Garage sales used to be all the rage, but lately, selling used items online has become the preferred method for selling local items. For local sellers, Facebook Marketplace is a great way to sell things. Whether you’re trying to get rid of some old furniture or sell your car, Facebook Marketplace makes it easy to connect with buyers in your area. All you need to get started is an active Facebook account. This article will give you ten tips for selling on Facebook Marketplace. For beginners, however, the process can be a little daunting. You need to keep in mind selling restrictions and other information before selling. Why Sell on Facebook Marketplace?With over two billion active Facebook users, the chances are good that there are buyers in your area who are already using the platform. The main reason is that it’s convenient. Facebook Marketplace is integrated into the Facebook app, making it easy to list items and communicate with buyers without leaving the app. Another reason to sell on Marketplace is that it’s a great way to declutter. If you have items around your house that you no longer use or need, selling them on Marketplace is a quick and easy way to make extra cash. Who Should Sell on Facebook Marketplace?Anyone can sell on Marketplace, but it’s especially well-suited for people who:
Unlike most other e-commerce or reselling marketplaces, Facebook does not charge fees to list your items locally. The Facebook App vs. DesktopFacebook Marketplace is available on both desktop and mobile. Go to facebook.com/marketplace and click on the “Create New Listing” button. Select “Item for Sale” and “Add Photos.” Next, add relevant information about the item you are selling. Specify delivery method and publish your listing. To list an item on mobile, open the Facebook app and tap on the Marketplace icon. Tap on the “sell” icon, and in the popup under “create a new listing,” select “items.” Add relevant information about the item and at least one photo, choose a delivery method and publish the listing. Once your marketplace listing is live, buyers in your area will be able to see it and message you if they’re interested in buying it. Facebook Marketplace RulesProhibited Content
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What Method of Payment Should I Ask For?There are a few different options for payment, and the best method will depend on your preference and the buyer’s preference. For digital transactions, most sellers prefer to use PayPal for transactions. Paypal is great because it’s a secure way to receive payment, and there is usually some buyer protection in case of fraud. Some people also pay directly through the Facebook messenger app. It pretty much boils down to preference. How Do Shipping and Returns Work?If you’re selling an item that needs to be shipped, you need to set up a shipping method. The most common methods are through the post office. You can print out a shipping label from home and attach it to the package. If you want to use the shipping feature on Facebook, you’ll need to be selling as a shop. Selling as a shop comes with a selling fee of 5% per shipment or a flat fee of $.40 for shipments of $8 or less. If you choose this method, you’ll also need to have a set amount of time after each purchase to ship the item to the customer, or else the order may be canceled or deleted by Facebook. You can pay the shipping charges yourself or have the buyer pay. To get paid on items that used the shipping method, you must add tracking information and mark the package as shipped. If the buyer requests a refund for some reason, you have two business days to respond and solve the issue. You must issue a refund within two business days of receiving returned items. How to Communicate With Interested BuyersOnce a buyer expresses interest in an item, you will receive a notification from Facebook. You can then choose to message them through the Marketplace app or website. It’s essential to be polite and professional when communicating with buyers. Be sure to respond to messages promptly so that potential buyers are not left waiting. If a buyer asks a question about the item, answer it thoroughly. If they’re asking for additional photos, provide them with what they’re asking for. You should also avoid profanity or making any rude comments, as this could lead to negative feedback on your profile (which could hurt your chances of selling in the future). How to Handle Local Sales and PickupsIf you’re selling an item locally, you must add your location to the listing. When a buyer expresses interest in the item, they will also be able to see that it’s available for pick-up. For local sales, you have the option to meet in a public place or have the buyer come to your home. If you choose to meet in a public area, pick a safe location that is well-lit and busy. You should also avoid meeting at night or in isolated areas. If you choose to have the buyer come to your home, be sure to let them know ahead of time so that they are expecting it. It’s also important to remember that you are not obligated to sell an item just because someone expresses interest in it. If you feel unsafe or uncomfortable during the process, you can choose to cancel the sale. General Selling Tips
You should also be familiar with these shorthand selling phrases:
What to Do Before You List an ItemProduct ResearchThe first thing you need to do is research your product. You should start by looking at what similar items are selling for in the marketplace. Look at the prices, shipping costs, and condition of the items. Looking at these things will give you a general idea of what you can expect to sell your item for. Once you have a good understanding of the market, take a look at your product. Consider its condition, whether it’s new or used, how unique it is, and how much demand there is for it. These factors will affect how much you can sell your item for. Also, research the demand for the item you’re trying to sell. If there are a lot of other sellers selling the same product, you may have to price your item lower to compete. Take Good PhotosIf you want to sell your item quickly, you need to take good photos. Poor quality photos will make potential buyers think that the item is in poor condition, even if it’s not. Take a few different photos of the item from different angles. Make sure the lighting is good so that potential buyers can see all the item’s details. If you’re selling clothing, take a photo of the item on a person so that potential buyers can get an idea of how it would look on them. Write an Accurate DescriptionAfter taking some good photos, you need to write an accurate description of your product. Include as many details as possible, such as color, size, brand, material, etc. If there are any flaws with the item, mention them in the description. Mentioning flaws will help to avoid any potential returns or refunds. Set a Competitive PriceOnce you’ve researched your product and taken some good photos, you’re ready to set a price. Make sure to select a competitive price in line with what similar items are selling for on the marketplace. You can also offer discounts for bulk purchases or if the buyer is willing to pick up the item instead of shipping it. Is My Item A Seasonal Item?If you’re selling a seasonal item, such as winter clothing or Halloween decorations, it’s essential to price your item accordingly. Seasonal items are only in demand for a limited time, so you’ll need to make sure you sell them while they’re still in season. After the season is over, you can lower the price of your item to get rid of it quickly. Tips for Resellers and Private SellersWhere to Source Products FromThe first step to selling successfully on Facebook Marketplace is to source products from the right places. You want to find products in high demand and that you can sell for a profit. Some good places to source products include garage sales, thrift stores, and online retailers. Reselling Products from Retail StoresOne of the best places to source products is retail stores. You can find a wide variety of products at retail stores, and you can usually get them for a fraction of the retail price. You should watch for clearance items and seasonal sales to find good deals at retail stores. You can also sign up for store loyalty cards to get additional discounts. If You Have Your Own Brand, Sell Your Stuff!If you have your brand or product, you should sell it on Facebook Marketplace. You can usually get a higher price for branded products because buyers know they’re getting a quality product. To sell your brand successfully on Facebook Marketplace, take good photos and write an accurate description. You should also set a competitive price in line with what similar products are selling for. Advanced Selling TipsBoost ListingsIf you want your listing to get more exposure, you can boost it. When you boost a listing, more people will see it. Go to the listing and click on the “Boost” button to boost a listing. You’ll then choose how much money you want to spend on the boost and how long you want the boost to last. Offer Free Local DeliveryIf you offer free local delivery, you’ll be more likely to sell your item. People are always looking for deals, and free delivery is a great way to get people to buy your product. To offer free local delivery, go to the listing and click on the “Add Shipping” button. Then, select “Local Delivery” and enter your zip code. Post Your Listing in Local Selling GroupsAnother great way to get more exposure for your listing is to post it in local selling groups. There are many different selling groups on Facebook, and you can usually find one for your city or town. Use the Facebook Marketplace categories to determine which type of group will fit best for you. Renew Your ListingIf your listing is about to expire, you can renew it. Go to the listing and click on the “Renew” button to renew a listing. You can also choose to boost your listing when you renew it. Boosting your listing will help to get more people to see your listing. Final ThoughtsSelling on Facebook Marketplace can be a great way to make extra money. Follow these tips, and you’ll be well to become a successful seller. By following these tips, you will be able to set up your listing correctly from the start and avoid any issues later on. If potential buyers can’t find what they’re looking for or have trouble understanding your listing, they will move on to the next one. We hope these tips help you sell on Facebook Marketplace with a little less stress, and who knows, you might even feel the need to declutter and make some extra cash at the same time. This post was originally published on Hello Sensible. Via https://mylifeiguess.com/how-to-sell-on-facebook-marketplace/
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Care to land one of the top 15 highest-paying jobs today? It’s hard to think that anyone would refuse one of the highest-paid jobs or isn’t working on getting a hold of one. You might be a student struggling to finish your four-year college degree or someone who thinks your current field isn’t for you. We are listing all the most lucrative jobs globally, so you can change or mold your career according to what you think is the best for you. Top 15 Highest Paying Jobs To Try Now1. NeurosurgeonBeing a neurosurgeon is one of the most highly specialized occupations globally. Making a six-figure salary of $381,500 per year is the top paying job globally, taking the top spot in our list of high-paying jobs. There seems to be no better-paying job than this. Being a neurosurgeon requires an immense amount of education and experience in the medical field. It is a highly demanding job which makes sense when you have to deal with the intricate details of the human nervous system. The career path to becoming a neurosurgeon is long and hard, but the payoff is certainly worth it. The educational requirements for being a specialist surgeon are stringent. After eight years of med school plus residency and a year in general surgery, you’re finally out the doorstep and beginning your journey as a neurosurgeon. A minimum of five years and a maximum of seven years of further education and training in a neurosurgery school or program is required. Also, being in healthcare is a very recession-proof job field, where you’ll have high job security. 2. AnesthesiologistsBeing an anesthesiologist is an extremely rewarding job. Taking home an annual paycheck of $331,190 is why this career option is in our second spot. To get paid with that amount comes with its fair share of responsibility and hardship. It’s a highly specialized field that requires you to complete four years of medical school, followed by a minimum of four years of residency. Past that point, employment opportunities are plentiful, and six figures don’t come easy. Uncertainty is a significant factor in this job. You might be following a particular schedule, but surgeries can be very long, and a minor mishap can further prolong the procedure. An anesthesiologist’s job doesn’t end after the surgery: they are responsible for relieving the patients’ pain even after they are out of the operation. 3. Data ScientistThe field of IT is ever-growing, more so in data science. LinkedIn has reported a high-demand trend with a 46% increase in Data Science job openings since 2019. “A hot market for Data Scientists” is how Fortune puts it, while the Bureau of Labor Statistics forecasts a 22% increase in information research scientist jobs for this decade. A data scientist earns an average of $150,000 annual wage. Emphasis on average as this isn’t a fixed number, and the more experience you have, the better opportunities are presented to you. So if you are thinking about getting your software engineering degree or diploma, this should help you decide. There isn’t a lot of saturation in the data science field yet, and the field itself is vast and full of endless opportunities. 4. Obstetricians and GynecologistsGenerally referred to as OB-GYNs, this is the combination of two fields in one. Obstetricians deal with the surgical aspect of childbirth. On the other hand, gynecologists handle and help their patients by prescribing medicines and primarily dealing with their reproductive health. Professional salary data states that OB-GYNs’ wage is around $208,000 per year, making it one of the best-paying jobs. This occupation comes with its fair share of high-pressure scenarios and irregular schedules. Babies don’t care whether you’re at a party or sleeping after 36 hours of staying awake. An OB-GYN is responsible for the health of their patients and their babies, making sure both of them are safe and sound and continue to remain that way. Besides that, dealing with non-baby-related stuff is also part of the job description, such as acting as medical counselors and advisors for women. 5. PsychiatristOccupational employment statistics from the Bureau of Labor Statistics state that psychiatrists go home with an average annual salary of $249,760. Psychiatrists deal with health issues related to the mind. They help diagnose the problem, identify the probable cause, and help your patients deal with it. They help their patients generally every step of their way to betterment. This profession might take a toll on you mentally and physically. Keeping balance is crucial for your own and your patient’s sake. 6. Chief Executive Officer (CEO)Now, this isn’t a job you can get right after getting your Bachelor’s Degree unless you own a start-up, then you can appoint yourself as the CEO of your company. Congratulations, you made it! The median annual salary of a CEO is $200,140. This job comes with a lot of responsibility. You have to oversee many people working under you, and it’s your job to make sure both the people and the company under you prosper. Several years of experience in the relevant field are required to make the proper decisions that will take the company or organization you’re responsible for to even greater heights. It’s one of the most important jobs for women, as you’ll be a role model for many other women who want to climb the corporate ladder. Even in this era, only 9.2% of Fortune 500 companies have a female CEO. While this is a significant climb from barely 1% in 2000, we still have a long way to go. 7. ProsthodontistYou’ve probably seen an old grandma take out her teeth and put them in a glass full of water beside her bed. Most likely on TV. Well, a prosthodontist made those prostheses. Their responsibilities include designing and constructing oral prostheses for their patients. Every mold differs with each patient and has to be catered to accordingly. A bit of good handiwork and creativity is a plus point for a prosthodontist. A prosthodontist makes approximately $196,960 per year for all this work, making it one of the highest-paying occupations. 8. DentistDentists charge a nice amount for their services, and rightfully so. Like other doctors, they also have to grind for many years in dental school to get their degrees. Dealing with everything related to your teeth, gums, and everything in between is the job description of a dentist. They take home around $174,110 per year on average for their services. Being a dentist is one of the most rewarding and highest-paid jobs in America. 9. Airline PilotsBeing an airline pilot is one of the best jobs that pay well. They make absolute bank while traveling worldwide and seeing all sorts of destinations while getting paid. Such great benefits, right? So if your dream is to travel around the world, then getting a job in aerospace as an airline pilot is one of the best careers. On top of that, making an average salary of $198,190 per year doesn’t sound too bad, does it now? 10. Petroleum EngineerDealing with natural oil and gasses is a definite way to make good salaries. After all, these are the things that make the world go around. A petroleum engineer extracts gas and black gold in their raw form to be processed. Furthermore, thinking of ways to streamline the process and make it cost-efficient is also part of the job. Working on a petroleum engineering degree, passing the licensure exam, and pursuing a career in this field will bring big bucks. The median salary is $154,780 per year for this job. 11. IT ManagerAt the heart of every company nowadays is its IT infrastructure, and the person tasked to maintain, improve, upgrade, and supervise this infrastructure is an IT manager. The average yearly salary for this job is $142,530. Being an IT manager or information systems manager is a lot of responsibility. When a computer network security breach or crash occurs, it could cost the company millions of dollars. That’s why IT skills are among the high-income skills that are good to have. Usually requiring a college degree in engineering or computer technology, the job also demands a lot of experience in multiple aspects of the IT field. The rapid advancement of technology is also an important factor in why IT managers earn a high income, and their demand will only grow. Their job is to keep up with the trends so their company doesn’t fall behind the curve. 12. Big Data EngineerProperly analyzing the latest trends and user behavior is crucial to staying ahead of the competition. The data generated by the masses each day is monstrous. A Big Data Engineer analyzes all that data, extracting crucial information from it and ensuring that such information will improve ongoing or future projects. Aside from data analytics, handling the entire process of developing and deploying applications that help make the job easier is also part of the job. Big data engineers are very well paid. Making $140,000 per year on average is a good deal seeing how jobs related to the IT field are very high in demand. 13. Blockchain EngineerMaking over $150,000 per year and becoming a blockchain engineer is a solid decision. Plus, the job title sounds pretty cool. Blockchain engineers manage business models and go through the software development process using blockchain technology. That means developing and deploying applications and implementing solutions according to the company’s needs. Due to the rise in the dealing and influx of multiple cryptocurrencies during recent times, the job growth in this field has been immense, and all of them offer a high salary. 14. Marketing ManagerMarketing managers need to be people with sharp and creative minds to make them best suited for this job. A general understanding of the human psyche is essential: you’ll be devising strategies to best capture your target audience’s attention, for which you also need above-average communication skills. In this managerial role, you will be overseeing the creative process and give it a thumbs up if everything is well. Being a marketing manager is a high-paid job, making approximately $145,620 per year. One benefit of this job is the bonuses or commissions you might get depending on the sales. The amount, in turn, depends on the policy of your company or organization. 15. LawyerThe last entry in our list of highest-paying jobs in the US is being a lawyer. The profession has firm roots throughout human history, and everyone is well aware of it. On average, a law practitioner earns $141,890 per year. The road to becoming a lawyer comes with exams that you’ll have to pass to get your law school or college degree. You then must pass the bar. After that, you get your license to practice law with a private law firm or with government agencies. Since the legal field is vast, there are many routes you can take; starting your firm is one of them. One thing to note is that this being one of the oldest professions, the job market for this might be a bit more saturated and the competition tough. ConclusionHaving identified and listed the top-paying jobs at present, have you decided? It’s up to you to consider whether these high-paying careers fit your preferences, skill-set, and life goals. But overall, any of these jobs would contribute to fattening up your bank account in the future and giving back to society through the important functions and services they play. Choose well! This post originally appeared on Savoteur. Via https://mylifeiguess.com/highest-paying-jobs/ When it comes to your finances, sometimes, no matter how well you plan, you’ll end up in a situation where you need to make money fast. Maybe you can’t access your bank account today or lost your part-time job and desperately need cash. Whatever the case, you’ll want to make sure that you can make money quickly to sustain yourself. Many side hustle ideas can help you make extra money. Here’s how to make quick money in one day with 11 simple ideas. 1. Drive People AroundOne of the best ways to start quickly making money is to work for an app-based ride-hail service like Uber or Lyft. You can easily make fast cash and make $100 a day with these apps. Furthermore, you can work your schedule and decide who you want to pick up and drive around. The more you drive your car around, the more extra cash you’ll earn. Of course, not everyone can make quick cash by chauffeuring people around. It would help if you were at least 21 years old, have a valid license, and have at least one year of driving experience to become a driver with most of these apps. Additionally, most apps will require you to have an eligible vehicle, a clean driving record, proof of your vehicle registration, and vehicle insurance if you want to get started as a driver. 2. Sell Gift CardsHave you recently received some Amazon gift cards as a present and don’t know what to do with them? Another way to earn extra money quickly is to take your unused gift cards and sell them! Sites like CardCash allow you to earn back up to 90% of the total value of the gift cards. Many people have tons of gift cards lying around for stores that they’re unlikely to frequent. If this sounds like you and the gift cards haven’t expired, you can quickly sell them and make extra money! 3. Join a Focus GroupOne way to make good money, potentially try out some excellent products, and earn gift cards is to join paid focus groups. Joining a focus group lets you review products and services for free and get paid! First, you need to fill out an online application form on a focus group website and then wait for an invitation. The organizations hosting these studies usually host them in person, but they can sometimes be done online, usually through a video call. If you’re selected, it can be a great way to make money online. 4. Take Online SurveysMany online survey sites and apps will pay you for simply filling out some questionnaires. Unfortunately, the money you earn from these surveys is not nearly enough to help you escape your 9-5 job or gain financial freedom. Still, it can be the little boost you might require in times of need. Some survey sites include:
5. Do Odd JobsPeople are always in need of various jobs in and around the house. If you look hard enough, there is almost always a temporary opening for an odd job that needs doing. Whether it’s pet sitting, mowing the lawn, cleaning the house, or washing a car, there’s sure to be a job available that suits your strengths. You can find potential gigs on sites like Craigslist or use odd job apps to locate profitable opportunities near you. If you’re working for somebody you don’t know, make sure you meet them in a well-frequented area. 6. Host a Yard SaleDo you have a bunch of stuff lying around that you’ll likely never use again? Are you looking for an opportunity to declutter your house while also making quick money? If so, consider hosting a yard sale and getting rid of anything you don’t want. Look around your house for books, clothes, furniture, or antiques that you don’t use and consider putting them up for sale. The old saying goes, “one man’s trash is another man’s treasure.” Perhaps something that’s not worth much to you is worth a lot to your neighbor, and you’ll be paid a reasonable amount for it. When hosting a yard sale or garage sale, find a good time when many people pass by the area. If you have enough items, consider holding a multi-day yard sale over the weekend. Also, make sure that you advertise. The more people know about your yard sale, the more people will show up, and the higher your potential earnings. If done right, a yard sale can be a great way to get rid of unwanted stuff and make quick money. 7. Deliver FoodIn the past, if you wanted to make money via food delivery, you would need to work for a designated restaurant or food chain as their designated delivery person. Nowadays, you can make money right away through food delivery apps like Uber Eats, Postmates, and DoorDash. A food delivery app will connect you with restaurants in need of delivery, and as long as you fulfill the order, you get paid. With food delivery, you have the comfort of selecting your mode of transportation, whether that be a bike, a car, or your own two feet. On top of that, you also have the flexibility of choosing when you want to work and can primarily make your schedule. 8. Sell Used BooksIf you have some used novels or textbooks lying around your house, you can trade your books in for cash. This is a simple way to make money fast and free up some space on your bookshelf. Just be sure not to get rid of any books you’ll want to one day read in the future. You can trade-in your books with services like Bookscouter, Amazon’s trade-in program, Decluttr, Half Price Books, and Powell’s Books. Alternatively, you can list your books on sites like eBay or Craigslist and try to maximize your earnings. 9. Find Unclaimed MoneyUnclaimed money is any forgotten money that rightfully belongs to you. This cash can include money from a dormant bank account that you forgot about or an uncashed cheque lying around. Alternatively, there is a chance that you have a wealthy relative who died without leaving a will, and you’re entitled to a part of their inheritance. To find out whether you have any unclaimed money floating around, you’ll need to visit your government’s webpage and follow the steps listed. In some instances, the government requires you to file a claim form and mail it to your government as proof of ownership of the money floating around. Though there is a slight chance that you’ll have unclaimed money, if you need to make quick money, it’s still worth a shot. 10. Review MusicIf you love to listen to new music, consider writing reviews of songs and albums for pay. There are plenty of websites requiring people to write music reviews to screen new and upcoming singers and songwriters. All you have to do is join one of these websites and create your profile. Once your profile is approved, you can begin listening to music and writing reviews. The more music you listen to, the more money you can potentially make. Here are some websites to check out if you want to review music and make money:
11. Sell Stock PhotosIf you love taking photos, you can make quick money online by taking incredible pictures and then selling them on stock photo sites. All you need to do is sign up as a contributor, and you can start listing your photos for sale. Some popular stock photo websites are Getty Images, Shutterstock, Pexels, and Pixabay. You’ll earn a percentage of each purchased photo for most of these websites. If you’re just getting started now, it might be tough to make quick money in one day, so be sure to open your account soon so that if and when you happen to have a lot of photos to upload one day, you have an opportunity to make some cash. Recap: How to Make Quick Money in One DayIf you happen to find yourself in a financial hiccup, you’ll need to have the necessary tools to get you back on your feet. Knowing how to make quick money in one day is one such tool. This post has provided you with a few different ways to make money quickly and help with your financial situation. Remember, however, that you need to go beyond short-term solutions and implement passive income ideas to achieve long-term financial stability. Only then will you be able to achieve financial independence. This article originally appeared on Wealth of Geeks. Via https://mylifeiguess.com/how-to-make-quick-money-in-one-day/ For most people, budgeting is hard. It takes time and forces you to dive deep into your spending habits – pulling your head out of the sand. Finding a way to make budgeting your money as easy as possible may give you the nudge you need to follow through and conquer adulting. Whether you earn $15 an hour or $200,000 a year, having a reasonable spending plan is key to financial success. There are a lot of different budgeting apps on the market these days. While they all have unique features, some stand out among the rest. This article will learn about the best parts of the top 10 best budgeting apps and how to use them effectively. Days of pulling out a checkbook to sign over the funds in your checking account are gone. Modern technology has brought you budgeting tools and finance apps to track your expenses from that tiny computer in your pocket. If you’re looking for the best budgeting app for free, Mint is the most popular choice. Goodbudgets is an excellent free choice that serves those who enjoy a digital cash envelope system. Honeydue is the best free app for couples who want to tag team their finances and reach their financial goals. Budgeting lets you know exactly where your money will allocate funds for family entertainment, unexpected bills, vacations, and holidays. Best Budgeting AppsMost budgeting apps will automatically connect to your bank account, making it easier to track your spending and see where your money is going. Some of these apps do more than that. 1. MintThis app from the parent company Intuit is the most popular free budgeting app and is excellent for people looking for a simple and effective way to budget their money. Mint allows you to track your spending, create a budget, and see where you can save money. You can also set up bill reminders to never miss a payment. Mint allows you to categorize your spending into fixed expenses like rent and cable, food including dining out and groceries, and transportation expenses like car payments and gas. It also allows you to add your categories like children and pets. Mint is relatively hands-off and almost magically tracks everything for you. You have to look at it and make decisions based on what it tells you. Bonus: it also gives you a free credit score Because it’s free for you to use, there are advertisements. Many find this a turnoff, but it is the price to pay for a free app. Anika says: “My husband and I have an app to track our daily spending. I love the Mint app because it’s free and very user-friendly. I like it because it’s very user-friendly with clearly categorizing expenses.” Cost: Free 2. YNAB (You Need A Budget)This app is perfect for those looking to handle their spending and start managing your money. YNAB helps you create a budget and track your progress so you can see where you need to make adjustments. Using the zero-based budget theory teaches you to become more hands-on and intentional with your spending. You can also connect this app to your bank account to see your transactions in real-time. YNAB also has some great features like goal setting and personal support. Tiffany writes: “I love using YNAB! I discovered You Need A Budget over a decade ago, and I still use it today. It helps me keep my budget balanced to the penny. It syncs between phones and desktop and enables you to be deliberate about every single dollar. I’ve used it to pay off student loans, save for my children’s futures, and manage my small business finances”. Cost: $14.99 a month or $98.99 a year 3. EveryDollar:Dave Ramsey and the Ramsey Solutions team created this app. It follows the theory behind a cash lifestyle and promotes debt freedom. It uses the zero-based budgeting platform yet simplifies the system for easier money management. If you’re a fan of the Dave Ramsey budgeting style and work hard to get out of debt, this app may work well. However, it’s pricey compared to the other apps discussed in this article. When you’re working on paying off debt and organizing your finances, the price tag on this is a little hard to absorb. EveryDollar helps you create a budget in just a few minutes and then track your progress to stay on track. Cost: Free for a 14-day trial. $59.99 for three months, $99.99 for six months, and $129.99 for one year 4. Goodbudget:Goodbudget is all about the envelopes, and if you’re a fan of dividing your money into buckets or envelopes, this might be an excellent choice. For the price, it’s also an alternative to Every Dollar. This app doesn’t connect to your bank account, so the initial setup is a little more work. Some people might find this a plus as privacy is essential. Others might find that the least amount of work they have to do, the better the chances of success. This app is perfect for those who want to share their budget with a spouse or partner. Goodbudget helps you create a shared budget and track your progress to make sure you’re on the same page financially. Goodbudget offers free and limited use for envelopes, devices, and accounts. A free version is a great idea when struggling with money management. Jessica says: “Goodbudget is an easy app that anyone can use. The free version is perfect to start with and will help you plan your finances. You can enter your account balances, debts, and income and then portion out that income into different “envelopes” and spending categories. You can sync it with other family members so they can see the budget too. The biggest downside is that it doesn’t automatically pull your accounts and balance info; you must manually enter it. I love that it’s easy to use, and I don’t have to mess with syncing all of my accounts electronically. I also like that the other family members can see what is you spend, where, and which envelope money went.” Cost: Free for limited envelopes, devices, and accounts. $8 per month for their plus account. 5. MvelopesMvelopes is also a bucket or envelope type app. Unlike Goodbudget, Mvelopes does connect to your bank account. This app is perfect for those who want to budget their money and stay on track with their spending. Mvelopes help you create a budget and then tracks your progress so you can make adjustments as needed. However, unlike some other budgeting apps, Mvelopes allows you to set up a plan for your money before it;’s spent rather than tracking how much you’ve already paid. Cost: Basic Plan is $5.97 per month; Premier Plan is $9.97 per month and comes with a free 30-day trial. The Plus Plan is $19.97 per month and comes with a quarterly meeting with a financial coach and long-term goal planning sessions. 6. PocketGuardThis app is perfect for those who want a simplified version to ensure they’re not overspending. PocketGuard helps you create a budget and then track your progress so you can make adjustments as needed. You can also connect this app to your bank account to see your transactions in real-time. Pocket Guard is a hands-off approach to managing money, so this might not work for you if you’re anting to micromanage your funds in a digital world. Cost:$7.99 per month, $79.99 per year, or $99.99 for a lifetime membership. 7. SimplifiQuicken created Simplifi, the same company that brought us Quickbooks – they know budgeting. The app also handles IRAs, 401Ks, mortgages, other investments, and credit card tracking, so all your money management avenues intersect in one palace to easily access. Simplifi will not only set you up with a budget but will also track your spending and help you achieve your financial goals. And it gives you the choice of what type of budget you choose to follow. One of the thighs like about this app is the ability to give you insights into your spending. It’s like having a financial coach in your pocket. Cost: $5.99 per month or $47.88 per year 8. HoneydueHoneydue is great for couples who want to tag team their financial goals. Your accounts will sync up, so you are on the same page. It allows you to automatically categorize your spending, track what’s been paid, and set up custom limits, so overspending is a thing of the past. Honeydue will also send reminders for upcoming expenses and bills so you both can tag-team your finances without logging into multiple sites. It will sync up joint bank accounts, separate accounts, and credit card accounts. Cost: Free 9. DigitDigit is an online bank account, and budgeting app rolled into one. They call themselves a “smart bank account that constantly guides your money in the right direction.” It’s a way to directly manage your money and physically move it around from bill paying to saving money and investing—all in one money management system for those who don’t want the hassle of multiple accounts. Cost: Free for 30 days, then $5.00 per month 10. Qube MoneyLike Digit, Qube Money is an online bank that allows you to divide up your funds into envelopes. Instead of connecting your present bank information, you set up a Qube account (similar to a Capital One 360 account). And then create your budgets from there. They have a basic plan that markets to individuals, a premium plan for individuals or couples to “up their game,” and a family plan that allows kids to have their debit card to dip their toes into financial education. Their debit card is attached to their envelope. Cost: Free for the basic plan. $8 per month for their premium and $15 per month for their family plan No matter what budgeting app you choose, these apps can help you take control of your finances and start saving money. Be sure to check out the features of each app to see which one is right for you. How do These Features Help you Manage Your Money Better?You may find that you rather keep track of your personal finances in a budget planner or spreadsheet, never giving too much thought to different budgeting software. But mixing it up and trying a budget app to manage your monthly expenses might inspire you to meet some goals a little faster. The best budgeting apps can help you manage your money better. First, they can help you track your spending and make adjustments. Second, they can help you create a budget and ensure you’re not overspending. And third, they can help you keep an eye on your credit cards, loans, and mortgage as those balances slowly decrease. How to Get the Most Out of These Apps and Use Them Effectively.To get the most out of your budgeting app, use it regularly. Track your spending to see where your money is going and make adjustments as needed. And be sure to create a budget to see where your money needs to be allocated and ensure you’re not overspending. You should also connect your budgeting app to your bank account to see your transactions in real-time and make sure you’re not missing any payments. By using your budgeting app regularly, you can take control of your finances and start managing money. What is the Best Budgeting App for You?The best budgeting app for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for an app that can help you track your spending and make adjustments as needed, EveryDollar or PocketGuard may be a good option. If you’re looking for an app that can help you create a budget and stick to it, YNAB or Goodbudget may be a better option. And if you’re looking for an app that can help you track your investment portfolio, Personal Capital may be the best choice. Whichever budgeting app you choose, check out the features to ensure it has everything you need to manage your money better. Final Thoughts On The Best Budgeting AppsBudgeting apps can help you pay your bills, teach you how to save, pay off debt, eliminate student loans, and find financial freedom. In this article, you have learned about the different types of best budgeting apps, how to use them and which one is best for you. You should now be able to choose the app that will work best for your needs and start taking control of your family’s finances. These apps can help you save money by tracking your spending, creating a budget, and connecting to your bank account. Be sure to use them regularly to get the most out of them and save money. This post originally appeared on Hello Sensible. Via https://mylifeiguess.com/best-budgeting-apps/ Graduation day is coming! Woohoo! It’s time to celebrate this exciting milestone for a loved one. Graduates deserve significant praise from their family and friends for this achievement amid the pandemic. Indeed, they will have new challenges ahead, forking over money for college or an apartment, as they move closer to their career. Graduation gifts remind them to savor this moment of seeing their accomplishments in the rearview mirror as they move forward. What Students Can’t Use On CampusColleges restrict what students can have on campus, and the rooms are small. The average dorm size is 200-225 square feet for two roommates. Each college may differ, so check their website or Admissions office for their specific rules. Of course, when college students move off-campus, the list can be more expansive. I am touring many campuses with student guides, and they are happy to tell us what first-year students should not bring into the dorms. They gave helpful advice, including:
That doesn’t mean you can’t give beautiful jewelry or other items above to celebrate your special graduate! 48 of The Best Graduation GiftsWe have a list of gifts you may like for your young graduate. Many of these presents are appropriate for those who finished college, share apartments or houses, or independently. Our focus is on high school grads rising as first-year college students. Graduation Gifts For The DormLet’s start with the basics. It is daunting for high school grads to arrive at their chosen college and roam around to find their dorm room, bringing all they hoped they would need for this new journey. Most dorm rooms are for two people, though larger rooms may have four students. College students may have a small space, but they will want to fill it with the comforts of home. There are many things your targeted grad may need and desire in their room. You can go to Dormify or buy from Amazon, which can ship directly to their room. We have some ideas that can please any grad. 1. Bath Towel SetYou have to start with the basics and look for luxury cotton towel sets that are soft, heavy, absorbent, high quality, and can hold up after going through the laundry. You’ll find them to be affordable and come in several colors. 2. Cute PajamasSleepwear is so personal, and everything goes. However, getting a pair of sherpa-like loungewear feel may make sleeping very cozy on cold nights while remaining stylish. The hood is for extra fun. 3. Bathrobes or Dorm Towel WrapsChances are, the showers will be communal and down the hall. Bathrobes will be a necessity, along with shower shoes. It is easy to find dorm towel wraps with velcro or fasteners that may serve as alternatives for those who don’t like bathrobes. 4. Sleep Mask With Bluetooth HeadphonesTo go with the comfy sleepwear, college students sometimes have trouble falling asleep and may want extra help with sleep masks with Bluetooth headphones. The two-for-one benefits block out noise while you get to listen to your favorite music. That makes an excellent gift for those who need to calm down and listen to classical music or white noise. College students, especially, may have trouble falling asleep and may want extra help with this sleep mask to go with comfy sleepwear. My teen daughter, Alex, has a pair and sleeps soundly. 5. Shower shoesShower shoes are a terrific invention for college showers. Get the ones with thick soles known for being comfy and keeping you safe from slip and fall accidents with flip-flops. You can wear these in showers away from home, in hotels, in a dorm, or when getting a massage. 6. UGG SlippersAvailable for men and women, UGG slippers will keep you warm and comfortable through the academic year. They are cozy for sitting in front of the fire or walking around your house. Although a little pricey, they are considerably durable, based on my son’s experience wearing them for years. Dorms can get drafty, and the UGG slippers were in many dorm rooms we visited. 7. The Original COMFY Oversized Wearable Sherpa BlanketMy kids walk around all day long in a COMFY wearable sherpa blanket. I envy anyone wearing one as the product looks so comfortable. It’s reversible with its soft microfiber exterior. 8. Shower SpeakersCan’t shower without music? You can bring these must-have waterproof shower speakers to the dorms if you promise to keep the volume lower than you would in a shower at home. 9. Mini-StreamerDo you hate wrinkles? I do too, but I hate ironing more. You can’t bring your iron to the dorm, but mini or compact steamers can do the job. It’s a perfect size for travel and small spaces. 10. Vanity mirrorsLightweight mirrors with light modes and magnification won’t take up a lot of space and will help you look the best all year long. 11. Custom Wall TapestryCollege students like to personalize their dorm space, and they can do so in various ways. Wall tapestries can be large enough to cover the wall or just a piece. Make it something that reflects you and feels good. You may be able to hang neon lights with a custom saying, wall art, or personalized wall tapestry. Visit Etsy, Dormify, or Amazon for the best wall art variety. 12. Mesh Shower ToteQuick-dry waterproof mesh shower totes are among the most practical presents college students ever get from anyone. Yet, this item will help organize bathroom things with ample storage pockets and be at the ready when it’s shower time. 13. Brita Space Saver Water Filter PitcherAccording to the US National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, drinking fluids of about 10-15 cups daily is essential. You may want this Brita water filter pitcher, which can likely fit into a small refrigerator in the dorm room or your apartment. 14. Hydro FlaskWhen you are on the go, running between classes and the library, remember to take your hydro flask, among the most popular among college students for its durability. It is hard to see a Gen Zer without some kind of water bottle. 15. Echo DotsBringing Alexa to college may be a challenge. Echo Dots make great graduation gifts. However, you may want to check the college to see if their Wifi technology will work with smart speakers. Some colleges may give out these Echo Dots recognizing their value to students by providing music, an alarm clock, and Alexa for information. Students may have problems connecting these speakers to the college WiFi and require a router. Many colleges have rules preventing you from adding routers to the existing network. Contact the college to see if they allow Echo dots. Otherwise, you may have to leave Alexa home. 16. Weighted BlanketWeighted blankets, sometimes called gravity or anxiety blankets, are desirable for college students. However, be aware there is a general rule for picking out the correct weight by getting one as close to 10% of your body weight. If you weigh 150 pounds, then bring a 15-pound blanket. 17. Cozy BlanketsSome people may not want the feel of a weighted blanket and would prefer a sherpa blanket. This cozy blanket will cover you on drafty nights and is a more affordable alternative. 18. OXO Brew Compact Cold Brew Coffee MakerThere may be limitations on what you can bring into the dorm, but compact coffee makers like OXO Brew Compact Cold Brew Coffee Maker will fit easily in small spaces. Alternatively, consider the mini-Keurig, or the Ovente electric kettle that can be a solution. 19. Electric KettleWho doesn’t want the convenience of hot oatmeal or coffee before dashing to your class? According to many college grads, you can’t bring many appliances into the dorm, but you can bring an electric kettle. It is affordable, portable, and automatically shuts off. 20. Mini-KeurigAlternatively, if college students want to make coffee or tea in your room, the mini-Keurig can do the job for you without taking up much space. 21. Bombas SocksDo you have a sock fetish? Bombas socks are among the most comfortable socks and come in brightly colored athletic socks. The comfortable socks feature a honeycomb support system and “stay up” technology. College students recognize these socks and the mission of founders Randy Goldberg and David Heath to donate specially designed socks to the homeless for each pair of socks sold. 22. Criacr Phone Camera Phone LensDo you know someone who loves photography but doesn’t have the budget to do so? Consider the Criacr camera lens as a gift. The lens fits on your smartphone when you need a break from your studies to focus on photography and be in touch with nature. 23. Toiletry Bag For MenThese days, men have their choice in skin ointments that can rival women’s cosmetic bags. Young men would enjoy taking a travel toiletry at college and carrying their shaving kit and accessories overnight or on long weekends. Get a leather bag with many compartments to hold many items in place to avoid spillage. 24. Desk organizer Rose rose gold with suppliesDesk organizers are a necessity in any college dorm. Chances you will find many study halls to read and crank out your term projects, but you’ll want to have space for supplies in your room. Having a pretty desk organizer with space to include essential accessories is an added plus and a welcomed gift for someone who needs their supplies in one place. 25. Tile ProWho doesn’t lose their keys? Tile Pro is a powerful Bluetooth tracker, keys finder, and item locator for keys, bags, and other items. Tile Pro will do the trick when your mind is elsewhere and you can’t find your keys with no time to waste. 26. 148 Piece Tool SetDo you know someone handy who doesn’t have a tool kit? We asked around in my neighborhood hardware store and found out that 100-plus piece tool sets receive high praise for their high value and affordable price. This set is for people who may find themselves helping others and getting a few dollars on the side. 27. Graduation Teddy BearI still have my law school graduation Teddy Bear, and he is still in good shape all these years. It was a fun present when I received it, and it brings back a lot of memories now. It’s the next best thing to have your puppy with you. 28. MaxGear RFID Credit Card Holder ProtectorProtecting your credit cards from potential fraud is among the most practical gifts you can give someone. The MaxGear protector can hold up to ten cards, is durable, RFID-enabled, and available in different finishes. It can fit in a small purse or pocket. 29. Apple AirPods ProApple AirPods Pros are an excellent graduation gift for those who want to stay close to their music with comfort and noise cancellation technology. Heck, it makes a beautiful present for any kind of occasion. 30. Bose Quiet Comfort HeadphonesHeadphones make worthy gifts, but the Bose Quiet Comfort headphones are an excellent choice for those who enjoy over-the-ear headphones to bring to college and when preparing for exams or writing papers. I had an older wired version, and we (headphones and I) were inseparable when studying for the bar exam. 31. Travel Carryall BagYou can’t bring large luggage, but you will want a travel carryall bag to serve many purposes for traveling for a long weekend, to the gym, or anywhere else. It is light, attractive, and affordable. 32. Etsy Wish BraceletsSpending a lot of money doesn’t make the best gifts. Sometimes, giving a personal piece of art or jewelry can be so satisfying. Etsy has a large assortment of wish bracelets. There are many shops with terrific selections that are unique, often handmade, and very affordable. If you have the time, peruse around. 33. Laptop BagYou may not have to carry your textbooks to school like students once did. You will want to take this bag to the classroom, gym, and dining hall or socialize with friends. Having a laptop bag in college is indispensable. This bag is multipurpose and has versatile pockets for your phone, water bottle, and other supplies. 34. Gift CardsGift cards are a good idea if you would prefer to provide someone with the opportunity to get what they need or want. You may want to consider a graduation-style gift box rather than giving cash (which is never a bad idea, especially for those going off to college). Visit Amazon.com Gift Card and look for the Graduation Style Gift Box where you can slip your gift car. They have various designs. Gift cards are desirable gifts, especially from retailers, restaurants, or specialty stores near their college. For example:
35. Subscription BoxesSubscription boxes can be fun while providing a convenient service. This gift is nice to send to someone in your life who may have a tight schedule. College students qualify for sure! Try to get a box that fits the person’s personality.
For Health and WellbeingStaying healthy at college can challenge studying and socializing being higher priorities. While most first-year students live on campus for at least the first year and are privy to the campus’s gym, they may find it challenging to get there. Instead, they may discover small exercise gear to be most beneficial. I’ll grant you that colleges have yoga mats for you to use, but some things are more personal. In a new environment with new demands and perhaps sleep deprivation, graduation gifts centered around self-care and health make worthy presents they will appreciate. 36. Self-Care Pampering KitWho doesn’t need pampering? After completing high school or college, few women I know would not appreciate receiving a self-care kit to pamper themselves and relieve stress. It is time for relaxation and celebrating oneself for a job well done. Read: 50+ Self Care Gift Ideas For Under $50 in 2022 37. Bala BanglesBala has functional fitness equipment in all sizes, shapes, and colors, making a fun exercise gift that students can bring to the dorms. They began in 2018 and received funding from Mark Cuban and Maria Sharapova on Shark Tank, who helped fuel their expansion from Bala Bangles into exercise bars, rings, and on-the-go kits. 38. Foam RollerHave a kink in your neck from studying? High-density foam rollers come in various sizes for exercise, massages, and muscle recovery. Some people can’t go anywhere without one of these, and your dorm may allow you to bring it with you. 39. Fitbit SenseFitbit has an impressive line of smartwatches that measure steps, stairs, and much more. Fitbit Sense is the higher end of their offering but well below the price of an Apple Watch. If it is health stats for heart, stress management, and other trends you are after, then the Fitbit is among the best in class. 40. Skateboard vs. Bicycle: You ChooseThis subject deserves consideration if you already enjoy skateboarding or biking. It depends where the grad is going to use these items. Classes, dining halls, and dorms are usually within 15 minutes and walkable as long as you have that time. Bicycles are more helpful to use on campus or in town and have brakes. There are bike racks everywhere, but we heard that theft does happen. These grad gifts are excellent choices for those who ride and skate. For Avid ReadersCollege students hitting the books for a rigorous program may want a reprieve by reading for fun and inspiring readers outside of their studies. For book lovers, reading extends far beyond the classroom. According to a survey, researchers discovered that 93% of college students genuinely enjoy reading. They don’t have a lot of free time or money.
Final ThoughtsCelebrating one’s graduation is a meaningful event for the family, friends, and colleagues and a significant milestone for the graduates. Recognize your graduate for the accomplishment, especially during the past few years. This post originally appeared on Savoteur. Via https://mylifeiguess.com/best-graduation-gifts/ There is an overabundance of websites and apps that promises extra money or passive income, but which ones are legitimate? Don’t waste your time on shady and too good to be true opportunities! There are genuine ways to make money from home. We’ve compiled a list of genuine side hustles that you can do on your schedule and, of course, will supplement your full-time income. 1. Play Video GamesBelieve it or not, tons of apps like Freecash, Blitz, Lucktastic, and Mistplay will pay you for playing video games. While the apps are all unique in their own ways, they’re all fun and free to play. The process is pretty straightforward as well. You just have to download the app, have an internet connection, complete the tasks, and you can start earning! Available games vary from one app to another but expect a mix of digital card games, puzzles, and survival ones. 2. Have a Garage Sale on Online MarketplacesDo you own old and used stuffed animals, video games, books, or collectibles? What about exercise equipment, artwork, hats, and shoes? You can sell them on eBay, Poshmark, Mercari, and Bonanza and have an online garage sale. If you don’t want to sign-up, you can also list them on Facebook Marketplace. Whatever you’re trying to sell, the selling technique is the same – take a photo of your used item, perform market research on its used value, and post it on online marketplaces. For a higher probability of making a sale, always photograph your items with good lighting and snap from different angles. Make sure to disclose damages if there are any. Once you get good at selling your stuff, you can start going to flea markets and thrift stores to find stuff that you can resell online for higher prices. 3. Sell Unwanted and Unused Gift Cards on eBayDo you have unused gift cards eating space in your wallet? There is a thriving online market for gift cards. People like buying unwanted gift cards because they can get more bang for their buck. For instance, If you have a $50 gift card, you can sell it for $40 or $45. The more a discount you offer, the faster your unused gift card will sell. 4. Start a BlogDo you enjoy writing? You can make money from writing by starting a blog. Blogs have two primary sources of revenue: affiliate marketing and advertising, and both can offer passive income. So, how do these side hustles work? With affiliate marketing, you earn a profit or commission every time a person uses your affiliate link. For instance, in Amazon’s Associate’s Program, you can earn up to 10% in associate commissions with every qualifying purchase. On the other hand, with AdSense, you allow Google to place advertisements on your website. By doing so, you can earn some revenue in exchange for exposing your audience to the ads. According to Google, more than 2 million publishers are currently using AdSense. Affiliate marketing and Google AdSense are easy ways to earn money, but you need to ensure your website gains a lot of traffic. After all, both affiliate links and ads need plenty of views and clicks. So if you’re interested in creating a blog, don’t neglect it! Create enjoyable content so you can grow your audience. Read: Want to Learn the Secret of How to Make Money Blogging? Join a Mastermind Group! 5. Be a Virtual AssistantHave you ever heard of virtual assistants? If not, virtual assistants (VAs) or remote administrative contractors keep records, manage social media accounts, take phone calls, and more. How much do virtual assistants make? Depending on experience and other factors like scope of work, a VA can earn between $7.25 to $37.10 per hour. You can make this side hustle a full-time job if your career grows! 6. Sell Your Old TextbooksIf you have old and used textbooks lying around your house collecting dust, there is a huge market for used textbooks. Most websites that buy secondhand textbooks only accept books in good condition. Some may ask you to submit photos to ensure it is still in usable shape, while others ask you to scan the ISBN. Here’s a tip: try using BookScouter. BookScouter is an app that tells you where to sell your books for the most money. Download the app and scan the ISBN inside your textbook. BookScouter will show prices from more than 30 vendors. 7. Answer Online SurveysParticipating in online surveys is one of the simplest ways to make money from home. Anyone can participate as long as you fit the required demographic. If you qualify, answer honestly and get paid! Online surveys can be about anything. For example, they might ask you what products and brands you buy and why. Alternatively, they might want to know about your health. If you want to earn extra cash participating in surveys, start with trusted survey sites like Swagbucks, and Survey Junkie. 8. Manage Social Media Accounts of Small BusinessesThese days most businesses have social media accounts. Studies show that 98% of small businesses use social media. Have you ever wondered who is running those accounts? It could be you! 81% of customers research a store online before shopping there. Additionally, 91% of shoppers have visited a store because of something they saw online. Despite these facts, one out of five small businesses still doesn’t use social media for marketing. Why? One reason is that many small business owners don’t have time. So, if you love Facebook and Instagram and have in-demand skills in graphic design, caption writing, and scheduling, this can be your next hustle. Read: 300+ New Side Hustle and Small Business Ideas 9. Join Freelance Online Platforms Like Upwork or FiverrFreelance platforms like Upwork or Fiverr allow you to connect with local and international clients who need writing assistance, website and app development, customer support, and more. Plus, joining is risk-free – all you need to do is make an account, complete your profile and submit all the necessary documents. Then, it’s a matter of applying to freelance job listings or getting direct job orders. You can increase your chances of landing more freelancing projects by niching down your services, building your portfolio, and asking for referrals. 10. Be an Online TutorEducating children and adults online is also an excellent side hustle that you can do in your spare time. You can be a tutor and teach math or a new language. Of course, if you want to be a tutor, you’ll need some credentials. For instance, if you’re going to teach English as a second language, you’ll need to earn a TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) certificate. Read: 30 Places to Learn New Job Skills for FREE! 11. Transcribe AudioIf you prefer to work at your own pace and schedule, you can try transcribing audio, which involves listening to the provided audio file and typing what you hear – yes, it’s that simple. If you’re wondering where you can get transcription work, join Rev. Rev pays weekly via Paypal. Freelancers can create transcriptions, captions, and subtitles. If you work for Rev, you get paid by the audio or video minute. Transcriptionists earn $0.30-$1.10 per audio or video minute ($18-$66 per hour). Captioners can take home $0.54-$1.10 ($32-$66 per hour). On the other hand, subtitle translators make $1.50-$3.00 ($90-$180 per hour). 12. Sell on AmazonYou don’t have to be a big retailer to sell on Amazon. You can sell products on their website as long as you are willing to pay for a spot on their platform. You can opt for the Individual plan and pay a $0.99 fee for each sale if you are just starting. On the other hand, you can pay $39.99 per month for the Professional plan, which is ideal if you’re confident that your products will sell like pancakes. Of course, there are other requirements. You’ll need an Amazon account, business email, and an internationally chargeable credit card. You also have to provide a government ID, a phone number, a bank account, and tax information. 13. Offer Freelance WritingYou can also be a freelance writer and earn extra cash from home. You don’t have to be technically a fiction writer; there are other opportunities. You could be a copywriter for an eCommerce company or a ghostwriter for a blog. 14. Start a YouTube ChannelDo you like to watch YouTube videos? Have you ever thought about making your own? Believe it or not, it’s possible to make money this way. If your YouTube channel has 20,000 views per day, you can earn more than $10,000 per year. Some YouTubers make 6-figures or more every year. But what should your YouTube channel be about? Popular types of videos include reactions, tutorials, and unboxings. Viewers also enjoy product reviews, top ten lists, and funny pet videos. In addition to relying on YouTube for additional income, you can also partner with companies and get a sponsorship once your channel blows up! Summing It All UpIf you want to earn extra income, there’s no need to head to the office. There are many ways to make money from home. You can be a VA, a freelance writer, a transcriptionist, try your luck in affiliate marketing, or become a bonafide YouTube star. What do you have to lose? Start making money at home today! This article originally appeared on Wealth of Geeks. Via https://mylifeiguess.com/easy-ways-to-make-money-from-home/ You wake up feeling like a truck hit you. You think to yourself, “Should I brave it or call in sick today?” Sound familiar? We are often conflicted about prioritizing our health over work, which reflects today’s fast-paced hustle culture. We get it; no matter how supportive your manager is, you do not want to fall behind in your work, inconvenience your co-workers, or be seen as ‘faking’ it. That’s why calling in sick is usually reserved for severe illnesses. This unhealthy pattern of prioritizing work over health is changing as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Before then, it was ubiquitous to see your co-workers cough and sniffle their way through the workday. You may have even been in confined meeting rooms with them. Thanks to the pandemic, we are seeing this trend change. Now, clearing of a throat or just a sneeze can trigger a room to clear out faster than you can say “bless you”! But, risk of spreading infection aside, many people have reprioritized physical and mental health over the need for constant productivity during the lockdown. Whether you’re back in the office or continue to work remotely, it’s best to call in sick and take some time off when you feel unwell. Below, we will cover some essential tips on how to call in sick professionally so you can take the time you need to recover. Do You Call in Sick While Working Remote?Many of us have been working remotely and have built a fully functioning office, a home gym, entertainment centers, and gourmet kitchens right at home. So why would you ever leave? More and more companies are changing their policies to switch to a remote workforce. When the pandemic finally subsides, a large percentage of employees will choose to stay at home permanently. So what’s the protocol? Should you call in sick when working remotely? The answer is a definite yes! It is easy to avoid an awkward conversation when working remotely and not sick enough to avoid work altogether. Be careful, though, because you may not be well enough to give work your full attention. The last thing you want is to give your manager and co-workers the impression that you are slacking off. So it’s better to take the day off. Remember, when working remotely, it is always better to over-communicate. As a side note: We have been hearing a lot about remote workers faking illness and calling in sick. Besides being unprofessional, this is unfair to your employer and grounds for termination. It is best to maintain a high degree of professionalism and take a vacation day if you want to take time to sleep in, watch a movie, or go shopping. Read: Start Using Your Paid Time Off! It’s Good For You (And Your Career) How to Call in Sick When Working Remote or In-OfficeNow, let’s get started with the top tips on how to call in sick in a professional manner. 1. Know Your EmployerIs calling in sick more accepted now? It depends on the workplace, but it might be wise to check your company’s policy before you call in sick. According to a new CareerBuilder survey of over 2,000 hiring managers and HR professionals, 20% have fired an employee for being absent too many times due to illness. So if you’re thinking about staying home because you don’t feel well enough to go to work today, pay attention to the guidelines. The most important thing is to know your company’s policies for sick leave. For example, how many days are you allowed to take? How many have you already taken? Do you require a doctor’s note? You can usually get this information from your HR department or directly from your manager. Another option you should investigate is whether or not you can simply work remotely instead of taking the day off. If you are not feeling incapacitated and don’t want to infect your co-workers, this can be a good option. If you are too sick to work, be careful not to end up working all day from bed. It is easy enough to attend a meeting here and there or shoot off some emails, but a full day’s rest is priceless. If you have taken the day off sick, then use it to recover. Next, let’s talk about when to inform your manager. 2. Let Your Manager Know as Soon as PossibleAs a matter of principle, inform your manager as soon as possible. For example, if you woke up in the morning and feel sick enough to take a day off, then let your manager know right away. Likewise, if you felt like something was coming on when leaving work the previous night, let your manager know that you may be coming down with something. Why? So your manager can make any necessary arrangements to fill in during your absence. The sooner you can let them know, the easier it will be for you and them to manage your absence without negatively impacting your professional commitments. 3. Call, Email, or Text?There are plenty of ways to get in touch with your employer. Your company may have specific policies around communicating days off, or your manager may have a preference. For example, you may have to provide a written email for HR records. In other cases, a text to your manager will do. Again, it’s crucial to abide by your company’s specific policies and know the best way to communicate with your manager. 4. What to Say?Our recommendation is to keep it short. It’s natural to feel the urge to sell your symptoms and make your manager understand that you’re not faking it. However, if you provide too much detail, it may just come across as disingenuous and have the opposite effect of what you were intending. So keep the details of your ailment to a minimum! For example, it is enough to say that you have the flu and can not work today. There is no need to elaborate on the night you’ve just had either throwing up, not sleeping well, or being concerned about the color of your phlegm. Your manager does not care! Where you should offer details is to identify any meetings or deadlines that you have for the day. If so, share details on what they are and whether anyone else on the team can cover for you. If there is any pertinent information that your manager will need in your absence, you should send it in the same email. Also, if you have any meetings scheduled with your dial-in/conference line, reschedule them for a later date or share the PIN with your manager or your backup. 5. Don’t Forget About Your Team and Co-WorkersTo maintain the highest standard of professionalism when calling in sick, let your team and co-workers know that you’ll be missing work as well. If you lead a team, you can set the right example by always being transparent and setting the right expectations for everyone else. Whether you are a people manager or leading a project, your team depends on you for leadership and guidance. So make sure to send a notice of absence as early as possible. As a leader, you should also have a backup person assigned who can fill in for you when you are away. Make sure that you have a one-on-one conversation with your chosen backup to set the right expectations and provide any information they may need to get the job done. This is also great practice if you are grooming them as your successor. By having a plan in place, you will reduce the impact of your forced absence from work. Example Messages for Calling (or Emailing) in SickHere are some sample messages you can use to call in sick. Remember to adapt these to suit your condition and situation. If You are Starting to Feel Sick the Night BeforeHi <Manager Name>, I am feeling flu symptoms coming on, so I may have to stay home tomorrow. I will let you know if I feel better in the morning and can come into the office. I have let <backup prime> know as well. They will cover my meetings tomorrow. Nothing should come your way, but please don’t hesitate to text me if something does come up. Hi <backup prime> As discussed on the phone, I will let you know if I feel better in the morning and can come in. I have already prepared the presentation for the 1 pm meeting and sent it out. Please review with <name> and have <name 2> send out the notes/action items if I cannot make the meeting. I appreciate it. If You Woke Up SickHi <Manager Name>, I woke up with a terrible migraine and will need to stay home today to recover. I have shifted my meetings and made arrangements with ‘co-worker name’ to cover the urgent ones. Please text me if something unavoidable comes up and requires my attention. Hi <Backup Prime> As discussed on the phone, thanks for covering for me today. Hopefully, I can be back online tomorrow, even if I can’t make it to the office. I have moved all meetings except the one regarding <Topic> at 1 pm. Here’s my PIN to open my conference bridge when it’s time: XXXX. If you Have a Doctor’s AppointmentHi <Manager Name>, I have been getting some pain in my abdomen for the last two days and have a doctor’s appointment this morning to get it checked out. As a result, I will be away from the office from 9 am to approximately 11 am. I will not be able to respond to emails or calls during this time, but I will respond upon my return. I have already rearranged my meetings. Hi <Team, Backup Prime> I have a doctor’s appointment this morning and will be unavailable till about 11 am. <Name> may reach out for help with <xyz> before the 10:30 am meeting. Please assist in my absence, if required. I will come by your desk/call you when I’m back to work. Mental Health is Just as Important as Physical HealthIt’s unfortunate, but physical health still often takes precedence over our mental health. Since sniffles or coughs do not measure it, it is hard to express a need for time away from work due to mental health reasons. Over time, this just adds to the mental fatigue and the issues compound. These days, most companies are supportive of time off to prioritize mental health recovery. You just need to know how to approach it the right way. 1. Know Your ResourcesChances are, your company offers resources for you to manage your mental health. Take advantage of these resources. Whether it is online or in-person counseling, meditation sessions, or prescription drug plans, you likely have many options available to you. 2. Get Help on Your SideDue to the intangible nature of mental health, you may have to gather more support to take time off work. Meet with your family doctor and a counselor to discuss. Depending on your employer’s policies, a written recommendation from them may be required for you to take some time off work. 3. What to SayAs with any physical ailment, discuss it with your manager. In this case, it is better to discuss it over the phone. Let them know if you have met with your doctor or therapist. You do not have to go into details if you don’t want to. Your company should respect your privacy. Most companies have an allowance for short-term disability leaves for a variety of reasons. With a note from your therapist or doctor, you can apply to take some time off to recover. In most cases, your insurance should continue providing a portion of your salary and benefits for a set amount of time. Related: Mental Health Resources & Crisis Support Prioritize Your HealthYour physical and mental health is the most important thing! Make sure to follow the steps above to have a professional discussion with your employer and take the time you need to recover. Your manager, team, and co-workers will appreciate your well-planned approach when you return to work rejuvenated and healthy. More Career Articles:
This article was produced and syndicated by Wealth of Geeks. Via https://mylifeiguess.com/call-in-sick/ Most job seekers don’t spend nearly enough time working on their cover letters. They assume that their resume is enough to get them an interview. But in today’s competitive job market, a great cover letter can be the difference between getting an interview and getting passed over. Your cover letter is your first impression when you’re applying for a new job, and it should be a good one. It’s also an opportunity to show your personality and demonstrate why you’re a perfect fit for the role. Writing a cover letter can be a daunting task, but you can do a few simple things to make the process easier. Here are some easy do’s and don’ts that can help you write a great cover letter that will impress employers. Cover Letter Do’sYou should follow certain cover letter tips to make sure your letter makes the best impression possible. Here is what you need to do when writing a cover letter. 1. Sell YourselfLike your resume, your cover letter is your chance to brag (professionally) about why they should hire you. Be proud of your skills and accomplishments, and use them to explain why you are the best candidate for the job. When you sit down to write a cover letter, think about what you can say that will grab the hiring manager’s attention and make them want to learn more about you. What can you say about your skills and experience that will set you apart from the other candidates? If you can, include specific examples of times when you have excelled in a similar role. 2. Answer the Question: Why Do You Want to Work Here?You can be more human and personable in your cover letter than in your resume. So be sure to tell the reader why you want the job. This is especially true if you are making a career change or have been out of work for a while. Briefly explain your situation so that the hiring manager doesn’t have any questions about why you’re applying. For example, you can say something as simple as: “After 10 years of working in office administration, I am interested in finding new challenges in the marketing industry.” Read: Why Are You Interested In This Position? 3. Address How You Meet the Needs of the OrganizationThere’s a reason most job applications require a resume and a cover letter. A cover letter gives you a chance to communicate with the organization and elaborate on your resume. It’s your opportunity to explain how you meet the organization’s needs and why you should be selected for an interview. When you’re writing a cover letter, it’s important to focus on how you can help the company reach its goals. To do this, you need to do your research. Find out what the company’s goals are and what their plans are for achieving them. Then, you can craft a cover letter that demonstrates how your skills and experience can help them succeed. You can also use your cover letter to address some of the other job needs that may be difficult to include on your resume. These are things like having a driver’s license and access to a vehicle or details about your availability, such as when you can start. 4. Personalize Each LetterEach employer should receive a personalized cover letter, but don’t worry! You can create one or two cover letter templates and tailor these for each job, just like you should be doing for your resume. People still expect your cover letter to follow the formal letter format that includes the date, your name and contact information, and the company’s contact information. Be sure to update each cover letter so that it has the correct details and is addressed to the right person. Addressing your cover letter to the wrong person or sending the wrong letter with your resume probably won’t get a second look. If you can’t find who to address the letter to, it’s better to use something generic like “hiring manager” or “hiring team” than it is to use the wrong name. 5. Keep it ShortAlmost everyone will tell you that you have to keep your cover letter to 1-page. In most cases, this is great advice. Limiting yourself to one page helps you avoid repetition and really focus on what’s essential for the hiring manager to know. But the truth is, your cover letter should be as long as it needs to be. I have been successful in submitting a 2-page cover letter in the past. In this case, I was applying for a position that was actually two part-time jobs that were combined into one full-time job. The two roles were related but required different skills, so there was no way to address it all with a single-paged cover letter. 6. ProofreadMake sure your cover letter is free of spelling and grammatical errors. Use Grammarly (which is free) to catch spelling errors, grammar mistakes, and other language issues that you may overlook. This attention to detail will show the employer that you are taking the time to make sure that your letter is professional and that you are taking the job seriously. Proofreading your own cover letter can be difficult because you have likely read it so many times that you no longer see the mistakes. Having someone else take a look at it with fresh eyes can be helpful. In addition, they may be able to offer suggestions for improvements or point out information that is missing. Read: Where Can I Get Resume Help? 14 Free and Affordable Options 7. Get Their Attention Right AwayAlmost every cover letter starts in the same boring way: “I am writing to apply for the [position] job at [company].” This does not tell the employer anything about you or why you are qualified for the job. Instead, use the first paragraph to grab the employer’s attention and make them want to read more. You can do a few things to make your first paragraph truly stand out:
Starting your cover letter with a strong hook will immediately set you apart from other candidates and demonstrate your dedication and enthusiasm for the role. Read: How to Include Your Side Hustle on Your Resume 8. Use Action WordsUse strong action words on your cover letter, such as “created,” ” managed,” ” oversaw,” ” implemented,” and ” oversaw.” These words will demonstrate your ability to take charge and get things done. Hiring managers are looking for candidates who can take the initiative and get the job done, so make sure to highlight your relevant experience and skills. 9. Address Employment Gaps or Potential ConcernsYour cover letter is also an opportunity to explain any gaps in your employment history or to address any concerns that the employer might have about your candidacy. For example, if you took a few years off to raise your children, use your cover letter to explain how this has prepared you to return to the workforce and be an even better employee. 10. Be HonestIf you are out of work, don’t try to hide it. Employers may eventually discover the truth, so it’s better to be honest with them from the start. Explain your situation briefly and focus on the positive – what you have been doing to stay busy and how you are excited to put your skills to use in a new role. Honesty is always the best policy, and employers will appreciate your transparency. Cover Letter Don’tsNow that you know what you should be doing on your cover letter let’s talk about some of the things you need to avoid. 1. Don’t Repeat Your ResumeYour cover letter is meant to elaborate on your resume, not repeat it. If your cover letter doesn’t tell us anything more than your resume already does, why are you even bothering to write one? Hiring managers don’t want to read the same information twice. They want to see how you can add value to their organization, not just a list of your past accomplishments. Use your cover letter to talk about your skills and experience in a more natural way. Expand on what you want an employer to know about yourself and your application. 2. Don’t Be NegativeIf you are applying for a new job, you are either unemployed, underemployed, hate your current job, or are worried that you may be about to lose your job. None of these situations are fun to be in, but you can’t let that show in your cover letter. You have to keep it positive! You want to show the employer that you are excited about the opportunity and are confident in your ability to do the job. If you hate your current job, focus on how you are looking for a new challenge and how you believe this job will be a better fit for you. Or, if you are worried you may lose your job, focus on how you are proactive and are already looking for new opportunities. 3. Don’t Discuss Why You Need the JobEveryone knows that you need a job to make money to support yourself and your family. You don’t need to explain this or the details of your specific situation in your cover letter. Mentioning that you are hoping to buy a new house next year doesn’t matter to an employer. What does matter to an employer is what you can do for them. They want to know how you will:
In your cover letter, focus on what you can do for the employer, not on what they can do for you. 4. Don’t Make ExcusesMaking excuses will only draw more attention to your weaknesses or make you sound like you’ll be difficult to work with. If you don’t meet 100% of the qualifications they are looking for, that’s okay – just don’t point it out! Let them decide if it’s a deal-breaker or if they are willing to train you in that specific area. They might not even notice! Additionally, avoid making excuses for any past job experiences or choices that might negatively reflect on you. If you were fired from a job, for example, simply state that the job wasn’t a good fit and move on. Don’t try to justify your actions or make excuses – this will only make you look bad. 5. Don’t Lie Or ExaggerateWhen applying for a new job, many people feel the temptation to lie or exaggerate their skills and experience. Although it may seem like a harmless way to make yourself look more qualified, lying on your application can lead to serious consequences. When an employer is interested in hiring you, they will conduct a background check and call your references. You will likely be immediately disqualified if you’re caught lying on your job application. In some cases, you may even be banned from applying to that company in the future. Lying on your application can also be a form of fraud, which is a crime in many jurisdictions. Depending on the severity of the lie, you could lose your job, be sued, or even prosecuted for falsifying documents. Lying or exaggerating about your experience or education can also lead to problems down the road if you are hired for a position based on false information. For example, if you claim you are proficient at using a specific program that you don’t really know much about, you will struggle in your new role. Not being able to do your job will be stressful and raise questions with your employer. Unless you’re a quick learner, you will probably find yourself job searching again within a few months. So, the next time you’re tempted to fudge the truth on your application, remember the potential consequences. It’s not worth the risk of losing a job (or going to jail) just to make yourself look more qualified. Be honest on your applications, and you’ll be much better off in the long run. 6. Don’t Send a Generic LetterAs mentioned, your cover letter should be unique to each employer and job opportunity. Don’t simply copy and paste the same letter for every job application. A few small tweaks are all you need to make your cover letter specific to each job and increase your chances of getting an interview. If it’s obvious that you’ve created one cover letter and are using it repeatedly to apply to dozens of jobs, it gives the impression that you don’t really care if you get this job or not – you just want any job. And while that may be true, you don’t want to create any apprehension with an employer. 7. Don’t Use Clichés or Slang TermsAvoid using clichés, slang, and overly casual language when writing a cover letter. Such language can come across as unprofessional and may not convey the message you are trying to get across in the best way possible. Clichés include phrases like “I’m a people person” or “I’m a go-getter.” These phrases are overused and do not add anything unique to your letter. Using slang can give the impression that you are not taking the process seriously. It can also make it difficult for the reader to understand what you are trying to say. Instead, focus on using clear and concise language, which will get your point across in a way that is both professional and respectful. While it is important to be friendly and personable in your letter, being too casual can make you seem unprofessional and could hurt your chances of getting the job. 8. Don’t Include Unnecessary Personal InformationThere are a few reasons why you should not include personal information in your cover letter. First, it is not necessary. The employer is only interested in your qualifications and not your personal life. Second, while it may seem like a good idea to include personal information in your cover letter to make yourself seem more relatable, it can actually have the opposite effect. Including personal information can make you appear unprofessional. Third, including personal information on your cover letter can be a privacy concern. If an employer knows too much about your personal life, they could potentially use this information against you. For example, if you mention that you have young children, the employer may assume that you will need to take time off for childcare. As a result, you may be passed over in favor of a candidate without the same responsibilities. Lastly, sharing personal information in your cover letter could also lead to identity theft. If you include your home address or phone number, a savvy thief could use this information to steal your identity. By including personal information in your cover letter, you could be putting yourself at risk. Overall, you should always err on the side of caution to protect your privacy and avoid including personal information in your cover letter. Stick to the facts and let your qualifications speak for themselves. Final Thoughts on Cover LettersIt can be difficult to strike the right tone in a cover letter. You want to sound enthusiastic and professional without coming across as desperate or pushy. Remember, the goal is to show that you’re a good fit for the company. If you’re not sure how to get started, plenty of cover letter examples are available online. Just make sure to tailor the letter to the specific company and position you’re applying for, and only include the skills and experience that you actually have. With these tips in mind, you should have no problem creating a cover letter that will stand out and help you get hired. More Resume & Cover Letter Articles:
Via https://mylifeiguess.com/get-your-cover-letter-ready/ There are plenty of reasons for a teen to have a job. Earning money can be an empowering experience that gets you ready for adulthood. You learn time and money management skills from the relative safety of still living at home. You can use what you earn to save for later expenses like college. Then there’s the most significant reason: you are probably looking for money-making ideas because you have things you want to buy! How to Make Money as a TeenYou have two directions you can take when exploring opportunities to make extra cash. You can look for a part-time job that pays you by the hour or look for something more entrepreneurial. Both of these have their pros and cons. The primary benefit of a part-time job is once you start, you will receive consistent paychecks for the amount you work. Part-time jobs can also be very good at building the discipline you need later in life. By bringing home some income, you will learn budgeting skills that can be the building blocks for financial health later in life. Entrepreneurial endeavors and gig work can be super flexible with hours and structure. They can help you think outside the box and learn to take ownership of problems. Hourly Vs. EntrepreneurialYou can pick between making money on an hourly basis or a more entrepreneurial or gig basis between the two directions. You might find that gig work is better as a teen. Flexibility is essential since you have to balance your work schedule, sports, activities, and work schedule. Some entrepreneurial endeavors have uncertain payoff periods. For instance, you may never make it as a TikTok star. Having an uncertain payoff may not be the worst thing ever, though. After all, you have fewer responsibilities and bills to cover as a teen, so it may be the appropriate time to take measured risks of starting a small business. The middle ground of entrepreneurial vs. hourly work is gig work. Most gig work is set up where the worker is technically doing freelance work. However, they are in charge of their own time and bill the company for their services. Gig work gives you more autonomy over your schedule and gives you the ability to get the job done. 1. Lawn and Landscaping ServicesCreating a lawn care business can be an excellent opportunity to make money as a teen. The lawn care business scales up as you can buy better equipment. For instance, you could start with just a push mower and a weed wacker. Then as you get more clients and save some of the profits, you could buy a zero-turn mower and a trailer. You will dramatically improve your output and the number of clients you can take on. 2. Offer Babysitting ServicesBabysitting can be a great gig for making money as a teen. Most people looking for babysitting services typically look for a sitter when school is not in session. You can advertise your babysitting services on a few different apps and platforms to start getting gigs. Check out Bambino, Sitter City, Care.com, or Urban Sitter if you want to get started. 3. Pet SittingIf you love animals, pet sitting is an excellent option for earning money as a teen. You can watch a family pet while they go on vacation and make some extra money. Some pet sitting gigs involve you going to their home and feeding and playing with their pet while on vacation. Others include taking them to your house to keep a closer eye on them. 4. Manage Social Media AccountsThe assumption is that teens are great with social media and understand the nuances of each platform. Whether this is accurate or not, this is one area of business where your age might give you a competitive advantage. Most businesses want to be active on social media and use the platforms to bring in business. But unfortunately, nearly all business owners have so many things on their plate that they neglect their social media profiles. The opportunity for you is to identify the businesses with this need, reach out to them, and see if they would like to help manage their accounts. One significant aspect of the social media business is you can find work that meets your needs. For example, if you are looking for hourly work, companies will pay you for a few hours a week, keeping their profiles up to date. On the other end of the spectrum, companies would pay for performance to increase their following. 5. Referee or UmpireIf you participate in sports, becoming a referee or umpire can be a great gig to earn money as a teen. Since you already know the game’s rules from participating in it, there is a relatively easy learning curve to get started. As you referee or ump, you will deepen your knowledge of the sport, which can translate into becoming a better athlete—getting paid while increasing your skill level and immersion in a sport is a great way to earn extra money! 6. Start a YouTube ChannelYou can make money by posting content to YouTube. Starting a YouTube channel is great if you have a skill or hobby you would like to share. However, it can take a long time to gain enough traction to earn money from starting a YouTube channel. Are you trying to get good at something? Then, document your journey on youtube. If you combine being entertaining with being informative, chances are you will be able to find a niche in the vast ecosystem that is youtube. 7. Create Content on TikTokCreating content on TikTok falls safely on the entrepreneurial side of the spectrum. However, no guarantee creating content will get you the views and the engagement required to make money. If you have a specific style and the grit to keep at it day in and day out, some people succeed in creating content on TikTok to make money. Your level of commitment to creating content will impact how much money you can make from TikTok. Unfortunately, the majority of TikTok creators make little to no money. 8. Start a BlogDid you know that you can get paid to write and publish content with a blog? Self-publishing content can be both satisfying and financially rewarding. If you have a topic that you would like to write about, do a little research and see if anyone else is in that space and making a go of it. If so, you can also make a go of it. 9. Wash CarsSure there are car wash and detailing businesses all over America. However, if you were to provide a service where you washed your neighbor’s cars, perhaps providing the service in their driveway, there is a good chance people would prefer to pay you to have you clean their vehicle without having to take it in somewhere. It would be hard for existing businesses to compete with this convenience factor, so it is more likely that they would overlook that you are just getting started in the industry and are only looking to provide the service for a couple of years. 10. Lifeguard at a PoolLifeguarding at a pool is an outstanding teen job. However, lifeguarding is typically a seasonal job, and the seasons that employers are looking for lifeguards are the same as when most teens are available from summer break. 11. Work at a Movie TheaterIf you like movies and the culture of movie theaters, working at one could be a great way to earn money as a teen. Movie theaters are busiest on weekends and evenings, so when they need employees and when your schedule is free typically line up reasonably well. 12. Work at Chik Fil AChik Fil A offers some great benefits to its employees. One advantage is they offer scholarships. That can dramatically cut down on out-of-pocket expenses when going to college. 13. Work at ChipotleLike Chik Fil A, Chipotle offers very competitive benefits to its employees. For example, they offer tuition assistance up to $5,250 per year and have a debt-free degree program. Not to mention, who wouldn’t want free Chipotle burritos? 14. Work at an Amusement ParkAmusement parks are seasonal, and their busy times usually line up very well with teens’ schedules. That means they are big employers of seasonal workers who go to school. In addition, most amusement parks have jobs for operating rides, running food service, and keeping the park clean. 15. Become a Server or HostThere are tons of jobs in the restaurant industry for servers and hosts. Restaurants are busiest during weekends and evenings, so they are likely to be able to offer shifts when you are available after school. Wrapping it UpAs a teen, there are many options for you to make money. However, some of them require more dedication and time commitment than others. Some options to earn extra money are entrepreneurial, while others are hourly and shift-based. You will not end up making a six-figure income with a part-time job, but you can make some extra spending cash and save for the future. It is an excellent time to learn about yourself by trying out the shift-based or entrepreneurial options. At the same time, you have fewer responsibilities as a teen than trying to figure out when you have to pay for housing and other major expenses. This article originally appeared on Wealth of Geeks. Via https://mylifeiguess.com/best-ways-to-make-money-as-a-teen/ World-wide threats from global warming, the COVID pandemic, and social inequality call for change. However, the conversation extends beyond recycling, clean air, and electric cars. People from all backgrounds work to make the world a better place. The priority shift has led investors to evaluate their portfolios. The desire to outperform the market while making a positive change is enticing and possible. Impact investing makes a difference. Experts say that impact investing offers competitive portfolio performance. Sustainable investment funds with assets of more than $260 billion have tripled over the past decade, and the growth continues. Bloomberg predicts that ESG assets alone will exceed $53 trillion by 2025. So while the future is unknown and investing risky, change is coming. Impact investing is a trend worth knowing. What is Impact Investing?Impact investing was first coined in 2007. As an investment strategy that focuses on corporate social responsibility, it’s considered an extension of philanthropy. However, its desire to promote the welfare of others doesn’t negate the return on investment. Impact companies are not necessarily non-profit organizations. Therefore, a company’s financial performance is vital. Impact investments generate positive, measurable impacts to address the most challenging problems, such as energy, poverty, climate change, sustainable agriculture, waste, healthcare, real estate, etc. An impact investor invests in investment opportunities that make an impact on the world. Most impact investments center around institutional investors, fund managers, hedge funds, private institutions, and foundations. However, individual investors also buy individual stocks that make social impacts with the help of financial advisors and fiduciary experience with impact investments. What’s The Difference Between ESG Investing, Socially Responsible Investing, and Impact Investing?Impact investing can be confused with socially responsible and ESG investing. However, they’re easy to distinguish by their priorities. The ESG investor wants to see companies that are addressing all three factors. While the socially responsible investor centers on social factors and the impact, investors pick any one cause. Impact investors measure social and environmental performance. However, the investor’s portfolio builds upon the investor’s goals and intentions. Some impact investments may not make an environmental impact, while others do. Some may focus on equitable work environments and diversity, while others do not. Impact investors evaluate a company’s social and environmental performance in addition to its return on investment. The investor’s portfolio draws upon the investor’s financial goals and long-term intentions to improve the world. Some impact investments may not make an environmental impact, while others do. Some may focus on equitable work environments and diversity, while others do not. Impact investing comes down to what is the intended outcome of the investment. Types of Impact InvestmentsInvestors will find impact investments across asset classes and sectors, including healthcare, education, agriculture, technology, energy, microfinance, housing, etc. Here are different types of investments that investors may consider:
How Are Impact Investments Measures?ESG (Environmental-Social-Governance) scores are calculated to measure how a company performs. Impact investors may focus on the part of the score as they may be interested in a specific impact the company makes in a particular area. Standardized scoring measures don’t exist, and several methodologies exist to calculate ESG scores. Some companies hire ESG rating agencies to analyze their performance. These agencies report corporate sustainability measures, compensation details, board structure, annual reports, and environmental criteria. How To Get Started With Impact Investing
Are Risks Lower With Impact Investments?Investing is risky. However, investing in solid companies minimizes risk with and without responsible business practices. A sustainable business designed with innovation and focused on the long haul is ideal–it’s a bonus when they embrace change for a better future. Some impact investors expect below-average returns that align with their beliefs. In contrast, others can’t afford to lose money and pursue competitive market returns. Therefore, developing a diversified portfolio according to risk tolerance is essential. Is Impact Investing Making a Difference?The Global Impact Investing Network (GIIN) reported that more than 1700 organizations have approximately $715 billion in impact assets. Impact investors are taking a position to better society and the planet. Yet, its value is considered subjective. What appears to be meaningful for one person may not be significant to another. Several institutions provide ESG ratings. However, evaluation criteria vary across organizations and reporting organizations. Cons to Impact InvestingImpact investing is limited in its scope. For example, a shareholder may focus on a few companies changing the world rather than their bottom line return and profits. Investors aren’t philanthropists or social entrepreneurs. Investors are seeking a return on their investments. They need to keep in mind that impact investing is not the same as donating to charities. Be sure to do your due diligence in supporting companies for the right reasons and keep your financial goals in mind. You can invest in a socially responsible business without losing everything. The Bottom LineCapitalism isn’t going anywhere, and financial returns matter. However, rising interests in climate change, the COVID pandemic, and social movements for equality and human rights have led consumers to question who they use for business. As a result, firms and corporations face real-time scrutiny from societal demands for corporate responsibility in work environments, community engagement, and care for the planet. The old adage that the customer is always correct rings true regarding how we treat people and the planet. The best companies will attempt to maximize their impact on both social and environmental causes. Impact investors want to address social and environmental issues while receiving solid financial returns. In addition, they want to see philanthropic organizations invested in social change and charitable activities. As global concerns for economic uncertainty, food and water security, and natural disasters rise, shareholders will prioritize activism, ethical investing, social well-being, and environmental sustainability. Developing a portfolio with impact investments is an option. The choice is yours. Do your homework, learn how to invest, and make the best decision for you and your family. This post originally appeared on Savoteur. Via https://mylifeiguess.com/start-impact-investing/ |
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