You’re probably wary of anything free, especially when someone offers you free cash. Being cautious is understandable because, unfortunately, there are so many scams. This article will show you how to get free money with legit ideas. Just think of what you could do with free money! You could use the extra cash to build up your savings account, pay off debt, start a vacation fund, or use it for entertainment. How to Get Free Money Online and From AppsEarn Free Cash from Online Survey SitesEarning free money doesn’t have to be complicated; it can be fun. Get paid to take surveys online, click on ads, watch videos, shop, etc. Taking surveys is so easy that sometimes it feels like companies offering them are giving away money for free. Some survey sites even offer a free bonus simply for signing up. Payment options vary, but many survey companies will pay you cash through Paypal or free gift cards. Here are some top-rated survey sites:
Cashback Apps and SitesWhen you shop through cashback sites, you are given back a percentage for every dollar you spend. Essentially, you are getting paid to shop for things you already buy. Cashback apps might become your new favorite way to make money. Below are some cashback sites:Make Free Money From Banks and Financial InstitutionsCash Back Credit CardsCashback credit cards are a great option if you already put everyday purchases and expenses on a credit card. Pay your balance in full each month to take full advantage of cashback credit card perks. (If you get charged interest by running up a monthly bill you cannot pay, it doesn’t make the cashback worth it.) Use the following tips to help maximize your savings if you usually pay off your monthly credit card balance:
Credit Card Welcome BonusesMany credit card companies offer welcome bonuses for opening a new card. However, there are typically spending stipulations to receive your reward. For example, you have to spend $1,000 in the first three months after opening the card to get a $250 welcome bonus. You can see the latest credit card promotions after a quick search online. Remember that you typically have to have a good credit score to get approved. New Bank Account BonusesYou can earn free money by opening a savings or checking account, similar to credit card bonuses. There are usually rules to get your bonus, like keeping your accounts open for a certain amount of time or depositing a certain amount of money. High Yield Savings AccountIf you have some money available to put into a high-yield savings account, then you’ll see a return on your money that is much higher than a regular savings account. The bank rewards you with high-yield interest accrual for having your money sit in an account. Free Money for StudentsAre you a college student who needs some cash to pay for your education or school-related expenses? If you’re a long way from entering the workforce and having a job that pays $50,000 a year or more, these ideas are perfect. Pell GrantThe Pell Grant is given out by the U.S. Department of Education. It awards money to pay for school costs to those who financially qualify. Though you don’t have to pay the money back because it is a grant, not a loan, the amount of money you receive varies after you’re approved to receive the assistance. Employer Tuition ReimbursementSome employers provide education payment assistance to their part-time or full-time employees as part of their benefits package. Each company has stipulations for using the tuition assistance, like working at the company for so many years. Many companies offer tuition reimbursement, including:
Free Money for EmployeesEmployer’s 401k MatchIf you don’t need free money now, having your employer match your 401k contribution is a great way to build your wealth for the future. Employer Stock OptionsIf they’re available, taking advantage of employer stock options is an excellent opportunity to purchase stock shares at a lower market value. If the stocks go up in value, you could make a large sum of money. This is not typically a way to make quick cash, but it can be profitable over time. Ask for a RaiseGetting a pay raise will feel like you’re finding free money because you still are doing the same job yet will be earning more. For example, going from making $55,000 to $60,000 a year is a significant increase in income. You have nothing to lose by asking for a raise. If you get a pay increase, it’s well worth the time you took to ask. Other Ways to Earn Free Money NowUnclaimed MoneyWhat if you have free money out there that you don’t know exists? While it may sound too good to be true, there are databases you can check to see if you have any unclaimed funds. You could be owed money from private businesses, unclaimed tax refunds from your state or the IRS, etc. USA.gov has a lot of helpful information to learn about how to find unclaimed money. Class Action LawsuitsAccording to classaction.org, “Millions of dollars are left on the table in unclaimed settlement funds every year.” There are a couple of ways to determine if you are entitled to any money from a class-action lawsuit.
Friend Referral BonusesMany companies will pay you money just for referring people you know to sign up for or use their services. To find these referral bonuses, search online for the company name and add the words, “refer a friend,” or “referral program” to your search. These programs are great because they help your friend by recommending a company you like, plus you get a payout at the same time; it’s a win-win situation. For example, if you know someone new to your area, they may need to sign up for multiple services after they move. These are things like finding an internet provider (like Xfinity), opening new checking accounts, and more. Here are some of the latest refer a friend promotions:
Travel HackingTravel hacking is a strategic method that involves using credit card points and bonuses to pay for travel. While technically it’s not free cash, getting your travel expenses paid or heavily discounted can free up the cash you would be spending on paying full travel prices. If you travel frequently, it’s a great way to get paid to travel or travel for a low cost. Read: How to Use Credit Card Churning to Travel For Free Donating PlasmaIf you want to earn cash easily, get paid to donate plasma. Can you believe you can make $300 to $400 per month just for donating? It’s a good payout that takes low effort. It involves commuting to the donation center, then sitting in a chair for a small amount of time for medical professionals to extract the plasma. Pay Off Credit Card DebtInterest and minimum monthly payments can drain your cash on hand when you have credit card debt. Though it won’t happen overnight, you’ll have more money once you become debt-free or eliminate some debt. If all of your combined minimum payments come to $500 a month, you’d feel like you’re getting a free $500 monthly once you pay off your debt. Paying off debt can be overwhelming if you don’t know where to start. Dave Ramsey’s debt snowball method will give you a clear-cut plan. Focus GroupsAre you someone that likes to share your opinion? Then getting paid to be part of a focus group will be right up your alley. Companies conduct focus groups for market research purposes. They gather a small group of people to ask them questions and get feedback about products and services. It’s an almost effortless way to earn some cold hard cash. Focus groups are done in-person or online. Here are a couple of good focus group resources:
Final ThoughtsUsing one or more of these ideas to make free money will leave you and your wallet happy. You’re most likely not going to make a 6 figure income from the ideas above, but that’s okay. You still have the potential to score a significant amount of cash without much hard work. How much money can you get for free? Try one of these ideas today to start finding out. This post originally appeared on Savoteur. Via https://mylifeiguess.com/how-to-get-free-money/
0 Comments
Investing in stocks for the first time is a daunting task. It can be scary because real money is at risk of loss. However, equities are the path to building wealth because they represent ownership of a company and a claim on future profits and earnings. An investor buys stock now, hoping that it is worth more later. Some investors buy stocks to create a growing passive income stream, or a dividend growth strategy. The idea is simple and works, and many real-life stories exist of people building wealth from equities. The question then is how to buy stocks for beginners? What steps are essential to know? What follows is a step-by-step guide that answers those questions and put you on a path to building wealth. You Probably Already Own StocksMost workers probably own stocks indirectly through their company’s retirement plan, whether a pension or 401(k). For example, a 401(k) plan will provide employees with various mutual fund investment choices. The funds are managed by an asset manager, like Vanguard or Fidelity, and the fund manager picks the stocks. The worker picks the funds in the plan but not the stocks. It’s simple but the employee is not directly buying stocks. Some investors may, however, want to own stocks directly. Basics of StocksA beginner must first understand the basics of stocks. A stock is also known as a share and represents the percentage ownership of a company. For example, if you own ten shares of a company with 100,000,000 total shares, you own 0.00001% of the company. Public companies stocks trade on exchanges, like the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) or Nasdaq, the two most prominent in the US. Small investors do not usually buy and sell shares from the company. Instead, they buy and sell stocks on an exchange through a brokerage firm. Other factors in buying stocks include the type of order, dollar amount, and, most importantly, the stock you want to buy. Risks for StocksStocks are not risk-free. Most people are familiar with low-risk savings accounts and Certificates of Deposit (CDs) that are, in many cases, insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC). On the other hand, stocks have more risk and investors can lose money because stock prices may decline during a correction or a bear market. For example, in 2022 the broader stock market was down more than (-10%). This decline is considered a market correction. However, some trendy growth stocks are down even more. For example, Netflix (NFLX) has declined by about (-67%) year-to-date. In addition, public companies can perform poorly and declare bankruptcy, effectively wiping out shareholders. Hence, a beginner should focus on safer stocks and diversification. Putting all your money in one high-risk stock places the principal at risk for loss. Assuming you have educated yourself about stocks and the risks, beginners asking how to buy stocks should start by selecting a brokerage firm. Steps on How to Buy Stocks for BeginnersPick a Brokerage FirmStart buying stocks by picking a brokerage firm. In the past, an investor had to deal with a broker who placed a buy or sell order. Today, orders are placed directly by the investor online. Therefore, a person should start the process by selecting an online broker and creating an account. Open an Account OnlineOpening an online account is simple and easy. First, a person must complete the application, provide the necessary identity information, and wait for approval. Lastly, an investor needs to add money to the account by directly linking a bank account and transferring funds or mailing a check. Full-Service Brokers vs Discount Brokers vs Robo InvestorsThe process is about the same for almost every online broker. However, many choices for an online broker exist; they are categorized as either full-service or discount brokers. Full-service brokers offer a wide range of services besides the ability to buy or sell stocks or Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs). They provide financial planning, insurance, retirement accounts, and other financial services. They often have online brokerage accounts, but the fees tend to be higher. Some full-service brokers have minimum account sizes. A full-service broker may be the best choice if you want more options and advice, assuming you can afford the fees. Today, the most common type of firm is an online discount broker. Investors will place their buy-and-sell orders using an online platform. In addition, they often offer educational information and limited research tools for do-it-yourself (DIY) investors. However, many third-party subscription newsletters and research sites are available online to help investors. Discount brokers often have online apps, no minimum deposits, and commission-free trading for stocks and ETFs. A relatively newer way of buying and selling stocks is through an online Robo-advisor. These platforms use technology and algorithms to make decisions about buying and selling stocks and ETFs. Robo-advisors are more automated and generally have lower expenses than full-service brokers but are more expensive than discount brokers. Ranking of Brokerage FirmsBelow is a partial list of brokerage firms rank-ordered by the number of accounts.
Other brokerage firms and Robo-advisors include Interactive Brokers, M1 Finance, Wealthfront, Betterment, Personal Capital, TradeStation, J.P. Morgan, SoFi Invest, etc. Research a StockFor a DIY investor, the next step is to research a stock. Read about Stocks in BooksStart researching a stock by reading about it in one of the many investing books available to the public regarding learning how to research and select stocks. A gold standard amongst beginner investing books is one of the three Peter Lynch books. He educates people on picking stocks, choosing from different stocks, when to buy stocks, and when to sell stocks. Read all three books:
The primary focus is to stick with what you know instead of popular trends and avoid distractions. Research Stocks in Online NewslettersYou can also research stocks by subscribing to newsletters or a service like Morningstar or Seeking Alpha. Newsletters are typically published monthly and provide several picks based on their stock coverage. Morningstar is a sizeable well-known service that provides stock analysis and other services. They include wide-moat stocks and undervalued stocks. Seeking Alpha is another excellent service providing crowd-sourced stock analyses. These services are suitable for beginners asking how to buy stocks because they provide structure and input to new investors. Stock Screening PlatformsYou may also want to consider a stock screener platform. Companies like Morningstar and Seeking Alpha offer stock screening. Some online apps offer dedicated stock screening. They often have hundreds of fundamental and calculated metrics, charts, tables, watchlists, etc. A DIY investor can spend as much time as needed to narrow down an extensive list of stocks to a few. Amount to InvestThe next step is to decide on an amount to invest. If you have a lump sum, it makes sense (and reduces risk) by not investing it all in one trade. Investors with a lump sum often follow a dollar-cost averaging method. Dollar-cost averaging means investors buy a fixed dollar amount of shares at regularly timed intervals instead of trying to time the market and invest a significant amount all at once. For example, suppose you want to invest $5,000. Instead of buying $5,000 of shares at one time, you can invest $250 or $500 per month every month over an extended period. This method tends to lower risk and the average cost per share. Instead, suppose you have only about $50 per month to invest after monthly expenses. Then, you can still follow a dollar-cost averaging strategy but at a lower dollar amount. In either case, a prudent investor does not place all their money in a single stock. Instead, it is better to diversify in a handful of stocks and grow the number over time. Putting all your money in one stock subjects you to single stock risks. Diversification helps reduce that risk. Select An Order TypeThe last step is to select an order type. The two basic order types are a market order and a limit order. There are more order types, but beginners will mainly use these two. A market order buys or sells a stock immediately at the best available price, while a limit order buys or sells a stock at a specific price. For instance, if you want to buy Coca-Cola (KO) at $62.49 per share and the current price exceeds that value, you won’t buy the stock until the stock price declines. If the stock price does not decrease, the order expires. A limit order gives you more control over the price you pay per share. An order can be good for a day (GFD), good till canceled (GTC), or when the order expires, which is usually in 60-days. Final ThoughtsThe basics are simple for beginners trying to figure out how to buy stocks. One caution is that many investors spend too much time looking at their portfolios after buying their first stock. However, if you have an investment strategy and follow it, you need only monitor your stock portfolio periodically. Keep your goals in mind and why you are buying stocks in the first place when making your stock investments and purchases. There is always more to learn too. Investing in stocks is a lifelong learning process as the market and technology constantly change. Disclaimer: The author is not a licensed or registered investment adviser or broker/dealer. He is not providing you with individual investment advice. Please consult with a licensed investment professional before you invest your money. This post originally appeared on Savoteur. Via https://mylifeiguess.com/how-to-buy-stocks-for-beginners/ Many people want to know how to make money online. To put a finer point on it, people want to know how to make money online for free. People have exited the brick-and-mortar workplaces and are seeking other options. This article will dissect 28 different ways to do it. Some are well-known, others less so. All are legitimate methods to earn a quick buck. Why Making Money Online Is So EnticingThe allure of making free money online is hard to resist. With the internet so readily available, it’s easier than ever to get started. Before we dive in, let’s discuss why it’s so enticing in the first place. Firstly, you can do it from anywhere in the world. All you need is a computer and an internet connection. This is optimal if you’re someone who travels around frequently. You can also set your own hours with most online jobs, making them perfect for people who want to make extra cash but can’t commit to a full-time position. Working from home means you don’t have to deal with commuting or office politics. Lastly, you can make a full-time sustainable income that may help combat rising inflation. Since your income is dependent upon you, not any salary schedule, you could work to bump it up to make up for rising living costs. How to Make Money Online for FreeNow that we’ve discussed why making money online is so appealing let’s get into the different ways you can do it. Virtual AssistantOne way you can make money online is by becoming a virtual assistant. Virtual assistants provide administrative support to clients, often remotely. Your work as a personal assistant can include tasks such as scheduling appointments, answering emails, and managing social media accounts. To be a successful assistant, you’ll need good organizational skills and the ability to communicate clearly with clients. You should also be comfortable using different technology, such as video conferencing and project management software. Web ResearcherAnother way to make money online is by becoming a web researcher. Web researchers collect and analyze data from the internet for companies and organizations. Work can include conducting market research, competitive analysis, and customer surveys. To be a successful web researcher, you’ll need good research skills and the ability to find reliable sources of information. You should also be comfortable using different software, such as Excel and Google Sheets. Audio and Video TranscriberYou can make money online by transcribing audio and video files if you have good listening and typing skills. Transcribers convert audio and video recordings into written form, often used for subtitles and closed captions. To be a successful transcriber, you’ll need to pay attention to detail and the ability to type quickly. You should also be comfortable using transcription software. Patreon CreatorPatreon is a platform that allows creators to fund their work through monthly subscriptions from fans. Fans can subscribe to their favorite creators and receive exclusive content, such as behind-the-scenes videos, early access to new releases, and Patron-only chatrooms. To be a successful Patreon creator, you’ll need to build up a large following of fans willing to pay for your high-quality content. Review Websites or AppsSeveral websites and apps will pay you to write reviews. These platforms usually work by giving you a small amount of money for each review you write. To do well at this job, you’ll need to be able to give clear and concise feedback. You should also be familiar with the platform you’re writing for so that you can provide accurate and helpful reviews. Join an Affiliate ProgramAn affiliate program is a marketing arrangement in which an online retailer pays you a commission for each sale you generate. For example, if you have a blog about cooking, you could join an affiliate program for a kitchenware company. You then insert their affiliate link into your article. Every time someone clicks on it and purchases the product, you will receive a cut. You’ll need to drive traffic to your blog or website to be successful. You should also be familiar with the products you’re promoting to give accurate information about the product and write a knowledgeable review. Read: Learn the Secret of How to Make Money Blogging YouTube CreatorYouTube creators make videos and post them on their channels. They can then monetize their videos with ads or through sponsorships. To crush it as a YouTube creator, you’ll need to create high-quality videos that people want to watch. You should also be familiar with YouTube’s guidelines so that your videos don’t get flagged or removed. Participate in Focus GroupsFocus groups are research studies where organizations want opinions on a product or service. Companies and organizations use focus groups to gather feedback about new products, ad campaigns, etc. To participate in focus groups, you’ll need to sign up with a market research company. You should also be comfortable giving your opinion on various topics. Online Travel AgentAn online travel agent helps people plan and book their travel arrangements. Work can include booking flights, hotels, rental cars, and more. To be a successful online travel agent, you’ll need to be familiar with the various booking systems and websites. You should also be able to give accurate information about the different travel options available. Sell Stock PhotosIf you have a good eye for taking pictures, you can make money by selling stock photos. Businesses and organizations use stock photos for website design, marketing materials, and blog posts. You’ll need to sign up with a stock photo agency to sell stock photos. You should also be familiar with the different types of images in demand. Social Media ConsultantA social media consultant helps businesses and organizations with their social media presence. The work can include creating and managing social media accounts, developing marketing campaigns, and more. To become an in-demand social media consultant, you’ll need to be familiar with various social media platforms. You should also have experience working with businesses and organizations in this capacity. ProofreadingIf you have a good eye for detail, you can make money by proofreading and editing documents. This could include books, articles, websites, and other written content. You’ll need excellent attention to detail to be a decent proofreader or editor. You should also be familiar with the different style guides used in this field. Ad ManagerAn ad manager helps businesses and organizations create and manage their online advertising campaigns. The work can include developing ad campaigns, managing budgets, and more. To be a strong ad manager, you’ll need to experience different online advertising platforms. Web DevelopmentIf you have experience with web development, you can make money by creating and maintaining websites for businesses and organizations. The work can include designing website layouts, coding, and more. To become a web dev whizz, you need to learn a handful of programming languages. You should also know various tools and platforms that coders commonly use, like GitHub. English TeacherIf you’re a native English speaker, you can make money by teaching English to students from other countries. The work can be done online or in person. To be a proficient English teacher, you obviously need to have a strong command of the language. Being attentive, patient, and personable helps too. Sell Domain NamesIf you’re familiar with website domains, you can make money buying and selling them for businesses and organizations. You can identify expired or unused domains and then negotiate prices with prospective buyers. To make a good profit flipping domains, you must know the domain market inside out. You should also be across the different domain registrars and auction sites. Website TestingWebsite testing is a process of checking websites for potential errors or problems. Website testing can include usability testing, functional testing, and more. To be a successful website tester, you’ll need experience with the different web browsers and operating systems. You should also know the different types of tests used in this field. Freelance WritingIf you have a knack for writing, you can make money by writing articles, blog posts, and other types of content for businesses and organizations. To be a successful freelance writer, you’ll need to know the different styles of writing used. You should also have experience working with various content management systems. Data EntryData entry is the process of entering data into computer systems. Duties include transcribing audio files, filling out forms, etc. To be a solid data entry worker, you’ll need to have good attention to detail. You should also be familiar with the different software programs used in this field. Sell on Facebook MarketplaceIf you’re familiar with the Facebook Marketplace, you can make money by selling products and services on this platform. This includes things like clothes, electronics, and more. To be a good seller, you’ll need to understand how the Facebook Marketplace works and how to optimize sales copy so customers want to buy your product. DropshippingDropshipping is a type of e-commerce where businesses sell products without carrying inventory. You can use a dropshipping supplier. First, you’ll need to understand how dropshipping works. There is a bit of a learning curve for beginners. You should also be familiar with the different types of popular products in this field. Online ConsultingIf you have experience in a particular field, you can make money by offering your services online. Services can include things like coaching, consulting, and more. To be a stellar consultant, you need to offer tailored advice not easily found elsewhere. It helps to demonstrate your expertise to your clients directly, say through a track record of your professional work or educational degrees, etc. You should also be familiar with the various platforms to offer these services. Develop an Online CourseIf you have knowledge or experience in a particular subject, you can make money by developing an online course. This includes creating course content, recording videos, and more. To be a great course maker, you’ll need to understand how to develop an effective online course. You should also be familiar with the different platforms used to host these courses. Complete Online SurveysYou can make money by completing online surveys for businesses and organizations. You can include things like providing your opinion on products, answering questions, and more. To be successful in this field, you’ll need to have good attention to detail. You should also be familiar with the different types of survey platforms available. Make Money Watching VideosYou can make money by watching videos online for businesses and organizations. The work you do can include reviewing products, providing your opinion on videos, and more. Make Money Playing GamesYou can earn money while playing games online. This can involve tasks like testing new games, providing feedback on game features, and more. Shopping Online for OthersYou can make money by shopping online for businesses and organizations. You can include things like finding deals, providing your opinion on products, and more. Sell Digital ProductsIf you have experience in a particular field, you can make money by selling digital products. Products can include things like e-books, online courses, and more. Final ThoughtsHere are just a few ways you can make money online. These include freelancing, website testing, data entry, and more. To be successful, you’ll need to have skills and experience. You can make money online with the proper knowledge and dedication. This article originally appeared on Wealth of Geeks. Via https://mylifeiguess.com/how-to-make-money-online-for-free/ “Do you have any questions for me?” Most interviews end the same way. The interviewer will ask the candidate if they have any questions for them before the interview is wrapped up. As a hiring manager who has hired hundreds of people in my career, I would ask this question every single time. And, the candidate’s answer would tell me a lot about their motivation. Don’t refuse the opportunity to ask questions. That’s a mistake. “No, I think you answered all of my questions” is the wrong way to answer that question. Always ask questions at the end of the interview. This shows that you are taking the interview seriously. You’ve done pre-work. Maybe a little bit of research about the company. Trust me, most hiring managers interview dozens of candidates for each and every job opening. The candidates that ask insightful questions at the end of the interview almost always have a leg up when it comes time to hire. Of course, there are no guarantees, but asking questions at the end improves your chances of getting hired. What are some of the best questions to ask at the end of your interview? Here are 22. Top 22 Questions To Ask at the End of Your InterviewAlways take the opportunity to ask insightful questions. Here are 22 great questions to ask that will leave the hiring manager with a good impression of you. 1: Can you tell me a little about the team that I would be working with? 2: What are some of the most significant projects that I would be working on? 3: What do you expect to be accomplished in this position in the next 30 days? 60 days? 4: Are there opportunities for a promotion with this position? What do they look like? 5: Will I be working with other parts of the company on a daily basis? 6: What does a typical day look like in this position? 7: Are there any specific skill sets that you are looking for in this position? 8: What training programs are available for people who work here? 9: Does this company offer any professional development opportunities? 10: What does the performance review process look like? How often? 11: Are there any metrics that my performance will be measured against? 12: Where do you see this company in the next three to five years? 13: Can you tell me a little bit about the new products/services that you’re launching? 14: Are there any soft skills that would help me perform well in this role? 15: Who would I be working with most closely? 16: Who would I be reporting to? 17: Are there any office traditions here that you like? 18: Does this company host any events for employees or the public? 19: How long have you worked with this company? 20: What is your favorite part about working here? 21: What are the next steps in the interview process? 22: When do you expect to make a decision about who to hire for this role? An Important Bonus QuestionAnd, here is one bonus question: “Have I answered all of your questions?” This question offers job candidates a couple of benefits. First, it shows confidence. It means you don’t want the interviewer to be concerned about anything you may have said during the interview. This gives you an opportunity to clear the air, if necessary. Asking this question also helps to gauge how well you’re doing. For instance, if they say something like “Nope, you’ve done a great job at answering our questions”, then you are probably doing well. If, on the other hand, they ask you to address something or talk more about your experience in a particular area, this gives you a good opportunity to expand or clarify. Keep in mind that not all of these questions will be appropriate for every employer, so pick and choose two or three that you think work best for your next interview. Also, take time to ask your questions in a clear and concise way. Understand how the language that you use can be interpreted by other people – especially in interviews. The important thing is to ask at least a couple of questions at the end. Don’t miss this easy opportunity to put yourself above your competition. Don’t Ask These QuestionsNow, let’s talk a bit about questions that you should NOT ask. That’s right, not all questions are created equal. For instance, “Can I work from home” isn’t a good question to ask unless you know that the company offers flexible work options. Many companies haven’t yet adopted a work from home strategy for employees, and asking this question could backfire. Also, “How much money will I make?” is another question to avoid. Leave the salary negotiations for when you get an offer. Very often, it’s not the interviewer’s job role to decide on your salary anyway, so steer clear of this question. Lastly, “Can I get my own office?” is an awkward question. If this is important enough to you, leave that question for later. Let the employer decide to hire you before asking about getting your own office. More Interview Articles from My Life, I Guess
This content was produced and syndicated by Wealth of Geeks. Via https://mylifeiguess.com/job-interview-questions-to-ask/ Millions of Americans wake up every day dreading their job. Many of these jobs are high-stress, low pay, and lack work-life balance. Isn’t there another way? The following jobs pay well, are quite low-stress, and are often enjoyable. Also included on this list are work-at-home job ideas so that you can structure your day on your terms. Being your own boss is so much more empowering. Before we get to the jobs, there are a couple of things to consider. First, some have a learning curve that makes them challenging initially. Once you get the hang of it, they can be pretty simple though. Secondly, the word “easy” is very subjective. What might be a cakewalk to one person might be difficult for someone with a different skill set. Having a fun job you’re passionate about could potentially make the job seem very easy to you, especially compared to someone that doesn’t enjoy working in the same field. Now, let’s go over some easy and exciting job ideas with excellent income potential. Easy Jobs That Pay Well1. Life CoachIf you enjoy helping others, being a life coach is a rewarding career. Life coaches motivate and inspire people in all different areas of life to manage their day-to-day living. Some life coaches give general guidance, while others have areas of expertise. Here are some different areas of coaching:
Life coaches meet with their clients in person or online. Some coaches work for companies while others are self-employed. If you’re lucky enough to work for yourself as a life coach, you can create your schedule. Not only that, but once you have built up a clientele and have refined your coaching process, it can be pretty straightforward. Life coaches earn good money. They make almost $60k a year or more. Skills and Traits Necessary to Perform This Job:
Average Annual Pay: $59,630 2. Video Game TesterTesting video games is a dream job for many. You are getting paid to play video games. How cool is that? Testers play games before their release to report on bugs and flaws. Video game testing is typically an entry-level job and doesn’t require a degree. Skills and Traits Necessary to Perform This Job:
Average Annual Pay: $46,770 3. Voice ActorHave a knack for acting? Voice acting might be a fantastic fit for you. Plus, the pay is quite lucrative. Voice-over is in high demand, with many opportunities in narration, animation, commercials, video games, and much more. Professional voice actor Lili Wexu has this to say: “My advice would be to keep on top of your training, and focus on creating your content. Many people in the industry are watching what’s going on online.” The content you create can be in any genre, and if the right person sees it, this could lead to a job or other opportunities. Skills and Traits Necessary to Perform This Job:
Average Annual Pay: $76,297 4. PhotographerIf taking pictures is a hobby you already have, why not get paid for it? Also, turning your passion into a job will make it feel less like work. There are many types of photographers:
Skills and Traits Necessary to Perform This Job:
Average Annual Pay: $43,114 5. Mystery ShopperRetail establishments and marketing research companies hire mystery shoppers to give feedback on the customer service they receive. Mystery shopping is a great way to make extra income. Some people even do it full-time. Mystery shopping allows you to work independently with little supervision, which is a perk. Skills and Traits Necessary to Perform This Job:
Average Annual Pay: $41,611 Easy Remote Jobs That Pay Well6. ProofreaderProofreaders check written work for grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors. There are many stay-at-home proofreading opportunities, and the occupation is in high demand. Some proofreaders have their own home-based business, while others work full-time for a company or do freelance work. You can train to be a proofreader in your spare time, which is a plus, especially if you already have a day job. Skills and Traits Necessary to Perform This Job:
Average Annual Pay: $45,852 7. Online TutorTutoring is a fun way to earn some money working from home. This job is incredibly fulfilling if you enjoy teaching others. Some people tutor on a full-time basis, while others work part-time. Since you can set your hours, another option is to have an online tutoring side business while you work another job. Your tutoring gig could prove incredibly profitable, especially combined with another paycheck. For example, if your nine-to-five job pays $40,000 a year, combined with $10,000 from tutoring, that’s a $50k-a-year salary. It’s one of the most popular side hustles for a good reason – it provides a flexible schedule with the option to have weekends off. Skills and Traits Necessary to Perform This Job:
Average Annual Pay: $45,926 8. Online Affiliate MarketerAffiliate marketing involves promoting other companies products or services for a commission. Affiliate marketers recommend products through blogs, social media platforms, or email. If someone clicks on their affiliate link and makes a sale, they’ll earn money. As you can imagine, this can be quite profitable, especially if you have a large audience. In the beginning, it can be challenging to build up an audience and write persuasive copy that converts to sales. Once you get the hang of it though, it’s a simple way to hustle online. There is no fixed upper limit to the earning potential either. For example, after building an affiliate marketing website and establishing good traffic and sales, it’s possible to put the site on autopilot. Many times this leads to relatively passive income, which is always lovely. Skills and Traits Necessary to Perform This Job:
Annual Pay: Salary can vary from $0 to $100,000 or more Read: The Secret to Creating Gift Guides that Make Money 9. BloggerBlogging allows you to be your own boss and work in the comfort of your home. To make money blogging, you must produce helpful content that people want to read. Monetization channels include ads, sponsored posts, affiliate marketing, and others. Just like affiliate marketing, blogging is a slog at first. Once you get a consistent content schedule going, it gets more manageable. If you earn enough to hire writers and virtual assistants, blogging has the potential to dramatically expand your income. Also, once a blogger has one successful blog, they are better positioned to create another using the same strategies. The more income streams, the better. Skills and Traits Necessary to Perform This Job:
Annual Pay: Bloggers make anywhere from $0 to a six-figure salary or more. Read: Want to Learn the Secret of How to Make Money Blogging? Join a Mastermind Group! SummaryFrom having an online business to working for a company, there are many easy ways to start earning money. If saving money has been challenging, it may be time to make more money with one of the opportunities mentioned. Remember, you have the potential to earn a lot of money, and you don’t have to be in a stressful work environment to do so. Finding a job that fits your definition of easy and is something you love doing will make you happy to wake up and go to work each day. This article originally appeared on Wealth of Geeks Via https://mylifeiguess.com/stress-less-earn-more-easy-jobs/ There has been a dramatic shift in the way people handle their finances over the past decade. With the widespread adoption of smartphones and other devices, consumers are now more likely to use digital wallets to pay for goods and services. Experts expect this trend to continue as technology advances. Some applications take this revolution further by empowering users with various tools that can do much more than pay for items. Enter Cash AppCash App is one of the most popular digital wallets and peer-to-peer (P2P) payment apps. With an account, you can use it to quickly and securely send and receive money, set up direct deposits, save money, spend money, and invest in stocks and Bitcoin. You can also earn cashback or free Bitcoin and even file your taxes at no extra expense! The company has made it possible for users to do all of these things from their mobile devices, making it a convenient and user-friendly option for those looking for a one-stop solution for their financial needs. Little wonder Cash App has become the go-to payment option for many people. What is Cash App?Cash App is a financial platform and mobile wallet app similar to Venmo, Apple Pay, Google Pay, PayPal, and Zelle. It works as a daily banking solution for individuals but also provides services for businesses. Formerly known as Square Cash, Square Inc., the app launched in 2013, co-founded by Twitter founder Jack Dorsey. It was later renamed Cash App. It’s important to note that Cash App is not an actual bank but a financial platform that partners with banks. These partnerships allow Cash App to provide banking services and debit cards insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC). Cash App is currently available in the U.S. and U.K. only. How Does Cash App Work?To sign up with Cash App, download the app, enter your name, ZIP code, and your email or phone number, and that’s it! You will create a username, known as your $Cashtag, that others will use to pay you or request money. Or, they can search by name, email address, or phone number. Once you’ve created your free account, you need to connect Cash App with one of your existing bank accounts to start using most of its services. Then, you will be able to transfer money between your accounts and send and receive money. When you receive money, you can either keep the funds within Cash App or transfer them to your linked bank account(s). There is a small fee for instant transfers, but standard transfers (which take 1-3 business days) are free. Many Cash App users get a free Cash Card, which is essentially a Visa debit card that can be used in stores or as a digital wallet to make purchases. You must be 18 or older to use all of Cash App’s features. However, users as young as 13 can create an account and request a Cash Card (parental approval is required to access some features). Although Cash App is free to download, there are fees for certain services. Is Cash App Safe?Cash App uses encryption, secure servers, and fraud detection technology to protect your data and money. Overall, it’s safe to use, but that doesn’t mean it’s invincible. As a user, there are things you can do to minimize security risks. First, because “Cash App” is a common term, be careful when you first download and set up your account. There are some legitimate-looking knock-off apps, so be sure you’re using the Square Inc. Cash App. Second, online scams often use Cash App’s brand to lure people in with promises of making a quick buck. One example is cashappearn.com, which most users have reported as a scam. If something sounds too good to be true, it likely is. Information about known scams and how to avoid them are available on their website. Third, Cash App payments are instant and are usually difficult to cancel. Cash App monitors accounts and occasionally cancels potentially fraudulent charges. However, it’s up to you to make sure you send money to the right person. If you make a mistake or fall for a scam, you can request your money back using the Request button. Unfortunately, that’s all you can do. Make sure you use a hard-to-guess sign-in code and PIN. Never share these with anyone. Cash App Support will never ask you to send a “test” payment or purchase or download programs that allow remote access. Take advantage of their additional security measures, including:
How to Make Money with Cash AppDespite the scams, there are a few legitimate ways to make money with Cash App. 1. Refer New UsersOne of the easiest ways to make money with Cash App is their referral program. When you refer a new user to Cash App, you will earn a $5 bonus if they use your invite link. The invitation bonus is a great way to make some extra cash. It’s also a great way to get your friends and family to start using Cash App. 2. Enter Cash App Fridays GiveawaysEvery Friday, Cash App runs giveaways or sweepstakes through its Twitter and Instagram accounts. Recent giveaways range from $25 discounts to Bitcoin deposits worth more than $40,000! Be sure to follow them and enter if you’re eligible for your chance to win. 3. Cash App InvestingFor as little as $1, you can start investing in fractional shares of stock without paying any commissions through Cash App Investing. You can track stock prices in real-time, monitor your investment portfolio in the app, and create a list of companies to follow so you stay informed about their performance. If the stock does well, you can make money. However, investing comes with risks, and you could lose money instead, so only to invest what you can afford to lose. Cash App Investing is available to U.S. residents only who are over 18. 4. Buy & Sell BitcoinIn addition to investing in the stock market, Cash App users can buy, sell, and send Bitcoin. There may be a small fee for buying and selling Bitcoin, but Cash App will list the fee before you complete your transaction. Sending and receiving Bitcoin is free. Like stocks, the value of Bitcoin is constantly changing. Although investing in Bitcoin is considered high risk, cryptocurrencies are unlikely to disappear overnight, and Bitcoin is the biggest of them all. If you’re willing to take the risk, it could pay off, depending on when you buy and sell. You can also choose to get “paid in Bitcoin,” where a portion of your direct deposit will automatically be invested in Bitcoin without paying fees. 5. Earn Free Bitcoin with Bitcoin BoostsRather than using Cash App’s Cash Boost to get discounts on your purchases, you can choose to earn free Bitcoin through Bitcoin Boost. The amount you will automatically earn depends on the purchases you make. Once you’ve earned Bitcoin, you can sell it for cash or keep it, hoping that its value will grow. That is an easy way to earn free money and a great way to learn more about investing in cryptocurrency. 6. Send & Receive Money for FreeThere are no extra fees when you use Cash App to send or receive money, which is one of the reasons why it is such a popular app. Whether you are borrowing money from friends or family, lending someone money, or getting paid for things like your side hustle, Cash App is the simplest way to do it. The app is also convenient because it is linked to your bank account and allows you to transfer money with just a few taps. How to Save Money with Cash AppIn addition to making money with Cash App, there are a few ways it can also save you money. 1. Cash Boost Instant CashbackWith your Cash Card, you get access to Cash Boosts, which are instant cashback discounts that you can use to save money at the supermarket, restaurants, stores, and when shopping online. You can only use one Cash Boost at a time, but they are easy to activate within the app and are easy to switch. Click “Save with Boost,” scroll through the current exclusive offers, and add the Boost you want to use. Then, use your Cash Card to make your purchase, and Cash App will deduct the discounted amount from your balance. 2. Save ATM FeesWhen you set up a direct deposit for your paycheck of $300 or more each month, Cash App will reimburse your ATM fees. They also count Unemployment Insurance deposits if you are currently out of work. 3. File Your Taxes for FreeIn 2020, Square, Inc. acquired Credit Karma Tax and renamed it Cash App Taxes. This service allows Cash App users to file their taxes from their phone or computer at no extra charge. Bonus: Get Your Paycheck EarlyWith Cash App, you can receive your paycheck up to two days earlier than you would with most other banks. Although this isn’t specifically a way to save money, it is a great perk if you need access to your money right away. SummaryAs you can see, there are several different ways to make and save money with Cash App. Whether you’re looking for a convenient way to send and receive money, invest, or get paid early, Cash App is a great option. And, if you’re careful and aware of the potential risks, it is a safe and easy way to handle your finances. This article originally appeared on Wealth of Geeks. Via https://mylifeiguess.com/make-and-save-money-with-cash-app/ It’s your birthday or soon to be! If your birthday is around the corner, you might have plans to celebrate your birthday. You want it to be a memorable birthday. The last thing you want is to pay for your stuff. The birthday person should be the giver, correct? It is a day for some self-care and self-love. You have to treat yourself on your special day! Below is a list of places you can sign up or join their reward program to get free birthday stuff. Be aware that you must sign up a month or seven days before your birthday in some places. Don’t forget you can keep collecting freebies by using apps like Ibotta and Swagbucks. Today, many excellent cash-back apps can help you keep the freebies going all year long. Here is the list of places to score freebies, deals, and discounts on your special day if you are ready! Food & DrinksAuntie AnneIf you are a fan of Auntie Anne’s hand-baked pretzels, you’ll enjoy the free birthday gift from the restaurant. When you sign up for Pretzel Perks, you can get a fantastic deal (buy-one-get-one-free pretzel) on your birthday. If you bring a friend, you can share among the two. Just kidding! Go alone so you can have the pretzels all to yourself! Baskin-RobbinsIf you are part of the Birthday Club, you want to enjoy a free scoop of ice cream at Baskins-Robbins. That is a free 2.5-ounce scoop of ice cream for free. Everyone loves free birthday stuff, especially when it comes to ice cream. BJ BrewhouseHave you ever tried their Pizookie before? It is to die for! If you join Premier Rewards Plus, you get a free Pizookie for signing up and a free one on your birthday. Doesn’t that sound amazing and delicious? Buffalo Wild WingsEveryone has a heart for tasty chicken wings! If you join the Blazin’ Rewards, BWW will gift you a FREE snack-size wings with no purchase, and it is valid on your birthday month. Denny’sOn your birthday, Denny’s gives you a Grand Slam Breakfast. Denny’s only offers that on your actual birthday, not the week or the day before your birthday. All you need to do is join the free reward program ahead of time to get this fabulous meal. Remember to download the app and create an account before your birthday month, so Denny can send a coupon when it’s your birthday. Golden CorralWhat could be better than the all-you-can-eat paradise at the Golden Corral? Being part of the Gold Club, you get a free adult buffet. Yes, you heard it correctly! A FREE ADULT BUFFET! Imagine all the food you can eat there. You have fourteen days to use your birthday coupon before it expires. iHopDoesn’t a nice hot pancake sound lovely on your birthday? When you sign up for the IHOP Birthday Club, the restaurant will send you a free birthday coupon for a free stack of pancakes with any toppings at no cost. You can use the coupon seven days before or after your birthday. Doesn’t that sounds amazing! Everyone loves getting free birthday stuff on their special day! Krispy KremeIf you are a big fan of Krispy Kreme, you will probably enjoy their free birthday gift. You can get a free donut and coffee on your birthday month if you are part of the Krispy Kreme Reward. You probably have a favorite donut flavor and coffee at Krispy Kreme. Most of you probably want a hot, warm donut and coffee on the morning of your birthday. Olive GardenThe restaurant doesn’t have a reward program, but if you choose to dine in on your birthday, you will get a free dessert! Everyone loves getting free dessert on their birthday. P.F. ChangYou don’t want to miss out on your favorite Asian food. If you sign up to be part of the P.F. Chang’s Rewards, they will send you a coupon for a free appetizer or dessert of your choice! This deal is only valid on your birthday month. StarbucksEveryone would love a free Starbucks drink, especially on their birthday. Most of you probably have the app and are a Starbucks Reward Member, but if you are not, you need to join. You need to be part of the reward program for at least a week before your birthday and make a one-star transaction to receive your birthday reward. Red RobbinLet’s treat yourself to some yummy burgers at Red Robbins on your birthday. If you are part of the Red Robbin Royalty Program, you can get a free burger from the sixteen gourmet burgers they offer. Steak n’ ShakeIf you join the free Steak’ n Shake eClub, you can get a free double cheeseburger and fries by signing up. Along with that, you get a specialty milkshake on your birthday. The deal is usually valid seven days before and after your birthday. You don’t want to miss out on their milkshake! Texas RoadhouseIf you sign up with Texas Roadhouse online, you get a birthday coupon for a free appetizer or a sidekick of ribs with an entree purchase. The deal is only valid five days before or nine days after your birthday. Waffle HouseLike IHOP, you can get a free classic waffle when you sign up for the Waffle Regular Club. Waffle House is open 24/7 all year round, so you can surely get your free waffle at midnight as the start of your birthday! Zaxby’sIf you love Zaxby’s food, you’ll enjoy their free snack when you are part of the Z-Mail Club. You’ll receive a voucher for a free Nibbler Sandwich on your birthday when you sign up. No purchase is required, and it will be expired after thirty days. Read: Hungry? Here Are 11 Ways To Get Free Food RetailAnthropologieIf you love shopping and saving at Anthropologie, you’ll like this surprise! You can celebrate your special day with a 15% off coupon on clothes, shoes, furniture, and more! All you need to do is sign up to be a part of the Anthro Loyalty Program. You can use the coupon in-store or online, whichever you are comfortable with. Hot TopicIf you love pop culture, music, gaming, anime, and so forth, you don’t want to miss out on your birthday the special deal from Hot Topic. When you enroll in the Hot Topic Guest List, you do not only get a discount coupon on your birthday, but you’ll get a special deal on its anniversary too. Doesn’t that sound like a win-win situation? KohlsDo you love to shop at Kohls? When you sign up for the Yes2You Reward Program, you will receive a $10 reward on your birthday! You can get a gift online or at the store with that reward. Maybe you have wanted a new pair of clothes, accessories, or home decor. JCPennyWhen you sign up to be part of the JCPenny Reward Program, you can get a free birthday gift. There are always unique items at JCPenny, and you probably want a lucky gift from them. PandoraIf you are a jewelry lover, you want to sign up to be part of the Pandora Club. When it gets close to your birthday, you will receive a 15% off on any regular-priced jewelry items on your birthday month. Pandora has many cute charms and jewelry, so you don’t want to miss this huge opportunity. SephoraLike Ulta, you can get free birthday stuff when joining Beauty Insider. You can redeem your gift two weeks before or after your birthday or any time of the month. TargetEveryone loves to shop at Target! If you are a loyal shopper at Target and are part of the Target Circle Program, you will receive a 5% off coupon on any purchase at Target, which is valid for 30 days. The more points you earn as a reward member, the better your birthday gift will be. UltaReady to grab free birthday stuff from yours truly? If you love makeup, skincare, accessories, or anything beauty-related, you’ll love the surprise gift from Ulta. If you sign up to be part of the Ultimate Reward Program, you can get a free gift during your birthday month. This gift can include lipstick, primer, sunscreen, moisturizer, and more. This is something you don’t want to miss on your birthday month! World MarketYou can get free birthday stuff from your World Market when enrolling in the World Market Rewards Program. This gift is usually a discount coupon on anything at World Market! Read: Have You Ever Complained Just to Get Free Stuff? EntertainmentAMC TheaterIf you love going to the movie with your friends and family, you’ll be excited about what AMC offers on your birthday. You will receive free large popcorn if you are part of the AMC Stubs Insider. A buttery popcorn and a fabulous movie on your birthday night sound very special, don’t you think? RedboxLooking to watch a movie with your loved ones on your special day? Joining the Redbox Perks means you can get one free DVD rental on your birthday. You can buy food and bring them home to watch a fantastic movie in the comfort of your home. Nothing sounds better than a movie and meal combination, right? Closing NoteAfter reading the list of 20+ places to choose from, hopefully, you can get many free gifts on your special day. There is nothing better than getting free birthday stuff on your day! It’s your birthday, so you deserve it! It’s great to have a day that is all about you! This post originally appeared on Hello Sensible. Via https://mylifeiguess.com/free-birthday-stuff/ Do you wish you could travel the world but need the income from your job to support your adventures? One of the silver linings of the pandemic is the emphasis on remote work – and it appears to be sticking. A recent Gallup poll showed that 45% of workers are at least partially remote. That number jumps to 67% for white-collar office jobs. While that’s great news for many people, some types of work lend themselves more to travel jobs than others. For example, even if you work remotely now, you may be tied to set work hours or need a particular workstation setup; you can’t just throw a laptop in a backpack and hit the road. Here is a list of the 12 best travel jobs for those looking to jet-set worldwide. What Defines a Good Travel Job?When you picture the ideal travel job, what comes to mind? Is it sitting in a coffee shop in Italy with your laptop or lying on the beach with just a cell phone in hand? Maybe it involves working in the local community to get a more authentic experience of the day-to-day life of those around you. The definition of the perfect travel job doesn’t have a right or wrong answer. It ultimately comes down to your preferences and skills. Having a flexible schedule can be a plus. Learning a skill that translates to working from anywhere globally is helpful. Some people may want to find a job they can do in the evenings to enjoy sightseeing during the day. Others may want a more hands-on job to live like a local. No matter your preferences for travel jobs, this list should give you some ideas to jump-start your search. Read: 15 Job Skills You Can Learn From Traveling Virtual AssistantA virtual assistant may be the quintessential digital nomad job. In this role, you could offer a broad range of services, such as:
As a virtual assistant, you control what you do and when. The more specialized your skillset, the more money you can make. For example, you can earn $20-30 per hour for administrative tasks. Or you can make $100 an hour or more as a high-end web designer. Travel BloggerIf you love to travel, why not make it your job to document your experiences and share them with others? For example, as a travel blogger, you could research the best places to visit in a particular city or country and share your tips as you travel. While many bloggers make it look easy, it takes a lot of work to establish a profitable blog. You could eventually make six figures a year or more. But be prepared to spend at least six to twelve months building your blog before making any substantial income. You don’t have to stick to just travel if you have other interests. Whether your blog is about parenting, personal finance, food, or touches on multiple niches, blogging offers a highly flexible schedule with limitless earning potential. Read: Want to Learn the Secret of How to Make Money Blogging? Join a Mastermind Group! Remote Work (in Your Current Profession)Remote work is trending across many careers that used to be entirely in-person. While you have a better chance of working remotely as a financial analyst than a plumber, if you’re in the right field, you can quickly turn your work-from-home job into a work-from-anywhere job. If you’re considering traveling the globe in your current role, consider how you can best make it work. For example, working hours from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm in the U.S. could make for some late nights in Spain. Some positions have more flexible hours, but it never hurts to ask if there’s any flexibility regardless of the stated company policy. You’d be surprised what companies are willing to negotiate to keep a good employee. Read: 25 In-Demand Skills Needed for Digital Nomad Jobs BartenderAre you looking for something a little more hands-on and local? If you plan to travel the world but stay in one place for at least a few months, bartending could be a good option. Bartending skills are essentially the same across the world, so you could find a job in almost any town. This travel job would also allow you to get plugged into the local culture. English TeacherDo you not think you have any skills that would allow you to work abroad? Think again. If you speak English, there are many opportunities to teach worldwide. You could become an English teacher in a local school or even teach exclusively online through a platform like VIP Kid. Most online platforms require you to have a bachelor’s degree. In some cases, you may also need a TEFL certification (Teaching English as a Foreign Language). You can make around $20 per hour teaching online. Teaching at a school often includes free room and board. Freelance WriterDo you like writing but don’t want to deal with the unknowns of growing a blog? Becoming a freelance writer could be the perfect travel job. As a freelancer, you can choose to work when you want. All you need is a laptop and an internet connection. Most writers choose a niche such as entertainment, politics, travel, food, etc. Once you gain a reputation, you can earn $0.10 per word or more ($100 for a 1,000-word article) writing for websites, magazines, or newspapers. You can make $1,000 a month if you write just ten articles. You can make significantly more if you specialize even further in copywriting or creating sales and marketing content designed to generate leads. Travel PhotographerBecoming a freelance photographer could be a great travel job if you have an eye for the perfect photo. As a travel photographer, you could sell images of your adventures to stock photo sites or to clients directly. Another way to use beautiful pictures to make a living is by building an audience on a social media platform and getting paid for influencer marketing and special projects. It’s not an easy field to break into, but it could be a lucrative side job during your worldwide travels once you’ve made some connections. Cruise Ship WorkerWhat better way to travel abroad than on a cruise ship? Get paid to sail to exotic locales as a worker on a cruise ship. Many different positions are available, such as servers, housekeeping, tour guides, and more. Working on a cruise ship has other benefits as well. Your food, housing, and transportation are all paid for, and most jobs provide one to two months off in between contracts to do some traveling of your own. Flight AttendantIf you love the thrill of experiencing new cities and cultures and staying in a new place every night, becoming a flight attendant could be the perfect opportunity. The profession has a median income of $80,000 and tons of travel perks like free hotels and discounted flights. A career as a flight attendant can be a great way to travel in style. However, there are some downsides. You will work long hours, and you are often not in control of your destinations. On the plus side, most flight attendants get at least two weeks off per month, which gives you plenty of time to do your own vacationing. Travel AgentDo you love planning your trip as much as going on the trip itself? As a travel agent, you can help other people who don’t want to deal with all the logistics of vacation planning. Travel agents organize hotels, transportation, and trip itineraries full of activities. Many destinations offer free trips to travel agents in order to help promote the location. This allows travel agents to get acquainted with the amenities and activities they offer so they can, in turn, recommend the destination to clients. It can be a great way to travel for free! With the rise of online booking platforms, many people think of travel agents as a dying breed. But the industry is revitalizing itself by creating custom trips and done-for-you packages that travel agents offer customers. This is perfect for travelers weary of trip planning and for those who may find joy in a travel agent job. Travel NurseNursing is an excellent career with limitless prospects. It’s an in-demand job that exists in every city, state, and country. To become a registered nurse, you need at least a two-year associate’s degree. Many hospitals and clinics require a four-year bachelor’s degree. You could easily move every few years and find a nursing job in a new city but you may want even more flexibility if the travel bug has bitten you. As a travel nurse, you sign-up for temporary nursing jobs in high-need areas. Travel nurses tend to be compensated very well and often get company-paid housing. At the end of your contract, you can move on to a new location or take some time off to travel in between gigs. Travel Jobs: The Final WordThere are many ways to make money while traveling the world. In an increasingly digital economy, more and more opportunities for remote work are becoming available. Finding your dream travel job may take some time, training, and creativity, but there are plenty of examples of people who have made it happen. Why wait for retirement to travel the world when you can take your job with you anywhere you want to go? This post originally appeared on Savoteur. Via https://mylifeiguess.com/little-known-travel-jobs/ Savings money on groceries is becoming more important than ever, with inflation increasing at rates not seen in decades. Unfortunately, many Americans already live paycheck-to-paycheck and cannot withstand increases in grocery prices. For families struggling or looking for ways to save money, one alternative might be to consider changing grocery stores. The term “cheapest grocery store” does not have to come with a negative undertone. There are plenty of cheap grocery stores that still provide a high-quality selection of groceries. Some of these stores may not come with all the bells and whistles of a higher-end grocery store, but that doesn’t mean the groceries are not as good. In the second annual Retailer Price Index (RPI) study, completed by Dunhumby, the following ten stores made the cut of cheapest grocery stores. Out of the 50+ grocery stores included in the survey, the top 10 winners in price are below. AldiAldi is a no-frills shopping experience that offers high-quality food, timely customer service, everyday low prices, and a similar store layout for quick and easy shopping. Aldi stores are located all across the country, but primarily in the midwest and along the east coast. West of Kansas, you can only find Aldi stores in California and Arizona. Aldi is known for keeping prices down through its vast offering of private label brands, including Simply Nature, liveGfree, and Earth Growth. Despite Aldi’s low-cost focus, they offer an assortment of organic and non-GMO choices. In addition, Aldi’s quality assurance team has strict guidelines to meet strict quality guidelines. Savings are passed on to the customer without sacrificing quality because of Aldi’s ruthless efficiency and private label focus. Aldi also has a low corporate overhead, which further reduces expenses. For example, Aldi leverages contract recruiters for most job openings instead of hiring in-house. Market BasketMarket Basket is a 100-year-old grocery chain in the Northeast. Market Basket operates 90 stores within four states – 53 locations in its home state of Massachusetts, 33 local stores in New Hampshire, two stores in Maine, and two stores in Rhode Island. Similar to Aldi, Market Basket is known for treating its employees well. Full-time employees receive benefits such as a profit-sharing program, health care, and sick leave. In addition, Market Basket keeps costs low by taking care of most of its distribution, ensuring all stores carry the same products, and having solid relationships with suppliers that make the most sense for their company. It also helps that Market Basket does not carry any debt and has a lower corporate overhead than its peers. WinCo FoodsWinCo Foods is a privately held, primarily employee-owned supermarket chain. WinCo is based out of Boise, ID, and has locations in eight other states in the western half of the United States. WinCo has 136 retail stores, six distribution centers, and more than 20,000 employees. WinCo Foods keeps its costs low by cutting out distributors and intermediaries and buying many goods directly from farms and factories. As a result, WinCo stores are minimalist, with few frills and options compared to larger grocery chains. In addition, WinCo Foods does not accept credit card payments, and shoppers have to bring their bags, which keeps prices down. WinCo also offers benefits to employees working more than 24 hours per week and a company pension. There seems to be a trend with these top three cheapest grocery stores – be ruthlessly efficient in operations and treat your employees well. Food 4 LessFood 4 Less is the name of several grocery store chains, many owned by Kroeger. Several Food 4 Less stores are scattered throughout the United States, including Falley’s, Nugget, and Fleming. However, the primary location of Food 4 Less stores is on the West Coast. Food 4 Less stores focus on providing high-quality food options at a low cost instead of creating a beautiful store. It’s a warehouse-style supermarket with a strong focus on efficiency. Customers can expect a similar shopping experience at most Food 4 Less locations, including bagging their groceries. Many items are placed in large bins so that customers can quickly grab things and move about the store. Read: 10 Easy Ways to Save Money at the Supermarket CostcoCostco is a membership-only warehouse that generates most of its revenue from retail sales and a small percentage from membership fees. There are more than 800 Costco locations worldwide, with 572 located in the United States. Costco has a general rule that no item may be more than 14% over cost. Like other cheaper grocery stores, Costco keeps its prices low through private label brands, such as Kirkland, while also efficiently distributing. As a result, they will not stock an item if the price of a product is too high. In-store efficiencies, such as the use of skylights to reduce electricity costs, also play a significant role in keeping costs down, given the vast size of most Costco stores. WalmartWalmart is the largest and most famous retailer on this list of grocery stores. Walmart is known for selling a wide variety of items at the lowest prices. There are more than 10,000 Walmart locations in 24 different countries across the globe. In addition, Walmart is the largest private employer globally, with a workforce of 2.2 million people. Walmart is famously known for its relentless pursuit of low prices. Unlike stores already mentioned, Walmart does not have an excellent reputation for paying their employees well, though they have been trying to change that image. Being the world’s largest retailer, Walmart has vast bargaining power over its suppliers. Many suppliers are heavily reliant on Walmart’s distribution and will exchange lower prices for the higher volume. Read: 45 Easy Tips to Save More Money at Walmart Trader Joe’sTrader Joe’s is the sister company to Aldi, and there is a long history between the two companies. Therefore, you can think of Trader Joe’s as a higher-end Aldi store. There are 530 Trader Joe’s stores located across the United States, with about 180 stores located in California. Like Aldi, you will not find many brand-name items at Trader Joe’s. It’s one of the ways Trader Joe’s keeps costs low. Additionally, Trader Joe’s doesn’t have grocery sales or offer coupons, and there are no loyalty programs or memberships. To keep costs down, Trader Joe’s buys directly from suppliers whenever possible, they purchase items at high volume, products that aren’t selling are quickly pulled from shelves to make room for other things, and they stock their shelves. Walmart Neighborhood MarketWalmart Neighborhood Market is, of course, owned by Walmart. Walmart Neighborhood Market stores are small-format Walmart stores, on average one-fifth the size of a Walmart Supercenter. They focus primarily on three essential products – groceries, pharmacies, and fuel. There are nearly 700 Walmart Neighborhood Market stores nationwide. As you can imagine, Walmart Neighborhood Market stores keep costs low for many reasons as other Walmart locations. However, at the same time, Walmart Neighborhood Market stores tend to be more expensive than Walmart Supercenters, primarily because there is a much smaller volume of items and overall less stock. Additionally, locations tend to be in less competition and higher operating costs, so that Walmart can charge more. Despite the higher prices, Walmart Neighborhood Market still cracks the top 10 list of cheapest grocery stores. LidlLidl stores are another member of the Aldi family. That’s three in the top 10 cheapest grocery stores if you’re keeping count. Lidl stores have a solid international presence, having nearly 12,000 locations in 31 countries. Of the 12,000 locations, only 165 sites are in the United States. Lidl is closer to a Trader Joe’s than Aldi. While all three have a no-frill and zero waste approach, Lidl offers more low-priced gourmet foods. Lidl also offers more brand names than Aldi. In addition, Lidl provides high quality, hassle-free grocery shopping experience by being expert product curators, having a similar layout for all stores, partnering with local farmers and suppliers, featuring high-quality private label items, and keeping overhead costs low by eliminating unnecessary expenses. Amazon FreshAmazon is the newest grocery store chain with the fewest locations. After focusing on a grocery delivery service for years, Amazon Fresh stores started opening up in 2020. There are currently 40 locations worldwide, with 23 locations in the United States. Amazon Fresh stores take grocery store technology to a whole new level. Shoppers use dash carts, shopping carts with a touchscreen, barcode scanner, cameras, and various sensors to count items placed and removed from the cart automatically. The dash carts result in a cashier-less retail experience where customers don’t have to wait in a checkout line. Cheapest Grocery Store ConclusionSeveral trends emerge from the cheapest grocery stores that made this list. First, most of the stores on this list focus on ruthless control of their distribution channels, cutting out the intermediaries. Many grocery chains concentrate more on private label brands, which allows them to offer high-quality food without the high costs of traditional brand names. If trying not to break your budget on groceries, you won’t go wrong with any of the grocery stores on this list. This post was originally posted on Hello Sensible. Via https://mylifeiguess.com/cheapest-grocery-stores/ Walmart is the world’s largest retailer, and the chances are good that you’ve shopped there before. It can be a great place to save money on groceries, clothes, and other items, but it can also be expensive if you’re not careful. This guide will teach you how to save money at Walmart. We’ll cover everything from shopping tips to ways to reduce your expenses. So whether you’re a first-time Walmart shopper or a seasoned pro, read on for some helpful savings tips. 1. Download the Walmart AppThe first way to save money is to download and use the Walmart app to access weekly ads and coupons, check prices, and create shopping lists. You can also opt-in to receive push alerts to be notified of sales or rollbacks. It makes returning items easier. If you’re not already using the app, download it now and take advantage of these great features. 2. Ads and RollbacksWalmart is famous for its rollback discounts. Be sure to check the weekly ads before going shopping. This way, you’ll know what items are on sale and can plan your purchases accordingly. 3. Use CouponsUsing coupons is a no-brainer when it comes to saving money. As a major retailer, Walmart accepts most manufacturer coupons. You can find coupons for Walmart items on their website, in the newspaper, in the weekly flyers, on products in-store or online, and use them to save more money on your purchase. Check expiration dates and read the fine print to know what restrictions apply. 4. Coupon OveragesIn addition to accepting coupons, Walmart has a policy that allows for coupon overages (although this is limited in Canada). A coupon overage is when you have a coupon for an amount higher than the cost of the item. The overage then gets applied to your overall bill. For example, if you have a coupon that is $5 off an item that only costs $4, you will get that item at no cost, and you’ll get an extra $1 off your total. 5. Check PricesAnother great feature of the Walmart app is the ability to check prices. If you’re trying to find the best deal on an item, the app will show you a list of prices from various retailers. That way, you can be sure you’re getting the best deal. 6. Compare Unit PricesIt’s also a good idea to check the price per unit to see which is the better value. For example, a 6-pack of paper towels might cost $8, while single rolls are only $1 each. 7. Multi-BuySometimes stocking up has its advantages, thanks to Walmarts multi-buy discount. You can save more when you purchase a specified quantity of certain products. For example, a $2 product might have a multi-buy deal of 3 for $5. 8. Subscribe to Walmart+Walmart+ is a membership-saving program that costs under $100 per year. As a Plus member, you can get free shipping and delivery, 85% off (or more) on select prescriptions, fuel discounts, and early access to deals, product releases, and more. Start with a 30-day free trial to see if this service is right for you or not. Subscribe to Save in CanadaUnfortunately, Walmart+ is not available in Canada. Instead, Canadians can Subscribe to Save on their frequently purchased items and get free delivery with no annual fee. For example, diapers and baby items are up to 20% off, and pet supplies are 5% off. 9. Get a Job at WalmartIf you or someone in your family is looking for a job, Walmart is always hiring, and there are perks to joining their team. In response to the Great Resignation, Walmart is one of many companies that raised their minimum wage, so you get paid a little better and save money. Walmart employees get 10% off with their Walmart Associate Discount Card, with an additional 15-20% off during the holidays. There are limitations to what you can buy, but spouses and eligible dependents can also use the card. Employees also get access to the Walmart Associate Discount Center, where they can find exclusive deals. These deals include travel packages (hotels, car rentals, cruises, and tickets to theme parks, zoos, and more), movie tickets, phone plans, and discounts on buying a new car. On average, households can save $4,900 per year using this portal. 10. Browse the Clearance SectionsBrowsing the clearance aisle or clearance page online is another way to save money at Walmart. You’ll find deeply discounted items that are in good condition. You can often find great deals on clothing, toys, and other household items. Ensure you check the expiration date and condition of the products before you buy anything, just in case. 11. Don’t Skip the End CapsNot every store has a dedicated clearance aisle. Sometimes, they are spread throughout the store. You can usually find sale and clearance items at the ends of aisles, also known as the end caps. 12. Shop at Different WalmartsIf there are multiple Walmart stores nearby, you can potentially find deals at one store that aren’t available at the others. For example, the location closest to me always has an abundance of clearance items that the other stores in town don’t. 13. Buy Great Value BrandWalmart’s Great Value brand is an easy way to save money on your purchases. These products are as good as the name-brand items (and in some cases, even better!), but they cost less. 14. Get Free Shipping & DeliveryWalmart offers free next-day or two-day shipping on orders over $35. (There are restrictions on what areas they can deliver to and what products are eligible.) If you’re planning on making a large purchase, this is an opportunity to save money and save yourself from the hassle of loading and unloading it yourself. 15. Order Ahead & Pick Up In-Store for FreeYou can order your items online and pick them up in-store using the Walmart app. This service is free, and it’s a great way to avoid shipping charges. You can also choose to order ahead, which allows you to skip the line at the store and avoid impulse shopping. 16. Save on GroceriesWalmart offers various ways to save on groceries. As already mentioned, you can use the Walmart app to find coupons and rollbacks and get your groceries delivered to your door. You can also save money by shopping in the morning when most stores will mark down meat, produce, and bakery goods close to their sell-by dates. Stick to a list, buy in-season items, and don’t be afraid to try store brands to save even more. 17. Use Walmart’s PharmacyThe Walmart Pharmacy is an excellent place to get your prescriptions filled. Walmart offers various pharmacy services, including a vision center to get cheap prescription glasses and contacts and low prices for your pet’s medication. Sign up for the prescription savings club, which gives you discounts on certain medications. There is also Walmart’s $4 prescription program that can help you save. We recently switched to Walmart Pharmacy and have been blown away with their excellent customer service and ease of renewing prescriptions, on top of the savings. 18. Price Matching Online and In-StoreWhen shopping online, ensure you compare the online price to the in-store price. Sometimes, the in-store price is lower, and you can save by buying it in person. Or, if you see cheaper products on their website, they will match the price in-store. 19. Price Drop GuaranteeWalmart offers a price drop guarantee, meaning if an item you purchase goes on sale within seven days, you’ll receive a refund for the difference. 20. Check Your ReceiptMistakes happen, so be sure to check your receipt for any errors. If you find an error, take your receipt back to customer service, and they will correct it. 21. Wrong Price PolicyIt pays to be familiar with Walmart’s pricing policies. If you find a product labeled with the wrong price, you can receive the difference back, up to $20. In Canada, you can get up to $10 off if you are charged more than the advertised price. The Scanner Price Accuracy Voluntary Code applies to most major retailers, not just Walmart. 22. Know the Price CodesAlthough there is some debate about whether or not this is true, people claim that there is a secret to Walmart’s price codes. Knowing the codes can help you decide if you want to buy something now or wait for a further discount.
23. Use Walmart PayWalmart Pay is a convenient way to pay for your purchases. Add your credit or debit card to the app and then use it to pay at the register. It is a way to avoid using cash, track your receipts, and simplify returns. 24. Shop During Special SalesWalmart offers special sales throughout the year, such as Black Friday and Cyber Monday. These are great times to score deeply discounted items. Keep an eye out for these sales and take advantage of them. Of course, right after a holiday is also a great time to snag deals. 25. Daily Savings CenterLike Amazon’s Deal of the Day, the Walmart daily savings center offers different deals each day. Be sure to check back daily to see what’s on sale. 26. Flash PicksSimilarly, you can get up to 50% off limited-stock items by checking out Walmart’s Flash Picks. These deals also change frequently, so you will need to keep watch. 27. Overstock DealsWhen a company has surplus stock, it will discount these products to clear out this inventory. You can easily find what overstock deals Walmart has on its website. 28. Buy Display ModelsDisplay models are another channel to save money at Walmart. These items are new and in good condition, but they may have some cosmetic damage and won’t have their original packaging. You may need to ask a manager to buy a display model, but you can save quite a bit if they agree. 28. Get Free SamplesWalmart stores occasionally have free samples available when running regional or local promotions. It allows one to try out new products without paying for them. These are rarely advertised online, so to find them, you will need to stop by the customer service desk and ask if any free samples are available. Read: Have You Ever Complained Just to Get Free Stuff by Mail? 29. Find a FreeoskA Freeosk is essentially a free-kiosk, and there are more than 1,400 of them throughout the U.S. They can be found in Walmart, Sam’s Club, Safeway, and more. Visit their website to find a location near you, download their app, and sign up for their mailing list so that you don’t miss out on getting something you need for free. 30. Walmart’s Baby RegistryWalmart’s baby registry is a great way to save money on baby items. When they sign up, expecting parents will get a free welcome box full of goodies and discounts on certain things. 31. Walmart’s Beauty BoxSimilarly, you can sign up for Walmart’s Beauty Box. Receive different seasonal beauty product samples (such as make-up, shampoo, toothpaste, and moisturizer) for approximately $7 per box, delivered to your door four times per year. 32. Walmart-Certified Refurbished ElectronicsBuying Walmart-certified refurbished electronics is a great way to save on your purchase if you don’t mind “like new” products. These items have been inspected and certified by Walmart, so you know they’re in good condition. They also come with a 90-day warranty, so you can be sure your purchase is protected. 33. Walmart’s Gadgets to Gift Cards ProgramYou can also exchange your old electronics for eGift cards through the Gadgets to Gift Cards Program. This program is a way to get rid of old electronics like cell phones, tablets, and game consoles that you no longer use and get some money back. 34. Get a Walmart Rewards Credit CardA Walmart rewards credit card can help you save money with no annual fee and $0 fraud liability protection. You’ll earn cashback on all your purchases that you can redeem for cash, gift cards, or travel. 35. Use a Cash-Back/Reward Credit CardIf you don’t have a Walmart credit card, you can use whichever cash-back or reward credit card you choose while shopping at Walmart. 36. Use a Browser Extension for Online ShoppingSave money when shopping online by installing a browser extension. Using Honey or Capital One Shopping, for example, will automatically apply coupons to your purchase. 37. Use a Cash-Back AppThere are many apps where you can earn cashback on your purchases. Popular examples include Ibotta, Swagbucks, and Rakuten. The specifics of how each app works may vary slightly, but for the most part, you download the app and activate rebates before you go shopping. Once you’ve made your purchase, you take a photo of your receipt and submit it through the app. Your rebates will be deposited into your account. 38. Get Free Walmart Gift CardsThere are lots of different ways you can get free Walmart gift cards. Some apps and websites will reward you with points for completing easy tasks like answering surveys, playing games, and watching videos. You can exchange these points for Walmart gift cards or PayPal cash. As mentioned, you can also use cash-back apps and browser extensions to redeem your earnings for a gift card. 39. Answer the Customer Satisfaction SurveyAlthough this isn’t exactly a way to save money, you can enter to win Walmart Gift Cards by answering their customer satisfaction surveys found on your receipt. 40. Get Discounted Gift CardsFinding discounted gift cards is a little more challenging but can really pay off. You can browse reseller sites like Raise, Cardpool, and GiftCards.com, find member-only discounts at wholesale clubs or look for retailer promotions, especially around the holidays. 41. Sign Up For Their NewsletterWalmart’s newsletters will keep you updated on the latest sales and deals. You can sign up for them on the Walmart website and get deals sent straight to your inbox. 42. Follow Walmart On Social MediaWalmart is active on social media, and they often post about sales and deals. Follow them on your favorite platform to stay in the loop about what’s happening. 43. Subscribe to Walmart Text AlertsThrough text alerts, you can receive up-to-date information on sales and rollbacks, weekly flyers, exclusive products, and more so that you never miss out on a deal. 44. Promo CodesKeep an eye out for the various promotions Walmart offers. You can find promo codes for discounts on everyday essentials, free next-day shipping, and even things like 6-months of Free Spotify Premium. These are easily found by searching online, on Walmart’s website, or subscribing to their newsletter. 45. Use Walmart LayawayYou can put an item on layaway and then make payments over time. Once the item is paid off, you can pick it up at the store. There are restrictions and cancellation fees, but it’s an excellent alternative to buying something on a credit card and paying interest. Layaways are only available during the holiday season, which starts around September. In ConclusionThe best way to avoid overspending at Walmart is to budget before going shopping. Decide how much money you’re willing to spend, and stick to it. It’s also essential to create a shopping list before going to the store; this will help you focus on what you need to buy and prevent impulsive purchases. Take advantage of the many ways to save money at Walmart available to you. By following these tips, you’ll be able to stretch your dollar further and get the most out of your shopping trips. Via https://mylifeiguess.com/how-to-save-money-at-walmart/ |
ABOUT USMy Life, I Guess is a personal finance and career blog focusing on what it's like being in debt, living paycheck to paycheck, and surviving unemployment. We also offer advice and support for others in similar situations - including a FREE library of career & job search resources. We help others find jobs, facilitate career changes, and learn about money and self-care. Follow for financial tips, career tips, personal development, and more. Archives
April 2023
Categories |