by Buddy Holland

Today we’re proud to introduce our first guest column, which is full of ideas for solo online businesses. Now, Affiliate swim still believes that affiliate marketing is one of the best of these. But in case you disagree, see what this column says about the most common alternatives.

Photo Credit: Vanessa Garcia via Pexels

The cost of living is on the rise. According to a recent study conducted by Move.org, it’s increased as much as 13% in some areas. Whether you’re single or supporting a family, it can be hard to make ends meet. Finding a side hustle can alleviate some of the stress, though — and the internet is the ultimate side hustle hub. If you’re unemployed or trying to boost your earnings, Affiliate Swim invites you to consider one of these online gigs.

1. Selling Your Handiwork

Many people possess unique creative skills. If you paint or crochet as a hobby, for example, you might find that your creations could be a source of income. You can market and sell your handiwork on an online platform. If you plan to do this, be sure to take high-quality photos of the products and write enticing descriptions, too.

As you look into ecommerce options, you’ll want something that allows you to customize your buyers’ experience to keep them coming back. Personalized shopping experiences often result in not only sales but brand loyalty. Look for a commerce solution that is scalable and allows you to manage product recommendations and shopper analysis.

2. Starting a Business

The web is also a great place to launch your next business endeavor. Not sure what you want to do? There are tons of great options out there! You can teach online classes in something you love doing, start a podcasting business, or become a freelance writer. You could even get started in real estate or the related field of title and settlement. If you’re interested in the housing market, you should consider these options.

If you want to enter the eCommerce market or build a business around your freelancing career, starting an LLC may be the best option. LLCs are designed to help minimize your tax liability and maximize your business’s flexibility. Before you start an LLC, though, you should ensure that you comply with any applicable business laws in your state. You can do-it-yourself by researching the process in your home state: simply go to the web portal for your Secretary of State. Otherwise, you can get in touch with a formation service for more help.

3. Tutoring Students

Online tutoring is another great side hustle that could be especially lucrative. If you’re knowledgeable in a subject like math or science, you can tutor students who need some extra help. You may also be able to make money tutoring simply by speaking English. International students often seek native English speakers to converse with in order to sharpen their skills. You can offer this service online and make money while doing so.

4. Completing Surveys

Some companies are willing to pay for consumers’ opinions. Indeed, online surveys may offer the opportunity to earn extra cash, but you have to be careful not to fall prey to scams. If you see a survey that offers a too-good-to-be-true payout, CIBC warns that it could be fraudulent — and this is true of all online work. Look for survey sites that are well-reviewed and reputable.

5. Posting on YouTube

Before you start your search for online work, you should assess your skills and identify any abilities that may be marketable. You might find that you’re skilled at sales or you have a knack for crafting engaging content. If the latter is true, starting a YouTube channel could be a potential source of income. Create useful content and generate income from sponsorships and advertisements.

6. Writing Content

The internet relies on content to keep going, and much of that content is in a written format. If you’re skilled at writing, you can look for online copywriting opportunities in order to make extra money. Look for these and other online jobs by using the keyword “remote” in your job searches. You should also know that if you work as a freelancer — including a freelance copywriter — you’ll likely have to set aside money for taxes.

While you are posting content online, consider getting into affiliate marketing. In other words, companies pay you a commission to pre-sell their goods or services on your site. If this option seems interesting, consider becoming a member of Affiliate Swim to learn how to take advantage of this lucrative market.

Earn Extra Money With Remote Work

Supplementing your income can minimize financial stress and offset the rising cost of living. With the wealth of opportunities that can be found online, there’s never been a better time to launch your side hustle from the web. But be careful about the legal aspect of freelancing – especially doing business with clients in other countries – and strongly consider using a commerce solution that allows you to grow. You want your side hustle to be fun and lucrative, so take the steps to make it official before diving in.

Affiliate Swim is a teaching site for online entrepreneurs who want to learn how to launch affiliate campaigns.

You can study our free affiliate marketing course in the Coaching section. For additional support, you can join our Facebook group for free coaching from experts and other students, as our time allows.

Once you launch your campaign, check out the store, which has many different nice-to-have items for most online entrepreneurs.