by Michele Schrier

Created on: May 06, 2008   Last Updated: May 20, 2008

The ways a person with Internet connection at home can make a living is countless. I have already examined many ways to do this, but there are many predators that take advantage of this technology. One rule of thumb that has helped me not be duped again (happens once shame on them, happens twice shame on me) is not to pay upfront for anything if you are not completely sure of creditability.

If there is a reputable site such as Elance.com, a membership fee is due upfront. Make sure that it is not a scam. Some of the ways that a person can really make money from home:

Writing

Press Release- many companies do not want to hire someone to write press releases. If you have experience, use your portfolio to drum up more work. If you do not have experience, write a sample press release and provide published work.

Articles and Content- magazines, newspapers, websites, etc. often take outside contributors. Writer's Market books and website is devoted to listings and tutorials on best ways get jobs. Make sure you include published work along with query letters (letter promoting yourself and idea). Some publications will publish work without paying that do not require prior publications. If you do not have a published work, then try a publication that does not compensate.

Reviews- some websites will pay for you to write reviews.

Blogs- advertisements on blogs have been getting a lot of revenue, but they need content. If the publisher of the blog is good with search engine optimization but not writing, you could be that writer and get paid.

Graphic Design

Clipart, graphics, etc- many companies are also outsourcing for graphic design. A portfolio (professional or not) will be mandatory.

Layout- layouts of newsletters, article, etc is not as easy as some people think. When attempting to put together a publication, some companies do not think of this until they cannot get a good layout. Offering your services with sample many be a rewarding rescue.

Sales

Ebay, Amazon, Price Grabber- good merchandise and a demand for it will be a killer combination. Unless you have at least one, I would not venture down this road. These sites do get a lot of traffic, but your listing(s) many be a drop in the bucket.

Having a website to promote yourself and services will help in your endeavors. Posting a listing on craigslist.org under services (pick the category that suits you best), and providing a link to your site will bring more work to you with less effort. Craigslist is free and, depending on the area, they have a lot of traffic.

Whatever avenue you choose, be careful to not pay more than you make and what your time is worth. Before committing to anything, do research. Scam alerts are available for the known rip-offs. Chatting with friends and family will help you think it through and maybe offer ideas that you would not think of.

Time management will be an area to look at once you have a paying job. Working at home sometimes is very distracting and lonely. Make sure you have a plan based on the needs of you, your family, and the demands of your at-home job.

If you can find a good balance of everything, you will have a great arrangement.

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