaining followers, you can monetize your channel through subscriptions, donations, advertising, and sponsorships.
- Beta game testing: Some companies pay players to test beta versions of their games and provide feedback. This may include finding bugs, evaluating gameplay, and suggesting improvements.
- Gaming apps with ads: Some gaming apps allow you to earn money by watching ads or completing sponsored offers within the game.
Remember, while it is possible to make money by playing games online, the amount you can earn can vary and, in many cases, may not be enough to replace a full-time income. Always research the legitimacy of any platform or game before investing your time and effort.
Sell things you don’t use to make money
If you don’t have time to indulge on a side job or extra activity, you can always sell things you don’t use to make money. This is an easy and effortless way to increase your profits and get rid of things you no longer need.
Sell second-hand clothing and accessories
Look through your wardrobe and select those clothes, shoes, and accessories that you no longer use. You can sell them on specialized platforms for second-hand fashion, local markets, or through social networks.
If you own luxury accessories that you have kept in good condition with time, you will be able to make more money, as with the passage of time these items can double or triple their value. Make sure to always take care of your luxurious garments, so they can represent a good way to make money in the future.
Sell electronics and gadgets
Review your old electronic devices, such as mobile phones, tablets, cameras, or video games that you no longer use. There are online platforms dedicated to buying and selling second-hand electronics where you can get a good price for your items.
Selling electronics you don’t use can help you stay in trend with the newest devices and get more space in your home to welcome new products, while you also make money.
Sell books and vinyl records
If you have shelves full of books or vinyl records that you no longer need, you can sell them to second-hand stores, at book fairs, or through websites specialized in the sale of used items. The popularity of vinyl records has resurged in recent years for several reasons:
- Sound quality: Many music enthusiasts consider the analog sound of vinyl records to be superior to digital formats, offering a warmer and more authentic listening experience.
- Tangible experience: The physical interaction with a vinyl record, from placing it on the turntable to handling the needle, provides a more tangible and ritualistic experience than digital playback.
- Art and design: Vinyl record covers are often appreciated as works of art, with more detailed and attractive designs than digital covers. Collectors value the visual aesthetics as much as the music.
- Collecting: Vinyl records have become collectible items, with limited editions, colored pressings, and special reissues that attract enthusiasts.
Sell furniture, décor, and collectibles
Furniture and home décor items that no longer fit your style can be sold on second-hand selling platforms or in social media groups dedicated to home decoration. The same applies if you have collectibles, antiques, or vintage items; you can sell them to collectors or in specialized stores. Online markets and auctions are also excellent places to find buyers interested in these types of items.
We hope this article has inspired you to make money by doing these simple activities, using the tools and possibilities you have at hand.
Would you like to know more tricks and hacks to make money?
At Extra Incomes, our mission is to recommend the best ways for you to make money legally, creatively, and using the resources available to you, such as your skills, preferences, and even your belongings that are lightly or unused.
Browse our blogs, where we have much more detailed information about jobs and tasks you can do to improve your financial status and make money easier.