{"id":154037,"date":"2023-02-26T21:45:49","date_gmt":"2023-02-27T02:45:49","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/?p=154037"},"modified":"2025-12-18T09:04:08","modified_gmt":"2025-12-18T14:04:08","slug":"online-business-ideas","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/online-business-ideas\/","title":{"rendered":"20 Online Business Ideas That Actually Work"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"intro-txt\">Starting an online business is the single best way to create freedom in your life\u2014freedom over your time, your money, your work environment, and&nbsp;more.<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>I\u2019ve started over half a dozen online businesses in my life (three of which were highly successful, and one of which I sold for multiple six figures).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>What I\u2019ve learned is that there are a lot of ways to <a href=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/how-to-start-online-business\/\">start an online business<\/a>. To help you avoid the pitfalls, I\u2019ve compiled a list of 20 online business ideas that I\u2019ve either personally had success with or know someone who&nbsp;has.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Every one of these online business ideas has the potential to earn a full-time salary at the low end, while some can earn multiple six figures or more at the high end. This list includes everything from small online business ideas to online businesses you can start from home with little to no investment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"intro-tok\" id=\"intro_tok\" style=\"display:none;\"><div class=\"intro-title\">Contents<\/div><a href=\"#\" class=\"expand-dots\"><span><\/span><span><\/span><span><\/span><\/a><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"post-nav-link clearfix\" id=\"section1\"><a class=\"subhead-anchor\" data-tip=\"tooltip__copielink\" rel=\"#section1\"><svg width=\"19\" height=\"19\" viewBox=\"0 0 14 14\" style><g fill=\"none\" fill-rule=\"evenodd\"><path d=\"M0 0h14v14H0z\" \/><path d=\"M7.45 9.887l-1.62 1.621c-.92.92-2.418.92-3.338 0a2.364 2.364 0 0 1 0-3.339l1.62-1.62-1.273-1.272-1.62 1.62a4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.885 5.884l1.62-1.62L7.45 9.886zM5.527 5.135L7.17 3.492c.92-.92 2.418-.92 3.339 0 .92.92.92 2.418 0 3.339L8.866 8.473l1.272 1.273 1.644-1.643A4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.897 2.22L4.254 3.863l1.272 1.272zm-.66 3.998a.749.749 0 0 1 0-1.06l2.208-2.206a.749.749 0 1 1 1.06 1.06L5.928 9.133a.75.75 0 0 1-1.061 0z\" style \/><\/g><\/svg><\/a><div class=\"link-text\" data-anchor=\"1. Start a blog\" data-section=\"start-a-blog\">\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Start a&nbsp;blog<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Pros: <\/strong>Inexpensive, high income potential, works well in conjunction with other online business ideas<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cons: <\/strong>Takes a long time to grow, big learning curve<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>I\u2019ve started multiple blogs and have been blogging for nearly 15 years. The business I sold was a blog, and I still own multiple blogs that earn an income.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Needless to say, I\u2019m a fan of blogging. That\u2019s because I love writing. It also has huge potential, with multiple options for income streams (<a href=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/affiliate-marketing\/\">affiliate marketing<\/a>, selling your own products or services, <a href=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/ppc-marketing\/\">PPC ads<\/a>, etc.) and for traffic sources (<a href=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/seo\">SEO<\/a>, social media, newsletter, etc.).&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For example, here\u2019s a page on one of my sites that I monetize by reviewing and promoting products I\u2019ve&nbsp;used:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-154067\" src=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image5-12.png\" alt=\"Affiliate marketing example on a blog\" width=\"777\" height=\"750\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image5-12.png 777w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image5-12-440x425.png 440w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image5-12-768x741.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 777px) 100vw, 777px\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>If someone clicks the \u201cView Now\u201d button and makes a purchase, I get a commission on that&nbsp;sale.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Plus, starting a blog is fairly easy and inexpensive. All you need to do is purchase a domain name (~$12) and website hosting (~$4\/month), build your website, and start writing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Lastly, a blog also makes a great supplement to almost every other business idea on this list. You can use a blog to promote your freelancing services, sell stuff, and so much&nbsp;more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here are a few examples of successful blogs you can check&nbsp;out:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Bank My Cell<\/strong> \u2013 A blog about cell phones that makes the majority of its income through old phone trade-ins.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Adventures On The Rock<\/strong> \u2013 My blog about overland adventure travel and sustainability, which makes money through affiliate marketing.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Authority Hacker<\/strong> \u2013 A blog that teaches you how to create profitable websites. It monetizes through an online course that it sells, as well as from affiliate sales of software it&nbsp;uses.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Ready to give this online business idea a go? Check out <a href=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/start-a-blog\/\">our guide on how to start a profitable blog<\/a>. We\u2019ll guide you through the whole process\u2014from figuring out what to write about to growing and monetizing your&nbsp;blog.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"post-nav-link clearfix\" id=\"section1\"><a class=\"subhead-anchor\" data-tip=\"tooltip__copielink\" rel=\"#section1\"><svg width=\"19\" height=\"19\" viewBox=\"0 0 14 14\" style><g fill=\"none\" fill-rule=\"evenodd\"><path d=\"M0 0h14v14H0z\" \/><path d=\"M7.45 9.887l-1.62 1.621c-.92.92-2.418.92-3.338 0a2.364 2.364 0 0 1 0-3.339l1.62-1.62-1.273-1.272-1.62 1.62a4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.885 5.884l1.62-1.62L7.45 9.886zM5.527 5.135L7.17 3.492c.92-.92 2.418-.92 3.339 0 .92.92.92 2.418 0 3.339L8.866 8.473l1.272 1.273 1.644-1.643A4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.897 2.22L4.254 3.863l1.272 1.272zm-.66 3.998a.749.749 0 0 1 0-1.06l2.208-2.206a.749.749 0 1 1 1.06 1.06L5.928 9.133a.75.75 0 0 1-1.061 0z\" style \/><\/g><\/svg><\/a><div class=\"link-text\" data-anchor=\"2. Sell products on Amazon\" data-section=\"sell-products-amazon\">\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Sell products on Amazon<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Pros: <\/strong>Fairly simple, piggyback on Amazon\u2019s existing traffic<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cons: <\/strong>Lower profit margins due to Amazon fees, no access to customer data<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>One of the most common online businesses most people see success with is selling products on Amazon. At first, this may sound complicated and expensive. But actually, you don\u2019t even need to hold inventory or worry about shipping or handling anything.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>That\u2019s because Amazon offers Fulfilled by Amazon (FBA)\u2014a service where it handles all the logistics. All you have to do is come up with a product idea or even just private label an existing product, find a manufacturer to work with, and create a storefront.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here\u2019s an interesting case study by Susan Peterson, founder and CEO of baby shoe company Freshly Picked:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=AYCiotYAFGg<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Amazon wrote a <a href=\"https:\/\/sell.amazon.com\/blog\/product-ideas\">guide to coming up with product ideas<\/a>, which is a great place to get started. I also recommend you read its complete <a href=\"https:\/\/sell.amazon.com\/sell\">\u201chow to sell on Amazon\u201d guide<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can also use Ahrefs\u2019 <a href=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/amazon-keyword-tool\">free Amazon keyword tool<\/a> to see what people are searching for on Amazon to come up with product ideas, as well as help optimize your product listings to display higher in Amazon\u2019s search results:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1736\" height=\"860\" class=\"wp-image-154068\" src=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image12-13-1.jpg\" alt=\"Amazon keyword ideas for baby shoes, via Ahrefs\u2019 free Amazon keyword tool\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image12-13-1.jpg 1736w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image12-13-1-680x337.jpg 680w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image12-13-1-768x380.jpg 768w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image12-13-1-1536x761.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1736px) 100vw, 1736px\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>So for example, you could include the phrase \u201cbaby shoes boy 12-18 months\u201d in your listing to help it show up for that keyword, which is searched ~1.6K times per&nbsp;month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This tool is also a great way to see if a product you\u2019re thinking about selling gets enough search volume to potentially make enough money in sales. This, in turn, will help you decide whether you should start this kind of online business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"post-nav-link clearfix\" id=\"section1\"><a class=\"subhead-anchor\" data-tip=\"tooltip__copielink\" rel=\"#section1\"><svg width=\"19\" height=\"19\" viewBox=\"0 0 14 14\" style><g fill=\"none\" fill-rule=\"evenodd\"><path d=\"M0 0h14v14H0z\" \/><path d=\"M7.45 9.887l-1.62 1.621c-.92.92-2.418.92-3.338 0a2.364 2.364 0 0 1 0-3.339l1.62-1.62-1.273-1.272-1.62 1.62a4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.885 5.884l1.62-1.62L7.45 9.886zM5.527 5.135L7.17 3.492c.92-.92 2.418-.92 3.339 0 .92.92.92 2.418 0 3.339L8.866 8.473l1.272 1.273 1.644-1.643A4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.897 2.22L4.254 3.863l1.272 1.272zm-.66 3.998a.749.749 0 0 1 0-1.06l2.208-2.206a.749.749 0 1 1 1.06 1.06L5.928 9.133a.75.75 0 0 1-1.061 0z\" style \/><\/g><\/svg><\/a><div class=\"link-text\" data-anchor=\"3. Create an online store\" data-section=\"create-online-store\">\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Create an online store<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Pros: <\/strong>Higher profit margins, more control over your customers\u2019 data<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cons: <\/strong>Harder to find customers, takes longer to start earning<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>This online business idea is the next step up from selling products on Amazon. You can create your own online store to sell your products directly to customers\u2014and avoid paying the high FBA fees, letting you take home bigger profits.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, this requires a bit more work because you need to learn how to build an e-commerce website and <a href=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/how-to-drive-traffic-to-your-website\/\">how to get traffic to your new site<\/a> since no one will know about it at&nbsp;first.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s not too difficult, though. You can use an e-commerce website builder like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.shopify.com\/\">Shopify<\/a> to streamline the process, then <a href=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/internet-marketing-strategies\/\">learn online marketing<\/a> to get eyeballs. This is where that blog will come in&nbsp;handy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>One great example of an online store that was bootstrapped and started in a garage is <a href=\"https:\/\/us.woodgeekstore.com\/\">Woodgeek Store<\/a>. Saikat started selling small wood items he made in his garage and eventually grew the setup into a full company with eight employees making and selling hand-crafted wooden decor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1835\" height=\"783\" class=\"wp-image-154070\" src=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image8-11.jpg\" alt=\"Woodgeek e-commerce website\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image8-11.jpg 1835w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image8-11-680x290.jpg 680w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image8-11-768x328.jpg 768w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image8-11-1536x655.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1835px) 100vw, 1835px\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Inspired? Here are a few guides to help you get started:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/how-to-start-ecommerce-business\/\">How to Start an E-commerce Business (9 Steps to Success)<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/shopify-seo\/\">Shopify SEO: A Simple Guide for Beginners<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/ecommerce-marketing\/\">6 Proven E-commerce Marketing Strategies<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"post-nav-link clearfix\" id=\"section1\"><a class=\"subhead-anchor\" data-tip=\"tooltip__copielink\" rel=\"#section1\"><svg width=\"19\" height=\"19\" viewBox=\"0 0 14 14\" style><g fill=\"none\" fill-rule=\"evenodd\"><path d=\"M0 0h14v14H0z\" \/><path d=\"M7.45 9.887l-1.62 1.621c-.92.92-2.418.92-3.338 0a2.364 2.364 0 0 1 0-3.339l1.62-1.62-1.273-1.272-1.62 1.62a4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.885 5.884l1.62-1.62L7.45 9.886zM5.527 5.135L7.17 3.492c.92-.92 2.418-.92 3.339 0 .92.92.92 2.418 0 3.339L8.866 8.473l1.272 1.273 1.644-1.643A4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.897 2.22L4.254 3.863l1.272 1.272zm-.66 3.998a.749.749 0 0 1 0-1.06l2.208-2.206a.749.749 0 1 1 1.06 1.06L5.928 9.133a.75.75 0 0 1-1.061 0z\" style \/><\/g><\/svg><\/a><div class=\"link-text\" data-anchor=\"4. Try out freelancing on Upwork (and other platforms)\" data-section=\"try-freelancing-upwork\">\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Try out freelancing on Upwork (and other platforms)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Pros: <\/strong>Start earning an income almost immediately, scale up or down as you please<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cons: <\/strong>Lots of competition, you lose money to Upwork fees<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Freelancing simply means offering services as a contractor. You can be a freelance writer, coder, designer, editor\u2026 the list goes on. It\u2019s one of the easiest online business ideas you can start from home with very little investment. However, it\u2019s not a passive online business as you\u2019ll need to deliver projects to clients to earn an income.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The nice thing about freelancing is that you can pick up work as needed and do lots of different things. It\u2019s a great way to dabble in online business and see what you like (and don\u2019t&nbsp;like).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Before you commit to becoming a fully dedicated freelancer and building your own website, portfolio, and social media pages, you can test the waters on freelancing platforms like Upwork or Fiverr.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1020\" class=\"wp-image-154072\" src=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image3-10.png\" alt=\"Fiverr search results for &quot;virtual assistant&quot;\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image3-10.png 1999w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image3-10-680x347.png 680w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image3-10-768x392.png 768w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image3-10-1536x784.png 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>These are sites that already have clients looking for freelancers, so you don\u2019t need to worry as much about marketing yourself and finding your own clients. You can just create an account and start getting work (relatively) quickly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The only downside about these sites is that they take a hefty commission from any sales you make, so it\u2019s not the best long-term solution.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Check out <a href=\"https:\/\/www.websitebuilderinsider.com\/how-do-i-get-my-first-job-on-upwork-without-experience\/#:~:text=The%20best%20way%20to%20get,and%20network%20with%20other%20freelancers.\">this guide<\/a> on how to get your first Upwork job with no experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"post-nav-link clearfix\" id=\"section1\"><a class=\"subhead-anchor\" data-tip=\"tooltip__copielink\" rel=\"#section1\"><svg width=\"19\" height=\"19\" viewBox=\"0 0 14 14\" style><g fill=\"none\" fill-rule=\"evenodd\"><path d=\"M0 0h14v14H0z\" \/><path d=\"M7.45 9.887l-1.62 1.621c-.92.92-2.418.92-3.338 0a2.364 2.364 0 0 1 0-3.339l1.62-1.62-1.273-1.272-1.62 1.62a4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.885 5.884l1.62-1.62L7.45 9.886zM5.527 5.135L7.17 3.492c.92-.92 2.418-.92 3.339 0 .92.92.92 2.418 0 3.339L8.866 8.473l1.272 1.273 1.644-1.643A4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.897 2.22L4.254 3.863l1.272 1.272zm-.66 3.998a.749.749 0 0 1 0-1.06l2.208-2.206a.749.749 0 1 1 1.06 1.06L5.928 9.133a.75.75 0 0 1-1.061 0z\" style \/><\/g><\/svg><\/a><div class=\"link-text\" data-anchor=\"5. Provide professional freelance services\" data-section=\"provide-professional-freelance-services\">\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. Provide professional freelance services<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Pros: <\/strong>Higher profit margins, more control over your&nbsp;work<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cons: <\/strong>Harder to find clients on your&nbsp;own<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>If you tried the last idea and realized how much you like freelancing, you can grow that business by creating your own website and social media channels, dedicating yourself to improving your craft, and finding your own clients so you don\u2019t need to pay any fees. Freelancing is a great online business idea for beginners who have existing skills that are valuable to clients.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Similar to upgrading from selling on Amazon to creating your own online store, you\u2019ll need to learn how to market yourself. However, the payoff is worth the effort.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There are a plethora of examples of successful freelancers out there. I started as a freelance writer, then learned content marketing and search engine optimization (SEO) to be able to offer more and charge a higher rate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Some other successful freelancer examples include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Jacob McMillen (freelance copywriter).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Christopher Darling (freelance web developer).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pascal Campion (freelance illustrator and animator).<\/li>\n\n\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"post-nav-link clearfix\" id=\"section1\"><a class=\"subhead-anchor\" data-tip=\"tooltip__copielink\" rel=\"#section1\"><svg width=\"19\" height=\"19\" viewBox=\"0 0 14 14\" style><g fill=\"none\" fill-rule=\"evenodd\"><path d=\"M0 0h14v14H0z\" \/><path d=\"M7.45 9.887l-1.62 1.621c-.92.92-2.418.92-3.338 0a2.364 2.364 0 0 1 0-3.339l1.62-1.62-1.273-1.272-1.62 1.62a4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.885 5.884l1.62-1.62L7.45 9.886zM5.527 5.135L7.17 3.492c.92-.92 2.418-.92 3.339 0 .92.92.92 2.418 0 3.339L8.866 8.473l1.272 1.273 1.644-1.643A4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.897 2.22L4.254 3.863l1.272 1.272zm-.66 3.998a.749.749 0 0 1 0-1.06l2.208-2.206a.749.749 0 1 1 1.06 1.06L5.928 9.133a.75.75 0 0 1-1.061 0z\" style \/><\/g><\/svg><\/a><div class=\"link-text\" data-anchor=\"6. Sell\/license photos and videos\" data-section=\"sell-license-photos-videos\">\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">6. Sell\/license photos and videos<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Pros: <\/strong>Can be quick money, excellent supplemental income to other businesses<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cons: <\/strong>Highly competitive, typically low income potential, requires expensive camera gear and editing software<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re good with a camera and editing, selling your photos or videos as stock media can be a nice extra income to freelance work. It\u2019s also a great passive online business idea once you\u2019ve built up a library of media assets that earn recurring royalties and commissions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>There are a few different ways to go about this. You can sell your photos on your own website, on stock sites like Shutterstock, or even as prints or T-shirt designs.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1999\" height=\"923\" class=\"wp-image-154074\" src=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image6-13.png\" alt=\"Shutterstock media sales page\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image6-13.png 1999w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image6-13-680x314.png 680w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image6-13-768x355.png 768w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image6-13-1536x709.png 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>If video is more your forte, you can create beautiful stock footage of places around the world and license that footage to any companies that want to use it. For example, here\u2019s some 4K footage of Namibia, Africa, that a company could potentially license:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=q3OX-gIDciA<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Keep in mind that in order to sell stock media, you\u2019ll typically need some of the best camera gear money can buy. So this is not a cheap entry business idea.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"post-nav-link clearfix\" id=\"section1\"><a class=\"subhead-anchor\" data-tip=\"tooltip__copielink\" rel=\"#section1\"><svg width=\"19\" height=\"19\" viewBox=\"0 0 14 14\" style><g fill=\"none\" fill-rule=\"evenodd\"><path d=\"M0 0h14v14H0z\" \/><path d=\"M7.45 9.887l-1.62 1.621c-.92.92-2.418.92-3.338 0a2.364 2.364 0 0 1 0-3.339l1.62-1.62-1.273-1.272-1.62 1.62a4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.885 5.884l1.62-1.62L7.45 9.886zM5.527 5.135L7.17 3.492c.92-.92 2.418-.92 3.339 0 .92.92.92 2.418 0 3.339L8.866 8.473l1.272 1.273 1.644-1.643A4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.897 2.22L4.254 3.863l1.272 1.272zm-.66 3.998a.749.749 0 0 1 0-1.06l2.208-2.206a.749.749 0 1 1 1.06 1.06L5.928 9.133a.75.75 0 0 1-1.061 0z\" style \/><\/g><\/svg><\/a><div class=\"link-text\" data-anchor=\"7. Start a podcast\" data-section=\"start-podcast\">\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">7. Start a podcast<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Pros:<\/strong> Great channel to use in conjunction with other business ideas, relatively low cost of entry, can talk about almost anything&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cons: <\/strong>Highly competitive space, can take a long time to earn an income from<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Podcasts are great if you love to talk about things you\u2019re interested in. It\u2019s a great online marketing business idea and the good news is, you can start a podcast about almost anything. Literally:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1586\" height=\"1248\" class=\"wp-image-154076\" src=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image7-14-1.jpg\" alt=\"Podcasts on Spotify about anything\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image7-14-1.jpg 1586w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image7-14-1-540x425.jpg 540w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image7-14-1-768x604.jpg 768w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image7-14-1-1536x1209.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1586px) 100vw, 1586px\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>That said, starting and maintaining a podcast is a <em>lot<\/em> of work and comes with a high learning curve. You need to buy and learn how to use audio equipment and audio editing software. And if you\u2019re anything like me and make a lot of random mistakes and noises while recording, you\u2019ll have to do a ton of editing, which takes a long&nbsp;time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In addition, writing show notes and creating a page with any links mentioned takes time, promoting the episode takes time, and growing an audience takes&nbsp;time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, you can start with a cheap lapel mic and little to no editing, no website, and no show notes. In fact, that\u2019s a great way to get started and see if you actually like recording podcasts or&nbsp;not.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As far as making money goes, you have lots of options, including brand sponsorships, direct advertising, and affiliate marketing. A podcast also pairs well with selling your own online course, books, or services. Some podcasters even sell access to their episodes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>A few of my personal favorite podcasts include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Joe Rogan Experience<\/strong> \u2013 Monetizes through sponsorships and his brand deal with Spotify (the company paid him $100M to be exclusive to Spotify).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Dan Carlin\u2019s Hardcore History<\/strong> \u2013 Monetizes by selling episodes as exclusives as well as through sponsorships.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Toyota Garage Podcast<\/strong> \u2013 Monetizes through sponsorships and affiliate marketing.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>I highly recommend <a href=\"https:\/\/www.smartpassiveincome.com\/guide\/how-to-start-a-podcast-tutorial-pat-flynn\/\">Pat Flynn\u2019s guide on how to start a podcast<\/a> if you\u2019re interested in this idea. His course, \u201cPower-Up Podcasting,\u201d is also an excellent resource once you\u2019re ready to invest in learning more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"post-nav-link clearfix\" id=\"section1\"><a class=\"subhead-anchor\" data-tip=\"tooltip__copielink\" rel=\"#section1\"><svg width=\"19\" height=\"19\" viewBox=\"0 0 14 14\" style><g fill=\"none\" fill-rule=\"evenodd\"><path d=\"M0 0h14v14H0z\" \/><path d=\"M7.45 9.887l-1.62 1.621c-.92.92-2.418.92-3.338 0a2.364 2.364 0 0 1 0-3.339l1.62-1.62-1.273-1.272-1.62 1.62a4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.885 5.884l1.62-1.62L7.45 9.886zM5.527 5.135L7.17 3.492c.92-.92 2.418-.92 3.339 0 .92.92.92 2.418 0 3.339L8.866 8.473l1.272 1.273 1.644-1.643A4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.897 2.22L4.254 3.863l1.272 1.272zm-.66 3.998a.749.749 0 0 1 0-1.06l2.208-2.206a.749.749 0 1 1 1.06 1.06L5.928 9.133a.75.75 0 0 1-1.061 0z\" style \/><\/g><\/svg><\/a><div class=\"link-text\" data-anchor=\"8. Grow a YouTube channel\" data-section=\"grow-youtube-channel\">\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">8. Grow a YouTube channel<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Pros: <\/strong>Excellent to use in conjunction with other business ideas, video is only getting more popular, lots of monetization options<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cons: <\/strong>Big learning curve, long time to grow and earn money, ever-changing algorithm<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>YouTube has been the leading platform to find user-created videos since its inception. With over 2.6B active users, there\u2019s a huge audience to capitalize on.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Plus, you can make YouTube videos on nearly any topic. If a hobby exists, chances are, people are looking for it on YouTube.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The cost to entry is also super low, with most phones being able to take excellent video these days. Just invest $20 in a lapel mic, utilize natural lighting, and you\u2019re good to&nbsp;go.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can monetize your channel using any monetization method for a blog or podcast too\u2014affiliate marketing, selling products, brand sponsorships, and more. YouTube will even pay you directly through its <a href=\"https:\/\/support.google.com\/youtube\/answer\/72851\">YouTube Partner Program<\/a> once you get big enough, so there is no shortage of ways to make&nbsp;money.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For example, my friend, David, runs a highly successful YouTube channel called <a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/@TheBarbecueLab\">The Barbeque Lab<\/a>, where he shares videos on how to become the ultimate BBQ chef, grill reviews, and more. He earns money through ads, affiliate sales of BBQ products, and direct sponsorships.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here\u2019s a great video on how to start a YouTube channel:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=bVPjcLL9jGM<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>We also have a few articles you can read on Ahrefs\u2019 blog:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/youtube-seo\/\">YouTube SEO: How to Rank Your Videos From Start to Finish<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/how-to-get-youtube-subscribers\/\">9 Ways to Get More YouTube Subscribers<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/how-to-get-more-views-on-youtube\/\">14 Proven Ways to Get More Views on YouTube<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Feel free to check out <a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/@AhrefsCom\">Ahrefs\u2019 YouTube channel<\/a> while you\u2019re at&nbsp;it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"post-nav-link clearfix\" id=\"section1\"><a class=\"subhead-anchor\" data-tip=\"tooltip__copielink\" rel=\"#section1\"><svg width=\"19\" height=\"19\" viewBox=\"0 0 14 14\" style><g fill=\"none\" fill-rule=\"evenodd\"><path d=\"M0 0h14v14H0z\" \/><path d=\"M7.45 9.887l-1.62 1.621c-.92.92-2.418.92-3.338 0a2.364 2.364 0 0 1 0-3.339l1.62-1.62-1.273-1.272-1.62 1.62a4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.885 5.884l1.62-1.62L7.45 9.886zM5.527 5.135L7.17 3.492c.92-.92 2.418-.92 3.339 0 .92.92.92 2.418 0 3.339L8.866 8.473l1.272 1.273 1.644-1.643A4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.897 2.22L4.254 3.863l1.272 1.272zm-.66 3.998a.749.749 0 0 1 0-1.06l2.208-2.206a.749.749 0 1 1 1.06 1.06L5.928 9.133a.75.75 0 0 1-1.061 0z\" style \/><\/g><\/svg><\/a><div class=\"link-text\" data-anchor=\"9. Start streaming on Twitch\" data-section=\"start-streaming-twitch\">\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">9. Start streaming on Twitch<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Pros: <\/strong>Get paid to play video&nbsp;games<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cons: <\/strong>Highly competitive, low income, long hours, lots of&nbsp;work<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.twitch.tv\/\">Twitch<\/a>, if you weren\u2019t aware, is an online streaming platform where anyone can go on and stream themselves doing pretty much anything\u2014but mostly, it\u2019s used to stream video games. Chances are, if this idea appeals to you, you\u2019ve likely already got the equipment you need to start streaming right away. It could very well be an online business idea that needs no further investment if that\u2019s the case for&nbsp;you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1586\" height=\"812\" class=\"wp-image-154078\" src=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image13-9.jpg\" alt=\"Gamer streaming on Twitch\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image13-9.jpg 1586w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image13-9-680x348.jpg 680w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image13-9-768x393.jpg 768w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image13-9-1536x786.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1586px) 100vw, 1586px\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>If your childhood dream was to get paid to play video games, it could be a reality with Twitch. You can make money through <a href=\"https:\/\/www.twitch.tv\/p\/en\/partners\/\">Twitch\u2019s Partner Program<\/a> once you meet its requirements. But you can also make money through brand sponsorships and advertisements, viewer donations, and platforms like Patreon.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, be warned\u2014starting a business as a Twitch streamer is probably more work than any other idea on this list, and it often doesn\u2019t pay much unless you\u2019re able to get extremely successful with millions of views every time you stream.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This is one that I only recommend if you\u2019re passionate about gaming and streaming, and don\u2019t mind making very little money for a long&nbsp;time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"post-nav-link clearfix\" id=\"section1\"><a class=\"subhead-anchor\" data-tip=\"tooltip__copielink\" rel=\"#section1\"><svg width=\"19\" height=\"19\" viewBox=\"0 0 14 14\" style><g fill=\"none\" fill-rule=\"evenodd\"><path d=\"M0 0h14v14H0z\" \/><path d=\"M7.45 9.887l-1.62 1.621c-.92.92-2.418.92-3.338 0a2.364 2.364 0 0 1 0-3.339l1.62-1.62-1.273-1.272-1.62 1.62a4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.885 5.884l1.62-1.62L7.45 9.886zM5.527 5.135L7.17 3.492c.92-.92 2.418-.92 3.339 0 .92.92.92 2.418 0 3.339L8.866 8.473l1.272 1.273 1.644-1.643A4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.897 2.22L4.254 3.863l1.272 1.272zm-.66 3.998a.749.749 0 0 1 0-1.06l2.208-2.206a.749.749 0 1 1 1.06 1.06L5.928 9.133a.75.75 0 0 1-1.061 0z\" style \/><\/g><\/svg><\/a><div class=\"link-text\" data-anchor=\"10. Create an online course\" data-section=\"create-online-course\">\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">10. Create an online course&nbsp;<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Pros: <\/strong>Can become semi-passive income, high income potential<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cons: <\/strong>Have to find customers, takes a lot of time to film and&nbsp;edit<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Creating an online course is one of the best online business ideas in this list (and beyond). The best part about courses is that once they\u2019re finished, the work is pretty minimal aside from occasional course updates. So it\u2019s really like building an asset that continues to produce for&nbsp;you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1870\" class=\"wp-image-154094\" src=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image9-13.png\" alt=\"Ahrefs Academy's link building course\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image9-13.png 1999w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image9-13-454x425.png 454w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image9-13-768x718.png 768w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image9-13-1536x1437.png 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\">\n<figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">One of <a href=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/academy\">Ahrefs Academy\u2019s online courses<\/a>.<\/figcaption>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>But just because you make a course, it doesn\u2019t mean it will sell. The hardest part of starting a business around courses is finding customers.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>One way to get around this is to create a course on a course membership website like Udemy, Skillshare, or Maven. However, you typically won\u2019t be able to charge as much because there is so much competition, and the platform will take a fee from every sale you make. Either way, once you have systems for attracting new customers in place, your courses can become a passive online business, earning recurring income.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"post-nav-link clearfix\" id=\"section1\"><a class=\"subhead-anchor\" data-tip=\"tooltip__copielink\" rel=\"#section1\"><svg width=\"19\" height=\"19\" viewBox=\"0 0 14 14\" style><g fill=\"none\" fill-rule=\"evenodd\"><path d=\"M0 0h14v14H0z\" \/><path d=\"M7.45 9.887l-1.62 1.621c-.92.92-2.418.92-3.338 0a2.364 2.364 0 0 1 0-3.339l1.62-1.62-1.273-1.272-1.62 1.62a4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.885 5.884l1.62-1.62L7.45 9.886zM5.527 5.135L7.17 3.492c.92-.92 2.418-.92 3.339 0 .92.92.92 2.418 0 3.339L8.866 8.473l1.272 1.273 1.644-1.643A4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.897 2.22L4.254 3.863l1.272 1.272zm-.66 3.998a.749.749 0 0 1 0-1.06l2.208-2.206a.749.749 0 1 1 1.06 1.06L5.928 9.133a.75.75 0 0 1-1.061 0z\" style \/><\/g><\/svg><\/a><div class=\"link-text\" data-anchor=\"11. Launch a digital product\" data-section=\"launch-digital-product\">\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">11. Launch a digital product<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Pros: <\/strong>Ability to scale, avoid trading time for money, can be lucrative<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cons: <\/strong>Requires coding experience or hiring a coder, may be hard to find customers<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Launching a digital product, such as an app or building a SaaS (software as a service) company, is one of the most profitable online business ideas in our list. It has historically been a lucrative business plan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This is because you can scale almost infinitely without that scale requiring comparatively more work hours or hiring more people, so overhead costs are often lower than traditional business models. Adding customers doesn\u2019t necessarily add more work to your&nbsp;plate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, you need to come up with a product idea that people actually want and are willing to pay for. And it also requires you to either be an experienced coder or hire someone who is. Additionally, various marketing and design skills to spread the word and make a good UI are needed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Examples of this type of business include <a href=\"https:\/\/www.notion.so\/\">Notion<\/a> (note-taking and task management app) and <a href=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/\">Ahrefs<\/a> (all-encompassing SEO&nbsp;tool).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-154082\" src=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image11-9.png\" alt=\"Ahrefs homepage used as an example of a lucrative online business idea\" width=\"981\" height=\"517\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image11-9.png 981w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image11-9-680x358.png 680w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image11-9-768x405.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 981px) 100vw, 981px\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"post-nav-link clearfix\" id=\"section1\"><a class=\"subhead-anchor\" data-tip=\"tooltip__copielink\" rel=\"#section1\"><svg width=\"19\" height=\"19\" viewBox=\"0 0 14 14\" style><g fill=\"none\" fill-rule=\"evenodd\"><path d=\"M0 0h14v14H0z\" \/><path d=\"M7.45 9.887l-1.62 1.621c-.92.92-2.418.92-3.338 0a2.364 2.364 0 0 1 0-3.339l1.62-1.62-1.273-1.272-1.62 1.62a4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.885 5.884l1.62-1.62L7.45 9.886zM5.527 5.135L7.17 3.492c.92-.92 2.418-.92 3.339 0 .92.92.92 2.418 0 3.339L8.866 8.473l1.272 1.273 1.644-1.643A4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.897 2.22L4.254 3.863l1.272 1.272zm-.66 3.998a.749.749 0 0 1 0-1.06l2.208-2.206a.749.749 0 1 1 1.06 1.06L5.928 9.133a.75.75 0 0 1-1.061 0z\" style \/><\/g><\/svg><\/a><div class=\"link-text\" data-anchor=\"12. Offer coaching\" data-section=\"offer-coaching\">\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">12. Offer coaching<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Pros: <\/strong>Control over your schedule and clients, impact people\u2019s lives<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cons: <\/strong>Can be slow to start, requires you to learn to market yourself well&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>If you have a skill and enjoy teaching others, coaching can be a great option for your online business. There are lots of options too\u2014such as business coaching, life coaching, or coaching someone on a specific skill (like marketing or fitness).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>All you need to become a coach is a desire to teach people and to find clients willing to pay you. Once again, <a href=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/marketing-skills\/\">marketing skills<\/a> come in&nbsp;handy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can advertise your skills on websites like Fiverr, but the best clients are more likely to come from marketing efforts like a podcast, blog, or being active on LinkedIn or Twitter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As an example, my voice coach, Laura Seipert, launched her business, The Mindful Voice Teacher, and has loved being able to help her clients become more confident and happier in their lives. She also takes a multi-faceted approach and earns money from her voice clients, as well as through coaching other voice coaches to impact even more people with her&nbsp;work.<\/p>\n<p>The great thing about coaching is that it is a great online business idea from home. Just set up an office space and you can save on major overhead costs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"post-nav-link clearfix\" id=\"section1\"><a class=\"subhead-anchor\" data-tip=\"tooltip__copielink\" rel=\"#section1\"><svg width=\"19\" height=\"19\" viewBox=\"0 0 14 14\" style><g fill=\"none\" fill-rule=\"evenodd\"><path d=\"M0 0h14v14H0z\" \/><path d=\"M7.45 9.887l-1.62 1.621c-.92.92-2.418.92-3.338 0a2.364 2.364 0 0 1 0-3.339l1.62-1.62-1.273-1.272-1.62 1.62a4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.885 5.884l1.62-1.62L7.45 9.886zM5.527 5.135L7.17 3.492c.92-.92 2.418-.92 3.339 0 .92.92.92 2.418 0 3.339L8.866 8.473l1.272 1.273 1.644-1.643A4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.897 2.22L4.254 3.863l1.272 1.272zm-.66 3.998a.749.749 0 0 1 0-1.06l2.208-2.206a.749.749 0 1 1 1.06 1.06L5.928 9.133a.75.75 0 0 1-1.061 0z\" style \/><\/g><\/svg><\/a><div class=\"link-text\" data-anchor=\"13. Start a newsletter\" data-section=\"start-newsletter\">\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">13. Start a newsletter<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Pros: <\/strong>Lots of different business model options, can be used to promote other products and services, low cost to&nbsp;start<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cons: <\/strong>Takes a long time to build your list, difficult to stand out in a crowded inbox<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>If you enjoy writing up email newsletters, it\u2019s possible to create a business entirely on email marketing. All you need is the skill to write something worth reading in a crowded inbox.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>To get started, you need an idea of what you want to talk about. You can pick almost anything you\u2019re passionate about\u2014it\u2019s more important to choose something you feel you can stick to for the long term than think about choosing something because it can make&nbsp;money.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It\u2019s going to take a long time to build a good list (a year at a minimum). And once you have an audience, you can find ways to make money. Where there is an engaged audience, there are businesses willing to pay to access it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>One great example of a newsletter business is <a href=\"https:\/\/thetonic.us\/\">The Tonic<\/a>. It started with a small list of fewer than 100 people and grew it to over 10,000 subscribers and six figures in under two&nbsp;years.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-154084\" src=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image1-16.png\" alt=\"Newsletter online business example\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1265\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image1-16.png 1999w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image1-16-672x425.png 672w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image1-16-260x166.png 260w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image1-16-768x486.png 768w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image1-16-1536x972.png 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Its newsletter shares tips, quotes, and products that can help you become a happier, healthier, and more productive entrepreneur.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"871\" height=\"616\" class=\"wp-image-154085\" src=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image14-10.png\" alt=\"Example newsletter from The Tonic\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image14-10.png 871w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image14-10-601x425.png 601w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image14-10-768x543.png 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 871px) 100vw, 871px\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>And it monetizes through brand sponsorships, where other brands pay it for an excerpt in its emails:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"557\" height=\"737\" class=\"wp-image-154086\" src=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image10-8.png\" alt=\"Newsletter sponsorship example\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image10-8.png 557w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image10-8-321x425.png 321w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 557px) 100vw, 557px\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Interested in creating a newsletter business? Check out <a href=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/grow-email-list\/\">my guide to growing an email list<\/a> to get started.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"post-nav-link clearfix\" id=\"section1\"><a class=\"subhead-anchor\" data-tip=\"tooltip__copielink\" rel=\"#section1\"><svg width=\"19\" height=\"19\" viewBox=\"0 0 14 14\" style><g fill=\"none\" fill-rule=\"evenodd\"><path d=\"M0 0h14v14H0z\" \/><path d=\"M7.45 9.887l-1.62 1.621c-.92.92-2.418.92-3.338 0a2.364 2.364 0 0 1 0-3.339l1.62-1.62-1.273-1.272-1.62 1.62a4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.885 5.884l1.62-1.62L7.45 9.886zM5.527 5.135L7.17 3.492c.92-.92 2.418-.92 3.339 0 .92.92.92 2.418 0 3.339L8.866 8.473l1.272 1.273 1.644-1.643A4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.897 2.22L4.254 3.863l1.272 1.272zm-.66 3.998a.749.749 0 0 1 0-1.06l2.208-2.206a.749.749 0 1 1 1.06 1.06L5.928 9.133a.75.75 0 0 1-1.061 0z\" style \/><\/g><\/svg><\/a><div class=\"link-text\" data-anchor=\"14. Do voice-overs\" data-section=\"do-voice-overs\">\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">14. Do voice-overs<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Pros: <\/strong>Fairly easy to start making money<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cons: <\/strong>Takes a long time to earn good money, requires good audio equipment and editing skills<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Has anyone ever said you should be a radio announcer? If they have, doing voice-overs could be a great idea. If not, this could still be a great business opportunity for you if you have a good&nbsp;voice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can create a business where someone sends you a script and you send back an audio file of yourself reading the script in an interesting and ear-enticing way.<\/p>\n<p>Due to the need for professional recording equipment, this isn\u2019t an online business idea you can start without investment. However, it can become very profitable, especially if you set up a home studio for recording, saving you major costs on overheads like&nbsp;rent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"post-nav-link clearfix\" id=\"section1\"><a class=\"subhead-anchor\" data-tip=\"tooltip__copielink\" rel=\"#section1\"><svg width=\"19\" height=\"19\" viewBox=\"0 0 14 14\" style><g fill=\"none\" fill-rule=\"evenodd\"><path d=\"M0 0h14v14H0z\" \/><path d=\"M7.45 9.887l-1.62 1.621c-.92.92-2.418.92-3.338 0a2.364 2.364 0 0 1 0-3.339l1.62-1.62-1.273-1.272-1.62 1.62a4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.885 5.884l1.62-1.62L7.45 9.886zM5.527 5.135L7.17 3.492c.92-.92 2.418-.92 3.339 0 .92.92.92 2.418 0 3.339L8.866 8.473l1.272 1.273 1.644-1.643A4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.897 2.22L4.254 3.863l1.272 1.272zm-.66 3.998a.749.749 0 0 1 0-1.06l2.208-2.206a.749.749 0 1 1 1.06 1.06L5.928 9.133a.75.75 0 0 1-1.061 0z\" style \/><\/g><\/svg><\/a><div class=\"link-text\" data-anchor=\"15. Become a tutor\/online teacher\" data-section=\"become-tutor-teacher\">\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">15. Become a tutor\/online teacher<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Pros: <\/strong>Rewarding, quick to start making money, easy to do part-time work<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cons: <\/strong>Not very high income potential, requires you to directly trade time for money, typically requires at least a bachelor\u2019s degree in your field of choice<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Teaching students anything from math, to English, to coding can be a rewarding and fun online business opportunity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can either offer private tutoring through your own website or you can find clients through a platform like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tutor.com\/\">Tutor.com<\/a>, although it will take a fee from your income.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"post-nav-link clearfix\" id=\"section1\"><a class=\"subhead-anchor\" data-tip=\"tooltip__copielink\" rel=\"#section1\"><svg width=\"19\" height=\"19\" viewBox=\"0 0 14 14\" style><g fill=\"none\" fill-rule=\"evenodd\"><path d=\"M0 0h14v14H0z\" \/><path d=\"M7.45 9.887l-1.62 1.621c-.92.92-2.418.92-3.338 0a2.364 2.364 0 0 1 0-3.339l1.62-1.62-1.273-1.272-1.62 1.62a4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.885 5.884l1.62-1.62L7.45 9.886zM5.527 5.135L7.17 3.492c.92-.92 2.418-.92 3.339 0 .92.92.92 2.418 0 3.339L8.866 8.473l1.272 1.273 1.644-1.643A4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.897 2.22L4.254 3.863l1.272 1.272zm-.66 3.998a.749.749 0 0 1 0-1.06l2.208-2.206a.749.749 0 1 1 1.06 1.06L5.928 9.133a.75.75 0 0 1-1.061 0z\" style \/><\/g><\/svg><\/a><div class=\"link-text\" data-anchor=\"16. Create an agency\" data-section=\"create-agency\">\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">16. Create an agency<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Pros: <\/strong>Scalable, high income potential, gets you away from trading time for&nbsp;money<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cons: <\/strong>High overhead in the form of employees, reliant on finding and training good people and good clients<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019ve found that you enjoy freelancing but want to scale it up and hire other people to do the client work for you, creating an agency is the perfect next step. However, it\u2019s definitely not for everyone and requires a much different skill&nbsp;set.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>An agency allows you to hire others to do your client work for you, freeing you up to focus on higher-level business operations like marketing and company direction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>But this is a big step, as you\u2019ll need to hire people you can depend on without compromising quality of work\u2014and it makes you more dependent on finding (and keeping) high-quality clients. What happens if you make a hire and lose a client? How will you pay their salary? These are things you need to think&nbsp;about.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The income potential of an agency is exponentially higher than doing the work yourself because it removes your time constraint and the limit on how many clients you can work with at one time. But only if you become a good manager of both people and projects.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"post-nav-link clearfix\" id=\"section1\"><a class=\"subhead-anchor\" data-tip=\"tooltip__copielink\" rel=\"#section1\"><svg width=\"19\" height=\"19\" viewBox=\"0 0 14 14\" style><g fill=\"none\" fill-rule=\"evenodd\"><path d=\"M0 0h14v14H0z\" \/><path d=\"M7.45 9.887l-1.62 1.621c-.92.92-2.418.92-3.338 0a2.364 2.364 0 0 1 0-3.339l1.62-1.62-1.273-1.272-1.62 1.62a4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.885 5.884l1.62-1.62L7.45 9.886zM5.527 5.135L7.17 3.492c.92-.92 2.418-.92 3.339 0 .92.92.92 2.418 0 3.339L8.866 8.473l1.272 1.273 1.644-1.643A4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.897 2.22L4.254 3.863l1.272 1.272zm-.66 3.998a.749.749 0 0 1 0-1.06l2.208-2.206a.749.749 0 1 1 1.06 1.06L5.928 9.133a.75.75 0 0 1-1.061 0z\" style \/><\/g><\/svg><\/a><div class=\"link-text\" data-anchor=\"17. Become a consultant\" data-section=\"become-consultant\">\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">17. Become a consultant<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Pros: <\/strong>High income potential, can be done on a part-time basis&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cons: <\/strong>Requires high-level skills, reliant on finding clients<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>While a coach helps people learn how to do something, a consultant comes in and tells people how to fix specific problems.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For example, I am an SEO consultant. Businesses hire me to look at their website for SEO issues and to get a strategy they can execute to get more traffic from Google\u2014typically a one-off service. I also offer SEO coaching services in which I teach people how to do SEO, but it\u2019s a separate service that\u2019s usually ongoing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You could also offer marketing, management, sales, accounting, and many other types of consulting services. It just depends on your skill&nbsp;set.<\/p>\n<p>Consulting is one of my favorite online service business ideas because you can start it in any industry with your existing transferrable skills.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"post-nav-link clearfix\" id=\"section1\"><a class=\"subhead-anchor\" data-tip=\"tooltip__copielink\" rel=\"#section1\"><svg width=\"19\" height=\"19\" viewBox=\"0 0 14 14\" style><g fill=\"none\" fill-rule=\"evenodd\"><path d=\"M0 0h14v14H0z\" \/><path d=\"M7.45 9.887l-1.62 1.621c-.92.92-2.418.92-3.338 0a2.364 2.364 0 0 1 0-3.339l1.62-1.62-1.273-1.272-1.62 1.62a4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.885 5.884l1.62-1.62L7.45 9.886zM5.527 5.135L7.17 3.492c.92-.92 2.418-.92 3.339 0 .92.92.92 2.418 0 3.339L8.866 8.473l1.272 1.273 1.644-1.643A4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.897 2.22L4.254 3.863l1.272 1.272zm-.66 3.998a.749.749 0 0 1 0-1.06l2.208-2.206a.749.749 0 1 1 1.06 1.06L5.928 9.133a.75.75 0 0 1-1.061 0z\" style \/><\/g><\/svg><\/a><div class=\"link-text\" data-anchor=\"18. Flip domains\" data-section=\"flip-domains\">\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">18. Flip domains<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Pros: <\/strong>Relatively low cost to start, good side gig, big payout potential<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cons: <\/strong>Highly competitive, requires some luck, high risk of losing money<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Domains (www.thisisadomain.com) are an important part of the online world. Some people are willing to pay a lot of money for the right domain. And since only one person can register a domain, if you have a domain someone wants, they can pay you for&nbsp;it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I have a friend who paid over $10,000 to get the .com version of his business\u2019s domain (he had been using a .co for years). So it can be fairly lucrative.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In fact, here\u2019s a <a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/List_of_most_expensive_domain_names\">list of domain names and how much they sold for<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-154088\" src=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image2-9.png\" alt=\"List of domain names and how much they sold for\" width=\"566\" height=\"485\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image2-9.png 754w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image2-9-496x425.png 496w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 566px) 100vw, 566px\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The catch is that you need to know what people may value in a domain name and how much it may be worth. You have to get good at hunting for bargain domain names and predicting what will be wanted and what may be a waste of money\u2014and you always risk buying a domain that you ultimately lose money on or can\u2019t&nbsp;sell.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"post-nav-link clearfix\" id=\"section1\"><a class=\"subhead-anchor\" data-tip=\"tooltip__copielink\" rel=\"#section1\"><svg width=\"19\" height=\"19\" viewBox=\"0 0 14 14\" style><g fill=\"none\" fill-rule=\"evenodd\"><path d=\"M0 0h14v14H0z\" \/><path d=\"M7.45 9.887l-1.62 1.621c-.92.92-2.418.92-3.338 0a2.364 2.364 0 0 1 0-3.339l1.62-1.62-1.273-1.272-1.62 1.62a4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.885 5.884l1.62-1.62L7.45 9.886zM5.527 5.135L7.17 3.492c.92-.92 2.418-.92 3.339 0 .92.92.92 2.418 0 3.339L8.866 8.473l1.272 1.273 1.644-1.643A4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.897 2.22L4.254 3.863l1.272 1.272zm-.66 3.998a.749.749 0 0 1 0-1.06l2.208-2.206a.749.749 0 1 1 1.06 1.06L5.928 9.133a.75.75 0 0 1-1.061 0z\" style \/><\/g><\/svg><\/a><div class=\"link-text\" data-anchor=\"19. Flip websites\" data-section=\"flip-websites\">\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">19. Flip websites<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Pros: <\/strong>Relatively low cost to start, good side gig, big payout potential<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cons: <\/strong>Requires some luck and patience, some risk of losing money<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>One step up from flipping domains is flipping actual websites. You can buy cheap websites (sometimes even with good domain names), revamp them, and even do some basic SEO on them. Then you can resell them for a profit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can also build your own websites from scratch and sell them. Typically, the <a href=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/how-much-is-my-website-worth\/\">value of a website<\/a> comes from one of three things:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>How much money it makes (usually a 3X multiple of annual revenue).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The value of the domain name (if someone really wants or needs&nbsp;it).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The value of its traffic and <a href=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/what-are-backlinks\/\">backlink<\/a> profile (backlinks from certain publications can be really valuable, such as from Forbes or The New York&nbsp;Times).<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p>So you can <a href=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/start-affiliate-marketing-with-no-money\/\">build an affiliate site that earns revenue<\/a> and then sell it for an immediate influx of cash. Or you can buy and improve an existing site by doing conversion rate optimization, working on SEO, and <a href=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/affiliate-marketing-programs\/\">finding higher-paying affiliate partners<\/a>\u2014then resell it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can buy and sell websites through marketplaces like Flippa, Empire Flippers, or FE International. Although the best deals will typically be private ones.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-154090\" src=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image4-16.jpg\" alt=\"Empire Flippers website marketplace \" width=\"1894\" height=\"652\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image4-16.jpg 1894w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image4-16-680x234.jpg 680w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image4-16-768x264.jpg 768w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/image4-16-1536x529.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1894px) 100vw, 1894px\"><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"post-nav-link clearfix\" id=\"section1\"><a class=\"subhead-anchor\" data-tip=\"tooltip__copielink\" rel=\"#section1\"><svg width=\"19\" height=\"19\" viewBox=\"0 0 14 14\" style><g fill=\"none\" fill-rule=\"evenodd\"><path d=\"M0 0h14v14H0z\" \/><path d=\"M7.45 9.887l-1.62 1.621c-.92.92-2.418.92-3.338 0a2.364 2.364 0 0 1 0-3.339l1.62-1.62-1.273-1.272-1.62 1.62a4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.885 5.884l1.62-1.62L7.45 9.886zM5.527 5.135L7.17 3.492c.92-.92 2.418-.92 3.339 0 .92.92.92 2.418 0 3.339L8.866 8.473l1.272 1.273 1.644-1.643A4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.897 2.22L4.254 3.863l1.272 1.272zm-.66 3.998a.749.749 0 0 1 0-1.06l2.208-2.206a.749.749 0 1 1 1.06 1.06L5.928 9.133a.75.75 0 0 1-1.061 0z\" style \/><\/g><\/svg><\/a><div class=\"link-text\" data-anchor=\"20. Become a virtual assistant\" data-section=\"become-virtual-assistant\">\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">20. Become a virtual assistant<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Pros: <\/strong>Always needed, great way to learn other business skills<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Cons: <\/strong>Pay is usually not the best, your hours are set by someone else<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>If you can\u2019t decide what else to do, becoming a virtual assistant (VA) is a great way to test the waters, learn some skills, and figure out what you like&nbsp;doing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Virtual assistants are usually jack-of-all-trades type of people. Your job is to do whatever your clients need you to do\u2014from sending emails, to editing articles, to data entry, and more. You\u2019ll often find yourself touching almost every part of your clients\u2019 businesses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can find virtual assistant job opportunities on sites like Indeed or ZipRecruiter, or you can offer your services directly to your own clients through your website and by reaching out to companies directly to promote yourself. You can also offer VA services on sites like Upwork or Fiverr.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Final thoughts on the best online business ideas worth considering<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Starting an online business is one of the best things you could ever do to have more freedom in your life. It has a higher income potential than most jobs, while also giving you flexibility to choose when and how you&nbsp;work.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>My recommendation is to try blending multiple online business ideas together to create various traffic and income streams. It\u2019s also a great way to test different tactics to see what works and what you enjoy&nbsp;doing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For example, you could create a website to showcase your services that also has a blog and podcast. That said, try to focus on one thing at a time and then add more as you figure out how to streamline the process to avoid spreading your attention too&nbsp;thin.&nbsp;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>I\u2019ve started over half a dozen online businesses in my life (three of which were highly successful, and one of which I sold for multiple six figures). What I\u2019ve learned is that there are a lot of ways to start<span class=\"ellipsis\">\u2026<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"read-more\">Read more \u203a<\/div>\n<p><!-- end of .read-more --><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":174,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"wp_typography_post_enhancements_disabled":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[390],"tags":[],"coauthors":[434],"class_list":["post-154037","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-marketing","odd"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.3 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>20 Online Business Ideas That Actually Work<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Starting an online business could be the gateway to more freedom in your life. 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