The English language is spoken in over 41 countries, making it one of the most popular languages to know. It is also an international language of business, so many companies prefer their candidates to know it. If you speak English, or another language as your native tongue, this is the perfect way to get some extra cash!
This is a relatively easy way to make some extra money if you can speak a language fluently. Some sites prefer you to have a degree or pass a certification, while others are okay with a lack of degree. Additionally, some will require you to create a curriculum whereas others will have you carry on normal everyday conversations to help others learn the language.
This line of business can be lucrative if you put in the work. Most people don’t turn it into a full-time income, but it certainly can be if you put your mind to it.
Many websites have the benefit of working whenever you want! For the most part, you will only need a reliable laptop with internet connection, a webcam, and a headset. As a beginner, you will most likely make around $10 an hour, but as you gain traction and experience, you can charge upwards of $30-$50 dollars.
Step one: Scope out different sites. See what works best for you. You will want to find out the pros and cons of each site, and the time frames that most students are online. Here is a detailed description of various English conversation websites that you can review to see which would benefit you the most.
Step two: Get the proper certification. Although you don’t need a degree for many of these sites, some require you to have a teaching certification (TEFL/TESOL/CELTA). The market is seemingly saturated, so the more qualifications you have, the more likely you are to receive eager and paying students.
Step three: Start the application process. Regardless of the website you choose, you will be required to submit an application. This will usually consist of the language you speak, the languages you want to teach, credentials, an introduction, and a profile picture. Depending on the site, you may be required to submit an intro video. This is usually for potential students to hear how you speak and how you entice students to choose you.
Here is an example of what it may look like to start a teaching profile. This one is for Cambly:
Step four: Go through the onboarding process. Some sites will give you PDFs or instructional videos to help you go through the website and learn how to use it. This will help you get comfortable with how to use the interface, and sometimes give you access to a community of other tutors to help support you and answer questions.
Step five: Set your availability. The more availability means the more access your students have to you. Once you begin gaining students, they can leave you reviews, which will encourage other students to take your courses!
Step six: Determine your prices. When you are new to the teaching scene, you will want to set your prices lower as you have no experience. As you gain more students, experience, and positive reviews (not to mention confidence), you can begin raising your rates.
Step seven: Review your productivity. As a teacher, you want your students to come back for more lessons. You want the return rate to be at least 50%, but this usually comes with time. Once you set your lessons, consider revising and editing to ensure they are the most beneficial to your students.
Tips
There are other ways to make money while teaching a language online. You can create a one-time course that students can buy and review whenever they’d like.
Choosing a niche is also a good idea to bring students in. Other teachers cover a broad topic, but if you choose a specific niche, it can spark interest and draw students into your course specifically.
Lastly, you can start your own business! Instead of signing up for multiple sites to make money, you can create your own business and not have to worry about percentages being taken out of your paycheck. Create a site, offer your services through ads, blogs, social media, and word of mouth. Ask for reviews and post it on your site. You can easily build a great reputation and have an influx of students searching specifically for you!