What is Digital Engagement?

It seems like everyone has a side hustle these days. Chalk it up to a changing economy and evolving worker preferences, but according to multiple employment studies, at least 30% of American workers have a job beyond their regular 9-5. And more people are joining those ranks each day.

Maybe you’re interested in becoming one of those folks – there are plenty of reasons to, after all – but the thought of trudging back out into the world after job #1 is holding you back. Well, you could consider a side gig from home.

With a fully-remote, part-time job in the digital economy, you can get all the benefits of a second job without subjecting yourself to two commutes. You could supplement your paycheck, follow a passion, work on professional development or even start that business you’ve always wanted to. It could be the perfect chance to try out a potential career move or just help you save extra money for a rainy day fund (or vacation). But where to start?

Want to take your passion online where you own the data and experience? Schedule a free demo.

Depending on your skills and experience, there’s probably something out there for you. Here we’ve gathered a list of 8 potential side gigs from home that could meet your needs and maybe even change your life.

8 Side-Gigs You Can Do From Home

1. Teach English Online

If you are reading this, congrats! You have the first qualification for becoming an online teacher of English as a Second Language. There are many services that connect native English speakers with students all around the world and can even train you how to teach. Most of these gigs will require a college degree, but little else.

• Potential pay: $14-$22/hour   
• Job Board: VIPKid

2. Bookkeeping

Every business or nonprofit needs someone to take care of the books – even as accounting programs get smarter and easier to use. But here’s a (not so) shocking truth: Most people do not feel comfortable enough with math to do it themselves. If you happen to be a math lover with a college degree and some basic accounting experience, freelance bookkeeping could be the plum side gig from home you’re looking for.

• Potential pay: $18/hour
• Job Board: PeoplePerHour

3. Photo Editing

You don’t have to be a math or language wiz to score a sweet side gig from home. Creatives can get involved, too, and digital photo editing is a great option. If you’ve got some Adobe Photoshop/Lightroom skills and love touching up family photos (or cropping an unwanted ex out of the picture completely), you could already be in high demand. 

• Potential pay: Varies 
• Job Board: Guru 

4. Online Tutoring

Every semester, a new class of students sign up for important classes and every semester, just like clockwork, some of those students need help with the coursework. Suppose you are a recent grad, or even a working professional with expertise in a field like statistics, biology, or accounting. In that case, you could be the perfect fit for an online tutor. The best part of this side gig from home is this – on top of some extra cash, you also get to help someone succeed.
    

• Potential pay: $18/hour
• Job Board: TutorMe

5. Start a Small Business

Maybe you’ve been dreaming of being your own boss, and starting up a business of your own – but you just never have the time or energy. Here’s a secret: It doesn’t have to be huge, it doesn’t have to take up all of your time, and it doesn’t have to be your main gig. What about an Etsy shop, a car detailing biz, or any one of these other ideas? Even if you start small, your entrepreneurial spirit is priceless, and Cause Machine can help make your vision a professional success.

• Potential pay: Limitless
• Job Board: You make it yourself!

6. Transcription

Journalists, writers, video producers, and many other professionals have a recurring problem that’s perfect for a side gig from home – extended interviews or audio recordings that need to be transcribed, word for word, and quickly. This potential side hustle is great because the only thing it really requires is decent typing skills and access to a computer. It’s a great way to earn some extra cash without spending much of your own brain power.

• Potential pay: $15-$22/audio hour
• Job Board: TranscribeMe!

7. Social Media Managing

Well-run social media accounts have become a fundamental need for businesses, large and small. Whether they’re used for intensive marketing campaigns or just driving community engagement, someone has to run things. But not every business has an in-house option who’s both available and competent, so they sometimes hire freelancers. If you can demonstrate reliability and a good understanding of the social landscape, you could start posting your way to an extra paycheck.

• Potential pay: $15-$30/hour
• Job Board: Indeed

8. Resume Writing

Finally, the simple fact you are reading this is proof that many people out there are job hunting. So if you’ve got concise writing skills and a keen eye for text design, why not consider resume writing? It can be done from anywhere and doesn’t require much in the way of hardware – just a word processor, really. And on top of helping others achieve their goal, or maybe even help provide their family with a better life, you get valuable experience for your own resume, too.

• Potential pay: $19/hour
• Job Board: FlexJobs

As time goes on and the working world evolves, it seems like having a side gig from home will only become more widespread – and perhaps more necessary. Use these suggestions to get started toward a goal now – whether it’s a fresh career path or just a little added financial security. You might thank yourself later.
 

Cause Machine Solutions

One of the most significant pieces of what sets Cause Machine apart from other technology platforms is where we start… with a community engagement strategy. We begin all of our work on the foundation of engaging a community well and then begin mapping out the technology to help support that strategy. We’re certain that you’ll find some great resources and powerful tools in Cause Machine to better engage your community as well. Learn how it can work for you here. 

Americans live in a time of polarized politics – and that's easy to see on social media. Although the ability to express one's beliefs has begun to feel more like a right than a privilege, some feel their views are being censored, and have even begun seeking a conservative alternative to Facebook.

The Current Throne of Social Media

In many ways, a reaction to Facebook's dominance makes sense. Maybe it was even inevitable. According to parent company Meta, about 2 billion people use the platform every day, making it the leading social network overall and the biggest in the U.S., with over 63% of the population 13 or older using it. That's about 210 million Americans, and with its huge potential reach, Facebook has to regulate what gets posted – which has become a politically sensitive proposition.

What is the Role of a Social Media Company?

Most policies are intended to counteract disinformation and silence hate speech, which most Americans agree is important. But then the question becomes, "what is disinformation and hate speech?" As a result, many American conservatives believe Facebook has gone too far. 

Posts by influential right-wing commentators have been flagged, and users have been suspended – or even de-platformed altogether – with some accusing Facebook of putting its thumb on the scale of democracy. Add in nagging privacy and security issues, and many have left Facebook, searching for something… different. 

Lucky for them, a whole parallel social-media universe has sprung up.

Top 5 options when looking for a Conservative Alternative to Facebook.

1. Parler

This whole "conservative alternative to Facebook" thing didn't come from nowhere … it started with Parler. Purpose-built in 2018 and described as an "unbiased alternative to mainstream social networks," Parler first became widely popular in 2020, just as Facebook policies changed. It was then banned by Apple, Google, and Amazon stores, killing some of its momentum. But now it's back with stricter content controls and has about 15 million users, which tends to spike during election cycles.

• The "OG" of conservative platforms
• Focused on free sharing of non-mainstream news and opinion
• Users say its more restrictive than it lets on

2. Rumble

Rumble launched in Canada in 2013 and has now become a conservative favorite for video sharing à la YouTube. Users can share video content without restriction – and even monetize it, which Facebook doesn't allow. The platform experienced an influx of users after the 2020 election and now claims 80 million users, most of whom were referred from Parler after it was temporarily suspended.

• Unrestricted content sharing 
• Large, politically active user base 
• Can monetize your content

3. Gab

Next up is Gab, which launched in 2017 as just another social network, but has grown to become a home for the "outcasts" of the mainstream. A microblogging site similar to Twitter, many users arrive on Gab after being banned by other networks, drawn to the site's promotion of "free speech," "individual liberty," "free flow of information online," and Christian values. Detractors call it a haven for extremism, racism, conspiracy nuts, and antisemites, claiming it plays a role in growing radicalization.

• Can publish posts, chat, create private groups, read conservative news, and even shop 
• Fierce devotion to "freedom of expression"
• A reputation that makes it attractive to extremists, hate speech

4. MeWe

MeWe is an exciting option in the conservative alternative to Facebook world. It's not explicitly described as "conservative" in any way, but does have a value proposition that aligns well with many conservative values. Billing itself as the "anti" Facebook, MeWe allows for posting, groups, and other social must-haves with no ads, no data targeting, no political bias,, and no news feed manipulation. It currently boasts about 20 million users.

• Posting, news, groups, personal chats, user tagging, and a two-way camera for video chats
• Hands off approach to user data
• Doesn't gather user info (or sell it to China)

5. Truth

Finally, we come to Truth Social. Launched in 2022 by former U.S. President Donald Trump, it is a direct response to the removal of certain conservative users from other platforms – including the former President himself. Purpose-built as an "uncensored" alternative to Twitter and Facebook, Truth aims to allow for free expression, and offers most of the familiar social media features you are used to, but has at times been accused of censorship itself. It's also small for now, with only about 2 million users, but it's the only place to be if you're looking to keep up with Trump.

• First and only social media platform started by a former president 
• Created as a purpose-built conservative alternative to Facebook 
• Can post Truths and share "ReTruth," as well as video content

If you want a conservative alternative to Facebook, these are just a few of the many options out there – and the field keeps growing all the time. Whether you're looking to bring your users into one platform where you own the data and monetization or just want a new social media environment. For users worried about their views being unfairly censored or silenced, it seems free speech is alive and well.
 

Get Started With Cause Machine

Starting with a community engagement strategy is the secret to building a successful platform in the long term. Cause Machine helps customers build the plan of engaging a community well and then begin mapping out the technology to help support that strategy. We’re certain that you’ll find some great resources and powerful tools in Cause Machine to better engage your community. Learn how it can work for you here.

For any nonprofit organization, events are a big deal. Landing somewhere between the lifeblood and litmus test, each one is simultaneously the best chance to promote your mission, network with potential supporters, and raise funds. But as important as they are, running an event management software for a non-profit can be very challenging. 

So many things must be skillfully addressed, from promotion and registration to ticketing, day-of communication, seating, and more. That’s why having the right event management software is so important.

Discover how Cause Machine can help you manage events and keep attendees engaged in between.
 

The right event management software for nonprofits helps ease a painstaking process, getting more people in the door and making the event itself impact attendees. These days, event managers know the right tools can even help raise more money, simply because the event-going experience is so much better. Ultimately, if your business has an all-in-one solution event management software that will let donors know your nonprofit has its act together, it's worthy of support.
 

Here are 5 things you should look for when choosing event management software:

1. Mobile responsive website design 

2. Easy registration and promotional tools

3. Engaging and authoritative day-of communications

4. Highlight speakers and exhibits

5. Convert attendees into community members 

6. Host virtual events 

The best event management software for nonprofits [Top 5]:

1. Wild Apricot

Wild Apricot is an event management platform meant to de-mystify the hosting of a nonprofit event, from website creation to payment processing, email reminders and post-event reporting. 

Key Features:

• Free app featuring mobile registration and payments for users
• Fully searchable contact database for managers
• Easy to use website builder

2. Eventbrite

Already a trusted name in the event space, Eventbrite also offers software tailored to nonprofit needs. Along with a free registration app, managers can employ Eventbrite's full suite of promotional tools.

Key Features:

• Easy to use and trusted by both managers and attendees
• Built-in marketing and promotion tools
• Ticket sales on your own site
   

 
3. Cvent

Sometimes effective event management comes down to effective time management, and in that case, Cvent can help. This software automates many of things needed to run a successful event, so you can focus elsewhere.

Key Features:

• Automated marketing, registration, and analytics
• No need to be a techno-wizard 
• Workflow management

4. Bizzabo

Bizzabo is another useful example of event management software for nonprofits, aimed at impressing attendees in the run up, and thrilling on the day of. But what about after everyone goes home?

Key Features:

• Website builder with smooth ticket selling and registration
• Mobile compatibility with user-friendly feel 
• Hybrid events

5. Eventzilla

It’s true that any event can become a monster, but with Eventzilla, managers can minimize the carnage. This full-service software handles everything from ticketing to reserved seating. 

Key Features:

• Mobile or print-at-home ticket
• Barcode scanning and registration
• Seemless checkout

Whatever event management software for nonprofits you choose, it’s sure to make your next event run smoother – and help improve results. But for something so essential to nonprofit success, the right platform is key.
 

Get Started With Cause Machine

Starting with a community engagement strategy is the secret to building a successful platform in the long term. Cause Machine helps customers build the plan of engaging a community well and then begin mapping out the technology to help support that strategy. We’re certain that you’ll find some great resources and powerful tools in Cause Machine to better engage your community. Learn how it can work for you here.

Community drives everything. People need it. As a businessperson or thought leader, it should come as no surprise, then: when you give people community, they become more than just customers/members/students – they become believers.

Most of us understand that, whether it’s a clear-as-day truth or just an intangible feeling we get from our favorite brands. But knowing how to build a community? That’s not something you’re born with.

Are you ready to sprout that initial group from a seedling of an idea? Grow it into a real community. And then monetize it in ways that benefit both users, and entrepreneurs. Find out how. 

Obviously, there’s much more to it than one blog post can cover (get in touch here to see what I mean), but we can at least get you started … right now, in fact.

How to Build a Community in 7 Steps.

1. Form an identity 

Think about any community you belong to, whether it’s digital or out in the real world. They all exist with the phrase “this is who we are” at the core. Sports fandom, professional associations, and student bodies – they’re all built around identity, and that’s what your community needs, too.

• Start by ask yourself the question, “who are we?”
• Then, find a clear way to fully express the “why” of your mission. 

2. Connect with a few early members 

The next thing on our “how to build a community” checklist – well we need to put the "community" in community. Time to get some members. That sounds daunting, but don’t overthink it. We’re not talking about numbers in the thousands … or even dozens. Start with people you know, or friends of friends, but make sure they fit that “who are we” question.

• Find a few people who feel like you do, invite them to take part 
• These members will help set the tone for your community, so choose carefully

3. Earn the Community's Trust 

You’ve got to give your community a purpose, a reason to join and stay – and that is best done through involvement. Interact with your early members, get comfortable with each other and invite them to speak into the mission. 

• Start slow, with regular content posting
• Schedule a real life meet up, if possible, or get to know one another online 
• Hear your members' thoughts on the mission

4. Encourage Connections 

Now you’ve got something going, and it’s time to expand. Once your small community has identity and trust, you can give members ownership in driving growth. Empower them to find new likely members from their own lives, and get those “recruits” involved, too. 

• Empower members to spread the word
• Personal connections are the strongest 

5. Rewards

I like to think of this as the “gold star phase” of how to build a community. Just like in elementary school, positive reinforcement works wonders in a group environment. Find ways to celebrate your most dedicated and effective members, and that will encourage others to follow suit.

• Give perks to those helping accomplish community goals 
• It could be as simple as a newsletter shout out, or actual prizes 

6. Never Lose the ‘Why’ 

As things progress, your community may start to get sidetracked away from the original mission. This is natural, but it’s important to always steer the group back toward its overall goal. 

• Remember, communities are built on identity and trust

7. Continuous Growth 

If you make it this far, your community should now be nearly self-sufficient. You’ve got a clearly defined mission and an active group of members, who all feel empowered by each other and want to see it succeed. 

• Produce content to keep your members involved. 
• Look for membership sites that put the control in your hands

Sounds simple enough, yet learning how to build a community is something entire careers are devoted to – like they are here at Cause Machine. This guide can help, but there’s nothing like having a team of experts on your side, each step of the way. Set up a free demo and get your community on the right track today.

Get Started With Cause Machine

Starting with a community engagement strategy is the secret to building a successful platform in the long term. Cause Machine helps customers build the plan of engaging a community well and then begin mapping out the technology to help support that strategy. We’re certain that you’ll find some great resources and powerful tools in Cause Machine to better engage your community. Learn how it can work for you here.

Over the years, many have relied on Facebook Groups to launch or grow an online community – and it used to be for a good reason. They were easy to start up and got you connected to millions around the globe, with a clean look and a place-to-be atmosphere. But that was then. Now, alternatives to Facebook groups are on the rise.

These days, more and more are turning away from Facebook Groups, with everything from the lack of monetization tools to scandals in the news driving the shift. If you run an online community, it may be time to consider some alternatives to Facebook Groups – and luckily, there are many options to choose from. 

From customizable branding and greater control over what your members see, to positive associations with the platform and the ability to launch courses, there are many reasons to switch. Learn how you can manage groups on a platform you control.

Here are 5 powerful alternatives to Facebook Groups that will help your community thrive.

1. Slack

If you work in an office setting, you might already be familiar with Slack. It’s a business productivity tool best known for its chat function, helping team members stay in touch whether they work in person or remotely. But, its group-building tools are top notch, too.

Key attributes:

• Popular system, easy to learn
• Private communication channels
• Scale with your needs

Drawbacks: 

• No monetization
• Not great for project management natively

2. Discord

Likewise, Discord is another growing alternative to Facebook Groups with a great messaging system. You can set up groups and separate conversations into text and voice chat channels, and it’s also available on both mobile devices and web browsers. Plus, it’s pretty user friendly.

Key attributes:

• Easy to set up and great interface
• Free to use
• Live chat rooms

Drawbacks: 

• Text and voice chat only, no custom branding
• Limited free features

3. Telegram

If you already have a Facebook Group, but are looking for alternatives to Facebook Groups, Telegram might be a fairly smooth transition. It’s a social media platform that can be used on almost any kind of device, can be monetized, and has a built-in user base. But it has been described as confusing to use.

Key attributes:

• Social-media based – easy transition from Facebook Groups
• Can be monetized
• Large groups

Drawbacks:

• Confusing to use and requires frequent optimization
• Security

4. Kajabi

Kajabi is a community builder well suited to hosting online courses, if that’s your thing. You can also create custom branding, making it one of the standout alternatives to Facebook Groups – but all that power comes with a literal price. Plus, it’s more difficult to set up.

Key attributes:

• Ideal for online courses
• Customized branding
• Professional website

Drawbacks:

• Can be costly to run, and tough to learn
• Not great for physical product sales

5. LinkedIn

Most people know and trust LinkedIn as a social network tool for professionals and job seekers, but few realize it also features a Group function similar to Facebook Groups. It’s fairly basic but easy to set up, and comes with big time community-growth potential.  

Key attributes:

• Trusted by more than 800 million users in 200 countries
• Good ease of use and sharing functions
• Large groups, easy to manage and communicate with members

Drawbacks:

• No monetization
• Can be costly to access full feature sets

All of these alternatives to Facebook Groups offer ways to create a unique experience on an alternative platform, and each one has its own area of strength. But if you’re looking for the total package – ease of use, custom branding, the ability to monetize or host online courses, and control over what’s allowed and what’s not in your own group, look no further than Cause Machine. Our platform is purpose-built to grow impact-making online communities; schedule your free demo today.

 

Get Started With Cause Machine

Starting with a community engagement strategy is the secret to building a successful platform in the long term. Cause Machine helps customers build the plan of engaging a community well and then begin mapping out the technology to help support that strategy. We’re certain that you’ll find some great resources and powerful tools in Cause Machine to better engage your community. Learn how it can work for you here.