For those of us who live in the United States, the phrase “money online” can evoke mental images of glamorous lifestyles and big bank accounts. But for those in other parts of the world, where most people don’t use credit cards and online banking is still considered expensive and fancy, this terminology can appear a bit strange.
Even for us in the U.S., where the concept of “paying to play” is slowly becoming common, the idea of making money online can still seem a bit utopian. After all, how can someone possibly make money online? Isn’t that a bit like asking how you can make money selling cakes?
The truth is there are many ways to make money online, some of which don’t necessarily involve selling anything. For example, if you’re tech-savvy and entrepreneurial, you can start up a technology business that enables other businesses to provide products and services to their customers more efficiently. Or, if you’ve got a specific skill – like copywriting, editing or design – you can use that skill to build a freelance writer, editor or designer business. Even something as simple as getting a degree in business administration and using your degree to start a business teaching others about business management can potentially lead you to a lucrative financial future.
Now, I’m not suggesting you rush out and do any of these things. Instead, I’d like to introduce you to a few ways to make money online that don’t require as much investment as you’d think, but can still offer opportunities for growth.
Start A Blog
Blogs, or web logs, are a fantastic way to make money online. All you need is a computer with a web cam and a free account with WordPress.com. You can then use the platform to build a reputable blog around any niche you choose (including money online in Kenya!).
Blogs don’t have to be just about your personal experiences. In fact, the more you can write around various topics, the better. But, for the sake of simplicity, let’s just say you’re starting a blog to help people with their personal finances. You can then use the blog to provide tips and advice on saving money, paying off debt, and finding the right financial products for your needs. You can also develop a community of people who are interested in personal finance or who just want to hear your advice on saving money.
Just remember that creating a blog isn’t as easy as it seems. You need to put in the time to learn the basics, build a substantial audience and then monetize the blog. Don’t expect to pull in huge earnings right away, but with a little bit of hustle, you can easily make enough to cover your expenses.
Start An Online Store
If you’re the creative type, you can start up an Etsy shop. Etsy is a global marketplace where people from all over the world can connect and collaborate with each other through their shared love of crafting. Since its inception in 2005, Etsy has grown to become one of the largest and most successful online marketplaces.
There are many ways to make money on Etsy. You can become an independent contractor, selling and shipping items for other businesses. You can also use your creative skills to design products, from jewelry to clothing to yard signs. And, of course, you can list and sell your own handmade products.
Starting an Etsy shop isn’t as difficult as it may seem. You just need a place to store your products, a means of getting the word out and then a way to collect payments.
Use Your Social Media
Having a social media account is now mandatory for anyone who wants to be seen in the digital world. As I’ve mentioned in a previous guide, TikTok is one of the most popular mobile apps globally, reaching over 500 million monthly active users. Within that audience, you can easily find someone who wants to invest in a business that provides a luxury product or service.
With TikTok, you don’t need to create a blog or an online store to generate revenue. All you need is a good meme, funny video or a well-executed story to engage your audience.
On TikTok, content creators can make money through a combination of several different methods. First, you can use the platform to follow and connect with people who have money to invest. Next, you can use your status to attract potential customers as well as influencers who can help you grow your account.
To become a successful content creator on TikTok, you need to have a sizable audience who trusts your insight, understands your humor and wants to hear your tips and advice. Once you have that, you can then integrate your account with other platforms like PayPal or Stripe to accept payments for your content or offer your services as a consultant or speaker for profit.
While TikTok may be the most popular app when it comes to making money online, the list of social media platforms where you can earn is much longer. Facebook, Instagram, and Snapchat are just a few of the biggest names in the industry.
Sign Up For A Robotic Advertising Platform
Whether you want to admit it or not, you’ve probably heard of Google AdWords or Bing Ads. Often referred to as “search engine marketing,” getting these ads on your behalf for your business is incredibly easy. Simply sign up with the applicable search engine, choose a generic name for your business and then set the price you are willing to pay per click – or bid on the keyword or keyphrase that attracts your customers. Since you’re essentially paying for the click, you don’t need to worry about losing customers to paid ads that appear unnatural or intrusive to your audience.
The best part of this entire process is deciding how much you’re willing to pay per month. You don’t necessarily need to pay a lot to get started, but you do need to make sure you’re not wasting your money paying too little. Depending on how much you’re paying, you may see results within a few days or after several months of continuous advertising. Either way, you’re guaranteed to see some results from running a few ads.
Consulting Or Freelancing
If none of the previous suggestions appeal to you and you would like to get involved in the lucrative world of financial advising, you can look into getting certified as a financial advisor or working as a financial consultant. Just remember that with any of these options, you’ll need to have a good understanding of personal finance and the ability to communicate effectively with clients.
Consulting or freelancing can also be a decent source of supplementary income if you’re already successful in your field. If you’re not too keen on the idea of getting involved in personal finances, you can use your expertise in marketing, sales or administration to start your own firm and become your own boss.
While none of these suggestions offer a get-rich-quick scheme, they can all be lucrative if executed correctly. Regardless of where you choose to make your money online in Kenya, the world of finance is rife with opportunity and can provide a comfortable, sustainable living for those who know where to look.