Are paid online surveys really a good introductory way to start earning online?
The answer to this really depends on what your personal goals are.
If your goal is to build an online business empire, surveys aren’t going to cut it. However, if you’re looking for a way of earning a few extra dollars to save up for a rainy day, surveys could be a viable option
While there are various means to generate income online, scaling up a newly created online business often requires at least some initial investment, and also a significant time commitment before realising returns
However, if you are looking for a simple, quick and hassle free way to earn your first few dollars online, then taking online surveys is a great introductory way to start earning handy extra cash.
In this article, we will explore how surveys really can be a good strategy for creating a useful side income gig, but we will also discuss some potential drawbacks as well.
However, let’s get started by looking at the reasons why taking paid online surveys could be a good place for you to start your online earning journey.
What Are The Advantages Of Paid Surveys?
One of the best things about taking paid online surveys is that there are few barriers to entry.
You needn’t worry about possessing any special skills or have any knowledge. Also, most age groups, with the exception of younger children, can participate. It also doesn’t matter what your educational background is, or what your experience with work is either.
The only requirement is internet access, and a device that allows you to take the surveys.
Also, as we have just touched on above, no investment is needed as survey sites are free to join, and you can see a quick return on your time as you may be able to get paid within a day or two of getting started.
Some online businesses however take months or even years before they yield any return on your investment of money and time.
Another advantage is the flexibility that surveys offer. You can take surveys at any time you choose. As long as you are connected to the internet, then you’re good to go.
Also, given there are many survey apps available your not limited to wherever you can access your P.C or laptop. With surveys on your mobile device you can work from anywhere.
Surveys can also be interesting and a rewarding experience. When you share your expertise in various topics, your opinions will contribute towards businesses making decisions that will help benefit everyone.
In addition, the monetary rewards you get for taking surveys won’t be life changing by any means, but they can be very motivating and include not only cash, but also gift cards for your favourite retailers or other prizes including charity donations.
It’s also surprising what you can learn by participating in surveys. You get to know about particular products and different industries, and that can often spark a curiosity for learning more.
What Are Some Of The Drawbacks Of Paid Online Surveys?
As you have probably already guessed, surveys are going to make you rich. They’re not even going to pay most of your bills. Surveys typically pay a few dollars, so keep your goals realistic when it comes to surveys.
Another often talked about problem with surveys is that they can be very time-consuming. This is often down to the fact that you don’t always qualify for a survey, even though you may have already spent a few minutes completing a screener survey to see if you do qualify.
Seasoned survey takers know that disqualifications are a part of the survey experience, and it’s something that is going to inevitably happen. It’s a feature of online surveys that you will have to get used to.
Patience and persistence really is the key. If you do get disqualified you just have to keep on going to your next survey until you get lucky.
The truth is your demographics play an important role in determining the number of paid online surveys you qualify for.
Survey companies maybe interested in getting feedback from specific groups of people based on factors such as age, gender, location, income level, and interests.
Therefore, it is important you give survey companies the right information about yourself when you join. By completing your profile accurately, and with as much information as possible, you will get more surveys that fit your demographic, and therefore you will be less likely to get disqualified.
It is also a good idea to check reviews of survey sites to see if the users are pleased with their experience.
If you are confident about a few sites then join up to as as many as you can so you can maximise the amount of surveys available to you. I have written many reviews of survey sites on this website so please check them out.
Conclusion
If you are determined to make surveys a side gig, be sure to set aside dedicated time to take surveys each day or week. The earnings can be inconsistent given you don’t qualify for every survey, but sticking to a schedule will help keep your earning potential maximised.
Taking online surveys can be a great way to start making money online for the first time. While it may not make you rich, it can be an easy side income gig that you can do at a time and place that suits you.
It’s a low-risk way to try out making money online, and it doesn’t require any special skills or knowledge. You don’t need to invest any money, but you will need to invest some of your time.
Just remember, there isn’t a lot of money to be made with online surveys, so set realistic expectations, be patient and persistent, and sign up for multiple survey websites to increase your earning potential.