When times get tough, having some extra income can make a huge difference. Whether you’re looking for a side hustle or need quick cash, we’ve got actionable ideas, realistic income targets, and essential tools to help you succeed. Here’s how to get started!
1. Freelance Your Skills on Popular Platforms
Freelancing is one of the best ways to make money online, especially if you have skills like writing, graphic design, social media management, or web development. There are many tools and platforms that connect you with clients who need freelance support.
Tools to Use:
• Upwork – Connects freelancers with global clients for short- and long-term projects.
• Fiverr – Great for listing specific services you can offer starting at $5.
• LinkedIn – Network and showcase your skills to attract freelance gigs directly from companies.
• Canva – Essential for creating a portfolio and designing visuals if you’re freelancing in design or social media.
• Toggl – Time tracking tool to manage multiple projects and keep track of billable hours.
Income Target: $500 to $2,000+ per month, depending on skill and time invested.
Tips: Start with smaller projects to build your ratings, then increase rates as you gain experience and positive feedback.
2. Earn Passive Income by Creating Online Courses or Coaching
Do you have expertise in an area like marketing, fitness, personal finance, or project management? Platforms make it easy to create and sell courses or offer one-on-one coaching sessions for added income.
Tools to Use:
• Udemy – A leading platform for creating and selling online courses.
• Teachable – User-friendly for building branded online courses and collecting payments.
• Calendly – Schedule coaching sessions easily, especially for one-on-one appointments.
• Zoom – Host virtual coaching sessions or group courses in an interactive format.
• Mailchimp – Use email marketing to promote your course or coaching services.
Income Target: $200 to $1,500 per course launch or $50 to $200 per coaching session.
Tips: Conduct market research to identify high-demand topics, and promote your courses through social media and email marketing.
3. Sell Unused Items or Thrift to Resell Online
Selling items you no longer need can provide fast cash, and thrifting to resell online can turn into a profitable venture. With the right apps, you can list and sell gently-used clothing, accessories, and more.
Tools to Use:
• eBay – A trusted platform for selling a variety of items, from electronics to collectibles.
• Poshmark – Great for selling gently used or new clothing and accessories.
• Depop – Popular among younger audiences for selling vintage and unique items.
• Facebook Marketplace – Sell items locally to avoid shipping costs and connect with local buyers.
• Shpock – A local marketplace app focused on fashion, tech, and home items.
Income Target: $100 to $500 per month for casual selling, higher if you thrift and resell consistently.
Tips: Research trending items and set competitive prices to attract buyers.
4. Monetize Your Social Media Presence for Consistent Income
If you’re active on social media, you can earn by building a following and monetizing through affiliate marketing, brand sponsorships, or ad revenue. Platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram provide multiple income options.
Tools to Use:
• YouTube – Start earning ad revenue once you reach monetization requirements.
• TikTok Creator Fund – Allows eligible creators to earn money based on video views.
• Instagram Affiliate Marketing – Promote products and earn commissions from sales.
• Linktree – Add multiple links to your bio, perfect for promoting affiliate links.
• Canva – Design high-quality, engaging posts and videos to grow your following.
Income Target: $100 to $1,000+ per month, depending on following and engagement.
Tips: Engage your audience with valuable content and reach out to brands for partnerships as your following grows.
5. Complete Micro-Jobs and Gigs for Quick Extra Money
Micro-jobs are a flexible way to earn without a long-term commitment. Using gig apps, you can find tasks like assembling furniture, running errands, or completing online surveys.
Tools to Use:
• TaskRabbit – Offers a variety of gigs including handyman tasks, cleaning, and errands.
• Gigwalk – Allows you to complete short jobs such as checking product displays or taking surveys.
• Amazon Mechanical Turk – For online micro-tasks like data entry or surveys.
• Swagbucks – Earn cash or gift cards by completing surveys, watching videos, and shopping online.
• Field Agent – Complete local tasks such as in-store product checks for cash.
Income Target: $50 to $300 per month based on availability and task type.
Tips: Use multiple apps to increase job opportunities, and choose high-paying gigs to maximize earnings.
6. Start Consulting in Your Field of Expertise
If you’re knowledgeable in a field, consulting can be one of the most profitable ways to make money. This is especially valuable in fields like career coaching, business strategy, personal finance, and leadership development.
Tools to Use:
• LinkedIn – Showcase your expertise, connect with potential clients, and post content.
• Calendly – Manage appointments and schedule consultations seamlessly.
• Zoom – Conduct virtual consulting sessions in a professional setting.
• PayPal – Easily send invoices and receive payments.
• Notion – Organize client information, create templates, and track consulting sessions.
Income Target: $500 to $3,000+ per month, depending on expertise and client base.
Tips: Offer free initial consultations to attract clients, and use testimonials to build credibility.
Final Thoughts on Earning Extra Money in 2024
By using the right tools, you can reach your financial goals even during challenging times. At OSPP Career Coaching, we’re dedicated to helping you make the most of your talents, time, and energy. Interested in setting achievable goals or exploring new career paths? Reach out today, and let’s make 2024 a year of growth and financial success!