In 2021, many people are looking for ways to make extra cash, and teens are no different. With the rise of freelance work and the pandemic, many teens have found themselves without a regular job. Those who have a phone and an Internet connection can perform a variety of tasks for companies and individuals, either online or via mobile phone. As a result, many teens are discovering the beauty of affiliate marketing, which makes money online without any previous experience.
The Rising Affiliate Marketing Industry
If you’re unfamiliar, affiliate marketing is a type of marketing in which a business rewards providers for bringing in potential customers, usually through paid promotions. Simply put, affiliates earn commissions from vendors when they bring in new customers who make a purchase after being contacted by the vendor. The transactions take place online with credit card information being stored securely, so it’s a great way for teens to make money online without the risks associated with traditional banking.
The industry has changed a lot in the last couple of years, and while traditional affiliate marketing centered around simply selling other people’s products, platforms like BlueBird, ShareASale, and OneOpinion enable marketers to connect with potential customers through content creation and curation. As a result, teens have many opportunities to make money online without any previous experience, especially if they have a talent in sports, music, fashion, or gaming. If you’re looking for ways to make money in 2021, consider exploring the lucrative world of affiliate marketing.
Top Earning Teens In 2021
It’s not only the millennials who are relying on their smartphones and the Internet to make money. Thanks to the increased use of smartphones and the rise of TikTok, many teens are making money online. In fact, according to a report from Teenage Research, 55% of teens between the ages of 13 and 17 are engaged in some type of digital marketing, whether it’s SEO, content creation, or social media marketing. This is a 15% increase from 2020, when 49% of teens were engaged in some type of digital marketing.
The top earning teens in 2021 are those who found a way to blend their digital marketing expertise with their sporty and creative personalities. For example, Denver Broncos wide receiver Tim Patrick saw his earning significantly rise in 2021 thanks to his affiliation with Rakuten, a digital marketing agency. Through digital marketing, vendors pay businesses to promote their products and services, typically through display ads and affiliate marketing. So, with Patrick’s help, brands like Nike, Under Armour, and other sports apparel companies can reach huge audiences and hopefully generate some interest in their products. With over 20 years of experience in digital marketing and sports marketing, Patrick is definitely the go-to person for the industry. With his busy schedule as a football player, broadcaster, and entrepreneur, it’s no wonder why Patrick found a way to blend his talents in this area.
The Opportunity For Teens
With the rise of the sharing economy, more and more businesses are providing opportunities for teens to make some extra cash. Airbnb, the world’s largest hospitality company, launched a teen travel division. Along with VRBO, the company now offers accommodation for travelers of all ages, including children. Similarly, Lyft launched a Driving Opportunities program to connect passengers with professional drivers who are looking for additional income. Last but not least, DoorDash, the on-demand food delivery service, launched a teen express delivery driver program in partnership with United Parcel Service. If you’re looking for ways to make money in the near future, consider exploring these platforms.
The Downsides
While there are many upsides to earning money online as a teen, there are also a few downsides. First, many teens are prone to spending money on instant noodles, makeup products, and other items because they don’t have the experience of paying for necessities like food and shelter. One of the best things about becoming an entrepreneur is that you learn to be resourceful and responsible because you have to handle your own finances. Setting up a separate bank account for your online earnings is a good idea, especially if you’re planning to sell your own products online. Second, since you’re a digital marketing agent, you’ll have to deal with the constant hustle and bustle of the digital world. Though many teens enjoy the thrill of being their own boss and having the flexibility of their schedules, this can also be a stressful job. Third, as a content creator, you’ll have to generate content on a regular basis, whether it’s writing, videoing, or art directing. If you don’t have a talent in these areas, then be prepared to learn or get help from someone who does.
Despite these downsides, many teens are finding success in the online world. Just remember to be patient and create value where you can. If you can grow your audience and establish yourself as an expert in your field, then you can start charging businesses for the services you provide, so be sure to find your strengths and strengths of others.