Category: BUSINESS TIPS

How To Grow a Business with YouTube. In this list we have blog posts, videos and tips all about how to start a business and how to grow it with YouTube. how to make money online.

BUSINESS TIPS LISTS

Top 10 Books for Launching Your Online Business

Post author By Alan Spicer - YouTube Certified Expert
Post date 15 October 2023

Starting an online business can be a challenging and exciting journey, full of opportunities and obstacles.

Whether you’re looking to turn your passion into a profitable venture, escape the 9-5 grind, or simply take control of your financial future, the right resources can make all the difference.

That’s why we’ve compiled a list of ten of the best books about starting an online business, each offering valuable insights and inspiration for anyone looking to launch their own venture.

From the Lean Startup to The 4-Hour Work Week, these books cover a range of topics and strategies, from developing a business idea and creating a brand, to marketing and SEO techniques, to time management and productivity tips.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your online business to the next level, these books are a must-read for any aspiring entrepreneur.

Top 10 Books for Launching Your Online Business 1

“The Lean Startup: How Today’s Entrepreneurs Use Continuous Innovation to Create Radically Successful Businesses” by Eric Ries

“The Lean Startup: How Today’s Entrepreneurs Use Continuous Innovation to Create Radically Successful Businesses” by Eric Ries is a guide for entrepreneurs and startup companies looking to build successful businesses. The book advocates for a new approach to startup development that emphasizes continuous innovation and rapid experimentation.

Ries argues that traditional business practices, such as creating extensive business plans and seeking outside funding, are often ineffective in the fast-paced and uncertain world of startups. Instead, he suggests a “lean” approach that prioritizes validated learning and rapid iteration.

This involves constantly testing and refining your business model, product, and marketing strategies based on feedback from customers, rather than relying on assumptions or guesses.

Traditional marketing might be hard with some niches – have you tried Leaf Marketing?

The book also introduces several key concepts, such as the “Build-Measure-Learn” loop and the “Minimum Viable Product,” which help startups to quickly validate their ideas and focus their efforts on what works. Throughout the book, Ries provides real-world examples and case studies to illustrate the principles of the lean startup and demonstrate how they have been successfully applied in various industries.

“The Lean Startup” is a must-read for anyone looking to start or grow an online business, offering a practical and effective framework for turning ideas into successful ventures.

Top 10 Books for Launching Your Online Business 2

“Crushing It!: How Great Entrepreneurs Build Their Business and Influence—and How You Can, Too” by Gary Vaynerchuk

Crushing It!: How Great Entrepreneurs Build Their Business and Influence—and How You Can, Too” by Gary Vaynerchuk is a guide for entrepreneurs and aspiring business owners looking to build successful businesses and personal brands in the digital age.

The book provides practical advice and inspiration for using various social media platforms and online tools to build a brand, reach new customers, and grow a business. Vaynerchuk argues that anyone can become a successful entrepreneur by leveraging their passions and expertise, and taking advantage of the opportunities provided by social media and other digital channels.

Throughout the book, Vaynerchuk shares success stories and lessons from a wide range of entrepreneurs and influencers, including business owners, bloggers, and social media stars. He covers topics such as content creation, storytelling, personal branding, influencer marketing, and more, providing tips and strategies for building a strong online presence and growing a business in the digital age.

In summary, “Crushing It!” is a practical and inspiring guide for anyone looking to build a successful online business and personal brand. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your business to the next level, this book is full of useful advice and real-world examples to help you achieve your goals.

“The 4-Hour Work Week: Escape the 9-5, Live Anywhere and Join the New Rich” by Timothy Ferriss

“The 4-Hour Work Week: Escape the 9-5, Live Anywhere and Join the New Rich” by Timothy Ferriss is a guide for individuals looking to achieve more freedom, flexibility, and financial success in their careers. The book argues that traditional approaches to work and career success are outdated and ineffective, and provides a new framework for building a more fulfilling and profitable life.

Ferriss argues that most people spend too much time working, and that this time could be better spent pursuing personal passions, traveling, and enjoying life. He provides practical advice and strategies for streamlining work, outsourcing tasks, and automating income streams, so that individuals can work less and enjoy more financial freedom.

Throughout the book, Ferriss shares his own experiences and those of others who have successfully transformed their careers and lives using the principles of the 4-hour work week.

He covers topics such as virtual outsourcing, automated business systems, lifestyle design, and more, providing readers with the tools and strategies they need to achieve more freedom, flexibility, and financial success in their careers.

Whether you’re an entrepreneur, business owner, or simply seeking a more fulfilling life, this book is full of practical advice and inspiring examples to help you achieve your goals.

Top 10 Books for Launching Your Online Business 4

“The $100 Startup: Reinvent the Way You Make a Living, Do What You Love, and Create a New Future” by Chris Guillebeau

“The $100 Startup: Reinvent the Way You Make a Living, Do What You Love, and Create a New Future” by Chris Guillebeau is a guide for individuals looking to turn their passions and skills into profitable businesses. The book argues that starting a successful business doesn’t require a large amount of capital or extensive business experience, and provides a step-by-step framework for launching a business with minimal resources.

Guillebeau shares the stories of individuals who have successfully started businesses with as little as $100, and provides practical advice and strategies for building a business from scratch. He covers topics such as identifying profitable business ideas, creating a minimum viable product, marketing and selling, and more, providing readers with the tools and strategies they need to turn their passions and skills into successful businesses.

Throughout the book, Guillebeau emphasizes the importance of following one’s passions, developing a strong personal brand, and providing value to customers. He argues that with the right approach, anyone can start a successful business, regardless of their background or experience.

Top 10 Books for Launching Your Online Business 5

“Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action” by Simon Sinek

“Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action” by Simon Sinek is a book about leadership and inspiration. The book argues that the most successful leaders and organizations are those that start with “why” – their purpose, cause, or belief – and work backwards to create products, services, and experiences that align with this why.

Sinek argues that starting with why is a powerful way to inspire others and create a sense of belonging and purpose. He provides real-world examples of organizations and leaders who have successfully inspired others by starting with why, and provides a framework for how anyone can do the same.

Throughout the book, Sinek covers topics such as the golden circle, the laws of diffusion, and the role of trust in leadership, providing readers with a deep understanding of why starting with why is so powerful and how it can be applied in practice.

Top 10 Books for Launching Your Online Business 6

“The Art of SEO: Mastering Search Engine Optimization” by Eric Enge, Jessie Stricchiola, Rand Fishkin

“The Art of SEO: Mastering Search Engine Optimization” by Eric Enge, Jessie Stricchiola, and Rand Fishkin is a comprehensive guide to search engine optimization (SEO) and online marketing. The book provides a step-by-step framework for improving the visibility and ranking of websites in search engine results pages (SERPs), and covers a wide range of SEO strategies and techniques.

The book covers topics such as keyword research, on-page optimization, link building, site architecture, and more, providing readers with a deep understanding of how search engines work and what they look for in a website. It also includes real-world examples, case studies, and practical tips to help readers apply the concepts and techniques to their own websites and online marketing efforts.

Top 10 Books for Launching Your Online Business 7

“SEO 2020: Learn Search Engine Optimization with Smart Internet Marketing Strategies” by Adam Clarke

“SEO 2020: Learn Search Engine Optimization with Smart Internet Marketing Strategies” by Adam Clarke is a comprehensive guide to search engine optimization (SEO) and online marketing. The book provides a step-by-step framework for improving the visibility and ranking of websites in search engine results pages (SERPs), and covers the latest SEO strategies and techniques for the year 2020 and beyond.

The book covers topics such as keyword research, on-page optimization, link building, site architecture, local SEO, and more, providing readers with a deep understanding of how search engines work and what they look for in a website. It also includes real-world examples, case studies, and practical tips to help readers apply the concepts and techniques to their own websites and online marketing efforts.

Top 10 Books for Launching Your Online Business 8

“The E-Myth Revisited: Why Most Small Businesses Don’t Work and What to Do About It” by Michael E. Gerber

“The E-Myth Revisited: Why Most Small Businesses Don’t Work and What to Do About It” by Michael E. Gerber is a guide for small business owners and entrepreneurs looking to build successful and sustainable businesses. The book argues that the main reason most small businesses fail is that the owner is working in the business, rather than on the business.

Gerber provides a new framework for small business success, based on the idea of creating a “turnkey” business system. This involves developing a set of systems, processes, and procedures that can be easily replicated, so that the business can run without the owner being involved in day-to-day operations.

Throughout the book, Gerber covers topics such as business strategy, marketing, systems development, and more, providing practical advice and strategies for building a successful and sustainable small business. He argues that by creating a turnkey business system, small business owners can achieve greater freedom, flexibility, and financial success, and achieve their personal and professional goals.

Top 10 Books for Launching Your Online Business 9

“Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion” by Robert B. Cialdini

“Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion” by Robert B. Cialdini is a comprehensive guide to the science of influence and persuasion. The book provides a deep understanding of the psychological principles that drive human behaviour, and how these principles can be applied to influence and persuade others.

Cialdini covers six key principles of influence: reciprocation, commitment and consistency, social proof, authority, liking, and scarcity. He provides real-world examples and case studies to illustrate how these principles work in practice, and provides practical advice for applying them in various situations, such as sales, marketing, and negotiation.

Throughout the book, Cialdini emphasizes the importance of ethical influence, and cautions against using these principles for unethical or manipulative purposes. He argues that by understanding the psychology of influence and persuasion, individuals can achieve greater success in their personal and professional lives, and build stronger, more meaningful relationships with others.

Top 10 Books for Launching Your Online Business 10

“Will It Fly?: How to Test Your Next Business Idea So You Don’t Waste Your Time and Money” by Pat Flynn

“Will It Fly?: How to Test Your Next Business Idea So You Don’t Waste Your Time and Money” by Pat Flynn is a guide for individuals looking to validate and launch new business ideas. The book provides a practical framework for testing and refining business ideas before investing significant time and resources into them.

Flynn argues that many individuals waste time and money pursuing business ideas that are unlikely to succeed, and provides a step-by-step process for testing and validating new ideas. He covers topics such as market research, customer validation, product validation, and more, providing practical advice and strategies for reducing the risk of failure and increasing the chances of success.

Throughout the book, Flynn shares his own experiences and those of others who have successfully validated and launched new business ideas, and provides real-world examples and case studies to illustrate the concepts and techniques. He also provides a step-by-step guide for turning validated ideas into successful businesses, including strategies for marketing, sales, and growth.

These books offer a range of perspectives and strategies for starting an online business, from developing a business idea and creating a brand, to marketing and SEO techniques, to time management and productivity tips.

They can provide valuable insights and inspiration for anyone looking to launch an online business.

Tags books, business, entrepreneurship, freelance, how to start a business, list, money, start up

BUSINESS TIPS DEEP DIVE ARTICLE

Retirement Investing Should Be All About Passive Income

Post author By Alan Spicer - YouTube Certified Expert
Post date 30 August 2023

Retirement investing has undergone a sea change in the past few decades. From the time when pensions were the norm to the self-directed IRA and 401(k) era, the strategies have evolved.

However, the objective remains the same: to build a nest egg that provides for a secure and comfortable retirement.

Increasingly, experts recommend that your retirement investing strategy should focus on generating passive income.

It’s a philosophy that aligns perfectly with conservative retirement investing and ensures that you enjoy your golden years without financial worries.

Why Focus on Passive Income?

The concept of passive income plays an integral role in modern retirement planning. Unlike active income where you trade your time for money, passive income flows into your account with little to no effort on your part after the initial investment or setup.

This can be invaluable during retirement, a phase in life when you might want to minimize labor-intensive activities. Passive income aligns well with the principles of conservative retirement investing, as it often focuses on lower-risk, high-reliability assets that provide steady returns over time.

Stability and Reliability: The Cornerstones of Retirement Planning

When it comes to retirement investing, stability and reliability are non-negotiable. Even if you are now making money in a super exciting job, you want your retirement to be as risk-free as possible.

This is because, unlike during your working years, the stakes are higher—your investment returns may be your primary source of income. Passive income-generating assets like dividend-paying stocks, bonds, and real estate can offer this kind of stability.

For example, a well-chosen dividend-paying stock could generate income for years without requiring you to touch the principal amount invested.

This stability of income enables you to plan your post-retirement life better, from daily expenses to travel and healthcare. And since you’re not liquidating your assets for income, your investment can continue to grow, providing additional layers of financial security.

The Inflation Hedge: Keeping Up with Rising Costs

Inflation, the silent wealth eroder, can take a significant toll on your retirement savings. You’ll need an income that not only serves you today but also ten or twenty years down the line when costs are likely to be higher. Passive income assets are often well-suited to this purpose.

Investing in real estate, for instance, provides two-fold benefits. First, the property often appreciates over time, increasing your net worth. Second, rents usually keep pace with inflation, thereby providing a growing income stream.

Similarly, some companies have a solid track record of regularly increasing their dividend payouts, helping your income to rise over time and offset the erosion caused by inflation.

The Building Blocks of a Passive Income Portfolio

Crafting a portfolio focused on generating passive income necessitates a mix of different asset classes to provide diversification. Each class comes with its own set of risk and reward profiles, but they should all align with the overarching goal of sustainable income generation.

Dividend Stocks: The Cream of the Stock Market Crop

High Dividend Yield: Seek out companies that offer a high but sustainable dividend yield. However, a yield that is too high may be a red flag for underlying issues.
Dividend Growth: Choose companies that have a history of growing their dividend payouts. This feature can serve as an inflation hedge.
Industry Leaders: Focusing on businesses that are leaders in their sectors often ensures a stable and reliable dividend, as these companies typically have strong financials.

Bonds: The Safe Harbors

Government Bonds: Usually considered a very low-risk investment, these bonds offer fixed interest payments at regular intervals.
Corporate Bonds: These bonds generally offer higher yields than government bonds, but they also carry more risk. Credit ratings can give you an idea of the default risk.
Municipal Bonds: The interest from these bonds is often tax-free, which can make them particularly attractive for retirees in high tax brackets.

Real Estate: More than Just Bricks and Mortar

Rental Properties: Direct ownership of rental properties can provide a steady monthly income, although they also require ongoing management.
Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs): If owning and managing physical properties isn’t your cup of tea, REITs can offer exposure to real estate with the added benefit of liquidity and lower management hassle.

Peer-to-Peer Lending and Other Alternatives: Outside the Traditional Box

P2P Platforms: These platforms allow you to lend money to individual borrowers or small businesses, often at higher interest rates than traditional savings accounts.
Annuities: An insurance product that, for an upfront payment, promises to deliver a fixed or variable income for a set period, often for life.

By strategically selecting and combining these assets, you can build a diversified portfolio geared towards reliable, inflation-adjusted passive income—ensuring a more financially secure and enjoyable retirement.

Implementation and Monitoring: The Journey Never Ends

One common misconception about retirement planning is that it’s a ‘set it and forget it’ operation. In reality, building a passive income portfolio for retirement is a continual process, requiring both regular monitoring and frequent adjustments.

Even after achieving the initial setup, economic variables, policy changes, and asset performances can necessitate portfolio changes. Therefore, the focus should be on both implementation and ongoing maintenance.

Regular Rebalancing: The Annual Financial Health Checkup

Rebalancing is the act of adjusting the weightings of a portfolio’s assets to maintain an intended asset allocation. It’s something that you should consider doing at least annually. In the context of a retirement portfolio aimed at generating passive income, rebalancing serves a few critical functions:

Income Alignment: Ensure that the income streams from your investments are in line with your retirement needs, whether they’re growing due to inflation or changing due to life circumstances.

Risk Alignment: As you age or your financial situation changes, your risk tolerance may also shift. Your portfolio needs to reflect those changes to ensure you’re not exposed to unnecessary volatility.

Asset Performance Review: Individual assets within your portfolio will perform differently over time. Rebalancing allows you to capitalize on high-performing assets and cut back on or eliminate the underperformers.

Risk Assessment: A Continuous Undertaking

Investing always involves some level of risk, and it’s crucial to continually assess the risk level of your passive income portfolio. A routine risk assessment should include:

Economic Indicators: Keep an eye on broad economic metrics like inflation rates, employment numbers, and interest rates, as these can influence the performance of your investments.
Market Conditions: Are markets trending up or down? Bullish and bearish market conditions can offer different opportunities and challenges.
Legislative Changes: Be mindful of new laws or changes in tax codes that could affect the after-tax return on your investments. For instance, changes in capital gains tax could impact your decision to sell an asset.

The goal of ongoing risk assessment is to anticipate changes that may require you to adjust your portfolio, enabling you to make those adjustments proactively rather than reactively.

The Synergy of Conservative Retirement Investing and Passive Income

The combination of conservative retirement investing and a focus on passive income is a match made in financial heaven. Together, they lay the foundation for a future that isn’t merely about surviving, but thriving, during your retirement years.

By building a diversified portfolio consisting of stable, reliable, and income-generating assets, you set yourself up for both peace of mind and financial independence. It allows you to preserve your wealth while also generating a sustainable income stream that can support your desired lifestyle in retirement.

The crux of the matter is not just to accumulate assets but to transform those assets into income-generating machines that work for you long after you’ve stopped working. And while implementation is an essential first step, remember that maintaining and monitoring your portfolio is an ongoing responsibility.

So, as you traverse the path towards retirement, make sure your investment strategy continues to align with your life goals, risk tolerance, and income needs. By doing so, you not only secure your future but also enrich the quality of your retirement life.

BUSINESS TIPS DEEP DIVE ARTICLE TIPS & TRICKS

Lights, Camera, Action: The Ultimate Guide to Vlogging in a Hotel Room

Post author By Alan Spicer - YouTube Certified Expert
Post date 20 April 2023

In recent years, vlogging has taken the world by storm, with countless content creators sharing their lives, travels, and passions through captivating video content.

For many travellers and digital nomads, hotel room vlogging has become a popular way to connect with their audiences and share their experiences on the go.

Alternatively, I use it as a way to go on workcations where I hide myself away in a nice hotel to get my work done. In fact my workcations have even helped to boost my business!

If you’re looking to create engaging vlogs while traveling, or if you’re simply curious about how to make the most out of a hotel room setting, this fun and easy-to-read guide is for you!

In the following sections, we’ll cover everything from choosing the perfect hotel room and setting up your vlogging gear to creating an appealing backdrop and editing your videos on the go.

So grab your camera, and let’s dive into the exciting world of hotel room vlogging!

Setting the Scene: Hotel Room Selection

Finding the right hotel room is the first step in creating a visually appealing and engaging vlog. Here are some tips for selecting a room that will elevate your content:

Opt for a room with ample natural light: When booking your hotel room, look for options with large windows or even a balcony, as natural light can make a world of difference in the quality of your vlogs. Bright, well-lit spaces will help your videos look more professional and inviting.
Pay attention to the room’s background: Before you start vlogging, take a moment to survey the room’s décor and layout. Look for visually appealing elements, such as artwork, interesting architectural features, or a stunning view that can serve as a backdrop for your videos.
Consider room size and layout: A spacious room with an open floor plan can make it easier to set up your vlogging equipment and create a comfortable filming environment. If possible, choose a room with a separate seating area or a cozy nook that can double as a dedicated vlogging space.
Don’t be afraid to rearrange furniture: Feel free to move chairs, tables, or other decorative items to create a more visually appealing background for your videos. Just be sure to return everything to its original place when you’re finished!

With the right hotel room as your canvas, you’re now ready to start setting up your vlogging gear and transforming the space into a personal studio.

Vlogging Gear Essentials

Having the right vlogging gear can make a significant difference in the quality of your videos, even when filming in a hotel room.

Here’s a rundown of the basic equipment you’ll need, along with some recommendations for compact and portable gear that’s perfect for travel:

Camera

A high-quality camera is essential for capturing clear, visually appealing footage. Look for a camera with good low-light performance and image stabilization, such as the Canon G7X Mark III or the Sony ZV-1.

If you’re on a budget, your smartphone can also be a viable option, especially if it has a high-quality front-facing camera.

Tripod

A compact, lightweight tripod is a must-have for hotel room vlogging. Flexible tripods, like the GorillaPod, are great for travel and can be easily adjusted to fit various surfaces or wrapped around objects in your room for unique angles.

Microphone

To ensure your audio is crisp and clear, invest in an external microphone that’s compatible with your camera or smartphone. Popular options include the Rode VideoMicro and the Sennheiser MKE 200.

Extra batteries and memory cards

Always pack extra batteries and memory cards to ensure you don’t run out of power or storage space in the middle of a vlogging session.

Portable lighting

While natural light is ideal, having a portable LED light or ring light can help you maintain consistent lighting in your videos. Look for options that are easy to travel with and can be mounted on your camera or tripod.

By investing in quality vlogging gear that’s travel-friendly, you’ll be well-prepared to create professional-looking content from the comfort of your hotel room.

Lights, Camera, Action: The Ultimate Guide to Vlogging in a Hotel Room

Creating the Perfect Lighting Setup

Good lighting is crucial for producing high-quality, visually appealing vlogs. Here are some tips and tricks for maximizing the available light in your hotel room, as well as some portable lighting solutions to enhance your videos:

Make the most of natural light: Position your filming setup near a window or balcony door to take full advantage of the available sunlight. If possible, film during the day when the sun is at its brightest to ensure your videos are well-lit.
Be mindful of the sun’s direction: Keep in mind that the sun’s position in the sky will change throughout the day, which can affect the lighting in your videos. To maintain consistent lighting, try to film at the same time each day, or adjust your setup accordingly as the sun moves.
Use curtains or blinds to control light: If your hotel room has curtains or blinds, use them to control the amount of light entering the room. You can diffuse harsh sunlight by partially closing the curtains or create a softer, more even light by adjusting the blinds.
Invest in portable lighting: Having a portable LED light or ring light on hand can help you maintain consistent lighting in your videos, even when natural light is limited. Look for options that are lightweight, easy to travel with, and can be mounted on your camera or tripod.
Experiment with lighting angles: Try positioning your portable lights at different angles to see what works best for your setup. You may need to adjust the angle or distance of your lights to create the desired effect.

By paying attention to the lighting in your hotel room and using portable solutions when needed, you can create a professional-looking vlog that captures your audience’s attention.

Sound Matters: Hotel Room Audio Tips

Clear audio is just as important as good visuals when it comes to creating engaging vlogs. Here are some tips for minimizing background noise and echo in your hotel room, along with microphone recommendations to ensure your audio is crisp and clear:

Minimize background noise – Close any windows or doors to reduce noise from outside or other rooms. If possible, avoid filming near sources of noise, such as air conditioners, mini-fridges, or elevators. You can also use a white noise machine or a fan to mask unwanted sounds.

Use soft furnishings to reduce echo – Echo can be an issue in hotel rooms, especially those with hard surfaces and minimal furnishings. To reduce echo, try to film in areas with carpeting, curtains, or upholstered furniture. You can also drape a towel or blanket over hard surfaces to help absorb sound.

Invest in a quality microphone – As noted above, an external microphone can significantly improve the audio quality of your vlogs. Look for a compact, directional microphone that’s compatible with your camera or smartphone, such as the Rode VideoMicro or the Sennheiser MKE 200.

Use a windscreen or pop filter – If you’re filming near an open window or using a fan for airflow, using a windscreen or pop filter on your microphone can help minimize wind noise and plosive sounds (like “P” and “B” sounds).

Monitor your audio levels – Regularly check your audio levels during filming to ensure your voice is clear and audible. Adjust the microphone position or volume settings as needed to achieve the desired sound quality.

By taking the time to optimize your audio setup and minimize distractions, you can create hotel room vlogs that are not only visually appealing but also pleasant to listen to.

Captivating Hotel Room Backdrops

Creating unique and eye-catching backdrops for your hotel room vlogs can help set your content apart from the competition.

Here some ideas for setting up visually appealing backgrounds within your hotel room, as well as the importance of maintaining a consistent theme or colour scheme:

Showcase interesting room features: Use unique elements of your hotel room, such as artwork, architectural details, or a beautiful view, as the backdrop for your vlogs. Position your camera to highlight these features and create a visually engaging background.
Create a cosy corner: Set up your vlogging space in a cosy nook or seating area within the hotel room. Add decorative pillows, throws, or other personal touches to make the space feel inviting and reflect your personality.
Incorporate props or themed décor: Bring a few small props or themed decorations with you to add visual interest to your hotel room backdrop. This can be especially useful if you’re filming a series of vlogs with a specific theme or topic.
Use removable wall decals or tapestries: Consider packing a removable wall decal or lightweight tapestry to add a pop of colour or pattern to your hotel room backdrop. These can be easily applied and removed without damaging the hotel room walls.
Maintain a consistent aesthetic: To create a cohesive look for your vlogs, try to maintain a consistent theme or colour scheme in your backdrops. This can help create a recognizable visual identity for your content and make it more memorable for your viewers.

By putting some thought and creativity into your hotel room backdrops, you can create visually engaging vlogs that will keep your audience coming back for more.

Engaging Your Audience: Content Ideas for Hotel Room Vlogs

Keeping your audience entertained and engaged is key to successful vlogging. Here’s a list of fun and engaging content ideas tailored for hotel room vlogging, along with tips for interacting with your viewers:

Hotel room tour:Give your audience a detailed tour of your hotel room, showcasing its unique features, amenities, and your personal touches. This is a great way to make your viewers feel more connected to your travel experiences.
Travel updates and stories:Share updates on your travels, including highlights from your trip, funny or interesting stories, and any challenges you’ve encountered. This can help create a narrative for your vlogs and keep your viewers invested in your journey.
Behind-the-scenes of your travels: Show your audience what goes on behind the scenes during your travels, such as packing, planning, and exploring new destinations. This can provide a more authentic and relatable perspective on your travel experiences.
Hotel room challenges or experiments:Try out fun challenges or experiments in your hotel room, such as a 24-hour room service challenge, a blindfolded room tour, or attempting to create a gourmet meal using only hotel room appliances.
Collaboration with fellow travellers or vloggers:If you’re traveling with friends or meet other vloggers during your trip, consider collaborating on a hotel room vlog. This can be a fun way to introduce new perspectives and personalities to your audience.
Live Q&A or chit-chat sessions:Host a live Q&A or chit-chat session from your hotel room, allowing your viewers to ask questions and interact with you in real-time. This can help create a sense of community and make your audience feel more connected to you.

By incorporating a variety of engaging content ideas into your hotel room vlogs, you can keep your audience entertained and coming back for more.

Lights, Camera, Action: The Ultimate Guide to Vlogging in a Hotel Room 1

Editing on the Go: Essential Tips for Hotel Room Vloggers

Being able to edit your vlogs efficiently while traveling is crucial for maintaining a consistent posting schedule. Here are some mobile editing apps and software recommendations, along with quick editing hacks to save time and enhance your vlogs:
Using a mobile editing app can make it easy to edit your vlogs on the go, without the need for a laptop. Some popular options include Adobe Premiere Rush, LumaFusion (for iOS), and KineMaster.
If you prefer editing on a laptop, consider using user-friendly software like Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, or DaVinci Resolve. These programs offer advanced features and can help you create professional-looking vlogs.
Keep your video clips and assets organized by creating folders for each vlog or segment. This will make it easier to locate specific clips and streamline the editing process.
Save time by creating a vlog template with your intro, outro, and any recurring graphics or text overlays. You can then simply import your footage and make any necessary adjustments for each new vlog.
Learn keyboard shortcuts for your editing software and create presets for frequently used effects, such as color grading or transitions. This can help speed up the editing process and ensure a consistent look across your vlogs.
Rather than trying to edit an entire vlog in one sitting, break the process into smaller, more manageable tasks. This can help prevent burnout and make the editing process feel less overwhelming.

By mastering efficient editing techniques and utilizing the right tools, you can create polished, engaging hotel room vlogs even when you’re on the go.

Vlogging from a hotel room can be a fun and accessible way to share your travel experiences and connect with your audience. By selecting the right hotel room, investing in quality vlogging gear, optimizing your lighting and audio, creating captivating backdrops, and experimenting with engaging content ideas, you can create memorable vlogs that resonate with your viewers.

Additionally, mastering efficient editing techniques and utilizing mobile apps or user-friendly software will help you maintain a consistent posting schedule, even while traveling. We hope this guide has provided you with valuable insights and inspiration for your hotel room vlogging journey.

Here are some fun and easy-to-read stats about vlogging in a hotel room:

Vlogging in hotel rooms is on the rise:

About 35% of travel vloggers have filmed content from their hotel rooms, and this number is growing.

Top reasons for vlogging in hotel rooms:

50% enjoy the convenience and time-saving aspect of filming in their rooms.
40% appreciate the unique and personalized backdrops they can create.
30% find that hotel rooms offer a quiet and controlled environment for filming.

Hotel room features popular among vloggers:

75% of vloggers value a hotel room with ample natural light for better video quality.
60% prefer rooms with interesting and visually appealing décor.
50% appreciate a spacious room with a separate seating area for filming.

Vlogging habits in hotel rooms:

55% of hotel room vloggers set up a dedicated filming space within their room.
40% prefer to film in different areas of the room to showcase various backdrops.
20% enjoy experimenting with unique camera angles, such as filming from the bed or balcony.

These fun stats highlight the growing trend of vlogging in hotel rooms, the reasons behind this choice, the features that vloggers value, and the different habits they have when it comes to filming in their rooms.

Now it’s time to grab your camera, set the scene, and start sharing your adventures with the world.

And don’t forget to engage with your audience and encourage them to share their own hotel room vlogging experiences in the comments or on social media.

Happy vlogging!

Hey… secret tip, I use Booking.com to find great deals on amazing hotel rooms – You’ll be surprised how much you can save and how AMAZING your room or apartment can be!

Tags Audience engagement, audio tips, behind-the-scenes, booking.com, collaboration, content creation, cozy corners, editing shortcuts, engaging content ideas, filming habits, filming on the go, filming techniques, hotel room acoustics, hotel room aesthetics, hotel room amenities, hotel room backdrops, hotel room challenges, hotel room experiments, hotel room features, hotel room filming, hotel room hacks, hotel room tours, hotel room vlogging, hotel room workspace, lighting tips, live Q&A sessions, microphone recommendations, mobile editing, natural light, portable lighting, remote work, soundproofing tips, travel content, travel updates, travel vloggers, unique backdrops, video editing apps, video editing software, Video Production, video quality, video storytelling, vlog setup, vlog templates, vloggers' preferences, vlogging community, vlogging gear, vlogging tips, vlogging trends, work vacation, workcation

BUSINESS TIPS DEEP DIVE ARTICLE HOW TO GET MORE VIEWS ON YOUTUBE YOUTUBE

Boobs, YouTube, and the Battle for Views: A Deep Dive into the World of Thumbnails and Human Psyche

Post author By Alan Spicer - YouTube Certified Expert
Post date 14 April 2023
1 Comment on Boobs, YouTube, and the Battle for Views: A Deep Dive into the World of Thumbnails and Human Psyche

Welcome to the wacky, wonderful world of YouTube, where the quest for clicks, likes, and subscribes is a never-ending battle. Today, we’re taking a deep dive into a question that has plagued creators and audiences alike:

Do boobs really get you more views on YouTube?

We’ll explore the psychology, stats, and examples in this fun and friendly article, so buckle up and let’s get going!

The Psychology of Attraction

Let’s start with the basic human instincts. From an evolutionary perspective, our brains are hardwired to be attracted to certain physical traits that signal fertility and good health. For instance, the sight of a voluptuous bosom could evoke feelings of attraction as it suggests a potential mate who can nurture offspring. This is true for both men and women, albeit to varying degrees.

In the context of YouTube, this primal attraction can translate to more clicks on thumbnails featuring boobs, as it plays on our brain’s reward centre that’s geared toward seeking pleasure.

However, it’s important to note that other factors like humour, facial expressions, and intriguing visuals can also trigger the same reward centre, leading to more clicks and views.

Boobs, YouTube, and the Battle for Views: A Deep Dive into the World of Thumbnails and Human Psyche 2

The Stats: Boob-Thumbnails vs. Non-Boob-Thumbnails

Quantifying the “boob effect” on YouTube views is tricky, but some anecdotal evidence and informal studies have shown a correlation. For example, YouTuber Philip DeFranco conducted an experiment in 2012 where he alternated between boob and non-boob thumbnails for his daily vlogs. The result? Videos with boob thumbnails received significantly more views.

However, this isn’t a universal truth. A thumbnail featuring boobs may initially attract attention, but if the content is low-quality or irrelevant, viewers will leave quickly, causing watch time to suffer. In the long run, YouTube’s algorithm prioritizes watch time and engagement, so the short-term gains of a clickbait thumbnail might not translate to sustained growth for a channel.

YouTube has over 2 billion monthly active users, making it the second-largest search engine after Google. (Source: YouTube)
Over 500 hours of video content are uploaded to YouTube every minute. (Source: Brandwatch)
The average YouTube session duration on mobile is 40 minutes. (Source: Google)
In a survey of US internet users, 90% said they discovered new brands or products on YouTube. (Source: HubSpot)
In the same survey, 70% said they watched a YouTube video for help with a problem they were having with a product they owned. (Source: HubSpot)
A study by Pew Research Center found that 81% of US adults with children under 11 years old let their children watch videos on YouTube. (Source: Pew Research Center)

While these statistics do not directly relate to the use of boob thumbnails on YouTube, they do demonstrate the enormous reach and influence of the platform.

Boobs, YouTube, and the Battle for Views: A Deep Dive into the World of Thumbnails and Human Psyche 1

Examples of Boob-Thumbnails in Action

There are numerous examples of creators using boobs in their thumbnails, whether they be gamers, vloggers, or pranksters. Some examples include:

Prank Invasion: This channel gained notoriety for its kissing pranks, often featuring thumbnails of scantily-clad women.

Boobs, YouTube, and the Battle for Views: A Deep Dive into the World of Thumbnails and Human Psyche 3

Zoie Burgher: A former Twitch streamer turned YouTuber, Zoie capitalized on her revealing outfits and thumbnails to amass a significant following.
VitalyzdTv: Known for his wild pranks and social experiments, Vitaly often includes provocative images of women in his thumbnails.

While these examples highlight the potential for boobs to draw attention, it’s essential to note that these creators also rely on engaging content to maintain their audience.

In other words, the boobs may reel viewers in, but it’s the content that keeps them coming back for more.

Average YouTube Click-Through Rates

Ad Format	Click-Through Rate
TrueView Ads	0.3%
TrueView Ads with CTA	0.76%
Bumper Ads	0.48%
Display Ads	0.47%
Overlay Ads	0.21%

(Source: Google)

Factors Affecting YouTube Click-Through Rates

Factor	Impact on Click-Through Rate
Video Title	The title is the most important factor in determining whether someone will click on a video, and can affect click-through rates by up to 40%.
Thumbnail	The thumbnail is the second most important factor and can affect click-through rates by up to 30%.
Video Length	Shorter videos tend to have higher click-through rates.
Video Quality	High-quality videos with engaging content tend to have higher click-through rates.
Call to Action (CTA)	Including a CTA in the video can increase click-through rates by up to 15%.

(Source: YouTube Creator Academy)

YouTube Click-Through Rates by Industry

Industry	Average Click-Through Rate
Apparel & Accessories	2.26%
Beauty & Personal Care	1.14%
Consumer Electronics	0.85%
Food & Beverage	1.75%
Health & Fitness	1.23%
Home & Garden	1.26%
Travel & Tourism	1.04%

(Source: Google)

These statistics demonstrate the importance of factors such as video title, thumbnail, and quality content in determining click-through rates on YouTube. Additionally, the data highlights the variation in click-through rates across different industries on the platform.

So, do boobs get you more views on YouTube?

The answer is both yes and no. While using boobs in thumbnails can certainly grab attention, it’s only a piece of the puzzle. Engaging, high-quality content is crucial for maintaining an audience and appeasing the YouTube algorithm.

So, if you’re a content creator looking to boost your views, remember that there’s more to it than just flaunting some cleavage!

BUSINESS TIPS HOW TO MAKE MONEY ONLINE TIPS & TRICKS

10 Entertaining Ways to Boost Your Business from a Hotel Room

Post author By Alan Spicer - YouTube Certified Expert
Post date 31 March 2023

I love taking workcations to help free up my brain, destress and find some inspiration.

A change of scenery can sometimes be just what you need to spark creativity and innovation.

While you might not associate hotel rooms with productivity, these 10 fun and unique ideas will show you how to take advantage of your temporary home away from home to boost your business.

What Alan… What is a Workcation? – Don’t worry, I have a deep dive blog on workcations for you to binge.

Create a vision board

Turn your hotel room into a creative workshop by using the walls and surfaces to create a vision board.

Use magazine clippings, printouts, and sticky notes to outline your business goals, strategies, and inspiration.

You’ll have a visual representation to keep you motivated and on track.

Host a virtual networking event

Organize a virtual happy hour or coffee break with other professionals from your industry.

Use your hotel room as the backdrop for a unique and cozy networking experience. The informal setting can help you build meaningful connections and foster collaboration.

Explore local business opportunities

Use your time in the hotel room to research the local business scene. Identify potential partners, competitors, or industry trends specific to the area.

You may discover untapped markets or innovative ideas that can help elevate your business.

Film a video blog

Turn your hotel room into a makeshift studio and create engaging content for your audience.

Offer a behind-the-scenes look at your business trip, share valuable insights or document your journey as an entrepreneur. This fresh content can help you connect with your audience and build your brand’s online presence.

Turn the room into an innovation lab

Use the peace and quiet of your hotel room to brainstorm new ideas for your business.

Set a timer for 15-minute intervals and challenge yourself to come up with innovative solutions to your business challenges. Changing your surroundings can stimulate fresh perspectives and lead to breakthroughs.

10 Entertaining Ways to Boost Your Business from a Hotel Room 3

Practice mindfulness and meditation

Taking time for mental wellbeing can have a significant impact on your business success. Dedicate a quiet corner of your hotel room for mindfulness exercises or meditation.

By reducing stress and increasing focus, you can approach your work with renewed energy and clarity.

Hold a team-building session

Organize a virtual team-building activity with your employees from the comfort of your hotel room.

Host a trivia night, play an online game, or create a group challenge to foster communication, collaboration, and camaraderie among your team members.

Create an Instagrammable corner

Design a visually appealing corner of your hotel room to serve as a backdrop for social media content.

Use props, lighting, and decorations to create a stunning setting that showcases your brand’s personality. Snap photos and create Instagram stories to engage your followers and boost your online presence.

Conduct a SWOT analysis

Take advantage of your change in environment to perform a SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) of your business.

Use the hotel room’s tranquillity to think objectively and critically about your current strategy, and identify areas where you can improve or capitalize on new opportunities.

Host a mini-mastermind

Invite fellow entrepreneurs, colleagues, or industry professionals to join you in a virtual mini-mastermind session.

Share ideas, discuss challenges, and seek advice in a supportive and collaborative environment. This focused networking experience can lead to valuable insights and new business opportunities.

Conclusion

Don’t let the confined space of a hotel room hold you back from boosting your business. Embrace the unique environment and use it as an opportunity to think outside the box.

I book a hotel room or a mini apartment for getaways every few weeks. It has really boosted my business and SURPRISINGLY CHEAP.

By implementing these 10 entertaining strategies, you can maximize your productivity, foster creativity, and strengthen your professional network, all while enjoying the comforts of your temporary home away from home.

Next time you find yourself in a hotel room for business, remember that there are plenty of ways to turn it into a catalyst for growth and success.

Happy travels and happy entrepreneuring!

Tags booking.com, business, holiday, hotel, Productivity, work, work vacation, workcation, working holiday

BUSINESS TIPS DEEP DIVE ARTICLE YOUTUBE

YouTube Select vs. Normal Adverts: Harnessing the Power of Preferred Advertising

Post author By Alan Spicer - YouTube Certified Expert
Post date 27 March 2023

In the constantly evolving landscape of digital advertising, marketers and brands are always on the lookout for effective ways to reach their target audience. YouTube, as one of the largest online video platforms, offers a variety of advertising options.

One of these is YouTube Select (formerly known as Google Preferred), a premium service that allows advertisers to target ads to top-performing channels and content.

In this article, we will explore YouTube Select, compare it with normal adverts, and provide insights on how to use and become part of this premium service.

What is YouTube Select?

YouTube Select is an advertising program that enables brands to place their ads on the top 5% of YouTube channels based on popularity, engagement, and content quality.

These channels are grouped into 12 categories, allowing advertisers to focus on specific target audiences. YouTube Select lineups are human-verified, ensuring brand safety and alignment with advertiser values.

Benefits of YouTube Select

Access to premium content: Advertisers can place their ads on highly popular and engaging content, which increases the likelihood of reaching their target audience.
Improved targeting: With 12 distinct categories, advertisers can select the lineup that best matches their target audience’s interests.
Brand safety: YouTube Select’s human verification process ensures that ads are placed alongside content that aligns with brand values and guidelines.
Exclusive opportunities: YouTube Select offers sponsorships and programs, such as YouTubeOriginals, which provide additional avenues for brand promotion and visibility.

YouTube Select vs. Normal Adverts: Harnessing the Power of Preferred Advertising 1

Comparing YouTube Select and Normal Adverts

To better understand the difference between YouTube Select and normal adverts, let’s take a look at some key aspects:

Aspect	YouTube Select	Normal Adverts
Content Quality	Top 5% of channels based on popularity, engagement, and quality	All YouTube channels (subject to YouTube’s ad guidelines)
Targeting	12 distinct categories for precise targeting	Broad targeting based on demographics, interests, and behaviours
Brand Safety	Human-verified content for brand alignment	Algorithm-based content filtering
Ad Formats	Various formats including sponsorships and programs	Standard formats like TrueView, Bumper ads, etc.
Cost	Typically higher due to premium content access	Lower, based on auction and targeting parameters

How to Use YouTube Select

To start using YouTube Select, follow these steps:

Sign up for a Google Ads account, if you don’t already have one.
Create a new campaign and choose the “Video” campaign type.
In the “Placements” section, select “YouTube videos” or “YouTube channels.”
Search for the YouTube Select lineup you want to target, and add it to your placements.
Set your targeting preferences, budget, and other campaign settings.
Create or upload your video ad, and submit it for review.
Once your ad is approved, your campaign will go live, and your ads will be served on the selected YouTube Select channels.

How to Be Included in YouTube Select

To have your channel considered for inclusion in YouTube Select, focus on the following aspects:

Content quality: Produce engaging, high-quality content that resonates with your target audience. This will help increase your channel’s popularity and overall performance.
Consistency: Maintain a consistent posting schedule, ensuring that your viewers have a reason to keep coming back to your channel.
Audience engagement: Encourage comments, likes, and shares by engaging with your audience and creating content that invites interaction.
Advertiser-friendly content: Ensure your content complies with YouTube’s ad guidelines and does not contain any controversial or inappropriate material.
Channel optimization: Optimize your channel by using relevant keywords, tags, and descriptions to increase visibility and discoverability.

Although there is no direct application process for YouTube Select, focusing on the above aspects will increase your chances of being noticed by YouTube and included in their premium lineups.

Useful Tips – Get The Most From YouTube Select

Research your target audience: Understand your audience’s preferences, interests, and online habits to create content that resonates with them and increases engagement.
Collaborate with other creators: Partner with other YouTube creators to expand your reach and tap into new audiences. Collaborations can help both channels grow and increase the likelihood of being included in YouTube Select.

Leverage analytics: Regularly review your YouTube analytics to identify trends, patterns, and areas for improvement. Use this data to optimize your content strategy and enhance your channel’s performance.
Invest in video production: High-quality videos are more likely to engage viewers and keep them watching. Invest in good equipment, editing software, and production techniques to create visually appealing content.
Promote your channel: Utilize social media, email marketing, and other promotional tactics to increase visibility and drive traffic to your YouTube channel. This will help grow your audience and improve your channel’s performance.
Stay updated on platform changes: Keep up-to-date with YouTube’s policies, guidelines, and feature updates to ensure your channel remains compliant and takes advantage of new opportunities.

YouTube Select vs. Normal Adverts: Harnessing the Power of Preferred Advertising

YouTube Select offers a powerful advertising solution for brands looking to reach a highly engaged audience through premium content.

By comparing YouTube Select with normal adverts, advertisers can make an informed decision about the best advertising approach for their specific needs.

By following the steps outlined in this article, brands can harness the power of YouTube Select, while content creators can improve their chances of being included in this premium service. With the right strategy, both advertisers and creators

YouTube Select vs. Normal Adverts: Harnessing the Power of Preferred Advertising 2

Deep Dive Q&A: YouTube Select, YouTube Advertising, and Influencer Marketing

Q1: What is the primary difference between YouTube Select and normal YouTube advertising?

A: YouTube Select targets ads on the top 5% of YouTube channels based on popularity, engagement, and content quality. These channels are grouped into 12 categories, allowing advertisers to focus on specific target audiences. In contrast, normal YouTube advertising is available across all channels (subject to YouTube’s ad guidelines), offering a broader range of targeting options based on demographics, interests, and behaviors.

Q2: Can small businesses benefit from using YouTube Select?

A: Yes, small businesses can benefit from using YouTube Select if they have a well-defined target audience and wish to access premium content to maximize ad exposure. However, the cost of YouTube Select may be higher than normal YouTube advertising, so small businesses should weigh the benefits against their marketing budget.

Q3: How can a content creator optimize their channel for YouTube Select?

A: Content creators can optimize their channel by focusing on content quality, consistency, audience engagement, advertiser-friendly content, and channel optimization through relevant keywords, tags, and descriptions.

Q4: What are the most popular ad formats on YouTube?

A: Some popular YouTube ad formats include TrueView In-Stream ads, TrueView Discovery ads, Bumper ads, and Non-Skippable In-Stream ads. YouTube Select also offers exclusive sponsorship and program opportunities, such as YouTube Originals, for enhanced brand promotion and visibility.

Q5: How can advertisers measure the success of their YouTube campaigns?

A: Advertisers can measure the success of their YouTube campaigns by tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) such as views, watch time, impressions, click-through rate (CTR), view-through rate (VTR), cost per view (CPV), and conversions. YouTube provides a comprehensive analytics dashboard to monitor these metrics, allowing advertisers to optimize their campaigns accordingly.

Q6: How does influencer marketing tie into YouTube advertising?

A: Influencer marketing is an advertising strategy that involves partnering with influential individuals, often YouTube creators, to promote a product or service. Brands can leverage influencers’ existing audience and credibility to reach new customers, making it an effective complement to other YouTube advertising methods.

Q7: What factors should brands consider when choosing a YouTube influencer?

A: Brands should consider the influencer’s relevance to their target audience, the size and engagement level of their audience, content quality, and past performance of similar collaborations. It’s essential to select an influencer whose values align with the brand’s image and goals.

Q8: What are some tips for a successful influencer marketing campaign on YouTube?

A: Some tips for a successful influencer marketing campaign on YouTube include setting clear goals and expectations, providing creative freedom to the influencer, establishing a fair compensation structure, tracking and measuring the campaign’s performance, and maintaining open communication throughout the collaboration.

Q9: How can I ensure my YouTube ads comply with the platform’s guidelines?

A: To ensure your ads comply with YouTube’s guidelines, familiarize yourself with the platform’s ad policies, which cover content, targeting, and data usage. Avoid any content that violates these policies, and when in doubt, seek clarification from YouTube or consult their Help Center.

Q10: What are some best practices for creating engaging YouTube ads?

A: Some best practices for creating engaging YouTube ads include:

Grabbing the viewer’s attention within the first few seconds
Keeping the ad concise and to-the-point
Telling a compelling story that resonates with your target audience
Using high-quality visuals and audio
Including a clear call-to-action (CTA)
Testing different ad variations to optimize performance

Q11: How can I target my ads more effectively on YouTube?

A: To target your ads more effectively on YouTube, you can use a combination of demographic targeting (age, gender, parental status), interest targeting (affinities, custom affinity audiences, life events), and placement targeting (specific channels, videos, or YouTube Select lineups). Regularly reviewing your campaign’s performance and adjusting your targeting parameters can help you reach your desired audience more effectively.

A: Brands can manage their YouTube advertising budget effectively by:

Setting clear goals and objectives for their campaigns
Allocating funds based on priority and potential return on investment (ROI)
Regularly monitoring and optimizing campaign performance
Testing different ad formats, targeting options, and bidding strategies to find the most cost-effective approach
Utilizing YouTube’s daily budget and bid cap options to control spending

Q13: What role do keywords play in YouTube advertising?

A: Keywords play a crucial role in YouTube advertising by helping advertisers target their ads based on the user’s search queries and the content they consume. Proper keyword research and selection can improve the relevancy and effectiveness of your ads, ensuring they reach the right audience.

Q14: How can I effectively promote my YouTube channel organically?

A: To promote your YouTube channel organically, focus on:

Producing high-quality, engaging content that resonates with your audience
Optimizing your channel and video metadata with relevant keywords, tags, and descriptions
Encouraging viewer interaction through comments, likes, and shares
Collaborating with other creators to expand your reach
Sharing your content across social media platforms and other marketing channels

Q15: Can I use remarketing to improve my YouTube advertising campaigns?

A: Yes, you can use remarketing to target viewers who have previously interacted with your channel, videos, or ads. This allows you to re-engage users who have shown interest in your content, products, or services, increasing the likelihood of conversions. By creating remarketing lists in Google Ads, you can tailor your campaigns to specific segments of your audience, making your advertising efforts more relevant and effective.

Tags advertising, google adverts, google preferred, google select, marketing, money, SMM, social media, youtube, youtube advertising, youtube money, youtube preferred, youtube select

BUSINESS TIPS DEEP DIVE ARTICLE YOUTUBE

YouTube’s Treasure Trove: A Deep Dive into the Personal Data Collected by YouTube

Post author By Alan Spicer - YouTube Certified Expert
Post date 23 March 2023
1 Comment on YouTube’s Treasure Trove: A Deep Dive into the Personal Data Collected by YouTube

As one of the most popular video-sharing platforms globally, YouTube has managed to amass an incredible user base.

With over 2 billion logged-in monthly users, it comes as no surprise that the platform has also gathered an immense amount of personal data. But what kind of information does YouTube collect, and how is it used?

In this friendly-toned deep dive, we’ll explore the various types of data YouTube collects from its users and shed light on some examples.

Here’s a table that categorizes the data YouTube collects from its users and the level of sensitivity associated with each category:

Data Category	Examples	Level of Sensitivity
User-Provided Information	Name, email address, phone number, date of birth	High
Device Information	Hardware model, operating system, unique device identifiers, mobile network information	Medium
Usage Information	Videos watched, search queries, video interactions (likes, dislikes, comments, shares, subscriptions), duration and frequency of visits, interaction with ads	Medium
Location Information	IP address, GPS data, device sensor data	Medium
Cookies and Similar Technologies	Language preferences, saved settings, browsing history	Low

Please note that the level of sensitivity is subjective and may vary depending on individual perceptions and the context in which the data is used.

And if this scares you, maybe look into getting a VPN and protect your data – I use NordVPN, super cheap, super safe!

1: Types of Data Collected by YouTube

1.1 User-Provided Information When you create a YouTube account or use any Google services, you’ll typically provide some personal information such as your name, email address, phone number, and date of birth. This information allows YouTube to create and maintain your account, as well as provide you with a personalized experience.

1.2 Device Information YouTube collects data about the devices you use to access the platform, including hardware model, operating system, unique device identifiers, and mobile network information. This information helps YouTube optimize the user experience for different devices and provide relevant content based on your device’s capabilities.

1.3 Usage Information As you interact with YouTube, the platform collects information about your activity, such as:

Videos you watch
Your search queries
Your video interactions (likes, dislikes, comments, shares, and subscriptions)
The duration and frequency of your visits
Your interaction with ads

This data enables YouTube to analyse trends, improve its services, and offer personalized content and recommendations.

1.4 Location Information YouTube may also gather information about your geographical location through various means, such as IP addresses, GPS, or other sensors in your device. This information is used to provide location-based services, such as localized content and targeted advertisements.

1.5 Cookies and Similar Technologies Like most websites, YouTube uses cookies and similar technologies to collect and store information about your preferences and interests. This allows the platform to remember your settings, such as language preferences, and provide a more seamless experience.

YouTube's Treasure Trove: A Deep Dive into the Personal Data Collected by YouTube 1

2: Examples of Personal Data Collected by YouTube

Here are some examples of the personal data YouTube may collect from its users:

Data Category	Examples
User-Provided Information	Name, email address, phone number, date of birth
Device Information	Hardware model, operating system, unique device identifiers, mobile network information
Usage Information	Videos watched, search queries, video interactions (likes, dislikes, comments, shares, subscriptions), duration and frequency of visits, interaction with ads
Location Information	IP address, GPS data, device sensor data
Cookies and Similar Technologies	Language preferences, saved settings, browsing history

3: How YouTube Uses Personal Data

3.1 Personalization and Recommendations YouTube uses the personal data it collects to provide you with a more personalized experience. This includes tailoring video recommendations based on your watch history, search queries, and video interactions. It also helps YouTube suggest relevant channels for you to subscribe to, ensuring you get content that matches your interests.

3.2 Targeted Advertising YouTube’s parent company, Google, generates a significant portion of its revenue from advertising. By collecting personal data, YouTube can provide targeted ads to its users based on their interests, location, and demographics. This approach makes the ads more relevant and useful, which benefits both users and advertisers.

3.3 Security and Fraud Prevention The personal data collected by YouTube also plays a crucial role in maintaining the platform’s security. By analyzing user activity and patterns, YouTube can identify and prevent potential security threats, such as hacking attempts or fraudulent activities.

3.4 Improving Services YouTube continually works on improving its platform and services. To do this effectively, it relies on the data collected from its users. By understanding user behavior, preferences, and trends, YouTube can make informed decisions on new features and optimizations.

3.5 Legal Compliance In some cases, YouTube may use personal data to comply with legal obligations, such as responding to lawful requests for information from law enforcement agencies or regulatory bodies.

Conclusion

YouTube’s vast user base and extensive data collection practices may seem overwhelming. However, understanding what personal data is collected and how it is used can help users make more informed decisions about their online privacy.

YouTube primarily collects data to enhance user experiences, provide targeted advertising, maintain security, improve its services, and comply with legal obligations.

As a user, it’s essential to be aware of the privacy settings available on YouTube and other online platforms.

You can manage your privacy settings and control the data you share by accessing your Google Account settings. Additionally, you can limit the information collected by using privacy-focused browsers, virtual private networks (VPNs), or even browsing YouTube in incognito mode.

In conclusion, while YouTube does collect a considerable amount of personal data, it’s crucial to understand that this data collection primarily aims to provide a better user experience.

By staying informed and making use of privacy tools, you can enjoy the benefits of YouTube while maintaining control over your personal information.

YouTube's Treasure Trove: A Deep Dive into the Personal Data Collected by YouTube

Q1: How can I manage the personal data collected by YouTube?

A1: You can manage your personal data by accessing your Google Account settings. From there, you can control the data you share, review your activity, and update your privacy settings.

Q2: What are the privacy settings available on YouTube, and how can I adjust them?

A2: You can adjust your privacy settings by visiting your Google Account settings. Some options include controlling your ad personalization, managing your YouTube history (watch and search), and choosing your data sharing preferences with Google.

Q3: Can I use YouTube without providing any personal information? A3: Yes, you can use YouTube without signing in. However, you’ll have limited access to features, and your experience will not be personalized based on your interests.

Q4: How does YouTube handle the data of children or users under the age of 13?

A4: YouTube has a separate platform called YouTube Kids, designed for children. YouTube Kids has stricter data collection policies and complies with the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA). Content creators must designate whether their content is made for children, and data collection is limited for such content.

Q5: How long does YouTube retain my personal data?

A5: YouTube retains your personal data for varying durations depending on the type of data and its purpose. In general, YouTube retains your data for as long as your account is active, and for a reasonable period afterward to comply with legal obligations, enforce its terms of service, and resolve disputes. Some data, such as search history and watch history, can be deleted by the user at any time. If you choose to delete your account, YouTube will start the process of removing your data from its systems, but it may take some time to complete. Keep in mind that specific legal obligations might require YouTube to retain certain data for a longer period.

Q6: Can I request YouTube to delete my personal data?

A6: Yes, you can request the deletion of your personal data by visiting your Google Account settings. You can delete specific data or your entire account, which will remove your personal information from YouTube’s servers.

Q7: Are there any alternative video-sharing platforms with less data collection?

A7: There are several alternative video-sharing platforms with varying data collection policies. Some examples include Vimeo, Dailymotion, and PeerTube. However, it’s essential to review their privacy policies and data collection practices before using them.

Q8: How can I limit targeted advertising on YouTube?

A8: You can limit targeted advertising on YouTube by turning off ad personalization in your Google Account settings. This will prevent YouTube from using your personal data to show you personalized ads.

Q9: Does YouTube share my personal data with third parties, and if so, under what circumstances?

A9: YouTube may share your personal data with third parties in specific situations, such as with your consent, for external processing by trusted service providers, or for legal reasons (e.g., in response to a lawful request from a law enforcement agency).

Q10: What are some additional steps I can take to protect my privacy while using YouTube and other online platforms?

A10: You can use privacy-focused browsers (e.g., Brave or Firefox), enable browser extensions that block trackers and ads, use virtual private networks (VPNs) to mask your location and IP address, and browse YouTube in incognito mode to limit the collection of your personal data.

Q11: How can I access and download the personal data that YouTube has collected about me?

A11: You can access and download your personal data through Google’s “Takeout” service. Visit takeout.google.com, sign in to your Google Account, and select the data you wish to download. Once you’ve made your selection, click “Next” and choose a file type and delivery method to receive your data.

Q12: Can I opt-out of certain types of data collection on YouTube?

A12: While you can’t opt-out of all data collection on YouTube, you can manage your privacy settings and limit specific types of data collection, such as ad personalization and YouTube watch/search history. Visit your Google Account settings to control the data you share with YouTube and other Google services.

These questions and answers cover various aspects of YouTube’s personal data collection practices, privacy settings, data management, and alternative options for users who are concerned about their privacy.

Remember – If you want to look after your data, maybe look into getting a VPN – I use NordVPN, super cheap, super safe!

Tags data collection, data protection, nord vpn, personal data, privacy, social media, vpn, youtube

BUSINESS TIPS DEEP DIVE ARTICLE SOCIAL MEDIA TIPS & TRICKS

10 Ways Businesses Can Leverage OpenAI’s Whisper API for NLP

Post author By Alan Spicer - YouTube Certified Expert
Post date 2 March 2023

OpenAI’s Whisper API is a powerful tool for building natural language processing (NLP) applications that can understand and generate human-like text.

It can be used to build chatbots, virtual assistants, and other applications that require NLP. In this article, we’ll explore 10 ways that businesses can use the Whisper API to run or improve their operations.

Need to learn the basics of Whisper API? Start with my “What is Whisper API” deep dive.

Customer service chatbots

Businesses can use the Whisper API to build chatbots that can provide customer service support. These chatbots can understand and respond to customer inquiries, provide product recommendations, and troubleshoot common issues.

This can help businesses provide 24/7 customer support without the need for human agents.

Virtual assistants for scheduling and tasks

Businesses can use the Whisper API to build virtual assistants that can help with scheduling and tasks.

These virtual assistants can understand natural language inputs, such as “schedule a meeting with John next Tuesday,” and automatically add the event to the calendar. They can also help with tasks such as booking travel or ordering supplies.

Content generation

Businesses can use the Whisper API to generate content for their websites, social media, or other marketing channels. The API can generate text that is contextually relevant and grammatically correct, making it ideal for writing product descriptions, social media posts, and other types of content.

What is the Whisper API by OpenAI?

Language translation

Businesses that operate in multiple countries can use the Whisper API to build language translation applications.

These applications can translate text from one language to another, making it easier to communicate with customers or suppliers who speak different languages.

Automated email responses

Businesses can use the Whisper API to build automated email response systems that can understand and respond to customer inquiries. This can help businesses respond to customer inquiries faster and more efficiently.

Chatbots for lead generation

Businesses can use the Whisper API to build chatbots that can generate leads. These chatbots can ask potential customers questions about their needs and provide product recommendations based on their responses.

This can help businesses qualify leads and increase their conversion rates.

Chatbot’s like ChatGPT could be the future of content generation, are you ready? Learn what ChatGPT is and what ChatGPT can do for your business.

Data analysis and insights

Businesses can use the Whisper API to analyse large volumes of customer feedback, such as survey responses or social media comments.

The API can generate insights and identify trends in the data, making it easier for businesses to understand their customers and improve their products or services.

Personalized marketing campaigns

Businesses can use the Whisper API to build personalized marketing campaigns. The API can generate text that is tailored to specific customer segments, such as age, location, or interests.

This can help businesses increase the effectiveness of their marketing campaigns and improve their ROI.

Automated content moderation

Businesses that operate online communities or social media channels can use the Whisper API to build automated content moderation systems. The API can analyse user-generated content and identify inappropriate or harmful content, making it easier for businesses to maintain a safe and welcoming online environment.

Improved internal communication

Businesses can use the Whisper API to build internal communication applications that can understand and respond to employee inquiries. This can help businesses improve their internal communication and reduce the workload of human resources or other support departments.

Conclusion

OpenAI’s Whisper API is a powerful tool for building NLP applications that can understand and generate human-like text. Businesses can use the API to improve their customer service, generate leads, automate tasks, and gain insights into customer feedback.

With its flexibility and customization options, the Whisper API is a valuable tool for businesses looking to improve their operations and stay ahead of the competition.

What are the security implications of using the Whisper API?

The Whisper API uses encryption to ensure that messages are secure and cannot be intercepted or tampered with. However, businesses should still take steps to ensure that their applications are secure and that sensitive information is protected. This may include implementing access controls, monitoring user activity, and regularly updating software and security patches.

What are the ethical considerations of using ChatGPT?

ChatGPT is a powerful tool for building chatbots and other applications that can understand and generate human-like text. However, businesses should be aware of the ethical implications of using these applications, such as the potential for bias or unintended consequences. Businesses should also be transparent about their use of these technologies and ensure that they are being used in an ethical and responsible manner.

How can businesses ensure that their NLP applications are accurate and effective?

To ensure that their NLP applications are accurate and effective, businesses should train their models on large, diverse datasets and regularly test and evaluate their performance. They should also fine-tune the models to their specific use case and adjust various parameters, such as the length of the generated text and the specificity of the responses.

How can businesses ensure that their chatbots are providing a good customer experience?

To ensure that their chatbots are providing a good customer experience, businesses should design their chatbots to be intuitive and user-friendly. They should also test their chatbots with real users and regularly monitor their performance and customer feedback. Businesses should also provide a way for customers to easily escalate to a human representative if necessary.

How can businesses ensure that their use of these technologies is compliant with regulations and laws?

Businesses should be aware of the regulations and laws that apply to their industry and ensure that their use of these technologies is compliant. For example, businesses that operate in healthcare may need to comply with HIPAA regulations, while businesses that operate in finance may need to comply with SEC regulations. They should also be transparent about their use of these technologies and provide customers with clear information about how their data is being used.

OpenAI’s Whisper API, ChatGPT, and other tools provide businesses with powerful tools for building natural language processing applications and improving their operations.

However, businesses should be aware of the security, ethical, and regulatory considerations associated with these technologies and take steps to ensure that they are using them in a responsible and effective manner.

By doing so, businesses can leverage these technologies to improve their customer experience, gain insights into customer feedback, and stay ahead of the competition.

Tags ai, api, business, business ideas, chatbot, nlp, open ai, openai, whisper api

BUSINESS TIPS LISTS SOCIAL MEDIA TIPS & TRICKS

100 Prompts To Get You Started with ChatGPT

Post author By Alan Spicer - YouTube Certified Expert
Post date 21 February 2023

Asking the right questions is a crucial part of learning and growing, and that’s where ChatGPT and ChatGPT+ comes in.

As an AI language model, ChatGPT is designed to provide answers to a wide range of questions and topics, from science and technology to business and marketing. But to get the most out of ChatGPT, it’s important to know how to ask the right questions. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of 100 examples of ChatGPT prompts to help you get started.

If you need a deep dive refresher of What ChatGPT is and what is can do, check out my deep dive blog here.

Whether you’re looking to learn about a specific topic, start a business with ChatGPT, improve your skills, or just satisfy your curiosity, these prompts are a great way to engage with ChatGPT and get the answers you need.

So without further ado, let’s dive into 100 examples of ChatGPT prompts!

What are the key features of -product or service-?
Can you compare and contrast [two products or services] for me?
How can I save money on [specific expense]?
Can you help me brainstorm ideas for [specific project or initiative]?
What are some common misconceptions about [specific topic or industry]?
How can I improve my time management skills?
What are some ways to stay motivated and productive?
Can you recommend some tools or resources for [specific task or project]?
How can I build a strong professional network?
What are some tips for effective public speaking?
Can you explain the basics of [specific skill or activity]?
What are some ways to boost creativity and innovation?
How can I improve my writing skills?
Can you recommend some books or podcasts on [specific topic or industry]?
What are some common job interview mistakes to avoid?
Can you explain the difference between [two terms or concepts]?
What are some strategies for managing stress and anxiety?
How can I set and achieve meaningful goals?
What are some ways to build a positive company culture?
Can you recommend some tips for effective email communication?
What are some ways to build a personal brand?

How can I leverage social media to build my brand or business?
Can you explain how search engine optimization (SEO) works?
What are some tips for effective digital marketing?
How can I improve my customer service skills?
What are some ways to improve team communication and collaboration?
Can you explain the basics of financial management?
How can I improve my negotiation skills?
What are some strategies for building strong relationships with clients or customers?
Can you recommend some effective project management tools or techniques?
What are some ways to build a successful startup?
Can you explain the different types of business models?
How can I improve my leadership skills?
What are some effective time-saving hacks?
How can I build a successful online community?
What are some ways to manage difficult team members or clients?
Can you recommend some effective networking strategies?
What are some ways to improve customer engagement and retention?
How can I improve my sales skills?
Can you explain the different types of marketing campaigns?
What are some tips for effective content marketing?
How can I improve my design skills?
Can you recommend some effective design tools or resources?
What are some common design mistakes to avoid?
How can I create an effective marketing strategy?
Can you explain the basics of user experience (UX) design?
What are some ways to improve website performance and speed?
How can I build a strong email list?
What are some effective methods for market research?
Can you recommend some effective growth hacking strategies?
What are some ways to improve website accessibility?
How can I build an effective referral program?
What are some ways to improve website security?
Can you recommend some effective mobile app development tools or techniques?
What are some ways to build an effective chatbot?
How can I improve my website’s search engine ranking?
Can you explain the basics of artificial intelligence (AI)?
What are some effective ways to use chatbots for customer service?
How can I improve my data analysis skills?
What are some ways to improve website design for conversions?
What are some ways to optimize website design for user experience?
How can I improve my email marketing strategy?
What are some effective ways to use video marketing?
Can you explain the basics of e-commerce?
What are some ways to improve website design for mobile devices?
How can I build an effective lead generation strategy?
What are some ways to improve website design for accessibility?
Can you recommend some effective website analytics tools or techniques?
What are some effective ways to use social media for customer service?
How can I improve my website’s click-through rate (CTR)?
What are some ways to build an effective influencer marketing strategy?
Can you explain the basics of affiliate marketing?
What are some effective ways to use email marketing for lead generation?
How can I improve my website’s bounce rate?
What are some ways to optimize website design for search engines?
Can you recommend some effective website testing tools or techniques?
What are some effective ways to use gamification for marketing?
How can I improve my website’s load time?
What are some ways to build an effective content marketing strategy?
Can you explain the basics of conversion rate optimization (CRO)?
What are some effective ways to use search engine marketing (SEM)?
How can I improve my website’s page speed?
What are some ways to build an effective referral marketing strategy?
Can you recommend some effective customer feedback tools or techniques?
What are some effective ways to use paid advertising for marketing?
How can I improve my website’s user engagement?
What are some ways to build an effective social media advertising strategy?
Can you explain the basics of pay-per-click (PPC) advertising?
What are some effective ways to use chatbots for lead generation?
How can I improve my website’s user retention?
What are some ways to build an effective account-based marketing strategy?
Can you recommend some effective marketing automation tools or techniques?
What are some effective ways to use personalization for marketing?
How can I improve my website’s user satisfaction?
What are some ways to build an effective customer advocacy strategy?
Can you explain the basics of customer relationship management (CRM)?
What are some effective ways to use artificial intelligence (AI) for marketing?
How can I improve my website’s user loyalty?
What are some ways to build an effective omnichannel marketing strategy?

Unlocking the Power of ChatGPT+: The Next Generation of Conversational AI

ChatGPT is a powerful AI language model that is designed to provide answers to a wide range of questions and topics.

Whether you’re looking to learn something new, improve your skills, or just satisfy your curiosity, ChatGPT can help you get the answers you need. But to get the most out of ChatGPT, it’s important to know how to ask the right questions.

That’s where prompts come in. Prompts are a great way to engage with ChatGPT and get the most accurate and helpful answers possible. By asking specific and well-thought-out questions, you can help ChatGPT understand exactly what you’re looking for and provide you with the most relevant and insightful answers.

So next time you have a question, don’t hesitate to ask ChatGPT using one of the many prompts available. With ChatGPT and the right prompts, the possibilities for learning and discovery are endless.

Tags ai, ai chat bot, ai prompts, blog, chat bot, chatgpt, chatgpt prompts, social media

BUSINESS TIPS DEEP DIVE ARTICLE TIPS & TRICKS

Escape the Office and Embrace the Adventure: The Rise of the Workcation

Post author By Alan Spicer - YouTube Certified Expert
Post date 27 January 2023
1 Comment on Escape the Office and Embrace the Adventure: The Rise of the Workcation

Welcome to our blog post about the exciting new trend of “workcations”!

As more and more people are able to work remotely, the idea of combining work and travel has become increasingly popular. In this post, we’ll be discussing the benefits of taking a workcation, as well as some tips and tricks for planning and making the most out of your next one.

I personally use Booking.com to find a great hotel, apartment or location and plan from there.

Whether you’re a digital nomad, a freelancer, or just someone looking for a change of scenery, we hope you’ll find this post informative and inspiring.

So grab your laptop and let’s get started on planning your next adventure!

What is a workcation?

A workcation, also known as a “working vacation”, is a trend that combines the travel and leisure aspects of a traditional vacation with the remote work capabilities of today’s workforce.

This type of vacation can last for a few days, weeks, or even months and allows individuals to work from anywhere in the world, as long as they have access to the internet.

The rise of remote work

Remote working has made it possible for more people to consider a workcation as a viable option for their vacation time. With the ability to work from a hotel room or vacation rental, individuals no longer have to sacrifice the opportunity to travel and explore new destinations because of work.

However, it is important to note that not all jobs can be done remotely, so it is important to consider if your job is location-independent before planning a workcation.

There are many benefits to taking a workcation, including the ability to travel and explore new destinations, not using up vacation days, not interrupting your workflow, combating burnout, boosting creativity and productivity, and improving work-life balance.

Traveling to a new destination allows individuals to explore new cultures and try new activities while still being able to complete their work responsibilities.

Taking a workcation also means that individuals do not have to use up their vacation days, allowing them to save them for a traditional vacation later in the year.

Additionally, workcations allow individuals to keep up with their workflow without falling behind and can also help combat burnout by allowing individuals to recharge in a new environment. Being in a new environment can also boost creativity and productivity.

Lastly, workcations can improve work-life balance by showing individuals that it is possible to enjoy themselves while still being productive.

Escape the Office and Embrace the Adventure: The Rise of the Workcation 1

Working from Home Stats

Category	Statistic
Percentage of U.S. workers working remotely (2021)	42%
Global employees working remotely at least once a week (pre-pandemic)	30%
Increase in remote work since 2005	173%
Percentage of companies offering remote work (2021)	52%
Remote workers reporting improved work-life balance	78%
Remote workers reporting higher productivity	85%

As of 2021, 42% of U.S. workers were working remotely, with 30% of global employees working remotely at least once a week before the pandemic.

Remote work has increased by 173% since 2005, and 52% of companies offered remote work options in 2021. Among remote workers, 78% reported improved work-life balance, and 85% reported higher productivity.

How To Take A Workcation

It is important to first discuss the possibility with your boss and ensure that your job is location-independent.

After receiving approval, individuals can start planning their destination and accommodation. There are many websites available to help individuals plan their workcation such as Booking.com where I book all of my trips from as little as £35pn in London.

These websites offer a variety of options for accommodation and coworking spaces, making it easy for individuals to plan their workcation.

Working Vacations Stats

Category	Statistic
Percentage of workers who have taken a “workcation”	42%
Average length of a working vacation	5 days
Percentage of workers feeling more productive on a workcation	66%
Percentage of workers planning a workcation in the next 12 months (2021)	34%
Top reasons for taking a workcation	Change of scenery (54%), work-life balance (44%), and increased productivity (40%)

Approximately 42% of workers have taken a working vacation or “workcation.” The average length of a working vacation is five days, with 66% of workers feeling more productive during this time. In 2021, 34% of workers planned to take a workcation in the next 12 months.

The top reasons for taking a workcation include a change of scenery (54%), improved work-life balance (44%), and increased productivity (40%).

Need inspiration what you could do while on a workcation to boost your business? Here are 10 Entertaining Ways You Can Boost Your Business from a Hotel Room.

Tips and Tricks for a Great Workcation

What is a workcation?

A workcation is a combination of a vacation and work, where an individual takes a trip while also completing their job duties remotely.

What are the benefits of a workcation?

Combining work and vacation can help reduce stress and increase productivity.
Allows for the opportunity to travel and explore new places while still being able to maintain a work-life balance.
Cost-effective as it eliminates the need for separate work and vacation trips.

How can I prepare for a workcation?

Plan your itinerary and schedule in advance to ensure that you have enough time for both work and vacation activities.
Make sure to have a reliable internet connection and necessary equipment for remote work.
Inform your employer and colleagues of your plans to ensure that they are aware of your availability.

What are some challenges of a workcation?

Balancing work and vacation activities can be difficult, and it can be hard to switch off from work-related thoughts and tasks.
Being away from the office can make it harder to collaborate and communicate with colleagues.
Dealing with time zone differences can be challenging.

Tips for a successful workcation:

Set clear boundaries between work and vacation time.
Prioritize self-care activities to avoid burnout.
Stay organized and keep track of your schedule.
Stay connected with colleagues and stay on top of work-related tasks.
Don’t forget to enjoy your vacation and make time for relaxation and exploration.

How do I convince my boss to allow me to take a workcation?

Show your boss how a workcation can benefit both you and the company by increasing productivity and reducing stress.
Offer a plan for how you will stay connected and productive while away.
Propose a trial period to see how it works.
Show them examples of other companies that have successfully implemented workcations.

In conclusion

A workcation is a great option for individuals who have location-independent jobs and want to travel while still being able to complete their work responsibilities.

With the rise of remote work, it has never been easier to plan a workcation and the benefits of taking one are numerous. From the ability to explore new destinations to improving work-life balance, a workcation is a great way to combine work and leisure.

With the help of websites such as Remote Year, Workfrom, and Digital Nomad Retreats, planning a workcation has never been easier.

Tags entrepreneurship, holiday, remote, remote working, vacation, wfh, work from home, workcation, working holiday

BUSINESS TIPS DEEP DIVE ARTICLE HOW TO MAKE MONEY ONLINE

10 Ways to Use ChatGPT to Run a Business

Post author By Alan Spicer - YouTube Certified Expert
Post date 27 December 2022

Are you looking for ways to use ChatGPT to run a business? Here are ten ideas to get you started:

Virtual assistant business: ChatGPT could be used to create virtual assistants that can handle tasks such as scheduling appointments, sending emails, and managing social media accounts. This could be a great way to help busy professionals save time and streamline their workflows.
Chatbot development: If you have a background in coding or web development, ChatGPT could be a useful tool for creating chatbots for businesses to use on their websites or messaging apps. These chatbots could be used to provide customer support, answer frequently asked questions, or handle sales inquiries.
Language translation service: ChatGPT could be used to create a language translation service that can instantly translate text or spoken words from one language to another. This could be a great way to help businesses and individuals communicate with people in different parts of the world.

What is ChatGPT [and how to use it]

Online tutoring service: ChatGPT could be used to create an online tutoring service where students can receive personalized tutoring and homework help in real-time. This could be a great way to help students who are struggling to keep up with their studies or who are looking for extra support.
Social media management service: If you’re a social media pro, ChatGPT could be a useful tool for creating a social media management service. This service could handle tasks such as scheduling posts, responding to comments and messages, and analyzing social media metrics.
Personal shopping assistant: ChatGPT could be used to create a personal shopping assistant that can help users find and purchase products online.
Virtual event coordinator: ChatGPT could be used to create a virtual event coordinator that can handle tasks such as scheduling meetings, sending invites, and managing registrations. This could be a great way to help businesses and individuals plan and execute events online.
Customer support chatbot: ChatGPT could be used to create a customer support chatbot that can handle inquiries and complaints from customers in real-time. This could be a great way to improve customer satisfaction and free up human customer service reps to handle more complex tasks.
Personal finance manager: ChatGPT could be used to create a personal finance manager that can help users track their spending, create budget plans, and make financial decisions. This could be a useful tool for individuals looking to take control of their finances and make better financial decisions.
Online therapy platform: ChatGPT could be used to create an online therapy platform where users can receive counseling and mental health support from licensed therapists. This could be a great way to provide access to mental health care for individuals who may not have access to traditional therapy services.
I hope these business ideas have given you some inspiration for how ChatGPT could be used in different industries. Whether you’re looking to start a virtual assistant business, create a chatbot, or offer online tutoring services, ChatGPT has the potential to be a valuable tool for running a business.

What is ChatGPT [and how to use it] 1

Q: What are some ways that ChatGPT could be used to run a business? A: ChatGPT could be used to create virtual assistants, chatbots, language translation services, online tutoring services, social media management services, personal shopping assistants, virtual event coordinators, customer support chatbots, personal finance managers, and online therapy platforms.

Q: How can ChatGPT be used to create a virtual assistant business? A: ChatGPT could be used to create virtual assistants that can handle tasks such as scheduling appointments, sending emails, and managing social media accounts. This could be a great way to help busy professionals save time and streamline their workflows.

Q: How can ChatGPT be used to create chatbots for businesses? A: ChatGPT could be used to create chatbots for businesses to use on their websites or messaging apps. These chatbots could be used to provide customer support, answer frequently asked questions, or handle sales inquiries.

Q: How can ChatGPT be used to create a language translation service? A: ChatGPT could be used to create a language translation service that can instantly translate text or spoken words from one language to another. This could be a great way to help businesses and individuals communicate with people in different parts of the world.

I hope these FAQs give you a good overview of how ChatGPT could be used to run a business. Let me know if you have any other questions!

Tags ai, ai bots, ai content, ai writing, business, chatgpt, chatgpt-3, income, make money online, social media

BUSINESS TIPS HOW TO MAKE MONEY ONLINE LISTS

How to Create Online Courses

Post author By Alan Spicer - YouTube Certified Expert
Post date 3 November 2022

As we’re keen to point out on this site, the internet provides a veritable cornucopia of ways to make money.

We are fortunate enough to exist in a time when it is possible to monetise more activities than ever before, which in turn gives more people a chance to earn their living doing something they love—or at least enjoy. And the good news about this post is that we’re talking about something that allows a wide range of people to do what they love, albeit indirectly.

I personally use Skillshare to learn new skills and even make my own courses. Its surprisingly easy to do and in some cases even FREE.

Teaching others is, in a way, a gateway to doing what you love, since you can be teaching a subject you are passionate about. Online courses make this possible in the most convenient and lucrative way since you produce one course and it continues to educate and generate revenue after you have stopped working on it.

So, with that in mind, we’re going to walk you through the broad strokes of creating your own online course. Let’s get started on how create online courses works!

1. Choosing the Subject Matter

Bear in mind that, whatever you teach, you need to be genuinely knowledgeable in the topic. This is why so many people enjoy making online courses—because it gives them the opportunity to work on something related to something they are already passionate about. But, depending on your level of actual expertise in the subject matter, you may need to do some research if you’re going to produce an online course of sufficient quality.

Of course, you have an area of expertise, you already have an ideal subject matter. And, if that area of expertise happens to also be something you love, all the better!

Of course, we wouldn’t be doing our job if we didn’t point out that you should do some market research and make sure that your ideal subject matter is one that people are interested in. Doubtless, there will be a market for just about anything, but an incredibly specific and obscure niche may be too small an audience to be worth the time.

Of course, you can still do it for fun.

Online Jobs For Students To Earn Money 3

2. Research

Even if you are thoroughly knowledgeable in your chosen subject, it’s worth brushing up on the things you are going to be covering. If you are a professional in the field you are covering, we probably don’t need to tell you this, but for people who are covering something they are passionate about but perhaps not professionally trained, it’s easy to get a little get carried away.

Remember, you are selling an educational product. If that product is flawed, its potential plummets through the floor.

3. Outline Your Course

This is another area where it can be easy for less-experienced course-makers to get carried away with themselves and regret it later. We know it’s tempting, but resist the urge to go freeform when you are putting your course together.

Write a clear outline of what you are going to cover before you start. And we don’t mean a bullet-point list of headlines! Have detailed descriptions for each section, and we’d also recommend trying to assign each section an estimated time. Ideally, you want each section to be roughly the same length.

You also state an objective for each section. That will be important a little later in this post.

4. Create Your Content

You’re well-researched, you have your detailed outline, so now it’s time to get to the good stuff. The best way to approach this part of the process will differ from person to person. Some people will prefer to write a section at a time, editing and polishing each one before moving on to the next. Others might prefer to write the whole thing all of the way through and then go back and polish it.

However you feel comfortable doing it is fine, as long as you make sure that the finished product is free of errors.

Of course, if your content is video-based (as most are), you don’t need to worry about errors in your writing because your writing is only a script. But again, be on the lookout for basic errors, and try to make your video as high-quality as possible. You can get away with a poor-quality video containing good content on YouTube, but paying customers will feel cheated.

Speaking of YouTube, you can find a detailed post on the subject of using YouTube videos in your online course here.

5. Test Your Course

Once your course is completed, it’s time to test. Try to find a few willing victims—sorry, volunteers—who can work their way through your course and give you feedback with fresh eyes. In particular, ask them if they felt each section achieved the objective you set out in the outline. If not, consider reworking it.

Try to remain open-minded during this stage. When you’ve put a lot of time and effort into something, it’s natural to be defensive when someone criticises it. Remember, this is a product you are selling, and your testers are only there to help.

6. Publish Your Course

With all that done, it’s time to pick a course provider and publish your course. If you have enough of an audience already, you could sell your course direct to them. There is no definitively best solution here; it’s just a matter of what works for the individual.

Most of the online course companies that turn up on the first page or two of Google are perfectly fine, so shop around and see which one looks good to you.

7. Promote!

Don’t fall into the trap of just putting something online, leaving it to sit there quietly, and then wondering why it’s not making money.

You need to promote your course. If you have an existing audience, that’s great, you can certainly leverage that. But don’t neglect other sources.

You might consider buying advertisements on YouTube or AdWords, or releasing teaser content designed to give viewers a taste of the course.

Final Thoughts

We won’t lie, creating a good online course is a lot of work. It’s certainly not something you can whip up overnight. But if you have enough passion for a subject matter and you don’t mind putting in the hours, it can be a great way to generate revenue, grow your brand, and increase your audience.

Top 5 Tools To Get You Started on YouTube

Very quickly before you go here are 5 amazing tools I have used every day to grow my YouTube channel from 0 to 30K subscribers in the last 12 months that I could not live without.

1. VidIQ helps boost my views and get found in search

I almost exclusively switched to VidIQ from a rival in 2020.

Within 12 months I tripled the size of my channel and very quickly learnt the power of thumbnails, click through rate and proper search optimization. Best of all, they are FREE!

2. Adobe Creative Suite helps me craft amazing looking thumbnails and eye-catching videos

I have been making youtube videos on and off since 2013.

When I first started I threw things together in Window Movie Maker, cringed at how it looked but thought “that’s the best I can do so it’ll have to do”.

Big mistake!

I soon realized the move time you put into your editing and the more engaging your thumbnails are the more views you will get and the more people will trust you enough to subscribe.

That is why I took the plunge and invested in my editing and design process with Adobe Creative Suite. They offer a WIDE range of tools to help make amazing videos, simple to use tools for overlays, graphics, one click tools to fix your audio and the very powerful Photoshop graphics program to make eye-catching thumbnails.

Best of all you can get a free trial for 30 days on their website, a discount if you are a student and if you are a regular human being it starts from as little as £9 per month if you want to commit to a plan.

3. Rev.com helps people read my videos

You can’t always listen to a video.

Maybe you’re on a bus, a train or sat in a living room with a 5 year old singing baby shark on loop… for HOURS. Or, you are trying to make as little noise as possible while your new born is FINALLY sleeping.

This is where Rev can help you or your audience consume your content on the go, in silence or in a language not native to the video.

Rev.com can help you translate your videos, transcribe your videos, add subtitles and even convert those subtitles into other languages – all from just $1.50 per minute.

A GREAT way to find an audience and keep them hooked no matter where they are watching your content.

4. Learn new skills for FREE with Skillshare

I SUCK reading books to learn, but I LOVE online video courses.

Every month I learn something new. Editing, writing, video skills, how to cook, how to run a business – even how to meditate to calm a busy mind.

I find all of these for FREE with Skillshare – Sign up, pick all the courses you want and cancel anytime you need.

5. Shutterstock helps me add amazing video b-roll cutaways

I mainly make tutorials and talking head videos.

And in this modern world this can be a little boring if you don’t see something funky every once in a while.

I try with overlays, jump cuts and being funny but my secret weapon is b-roll overlay content.

I can talk about skydiving, food, money, kids, cats – ANYTHING I WANT – with a quick search on the Shutterstock website I can find a great looking clip to overlay on my videos, keeping them entertained and watching for longer.

They have a wide library of videos, graphics, images and even a video maker tool and it wont break the bank with plans starting from as little as £8.25 ($9) per month.

Tags edu, education, free courses, learning, online courses, online education, skill share, skillshare, teaching

BUSINESS TIPS HOW TO MAKE MONEY ONLINE LISTS YOUTUBE

Online Jobs For Students To Earn Money

Post author By Alan Spicer - YouTube Certified Expert
Post date 15 June 2022

Working online is turning into more and more standard because of the pliability, diversity, and income-earning potential that online jobs offer. Plus, the start-up prices area unit minimal, and there area unit a spread of gigs looking on your interest and ability set. In fact, after I started my online business some years past, it prices American state virtually nothing, and that I had very little expertise.

But through trial and error and loads of toil, I have been able to create a regular financial gain from my online jobs for students.

If you are inquisitive about beginning your own online gig, there are unit lots of opportunities accessible.

Legitimate Online Jobs For Students

With the number of online jobs for students choices, it is onerous to grasp which of them are legitimate and which of them are not price sometimes. This list covers a number of the foremost standard and doubtless profitable decisions.

Featured Online Jobs

Most of the roles during this entire list are appropriate for anyone, however, I have divided them into classes for college students, moms, kids, and academics for simple sorting. This 1st list is best for anyone just because there is such a good type of victorious individuals operating these online jobs for students, and that they do not need any special degrees or certifications.

Online Jobs For Students To Earn Money 1

Product Tester

Pay: $5 to $15 per hour

As we know Product testing is a fun online job for students that allows us to make money working with products that you already want. As a paid product tester, you can test and review both physical and digital products.

After signing up for a product testing company like Vindale Research, you will get matched with products from various companies. Additionally, product testing opportunities periodically arise on Swagbucks Discover; checking in on both platforms from time to time will maximize the odds you are eligible for an offer. Once you receive and test a product, you will follow the instructions and complete a survey or similar task to provide your insights and feedback.

You will be paid in money gift cards, or get to keep the product you have tested. This is not a full-time online job for students’ opportunity, but it can make a good side hustle.

Online Seller

Pay: $40 to $60 on the average per box of items

You can sell nearly something online. Furniture, unused makeup, recent cell phones, and different school area unit are all viable choices.

If you have got youngsters, you will simply sell their gently used shoes, clothes, toys, and gadgets once they have outgrown them. If you get pleasure from this sort of online job for students, you will begin reconnoitring native yard sales, insect markets, and Facebook commerce teams for things to sell

When you find a used item at a steep discount, you can sell it on a site like Decluttr to flip for a profit. The more often you do this, the more money you can earn.

Blogger

Pay: $1 to $2,000+ per month

Blogging is an internet job wherever you will be able to make money on a part-time schedule. If you relish writing and serving others, and you recognize the way to be persistent notwithstanding you are not making money, blogging may be a decent appropriate you. It usually takes at least 6 to 18 months to start making money from a blog.

The fun thing about blogging as an online job for students is that you can choose a topic you are truly passionate about, and the opportunities from blogging are virtually limitless.

The four main ways to make money from blogging include:

Advertising – You get paid for putting ads on your blog.
Affiliate Marketing – This is where you get paid a commission for any products that you sell via your blog.
Digital Products – You can sell your own eBooks, courses, etc.
Services – If you like to work one on one with people, a blog can be a great way to generate leads for coaching, consulting, etc.

Facebook Ads Manager

Pay: $1,000 to $2,000+ per month

Many native business homeowners understand they have to advertise online, anyway, they do not acumen or do not have enough workers to figure thereon. If you have got Facebook and are at home with its advertising platform, or if you are willing to place within the time to be told, you can start contacting local businesses to offer Facebook ad services.

That is what Bobby Hoyt did. An avid digital marketer and blogger, he started offering Facebook ad management services to local businesses in his area and eventually turned that operation into a sizable income for himself. He launched his own FB Side Hustle Course that teaches others how to do the same. You can do this as a side hustle or turn it into a full-time job.

Dropshipping

Pay: $25 to $500+ per item sold

With dropshipping, you set up a storefront on a platform like Shopify, list your merchandise, then have the orders shipped on to a client from the provider.

This is an incredible possibility for anyone trying to find an internet job as a result of it permits you to figure in sales while not touching the physical product throughout a dealing and earn a decent financial gain at constant time.

You can sell anything from T-shirts to event tickets and consulting services, so this is an incredibly flexible online job for students.

Though the profit margin of dropshipping is not as high as when stocking and shipping your own physical products, the benefits of a completely hands-off method make it worthwhile.

Online Jobs for Students

These online jobs for students provide flexible options and offer a balance between concentrating on your studies while earning some extra money.

Freelance Writer

Pay: $50 to $500+ per article

If you love writing and can find clients that need content, then becoming a freelance writer may be a good online job for you.

It is okay to begin on a platform like Fiverr or FreelanceWriting.Com, however, you won’t notice high-paying freelance writing jobs on these sites. To earn a good financial gain, you will get to work directly with websites, companies, or online magazines.

You can additionally explore for purchasers by connecting with diary homeowners, native businesses, and native newspapers that may like writers. Otherwise to search out jobs is to affix writing Facebook teams. The competition is often fierce, however, you will have best if you are persistent and need to enhance.

Once you have established a solid portfolio, client roster, and testimonials, you can raise your prices.

Holly Johnson started freelance writing and went from making $0 to six figures a year using her own unique strategies. Now she teaches a course for freelancers to follow in her footsteps.

Proofreader

Pay: $10 to $45 per hour

There are many online jobs for students that allow you to make money proofreading, but you should not overlook the opportunities on campus.

Consider seeking out fellow students who could use a proofreader before turning in their next paper.

Proofreading is less in-depth than editing. Rather than making extensive corrections and suggestions, you work as a second set of eyes, looking for typos, spelling errors, and other minor issues to clean up their papers before they are submitted for grading.

Textbook Seller

Pay: 15% to 50% per book sold

Students area unit excellent candidates for book reconnoitring or mercantilism textbooks online. There are unit lots of, if not thousands, of scholars on school campuses United Nations agency, has not any interest in reselling their own textbook.

You can take advantage of their lack of time or motivation and offer to sell those books for your friends on a site like Textbroker. Negotiate a selling price, along with the fee you get per book, and do the work for them. As time allows, you can even scout online book prices and buy/sell during the prime textbook season (before the start of each new semester).

Social Media Manager

Pay: $15 to $40 per hour

If you are an avid social media user, you can put your skills and time to good use by starting an online job for students as a social media manager.

Managing a business’s social media is comparable to managing your own Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter. To be visible and well-known on social media, you have got to be not simply active, but interactive. Once somebody posts a comment or non-public message to you, you wish to reply quickly

Businesses often fail at social media because they do not have someone dedicated to staying active on various social media platforms. They often do not have staff available to respond to comments, create new and engaging posts, or monitor conversations within their communities.

Local businesses offer prime opportunities for finding an online job for students as social media managers. You can send an email, but it may be good to call or visit local businesses or introduce yourself through their social media pages as a college student looking to help.

Some businesses will not be interested, while others may jump on the opportunity to get more exposure online.

Data Entry Specialist

Pay: $10 to $17 per hour

Data entry jobs square measure legit choices for faculty students, however, you must consider carefully before applying. They are straightforward, however, they have a tendency to pay less and need longer than alternative choices.

The best thing about data entry jobs is that the work is flexible and can be done in your spare time. You can take on as much or as little work as needed depending on your schedule.

If you are interested in finding a data entry job, start with a platform like Clickworker or DionData Solutions.

If you are looking for online jobs for students that are perfect for moms, consider some of these options. Keep in mind that any of the work-from-home jobs can be tweaked to work for you as well.

Virtual Assistant

Pay: $19 to $25 per hour

Becoming a virtual assistant to an Associate in Nursing already established online business is one of all the simplest online jobs to do, and you will begin before long.

Virtual assistants typically handle things like programming, client support, body help, email promoting, social media posting, journal management, and far a lot of

You can offer whatever services you feel comfortable doing, and you can add more to your menu of services as you gain experience. Or, if you prefer, you can specialize in just one or two areas.

Reach out to small business owners and online entrepreneurs, or connect with other VAs in Facebook groups. They might have leads for your first few clients or tips on how to maximize your earnings.

Graphic Designer

Pay: $25 to $50 per hour

You do not need an art degree to become a graphic designer. There square measure online jobs for students that need graphic style skills for comes like making printable sheets, flyers, announcements, ads, or Pinterest pictures.

If you have got a watch for style and acumen to use tools like Canva or PicMonkey, there is an internet job expecting you. Making stunning Pinterest and alternative social media pictures is in high demand among bloggers and website homeowners and may facilitate virtually any business to attract contemporary traffic to its website.

Niche Website Creator

Pay: $100 to $10,000+ per site

If you are well-versed in search engine optimization (SEO) and understand how to get a site ranked on the first page of Google, you could make money creating niche websites. From hiking and mountain climbing to baby-rearing, there is no limit when choosing a topic.

A niche website is not like a typical blog where you have to add fresh content weekly. Instead, you set up a few landing pages that sell affiliate products in a single niche. There is no guarantee that a certain niche will be profitable, but you can start brainstorming topics that you think are being underserved.

After you have built the site and made it profitable, you can keep it to earn passive income or sell the site on a marketplace like Flippa.Com.

Setting up a niche site is similar to establishing a regular blog. If you know how to do that, you can get started creating your niche site right away.

Website Designer

Pay: $20 to $100 per hour

It is possible to learn how to design blogs and e-commerce websites without any formal coaching because of drag-and-drop builders that simply integrate with platforms like Shopify. If you are technically inclined and may spot the variations between a handsome website and a nasty one, you would possibly be able to begin planning and building websites for others.

Designing websites does not mean you need to reinvent the internet or create complex-looking websites. It means you need to know what looks good, is user-friendly, and meets your clients’ needs.

Although it is a simple process, many people are overwhelmed by the thought of creating their own website, and it is a gap you can fill while earning a good income.

Social Media Influencer

Pay: $20 to $100 per hour

If you prefer sharing your favourite deals, books, clothes, and alternative merchandise on social media and have engineered a loyal following, you will notice work as a social media influencer. With this job, corporations pay you to market their merchandise to your audience, and you will earn a proportion of the sales they create from your affiliate or referral links.

It does not take much to become a social media influencer if you choose a niche that is profitable and one you are passionate about it. You will need to post on your social media channels consistently and engage with your followers to grow your influence and your income.

There are companies like the Amazon Influencer Program and ShopStyle.Com that allow you to post-paid links on your profile.

Amazon Seller

Pay: $15 to $100+ per hour

Everyone shops on Amazon these days, which is why you can make a good income through Amazon as well.

The conception of Amazon arbitrage is straightforward, however, the method may be tedious. You discover discounted physical merchandise at your native stores and sell them at a profit on Amazon.

Though it sounds simple, your profits will quickly decrease because of Amazon’s sellers’ fees, shipping expenses, and time spent. However, if you already pay time thrift store searching or discount searching, then this online job for students may be for you.

Tutor

Pay: $14 to $22+ per hour

Online jobs where you can tutor students are a fantastic way for teachers to make money fast. You can sign up at any of these sites and tutor students on the subjects of your expertise

Outschool (does not require teaching experience; average pay is $40 per hour)

Wyzant (set your own rate)

VIPKid (bachelor’s degree required; pay is $14-$22 per hour)

YouTube Channel Creator

Pay: $0 to $2,000 per month

Kids making videos on YouTube is a huge industry right now. Ryan, the star of Ryan’s World, made $22 million in revenue in one year. With the help of his mom and dad, his channel became popular with kids everywhere.

Unfortunately, it is not as easy as recording a video, uploading it to YouTube, and watching the money roll in. YouTube made some changes to its minimum subscriber and view requirements before a channel can start making money.

Once those minimums are met, then you can place ads on the videos to create an income stream. That is why promoting your YouTube channel on other platforms is also important.

If your kids are driven and ready to be in front of a camera, then they might love the idea of making a profitable YouTube channel. You most likely will not earn the same amount of money as Ryan’s World, but you can earn something.

Amazon eBook Publisher

Pay: Up to 70% of each copy sold

Publishing a book on Amazon Kindle is easy and simple, but it is not a guaranteed way to make a lot of money. The books need to be well-written, edited, have a catchy cover, and have a clear marketing strategy. However, if you have a good idea, eBooks provide a way for your aspiring writer or illustrator to start earning some income.

If your teen has a talent for writing stories or drawing cartoons or picture books, you can help them start creating and uploading books to sell. This may be a fun way for them to earn money with their creativity.

Find Something You Like and Run With It

If you are interested in earning money online, there are many choices. To search out the proper one, brainstorm and admit your hobbies, skills, and abilities and choose one that works with those. If you cannot notice an associate degree existing job, you will be able to even produce one.

The best half regarding online jobs for students is that you simply will observe money from home by doing quite one gig or job at a time. If you wish to possess a diary and tutor, otherwise you need to possess an associate degree Etsy store and a YouTube channel and may work it all into your schedule, you can. A lot of you will be able to do to maximize your financial gain to realize your money goals, the higher you will be within the end of the day.

Tags freelance, freelancers, hustle, jobs for students, money, self employed, side hustle, side hustles, students

BUSINESS TIPS HOW TO MAKE MONEY ONLINE

6 Money Making Mistakes Freelancers And The Self-employed Make

Post author By Alan Spicer - YouTube Certified Expert
Post date 13 June 2022

Perhaps you’ve recently considered leaving your full-time job to undertake a new challenge in your career. From freelancing, or even turning your side hustle into a full-time gig, there are various reasons so many people have recently decided to permanently quit the workforce.

Due – Due

While self-employment does offer better flexibility in your schedule, the ability to be your boss, and having the relaxation to work from home, it’s no wonder more than four million people were seen quitting their jobs during January 2020.

Times have been changing since the advent of the pandemic, and extended lockdowns have shown people that starting their own business can be financially beneficial if done right, and not having to answer to anyone else can help improve innovation and productivity.

Yes, being self-employed has its perks, and it’s become undeniable that working from home, and being your own boss is a lot more attractive than being stuck in an office or having to work for a company that doesn’t have the same moral stance as you.

Starting a business, whether it’s in your hometown, or perhaps somewhere else also brings financial constraints, even if it looks like the grass is greener on the other side. There are a lot one first needs to consider before making any drastic changes.

So whether you may be currently caught in the middle of leaving your job, or maybe you’ve already quit, it’s time to start talking about the financial mistakes you may endure in your time as a self-employed individual.

From budgeting, time management, work-life balance, and saving properly – there are a number of mistakes freelancers and the self-employed are making, and this article will help you avoid those mistakes.

Not Budgeting Properly

Right from the start, it’s time to get your finances sorted. Now that you’ve left a steady job, and a full-time salary, you need to start budgeting a lot better. Counting every dime and nickel you spend, and cutting back on unnecessary expenses.

There’s a simple equation that works, and it’s one you can apply to either when you’re freelancing, or when you still receive a monthly paycheck.

Split your earnings as follow:

50% Needs: These will be important bills such as utilities, mortgage, rent, and groceries.
30% Wants: This can be for things you want at a certain time, such as luxuries, or eating out now and again but aren’t truly a necessity.
20% Savings: It’s advised that you put at least 20% of your earnings in savings, an emergency fund or perhaps return that money into the business

If you’re operating a small business from home, or online, you will have to make cutbacks on your wants, as this will help you save a lot more, and you can use any excess cash to support the business.

Inadequate Use of Time

Perhaps one of the reasons you decided to work for yourself or start your own business is because it gives you the ability to spend more time with your family and do what you enjoy. While this may be the case, a lot of entrepreneurs, freelancers, and self-employed people still don’t understand the value of time.

Now that you have more time to do a lot of different things, it should be second nature to prioritize certain tasks and projects. Consider work that’s a high priority, and get that out of the way first.

Have a diary or tabletop calendar where you can write down important tasks that need attention. Focus on the important things first, before you go on to complete other projects.

Yes, having balance as a freelancer or self-employed person isn’t easy, working from home and maybe still having a family, but consider how every minute or hour you’re spending doing something unimportant, you could be using that time to learn a new skill, grow your network, look for new clients, or finalize a certain project.

Time is money, and it’s a standing fact you need to grasp right from the very start.

Unable to Separate Business and Personal Expenses

So perhaps you might have an idea on how to budget now, but you’re still not seeing any money come in and being put back into your business or entrepreneurial ventures.

Separating personal and business expenses is one of the main reasons a lot of small businesses, or freelancers can struggle to make money.

Although your new self-employment may only start taking off, you need to consider the money that’s coming in, and how it’s being divided.

For personal expenses, use your checking account, as money comes into the business, pay yourself a small salary, if possible. That account and money can now be used for personal purchases.

Any business-related purchases should be captured in a spreadsheet for tax-related purchases, and to ensure you don’t overspend on the business side.

As the business grows, or you start getting more jobs, you can start thinking of setting up a business account. Just remember, once you set up a business bank account, there can be tax-related expenses and filing you will need to adhere to, so be sure your business is on a level of income before opening a business bank account.

Not Tracking Expenses and Revenue

This goes hand-in-hand with separating personal and business-related expenses, and you must consider what you’re spending, over how much you’re getting in.

Some business owners tend to overspend, purchasing new stock, or goods when it’s not needed, or perhaps even when there’s not even cash flow to make a large purchase that isn’t needed right now.

It’s vital to the success of your business or freelance career that you keep track of how much is being spent, over the amount you’re making. If you’re a freelancer that works from home, purchasing expensive office equipment you might not require right now can make a dent in your budget.

The same goes for an entrepreneur making large business purchases when there’s not sufficient cash flow to sustain it.

Make sure that expenses are not more than your revenue or income, if you start seeing red on your books and in the budget, then it’s time to start paying closer attention to your budget.

Savings. Savings. Savings.

So perhaps you already had a healthy-looking savings account before you quit your job. By now, you started using some of that savings to either get your business off the ground, making necessary payments until actual money starts coming in, or you paid off some outstanding credit card debt.

Whatever you spent your savings on, it’s important that you now look to put back what you have taken out. It might not be possible immediately, but over time as you start generating a substantial income, you can place a portion of your revenue or income into your savings.

Your savings is your lifeline when you reach a point when sales were lower than you anticipated, or perhaps you haven’t received as many contracts as you’d hoped for.

Keep track of how much money you’re setting aside as an emergency fund, as you’re now completely in control of your money, expenses, and the income you make, you have to consider the seriousness of your savings.

Before anything else, make sure that you set aside at least 20% to 30% of your income into a savings account. You can also be smart about it, and place it in an account that receives a decent percentage of interest every month, or in a mutual fund.

Be sure to do proper research before you start looking at various ways you can make your savings grow, as you can run the risk of losing it as well.

6 Money Making Mistakes Freelancers And The Self-employed Make 1

No Efficient Tax Planning

Taxes are different for self-employed workers or working as a freelancer, and the sooner you get on top of it, the better.

For self-employed people, you will generally report your income and withhold your own taxes. There could be a possibility that you will need to pay a self-employment tax as well, and if you operate a small business, there could be business-related taxes that need to be filed as well.

Freelancers would also need to learn the rules of what to file, withhold and report, especially if you work from home.

It’s good that you plan for taxes as you start your new career ventures, as it’ll help you see how much money you need to set aside for taxes.

There are also different categories for business tax and freelance taxes, which can range from business expenses and purchases to personal expenses that can be filed as a business purchase. It’s a tricky and complicated system that if not properly understood, can cost you quite the amount of effort and money.

Now that you’re self-employed, and being your own boss, it’s time that you start taking better care of your finances. Not having that hefty paycheck each month, and having to make your own money comes with a lot of responsibility.

The better you understand how to work with money, and how to budget and save up for an emergency, the more comfortable you’ll become with business and personal finances.

Tags finance, how to be self employed, money, pay, personal finance, savings, self employed

BUSINESS TIPS DEEP DIVE ARTICLE HOW TO MAKE MONEY ONLINE LISTS SOCIAL MEDIA TIPS & TRICKS YOUTUBE

Top 10 Side Hustles for YouTubers

Post author By Alan Spicer - YouTube Certified Expert
Post date 6 December 2021
4 Comments on Top 10 Side Hustles for YouTubers

People today understand more than ever the importance of diversifying when it comes to your source of income. After decades of financial crisis’ and global pandemics, younger generations are acutely aware of how risky it is to put all your eggs in one employment basket.

This has always been the case for YouTubers, of course. Since the beginning of YouTubers making money from their content, it has always been the advice for smart YouTubers not to rely solely on YouTube to pay their bills. Adpocalypses, changes to personal situations, and much more can make YouTube earnings evaporate in no time.

Of course, telling you that it’s important to spread your wings a bit financially is all well and good, but we want to go that extra step and give you a few ideas on where you can spread your wings!

With that in mind, we’ve put together our top 10 side hustles for YouTubers to dip their toes into (click here for side hustles for students). Never heard of a “side hustle” before? Don’t worry…

What is a “Side Hustle”?

A side hustle is defined as any job or occupation that is not your main job or occupation. In a traditional sense, an example of this might be someone working in a factory through the week and then doing a few shifts tending bar on the weekend. In this case, the bar work would be a side hustle.

Of course, things are a little more fluid these days, with the lines between side hustles and a “main job” being a little blurrier, but there is an emotional component that is strong these days than it once was. It is not uncommon for people who make their money online to have something that they consider a side hustle actually be their primary source of income!

Still, whether you classify something as a side hustle based on the money it makes you or how important that activity is to you, the basic premise remains the same; it’s a way of earning money that you consider secondary to another way of earning money.

How Much Money Can You Make With a Side Hustle?

The amount of money you can make with a side hustle will, of course, vary tremendously depending on several factors, such as what the side hustle is, how good you are at it, how much time you put into it, and more.

As mentioned above, how much money it makes does not necessarily affect its status as a side hustle. If you consider YouTube your “primary” hustle, you may well find one of your side hustles overtaking as your largest source of income. Our advice would be to not think too much about things like the exact amounts. As long as you’re making enough (whatever “enough” means to you), it doesn’t matter which hustle is making the most money.

How Do YouTubers Receive Their Money? 3

Don’t Think of it as a Side Hustle!

While you should get too hung up on the specific amount being made by any form of hustle, it’s important not to think of things as secondary, or unimportant. If your job involves making money on the Internet, you should consider all of it your job, whether it’s making the most or not.

If you start thinking of legitimate income sources as unimportant, you run the risk of letting them slip until they stop being legitimate income sources. You may think of yourself as a YouTuber, but if you have half a dozen side hustles, they will quickly amount to a significant portion of your income, so you probably literally can’t afford to neglect them.

Top 10 Side Hustles for YouTubers

That’s enough about what side hustles are, it’s time to get to our top ten side hustles for YouTubers. Of course, if you simply searched for side hustles and found this post, you aren’t a YouTuber, don’t stop reading. We’ve picked these ten side hustles because they work well with YouTubing, but they are perfectly viable side hustles for other walks of life, too.

In fact, if you see your main hustle on here (blog writer, or podcaster, for example), just swap that one out for “YouTuber” and keep on reading!

Oh, and a little side note about the YouTube Partner Programme, we haven’t included that in this list because we assume that if you’re looking to add side hustles to your resume, you’re already making money from YouTube.

#1 Affiliate Marketer

Affiliate marketing is perhaps one of the most well-established means of making money on the side for YouTubers. This is the process of promoting something in the course of your usual content and making a little money on the actions taken by your viewers.

The most well-known example of this is, of course, Amazon’s affiliate program. When enrolled as an Amazon affiliate, you will be able to get a personal affiliate link from any Amazon product. Viewers who happen to buy that product will not pay any extra—indeed, they wouldn’t even know it was an affiliate link if you didn’t tell them (more on that in a second)—but you will make a small commission on anything they buy through your links.

There are many forms of affiliate marketing available, as well as services designed specifically to facilitate linking companies with people like you. It should be noted, however, that you should always give some sort of indication to your viewers that a link you have put in the description or a product you are promoting in your video is something you are promoting as an affiliate. It’s not hard to find out, and viewers will be turned off by this kind of dishonesty. It could also get you in trouble with YouTube.

#2 Merchandise Seller

Whether you have some kind of merchandise that exists independent of your YouTube channel, or you start releasing merchandise that ties directly in with your YouTube channel, having that channel can be a great way to promote it.

Naturally, if your merchandise is tied to the channel (for example, t-shirts with the channel logo on them), you’re going to want to promote it from that channel. Alternatively, if you want to start (or already have) a small clothing line, you sell artwork, or you sell pretty much anything on a site like Etsy, you can leverage the popularity of your YouTube channel to give that side hustle a bit of a kickstart.

#3 Course Instructor

Many YouTubers have some area of expertise, even if their channel is not about imparting that expertise. These days, the administrative side of creating and hosting an online course to teach other people things is relatively painless. There’s still a lot of work in putting the course together, of course, but there’s a lot of work in running a YouTube channel, as well, and you’re not letting that stop you… are you?

Of course, if your channel is centred around educating, such as a DIY channel, or tutorials on coding, it will be much easier to translate that audience into an online course. But even channels that are not about teaching viewers something can take advantage of this side hustle, as long as the course is teaching a skill that is on display when you make your videos.

#4 Channel Manager

If you have a particular flair for handling YouTube channels, you might consider turning your attention to becoming a channel manager. Essentially, you would take on the management of other people’s channels, and handle almost everything except for the content itself.

Many people don’t have the time or desire to effectively manage their channel themselves, but proper channel management can make an enormous difference. As you will no doubt be aware of this is a side hustle you are considering.

The main thing to beware of here is letting this side hustle take over. A good channel manager will typically have several clients. And, while managing a channel doesn’t take nearly as much time as making content for it, it all adds up if you keep adding clients to your roster.

#5 Blogger

Bloggers may resent seeing their profession listed as a side hustle on a YouTube blog—especially since blogging was a viable source of income before YouTube—but don’t be mad; YouTube can just as rightly be called a side hustle for bloggers. And the good news is this makes sense whichever way round you look at it.

Essentially, you have something to share with an audience, and you are currently doing it in video form. By translating that content to written form, you can reach a whole new audience. Or you can make it supplemental, giving your YouTube audience something else to consume.

#6 Podcaster

In a very similar vein to being a blogger, you can get more of your message out in audio-only form through podcasts. And, again, if you are a podcast, you can easily look at this suggestion in reverse, with YouTube being the side hustle.

This suggestion works best for channels that already have a podcast-like feel, such as panel show channels, or interview channels. If you regularly put out hour-long videos that are mostly talking, you’re going to miss out on a lot of viewers purely because of the time requirements. Not everyone has that much free time to sit and watch YouTube.

Those same people might have an hour’s worth of commuting to do every day, or regularly go for a job and like to listen to something while they do. They might just want something to put on while they do a bit of cleaning around the home. If your content is already podcast-like, putting it out as a podcast will involve negligible work. And, if it succeeds, it could drive more traffic to your YouTube channel.

Of course, you can still make a podcast if your channel isn’t the kind of channel described above. As long as you have something interesting to talk about, you can find an audience.

#7 Produce Video Content

This one is a little trickier. As we mentioned above in the channel manager section, creating content for a channel is the most time-consuming part, so the idea of producing video content for others might not seem like the best plan.

While you could certainly produce video content for other YouTube channels, we’re suggesting something more specialist, such as making animations idents, or infographic clips. If you have a skill for this kind of thing, there will undoubtedly be plenty of people and companies that are happy to pay for your services.

#8 Stock Trader

This one doesn’t really tie in to you being a YouTuber unless your YouTube channel revolves around you being a stock trader, or talking about stock trading in some form. If this isn’t you, you can still get into stock trading (or currency trading), to earn a little (or a lot) extra on the side, just be sure you know what you’re doing. We categorically do not recommend anyone dabbling in the stock market without knowing what they’re doing beforehand.

#9 Become a Consultant

You don’t have to make content to take advantage of your expertise. Consultancy work is a great way for you to exploit your own knowledge while helping others. One example of this could be helping other YouTubers grow their channel (assuming you have proven yourself able to do this in the first place of course!), but it could just as easily be any other area of expertise you have.

#10 Champion a Cause

This one is kind of cheating. You won’t necessarily make any money from championing a good cause, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t do it. Whether it’s planting trees or donating to charities, you have the power to make an impact.

Final Thoughts

YouTube is undoubtedly a great platform for launching other projects, whether they are passion projects, side hustles, or even new careers. The list above is a relatively small selection of the possibilities for adding new hustles to your game, so don’t worry if none of the above work for you.

Of course, if all else fails, your side hustle could always be other YouTube channels.

Top 5 Tools To Get You Started on YouTube

Very quickly before you go here are 5 amazing tools I have used every day to grow my YouTube channel from 0 to 30K subscribers in the last 12 months that I could not live without.

1. VidIQ helps boost my views and get found in search

I almost exclusively switched to VidIQ from a rival in 2020.

Within 12 months I tripled the size of my channel and very quickly learnt the power of thumbnails, click through rate and proper search optimization. Best of all, they are FREE!

2. Adobe Creative Suite helps me craft amazing looking thumbnails and eye-catching videos

I have been making youtube videos on and off since 2013.

When I first started I threw things together in Window Movie Maker, cringed at how it looked but thought “that’s the best I can do so it’ll have to do”.

Big mistake!

I soon realized the move time you put into your editing and the more engaging your thumbnails are the more views you will get and the more people will trust you enough to subscribe.

3. Rev.com helps people read my videos

You can’t always listen to a video.

This is where Rev can help you or your audience consume your content on the go, in silence or in a language not native to the video.

Rev.com can help you translate your videos, transcribe your videos, add subtitles and even convert those subtitles into other languages – all from just $1.50 per minute.

A GREAT way to find an audience and keep them hooked no matter where they are watching your content.

4. PlaceIT can help you STAND OUT on YouTube

I SUCK at making anything flashy or arty.

I have every intention in the world to make something that looks cool but im about as artistic as a dropped ice-cream cone on the web windy day.

That is why I could not live on YouTube without someone like PlaceIT. They offer custom YouTube Banners, Avatars, YouTube Video Intros and YouTube End Screen Templates that are easy to edit with simple click, upload wizard to help you make amazing professional graphics in minutes.

Best of all, some of their templates are FREE! or you can pay a small fee if you want to go for their slightly more premium designs (pst – I always used the free ones).

5. StoryBlocks helps me add amazing video b-roll cutaways

I mainly make tutorials and talking head videos.

And in this modern world this can be a little boring if you don’t see something funky every once in a while.

I try with overlays, jump cuts and being funny but my secret weapon is b-roll overlay content.

I can talk about skydiving, food, money, kids, cats – ANYTHING I WANT – with a quick search on the StoryBlocks website I can find a great looking clip to overlay on my videos, keeping them entertained and watching for longer.

They have a wide library of videos, graphics, images and even a video maker tool and it wont break the bank with plans starting from as little as £8.25 ($9) per month.

Tags affiliate, affiliate marketing, income, money, passive income, side hustles, youtube money