The internet is abundant with opportunities to make some money on the side. From simply having to download an app and let it run in the background of your phone to helping businesses grow through Google Maps—there are options for those favoring passive and active ways of earning extra.
In this article, we will outline three trending gigs, from the easiest to the most challenging one: bandwidth sharing, paid survey participation, and Google Maps SEO optimization. Let’s delve into the specifics of each gig to help you decide which might be the best fit for your goals and lifestyle.
Bandwidth Sharing
Starting with the most passive form of income on our list, bandwidth sharing involves allowing a company to use a small portion of your internet bandwidth in exchange for compensation. This setup is ideal for those who want to earn money without any additional effort beyond the initial setup.
The earnings aren’t substantial but can accumulate over time, making it a simple way to make money by just keeping your devices connected to the internet.
There are only a few steps to follow in order to begin sharing your bandwidth:
- Research and compare different platforms to find a reputable provider.
- Sign up on the platform’s website to create an account.
- Download and install the platform’s internet sharing app on your device.
- Configure the app settings, such as bandwidth limits and sharing hours.
- Keep your device connected to the internet to start earning.
- Withdraw your earnings through the platform’s payment methods once you reach a desired threshold.
Paid Survey Participation
Moving to a more active income stream, participating in paid surveys involves expressing your opinions on various products or services. Platforms like Survey Junkie, Swagbucks, and Toluna connect users with companies seeking feedback. The time commitment for this hustle can vary, with some surveys taking just a few minutes and others much longer.
Survey earnings can range from a few cents to several dollars per survey, depending on the length and complexity of the questions. Although not a replacement for a full-time income, paid surveys can provide a decent supplement for those willing to invest the time.
To get started with paid surveys:
- Explore different survey sites to find ones that offer surveys in your demographic.
- Register for an account and complete any necessary profile information.
- Start taking surveys available to you, remembering that qualifications can vary.
- Accumulate earnings and cash out according to the platform’s policies, typically via PayPal or gift cards.
The two most frequently associated with participation in paid surveys are a) how safe they are and b) what are the most optimal ways to maximize earnings. The answers are just as straightforward:
- Many paid survey sites are legitimate and do pay out, but it’s essential to research and read reviews before signing up. Look for platforms with positive feedback from users and clear payout policies.
- Sign up for multiple survey platforms to increase the number of surveys you’re eligible for. Also, complete your profile information accurately to improve your chances of qualifying for surveys.
Google Maps Marketing
For those skilled in digital marketing and SEO, Google Maps marketing presents a more complex but substantially more lucrative opportunity. In essence, this freelance job involves helping businesses improve their visibility on Google Maps. An up-to-date business profile, relevant photos, and present contact details can significantly impact their customer traffic and overall success.
This is a job that you can pursue through various avenues. One popular approach is to look for opportunities on freelance platforms like Fiverr, where businesses seek experts for their Google Maps SEO needs. Alternatively, you could take a more proactive and direct route by doing your own research and analyzing business profiles through Google Maps.
The gig revolves around optimizing a business’s Google My Business profile, managing reviews, and ensuring accurate and keyword-rich business descriptions. The goal is to improve the business’s ranking in local search results, making it more visible to potential customers.
For a point of reference, here are some of the primary responsibilities of a regular Google Map SEO optimizer:
- Optimizing Google My Business Listings: Ensure all business information on the Google My Business (GMB) profile is accurate and updated, including name, address, phone number, and hours.
- Keyword Optimization: Use relevant keywords in the GMB profile description and posts to improve search visibility.
- Managing Reviews: Actively respond to customer reviews, address negative feedback, and encourage positive reviews to boost reputation and SEO.
- Photo and Video Uploads: Regularly update the GMB profile with high-quality visuals to engage potential customers and enhance listing appeal.
- Monitoring and Strategy Adjustment: Continuously monitor performance, analyze customer behavior, and tweak strategies for ongoing optimization.
In case this particular gig reflects your interests, we recommend checking out a comprehensive guide on Google Map marketing.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the digital landscape offers a diverse range of side hustles, from effortless bandwidth sharing to more engaged activities like paid surveys and the specialized skill of Google Maps SEO optimization.
Whether you’re looking to earn a passive income with minimal effort or engage more actively in tasks that require specific skills, these trending gigs provide accessible ways to supplement your income, leveraging the vast potential of the internet to turn your spare time into a productive, profit-generating endeavor.