Words That Earn: How to Earn Passive Income as a Writer in the Digital Space

With the rise of the digital age, opportunities for writers to earn passive income online have expanded significantly. Whether you are a seasoned writer looking for new avenues to monetize your skills or a budding writer seeking to make a living from your passion, there are several profitable ways to earn passive income online as a writer. In this article, we will explore five such avenues to earn passive income online and provide brief steps to get started.

How to Earn Passive Income as a Writer in the Digital Space

1. Freelance Writing

Freelance writing is a popular option for writers looking to earn passive income online. This involves writing articles, blog posts, website content, and other forms of written content for clients on a per-project basis. Freelance writers can find work on platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, and Fiverr, or by networking and building relationships with clients directly.

Naturally, every one have skill sets and passion in different area. So explore niche where you have expertise and passion about.

Here are some tips for starting your freelance writing journey if you are interested in it.

1. You would need to create a portfolio: Build a portfolio showcasing your writing skills and expertise. Include writing samples that highlight your versatility and proficiency.
2. Join freelance platforms: Sign up on reputable freelance platforms such as Upwork, Freelancer, or Fiverr. Create a compelling profile and start bidding on relevant writing projects.
3. Network: Connect with other writers and potential clients through social media platforms like LinkedIn or writing communities like ProBlogger. Networking can help you find new opportunities and build relationships.
4. Deliver high-quality work: Ensure that you meet deadlines and provide well-researched, engaging content to your clients. Positive reviews and client testimonials will help you attract more clients.

Holly Johnson is a successful freelance writer who has earned a six-figure income through her writing. She shares her journey and tips on her blog, “Club Thrifty,” inspiring aspiring writers to achieve financial success through freelance writing.

2. Blogging

Blogging is another popular way for writers to earn passive income online. A blog allows you to share your thoughts, expertise, and experiences with a wider audience. If you are not sure how people earn money from blogging, then you can earn through ‘monetizing’ your blog. You can ‘monetize’ your blog through various methods, such as display advertising, sponsored content, affiliate marketing, and selling your own products or services.

Some tips to start your blogging journey if this is what you are interested in.

1. Choose a niche: Select a niche that aligns with your interests, expertise, and target audience. This will help you attract a dedicated readership.
2. Create a blog: Set up a blog using platforms like WordPress or Blogger. Customize the design and layout to reflect your brand and make it user-friendly.
3. Produce high-quality content: Regularly publish informative, engaging, and well-researched articles that provide value to your readers.
4. Monetize your blog: Explore different monetization strategies such as display advertising (Google AdSense), sponsored posts, affiliate marketing, and selling products or services.
5. Promote your blog: Utilize social media platforms, email marketing, and SEO techniques to drive traffic to your blog and grow your audience.

Michelle Schroeder-Gardner is a renowned blogger who runs the blog “Making Sense of Cents.” She has successfully monetized her blog and earns over six figures per month through various income streams, including affiliate marketing and her own online courses – another online passive income stream. We are coming to that later.

3. E-book Writing and Self-Publishing

If you have a knack for storytelling, self-publishing can be a lucrative way to earn money online as a writer. With the increasing popularity of e-readers and online marketplaces, self-published authors can reach a wide audience and earn royalties.Platforms like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) and Smashwords allow you to publish your own e-books and reach a global audience. You can earn royalties from each sale and have complete control over the pricing and distribution of your books.

Here are some tips on E-book Writing and Self-Publishing:

1. Choose a topic: Identify a niche or topic that you are knowledgeable and passionate about. Research market demand and competition to ensure there is an audience for your e-book.
2. Write your e-book: Develop a comprehensive outline and start writing your e-book. Ensure that your content is well-researched, organized, and engaging.
3. Edit and proofread: Revise your e-book thoroughly and consider hiring a professional editor or proofreader to ensure the highest quality.
4. Create a cover: Design an eye-catching cover that represents the essence of your e-book and appeals to your target audience.
5. Self-publish: Choose a platform like Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) or Smashwords to self-publish your e-book. Follow the platform’s guidelines for formatting and publishing.
6. Market your e-book: Utilize social media, email marketing, guest blogging, and book promotion websites to increase the visibility of your e-book and drive sales.

Joanna Penn is a successful author and entrepreneur who has self-published multiple books. She shares her experiences and tips on her blog and podcast, “The Creative Penn,” inspiring aspiring authors to pursue self-publishing.

4. Copywriting / Content Writing for Websites and Businesses

Many businesses and websites require regular high-quality content to engage their audience and improve their online presence. Content writers create articles, blog posts, product descriptions, and other written materials for these entities. As a content writer, you can provide this service by creating articles, product descriptions, social media posts, and other forms of written content. You can find opportunities on job boards, content writing platforms, or by reaching out to businesses directly.

Here are some tips for Content Writing for Websites and Businesses:

1. Develop your writing skills: Enhance your writing skills by practicing different writing styles and formats. Familiarize yourself with SEO techniques and content marketing strategies.
2. Create a professional website: Build a website that showcases your writing services, expertise, and contact information. Include a portfolio of your best work.
3. Identify potential clients: Research businesses, digital marketing agencies, and websites that may require content writing services. Reach out to them via email or LinkedIn with a personalized pitch.
4. Provide writing samples: Share relevant writing samples that demonstrate your ability to write for different industries and target audiences.
5. Deliver high-quality content: Understand the client’s requirements and provide well-researched, error-free content that aligns with their brand voice and objectives.

Elna Cain is a successful freelance writer and blogger who specializes in content writing. She have been freelance writing for B2B SaaS companies for ten years and have written for amazing clients like Walmart, GoDaddy, Blogging Wizard, OptinMonster, Zapier. She shares her expertise and tips on her blog, “Innovative Ink,” helping aspiring writers build successful freelance writing careers.

5. Online Course Creation

I am sure you must have seen some online course ad at some point when you are watching YouTube or browsing through some web pages. And in the last 5 years, I think we see them more often. Does that tell you something?

If you have expertise in a specific field, creating and selling online courses can be a lucrative way to earn passive income. Many people are willing to pay for valuable knowledge and skills that can help them advance in their personal or professional lives.

To create and sell online courses, identify a topic you are knowledgeable and passionate about. Break down the content into modules or lessons, and use platforms like Teachable, Udemy, or Thinkific to host and sell your courses. These platforms also provide you with the necessary tools for creating the course content. Market your courses through social media, email marketing, and collaborations with influencers to reach a wider audience and increase your passive income potential.

Tips for starting an online course:

1. Choose a topic: Identify a topic or skill that you are knowledgeable and passionate about.
   Research market demand and competition to ensure there is an audience for your course.
2. Plan your course: Outline the course modules, lessons, and learning objectives.
   Determine the best format for delivering your content, such as video lectures, written materials, or interactive quizzes.
3. Create course content: Develop high-quality course content that provides value and helps learners achieve their desired outcomes.
4. Choose a platform: Select an online course platform like Udemy, Teachable, or Thinkific to host and sell your course.
   Consider the platform’s features, pricing, and marketing capabilities.
5. Market your course: Utilize social media, email marketing, content marketing, and collaborations with influencers to promote your course and attract students.
6. Engage with your students: Provide support and engage with your students through discussion forums, live Q&A sessions, or email communication.
   Encourage feedback and continuously improve your course.

Pat Flynn, the founder of Smart Passive Income, is an excellent example of someone who has successfully created and sold online courses. He offers courses on various topics such as podcasting, affiliate marketing, and passive income strategies. Through his courses, he has not only earned passive income but also built a strong personal brand.

Bonus: Start a YouTube Channel

While starting a YouTube Channel is not related to writing per se, but we included this. That is because, no matter which stream you choose, you can always start a YouTube Channel to share your work and experiences. There are people willing to listen to you if you have engaging content that people really want to listen to. YouTube can be an additional passive income stream on top of your primary passive income stream.

Conclusion

Earning money online as a writer in the digital space is not only possible but also offers a world of opportunities. Whether you choose to freelance, start a blog, self-publish, write website content, or start an online course, there are real people who have found success in each category. By honing your writing skills, building a strong portfolio, and consistently delivering high-quality work, you too can join the ranks of successful online writers.