It appears that AOL is struggling despite previously flooding the market with free-online-minutes CDs. The Internet behemoth recently revealed plans to lay off numerous employees, reducing their staff size to less than 5,000. Consequently, unemployment rates are set to spike.
In an effort to drive new income, many are turning to chores like housecleaning and snow shoveling. However, given the increasing competition in such fields, unique, creative solutions are essential. Consider sharing these eight alternative methods for generating income with your audience on your blog or website.
1. Online Sales
Consider opting for an online “yard sale” on platforms like Craigslist or eBay. These sites facilitate the resale of a vast array of items, including furniture, art, and crafts. For novice users, both sites offer comprehensive guides; check out the CraigsList FAQ or the eBay Sellers Guide.
2. Five-dollar Gigs
Fiverr.com provides an excellent avenue to monetize niche abilities, like writing a bespoke birthday song. Users list tasks they’re willing to perform for $5, and potential clients reach out directly. The site doesn’t even charge $5 for this.
3. Room Rentals
Co-habitating can help reduce living costs significantly. If you decide on this, make sure to file an official lease agreement that specifies rent, deposit, and duration of stay.
4. Monetize Your Website or Blog
If you’re an avid blogger or manage a website, consider monetizing your efforts through platforms like Google AdSense or MoolaDays. Once you implement their tools, there’s little maintenance required.
5. Trade in Your Tresses
Selling long, quality hair could earn you a considerable amount. WiseBread provides a guide on hair sales, including potential sites for listing and marketing.
6. Gift Card Reselling
Most American households have around $300 in unused gift cards. Services like GiftCardGranny.com facilitate gift card resales, where you can trade in the ones you don’t use for cash.
7. Blood Donations
Certain plasma banks offer up to $35 per pint of blood donated. In the U.S., people can donate twice within seven days, with a two-day gap. Check out DonatingPlasma.org for local donation centers.
8. Volunteer for Clinical Trials
If you live near a medical school, try participating in clinical research studies. The National Institutes of Health lists numerous studies requiring volunteers.
In-house consumer savings expert, Andrea Woroch, is available for a wide range of interviews to share these unique money-making ideas. Previously featured in media outlets such as ABC News NOW, NBC’s Today Show, FOX & Friends, and MSNBC, Andrea also provided expert advice to publications like SmartMoney and Kiplinger Personal Finance.
