Search for more money

I am without a doubt, a failure at making money. now I'm not going to go and blame all of this on my parents, but for the longest time, I didn't have that push for a part-time job. The very infrequent babysitting jobs seemed enough for me as I've never really been too materialistic and was very good at saving whatever money I did have.

At a certain point in high school, probably around the time that they started drilling college information into us, I realized I need a job. Now I was about 17 at this point and had very little experience and one reference. I soon learned after applying to almost all places in my area that that just doesn't cut it. Requirements for 1-2 year experience and five references appeared for the most entry level jobs available. 

That's why I had only my babysitting job until this summer, after my first year of college. I stumbled upon a site called nanny services, and given my only experience in childcare and my current education in the field, placed an add. Not 12 hours later did I set up an interview. 

While I'm grateful for the job, and the pay is good, sad;y my hours are not and now I scour the internet for anything online that could send some money my way and have decided to share my opinions on them. Keep in mind that I'm writing this post as I'm searching and that I'm mainly looking for ways to earn money from home.

1. Survey Sites

Trash. Absolutely pointless. I mean sure if you're a 38-year-old mother of two who does most of her family's shopping, you can probably make some money, but otherwise, you'll see a survey maybe once a week in which you'll spend 20-30 minutes answering dull questions and end up making about 11 cents. Or at least that's my own experience with it. Maybe depending on your age and lifestyle you'll have better luck but it just isn't worth it for me.

2. Teach ESL From Home

This particular method also seems like it may not be the best for me, mainly due to requirements and qualifications. I found this post which shares a few sites and companies that hire ESL teachers from home and I'll share a few.

Cambly- I've linked to another page that talks more about Cambly but basically, it's webcam tutoring, no experience needed, and learning through just social talking.

iTalki- I've linked to another page that talks more aboutiTalki. To qualify as a community teacher you just have to be a native in whatever language you are teaching. but if you have a degree you can become a professional teacher. payment works through a credit system so you can charge what you want.

SameSpeak- SameSpeak hires native English speakers as young as 16. The registration process is a bit tricky as they have a surplus of coaches but when you complete the training you can make $10 per 20-minute session.

3. User Testing

User testing is when you review an app or website for money. There are many sites that do this but the one that looks most appealing to me is usertesting.com. Their site is easy to follow and all you need is a microphone or webcam along with your computer. If I do decide to try this method I'll update this post to share my experience.

4. Freelance Writing

If you love to write like me than you could possibly make some money as a freelance writer. You can do this by writing articles for a newspaper. This article outlines places that will pay for guest writers. Another type of way you could freelance write is by selling your book on Amazon. You can set your own price and share your work. Go to this site to get started. This is definitely good ways for me to get more money but seeing as I'm more interested in novel writing I may definitely sell one online.

5. Selling Stock Photos.

This one may require some work outside your home but basically, if you have a good camera and like taking pictures, you can sell the to stock websites. Keep in mind you don't need to take photos of amazing scenes, just pictures of anything will sell. This article explains more about getting started. While this is a great idea for making money, I'm not sure its the right fit for me.

6. Opportunities Not From Home

While the thought of getting money while sitting at your computer is great, there are lots of ways people of any age can get more money. First, you can become a mystery shopper. You can make money just doing your regular shopping. This site can help you get started. You can also do child or pet care. Child care might require some experience and a police check but you can do so much with it. There's also house cleaning and lawn care where you can help busy or unable people keep their homes cared for.

So whether you're looking for your first job or something to supplement your income, there are tons of opportunities out there. for even more that I couldn't even begin to touch on, check out this page.