Summer is over, routines are back, and for many, that means a return to the world of online dating. But with swipes and matches comes a growing risk: romance fraud.
Fraudsters are no longer just hiding behind stock images or stolen selfies. Increasingly, they’re using slick digital tricks from manipulated images to eerily convincing videos and even cloned voices to make themselves appear real. The aim is simple: build trust, exploit emotions, and walk away with hard-earned money.
According to Garda figures, 245 people have reported romance fraud since 2020, with average losses of approximately €28,500, adding up to well over €7 million stolen in total. In some of the most extreme cases, a woman lost over €450,000 across 18 separate transactions, while a man was defrauded of more than €380,000.
“Romance scams are different from other types of fraud because they’re built on emotional manipulation,” says George Foley of ESET Ireland. “People don’t just lose money; they lose trust, dignity, and often confidence in their relationships. The technology criminals are now using makes these scams even harder to spot, which is why awareness is vital.”
He explains that many victims only realise what has happened when it is far too late, because the scams are designed to feel real and to build trust over time. With more people expected to turn back to dating apps this autumn, he warns that the risk is only going to grow.
Pure Telecom, Ireland’s high-speed broadband and telecoms provider, today announces the results of its annual Connected Lives survey which reveals 370,000 adults in Ireland have engaged in a romantic relationship with an AI chatbot within the last 12 months. The research indicates a growing interest in AI for romantic connections, with a further 12% of adults – almost half-a-million people – revealing they wouldn’t rule it out in the future.
The nationally representative survey was conducted by Censuswide on behalf of Pure Telecom, surveying 1,001 adults in Ireland. The research examines the evolving relationship between humans and AI, in particular their personal relationships with chatbots such as ChatGPT or Gemini. As the lines between humans and technology become increasingly blurred, chatbots have opened the door for people to explore a new form of emotional connection.
Much like with human partners, AI ‘relationships’ are formed when an individual develops a sense of attachment to an AI chatbot through the sharing of daily experiences and engaging in deep conversations. The bot reciprocates this affection and can recall previous conversations, thus building a rapport and reinforcing the recipient’s perception of a relationship.
Pure Telecom’s research revealed that in the last 12 months, 13% of men have conducted a romantic relationship with an AI chatbot. This is almost double the 7% reported by women. Across age groups, the figure was highest among 25-34-year-olds at 16%.
The survey also indicated an openness among many to conduct a romantic relationship with an AI chatbot at some point in time. Almost half-a-million (12% of adults) wouldn’t rule out a relationship with an AI bot in the future. In keeping with this outlook, 20% believe romantic relationships with AI would be less complicated than humans ones. A further 10% maintain romantic relationships with AI are a good way to practice real life relationships. This belief is higher among men at 16% in comparison to women at just 6%.
The humanisation of chatbots doesn’t end there. Almost one in five (19%) of adults speak to AI like it’s a friend, while 36% admit to saying ‘please’ and ‘thank you’ to their AI chatbot. Furthermore, 18% use it to research health symptoms and treatments, while one-in-10 use it as a form of therapy and to get life advice. The same proportion use it to prepare for difficult conversations, like a break-up or confrontation.
Paul Connell, CEO, Pure Telecom, said:“This research highlights the pivotal role that AI is beginning to play not just in our professional lives, but our personal ones also. As people and technology become increasingly integrated, and AI becomes progressively more advanced, adults in Ireland have found it to be an unexpected source of emotional connection. The recent AI boom means that these bots are now readily accessible to all of us – and there’s no agony of waiting around for a reply!
“While relationships with bots may seem unconventional, it underscores the remarkable capacity of artificial intelligence to foster connections as it becomes increasingly responsive to our needs. The use of these large language models (LLMs) requires fast, reliable internet access and as a provider of this, we at Pure Telecom are excited by the possibilities that AI unlocks. However, it is no replacement for the rewarding spontaneity and depth of human connection.”
For those who feel socially isolated, there’s now a positive way to make more meaningful connections. TrueEQ is a new social networking site where users create and nurture more authentic relationships and reframe how they think about themselves and their place in the world. This app could be the start of a transformative new year!
“TrueEQ is rooted in emotional intelligence,” explains creator Brandon Bishop. “It is for compassionate people who prioritize self-awareness and emotional growth over idealized status and appearance. This foundation enables people to connect on a deeper emotional level, away from the noise and distractions of traditional social media.”
Bishop anticipates this will start a positive movement. “This new platform isn’t a dating app. Nor is it just about meeting like-minded people. It’s about becoming the best version of yourself.”
What is emotional intelligence?
Emotional intelligence (EQ) is a skillset that helps people understand and manage their emotions. Its four pillars are:
· Self-awareness: Understanding emotions. Self-awareness involves an individual’s recognition of their feelings, and how they impact their actions and decisions.
· Social awareness: Tuning into others’ emotions. This is about seeing beyond words, tuning into body language, tone, and other subtle cues that reveal deeper feelings.
· Self-management: Mastering your emotions. This is the art of regulating emotional responses in ways that serve relationships rather than harm them.
· Relationship management: Building emotionally intelligent bonds. This is about handling conflict with care, communicating openly, and fostering trust.
“Research consistently shows that individuals with high emotional intelligence are better equipped to manage their emotions, understand the feelings of others, and build strong, empathetic relationships in both personal and professional settings,” says Bishop.
For Bishop, this is a passion project
Bishop, who holds a master’s in secondary education from the University of Missouri, knows firsthand how painful and isolating shallow relationships can be. He grew up with parents who were emotionally unavailable. From a young age, he tried to fill the void with friendships that consistently deteriorated. He began to understand that true self-worth comes from within. The idea of creating a platform where he can teach users how to have safe and authentic interactions took hold.
“TrueEQ is about building connections that uplift and transform. Whether individuals are looking for a friend, partner, or colleague, this new platform can help them find people who truly care, listen, and support them on their emotional journey.”
How the TrueEQ community platform works:
All new users to the free platform will take a 15-question, multiple-choice quiz to assess their strength in each of the four EQ categories. Don’t worry. These results are not shared with anyone.
A proprietary heart meter visually represents each user’s EQ to encourage growth and self-reflection. EQ scores and interests will be used to create connection suggestions.
“People want to surround themselves with communities that are supportive and encouraging,” Bishop observes. “This platform isn’t about posting pictures of your last meal or items you’re selling. It’s designed to unite people who want more meaningful connections and are willing to develop stronger EQ skills.”
This will become a platform for lifelong learning and personal growth Bishop intends to expand the societal impact of this new platform by collaborating with scientific researchers and educators who can contribute content to support the brand’s mission. He also envisions partnering with corporate trainers, therapists, educational institutions, and others to develop TrueEQ training materials and certification programs.
“TrueEQ focuses on creating connections based on emotional depth and empathy. These skills can be valuable in the workplace, our educational system, and in high-stress occupations such as healthcare and first responders. This platform is transformative for anyone wanting more meaningful connections and wanting to get better at handling conflict with care, communicating openly, and fostering trust.” Visit https://trueeq.app/ to access the platform on your desktop or mobile browser. For additional convenience, dedicated apps are available on both the Apple Store and Google Play Store.
Whether we like to admit it or not, it seems a vast majority of people have turned into robots who do things automatically because they simply do not have enough time in their lives to stop for a brief moment and just breathe.
It doesn’t matter whether they are dealing with house-related chores, family stuff, business tasks, school, or anything else, the reality is that life has become extremely hectic, forcing us to lead fast-paced lives that are at times difficult to “handle”.
And then, you ask yourself, how are you supposed to find love in these circumstances? But don’t fret! There’s a silver lining after all and it comes in the form of online dating that provides major “relief” even to the busiest workaholics.
It’s So Time-Effective!
Let’s be frank for a moment! No matter how busy you are, there’s a very high chance that you spend a lot of time online doing whatever. Sometimes it’s work-related, and at times, you’re simply scrolling.
When you are doing nothing important on the web, that is the moment you should focus on online dating. For starters, you can download a dating app, or create a profile on a dating site, and that’s good for now. Once the first step is done, the next one involves exploring these places to see if you see someone who’s a potential love interest.
What’s superb about these tools, and online dating, in general, is the fact that in a relatively short period of time, you can talk to a lot of different people (or at least cast your eyes on their profiles) to see if you’re a match or not.
You do not need to spend hours or days going on various conventional dates, only to conclude that most of the people you talked to have done nothing but waste your time. In the virtual world, everything is simplified when it comes to this, which means much more time-effective.
Time is valuable for everybody, particularly for extremely busy people, so allow yourself to connect with numerous individuals simultaneously to see if they are worth your precious time or not.
Online Dating Offers A Phenomenal Convenience Too!
When you’re flooded with various tasks and obligations, and you’re just in the mood to be a couch potato, the best thing that you can do is to open an app or website and scroll through different profiles.
That’s one of the advantages of online dating. Unlike conventional ones, it provides you with the convenience of connecting with all sorts of people without leaving the comfort of your home. That’s the type of flexibility that busy people appreciate a lot because then they are able to fit their dating into other areas of their lives without feeling emotionally and physically drained.
You Get The Opportunity To Talk To Lots Of People At The Same Time
Dating when you’re constantly busy can frequently be extremely challenging because you simply do not have enough time, will, and energy to talk to so many people just so you can “single out” someone who’s worth your time.
On the other hand, when you turn to online dating, you get the chance to talk to a lot of different people at once, which is something that isn’t provided with “offline” dating. When you choose traditional dating, you are practically forced to consistently plan things ahead, or spend lots of time traveling to meet them.
In contrast to that, when you utilize dating apps or sites, you can talk to a lot of cool and interesting people without wasting too much time.
You’re In Control
So-called offline dates can oftentimes be very interesting and exciting, but the truth is, they can be very boring and exhausting as well. This normally occurs when you encounter someone who isn’t particularly interesting to you.
And then if you are too nice, you will force yourself to spend hours talking to them just because you do not know how to simply walk away. On the flip side, even if somebody is very interesting and you have many things in common, you sometimes do not have a lot of free time on your hands to talk to them.
However, when these things happen in the virtual world, you do not need to spend an eternity interacting with anyone. If you do not come across like-minded people you can simply leave the chat and tell them that you have an urgent situation.
Since they cannot see you, they won’t be able to tell whether you are lying or not. This may seem harsh a bit, but at times you just need to rely on little white lies to avoid any further inconvenience.
The bottom line as far as this segment is concerned is that you have way more control when you talk to people online. You are the one who gets to decide when they will start and/or stop communicating with others for whatever reason, which cannot easily be pulled off on conventional dates.
You Can Use These Tools Anywhere You Are
People who work a lot, usually go on lots of business trips or are generally oftentimes on the go. When you’re stuck at the airport, or you’re waiting for a business partner to arrive, you can use this time to open your favorite dating app or dating website and talk to others.
This will not only help you kill boredom but who knows, maybe the person you currently talk to lives at the location that you traveled to. Meeting them is going to make your business trip even more enticing.
That’s another convenience that comes with these tools. You can literally employ them wherever you go and, concurrently, get the chance to talk to individuals from different locations, cultures, traditions, and other things.
Not to mention the fact that there are dating apps that will tell you who is in your vicinity from your potential suitors.
It’s safe to say that online dating was designed to make the lives of all of us so much better and simpler, regardless of age, profession, gender, etc. If you want something that’s going to change your love life in a flash, then you know what your next step should be!
In the last decade, technology has transformed every aspect of our lives, including our personal relationships. In Ireland, a country known for its strong social fabric and culture of community, the impact of digital tools is especially significant. This analysis will explore how technology is redefining the way Irish people build, maintain, and experience their interpersonal connections.
From dating apps to social networking and communication tools, and even platforms catering to niche interests such as those seeking an escort in Dublin, we will assess the benefits, challenges, and future of these technology-mediated interactions.
The dating app revolution
The rise of dating apps has radically changed the way people in Ireland form new romantic relationships. Platforms such as Tinder, Bumble, and Hinge have gained significant popularity, especially among young adults. According to a recent study, over 40% of couples in Ireland have started their relationship through an app in the last five years.
This shift has made it easier for people from different regions of the country to connect, breaking down geographical and cultural barriers. Similarly, for those seeking specific arrangements or companionship, such as an escort in London, technology has facilitated connections that might not have been possible before. However, it has also created challenges, such as the phenomenon of ghosting and unrealistic expectations that arise from judging people solely on their digital profiles. These dynamics raise questions about how to balance authenticity and convenience in a digital environment.
Social media: a bridge and a barrier
Social networks such as Instagram, Facebook and TikTok are fundamental tools for social interaction in Ireland. They provide a space to share important moments, keep in touch with loved ones and discover new communities. However, they can also become a double-edged sword.
Excessive use of social media has been linked to problems such as social comparison and a decline in face-to-face communication. In Ireland, where pub get-togethers and community events are an essential part of the culture, screen time can undermine these traditional interactions. Despite this, some platforms have been used in innovative ways to strengthen bonds, such as live-streamed events during the pandemic.
Bumble, the women-first dating app, today unveiled an updated brand identity and app design, and launched a suite of new features, including more ways to Make The First Move, marking a new chapter in Bumble’s evolution.
Bumble launched in 2014, giving women more control of their dating lives by flipping traditional gender roles and challenging the antiquated rules of dating. Today, the app is expanding upon its make the first move requirement by introducing choice in how a connection is made with Opening Moves.Additionally, Bumble is making its profile creation quicker and more intentional, expanding its dating intentions and making updates to its compatibility algorithms.
Recent Bumble research* shows women’s experiences have evolved, especially regarding empowerment in online dating. Keeping true to Bumble’s mission, equality remains a priority in relationships with the overwhelming majority* (92%) of women stating it is a top marker in romance. However, how women define equality has evolved with almost 9 in 10* (88%) single women surveyed on the app globally stating that today, equality is about personal choice and autonomy to decide what’s right for you.
After billions of first moves and countless Bumble success stories, Bumble continues to prioritize community-first feedback with solutions that make dating better for women. This builds upon the company’s decade of leadership in addressing issues that impact women online, including banning body shaming and gender-based hate, launching features to combat non-consensual lewd content, and leveraging AI to automatically block spam, scam, and fake profiles. According to research, the majority* of women (60%) surveyed use Bumble because they believe the app delivers a better experience for them.
The Evolution of Make The First Move
Beginning today, women on Bumble have even more choice in how they connect with the launch of Opening Moves. The new feature gives women the option to set a question that their matches can respond to, creating a new way to engage with connections while keeping women in control. Nearly half of women* (46%) surveyed on Bumble shared that having more ways to start a conversation would make their dating app experience even better. Women can use one of Bumble’s recommended Opening Moves, or craft their own. For non-binary and same-gender connections, either person can set and respond to an Opening Move.
“We have always believed that when you make dating better for women, you make it better for everyone. In listening to our community, many have shared their exhaustion with the current online dating experience, and for some, that includes making the first move. We’re also hearing from women that empowerment today is not only about control but it’s also about agency, and we’re excited to offer more choice in how women make the first move with our new Opening Moves feature,” said Lidiane Jones, CEO of Bumble.“We want to evolve with our community, shifting from a fixed approach to giving women more options in how they engage.”
“Bumble has been leading in addressing the challenges of online spaces, introducing industry-first features like Private Detector™ to identify unsolicited lewd images, AI and machine learning to identify scams and spam, and comprehensive Community Guidelines. This latest launch reflects the first step in our continued commitment to making dating better for women, creating space for people to establish relationship dynamics that work for them,” Jones continued.
During testing, Bumble found that Opening Moves improved meaningful conversations on the app by increasing chat initiation and reply rates, as well as lengthening time spent in conversation.
Expanded Compatibility and Stronger Curation
Relationships look different for everyone, but more than 2 in 3* (68%) of women surveyed stated that they struggle with people not being upfront about their dating intentions. Bumble’s data*** also shows that women want to learn more about a potential match before they connect, with nearly 80% swiping right once they have viewed the entire profile.
To help people better communicate what they are looking for now, not just in the future, the app has updated its Dating Intentions badges to include everything from ‘fun, casual dates’ and ‘intimacy without commitment’ to a ‘life partner’ and ‘ethical non-monogamy.’ People on Bumble can now also select up to two dating intentions to be shown on their profile. More than 3 in 4* (77%) women surveyed globally on Bumble said knowing someone’s dating intentions is one of the most important things when online dating.
To help people find compatible matches even faster, common interests and shared top musical artists are now highlighted at the top of profiles to quickly and easily identify commonalities with a potential match. Bumble also increased the minimum number of photos required on a profile and made advancements to its For You algorithm, which is a daily set of four curated, relevant profiles based on your preferences and past matches.
A New Look and Feel
To mark the start of a new chapter, Bumble is also unveiling an updated brand identity including a new logo, bolder fonts, and refreshed colors and illustrations. The new design is a reflection of the company’s branding evolution, emphasizing their ongoing dedication to enhancing member experiences on the app. Bumble’s data shows that 3 in 4* (75%) women say the look and feel of a dating app is important to their overall experience and with 65% that the visual identity of a dating app can make it easier to use.
Led in-house by Bumble’s Creative Studio, the new design will be part of a global marketing campaign launching across more than 10 countries, which includes new content showcasing the lengths women may go when faced with online dating fatigue.
Most people think that dating as a single father is way easier than it is for single moms, and they’re right – women love responsible guys who love kids and want to create families. Meanwhile, guys might feel confused by how to date as a single dad. In fact, by using some dating sites for single fathers like https://www.dating.com/ and knowing some tips, you can find your love easily!
Prioritize Self-Discovery
Before venturing into the dating world, take the time for self-discovery. Understand your values, priorities, and what you’re looking for in a partner. This self-awareness will guide your choices and contribute to a more fulfilling dating experience.
Balance Your Roles Mindfully
Strive for a mindful balance between your role as a parent and your personal life. Clearly communicate your availability and schedule with potential partners. This upfront transparency sets the tone for understanding and mutual respect.
Choose Quality Over Quantity
Instead of pursuing a high quantity of dates, prioritize quality connections. When using a dating site for single dads, focus on ladies who not only respect your role as a single dad but also appreciate the unique dynamics it brings. Quality relationships add to a more enriching life.
Integrate Family-Friendly Activities
When planning dates, consider activities that can include your child if appropriate. This not only showcases your commitment to your child but also allows potential partners to witness your parenting style in action.
Be Transparent About Your Priorities
From the outset, communicate openly about your priorities. Let potential partners know about the importance of your child in your life and how you manage your time. Transparency fosters a foundation of trust and understanding.
Engage in Thoughtful Conversations
Move beyond surface-level discussions and engage in thoughtful dialogues. Share your experiences, values, and goals, and also encourage your date to do the same. Meaningful conversations contribute to a deeper connection.
Celebrate Your Parenting Strengths
Acknowledge and celebrate your strengths as a single dad. Enjoy the resilience, dedication, and love you bring to your parenting journey. Demonstrating confidence in your role attracts partners who appreciate and admire these qualities.
Be Open to Learning
Approach dating with an open mind and be willing to learn from each experience. Each interaction offers insights into your preferences and helps refine what you’re looking for in a partner.
Navigate Introductions Thoughtfully
If the relationship progresses and introductions are on the horizon, approach them thoughtfully. Consider the comfort of both your child and your potential partner, ensuring that the introduction is a positive and inclusive experience.
Elevate Your Self-Care
Make a conscious effort to prioritize self-care as a fundamental aspect of your routine. Allocate time for little things that bring you real joy and relaxation, nurturing your overall well-being. By tending to your personal needs, you cultivate a positive mindset that actually contributes to the health and vitality of your relationships.
Celebrate Shared Interests
Look for partners who share your real interests and also values. Celebrating shared hobbies or activities fosters a deeper connection and can create a harmonious family dynamic if the relationship progresses.
Cultivate a Supportive Community
Forge connections with a supportive network of friends and family who comprehend and champion your path as a single dad. A robust support system not only offers valuable guidance but also uplifts your confidence throughout the dating journey. Embracing a community that understands and uplifts you creates a foundation for success in your personal and relational endeavors.
Bumble, the women-first dating app, has announced today its latest steps to tackle scams, spam and fake profiles, with the introduction of the Deception Detector™. The feature uses Artificial Intelligence (AI) to assess the authenticity of profiles and connections before members even see them, so singles can spend less time playing detective and more time focused on meaningful connections.
Research from Bank of Ireland in 2023 found that 82% of people in Ireland are targeted by fraudsters online at least once per month**, and Bumble recognises the lasting negative impact the risk of scams can have on our everyday lives. Along with machine learning to assess the authenticity of connections on the Bumble app, the feature is supported by a dedicated team to prioritise a safe and empowering community.
Within the first two months of the technology’s introduction, Bumble saw reports of spam, scam, and fake accounts reduced by 45%, and of those accounts identified as spam/scam profiles, Bumble Inc.’s testing showed that Deception Detector™ supported in blocking 95% of these accounts automatically, addressing one of the biggest concerns for people dating online*.
Lidiane Jones, CEO at Bumble Inc. said, “In recent years, the online landscape has evolved significantly and we see a growing concern about authenticity. Bumble Inc. was founded with the aim to build equitable relationships and empower women to make the first move, and Deception Detector™ is our latest innovation as part of our ongoing commitment to our community to help ensure that connections made on our apps are genuine.”
“With a dedicated focus on women’s experience online, we recognise that in the AI era, trust is more paramount than ever. We are being thoughtful about how to best use new models to reduce the anxiety of making connections and support our community, with AI standing as a main area of focus.”
The Deception Detector™ is Bumble’s latest step to combat bad behaviour online. Bumble was the first to introduce profile verification and launched Private Detector, a feature that uses artificial intelligence (AI) to automatically detect and blur unsolicited nude images.
Bumble has also recently introduced policies to address body shaming, cyberflashing and most recently, updated the Community Guidelines to prohibit any attempts to artificially influence connections, matching, conversations, or engagement through the use of automation or scripting.
Bumble continues to encourage the community to use the Block + Report tool to report any behaviour that makes them feel uncomfortable or unsafe so that action can be taken.
For more information on Deception Detector™ please visit link here.
Technology has changed the business landscape and enabled anyone to start a company from the comfort of their residence. Whether you are looking for a job to supplement your income or replace your full-time career, there are many business ideas to consider. Finding a specialty that aligns with your interests, skills, or talents is essential to succeed. Starting a home-based business provides financial security, a good work-life balance, and increases productivity. If you have been looking for great ideas for your next start-up, here are ten profitable hustles you can launch from home.
1 – Virtual assistance
A virtual assistant helps business owners in the day-to-day running of their company by handling administrative tasks. While having previous experience as an executive assistant may not be necessary for this role, being tech-savvy and having certain specialized skills like bookkeeping will be beneficial. Your responsibilities in this role will not vary from that of an in-person aide. However, you will have the freedom to work autonomously and remotely. It is essential that you learn how to manage your time efficiently if you want to excel in this venture. To become a virtual assistant, you will need to familiarize yourself with the necessary software and build a portfolio. Registering on freelance work apps can also help you land a full-time or contract job. Ensure you advertise your projects and sharpen your interview skills to impress your employers.
2 – Catering business
Serving delicious food can be an endearing way to make people happy and make money. If you enjoy cooking, you can turn it into something more. The good news is you can start a catering business from the comfort of your home. However, before you embrace the thought, contact your area or state’s regulatory board to determine if you can do this. Next, draw a business plan. Having one will give you a detailed overview of your goals and the overhead cost involved. However, to attract customers, consider market research. Knowing what your competitors are selling will help you pick the right niche, draft a unique menu, and build your brand. Ensure your kitchen is up-to-date with the latest tools and equipment. Complying with the board’s hygienic laws and conditions would be best. Getting all the necessary permits and licenses will also protect your business from a shutdown. Once everything is in place, market your services online or host tastings to build your customer base.
3 – Dog grooming
Becoming a dog groomer can be satisfying, especially if you have a soft spot for canines. You can care for and engage with dogs of different breeds and sizes. While training might not be needed in certain locations, participating in an accredited course and gaining hands-on skills will give your business credibility and fill your clients with confidence. If you are not interested in a course, you can gather information or tips from other experienced groomers or tons of content online. Decide what kind of services you would like to offer beyond the basic care of bathing, drying, brushing, and clipping, and get the tools for them. To make pricing easier, offer packages and special treatments. Designate an area in your home and make it comfy with toys, treats, and equipment. Ensure you also get business insurance to protect your business in your care in case of unforeseen accidents.
4 – Start a blog
Blogging has been around for a long time and is a popular way to share information. Whether you are an expert on a subject matter or you love to write, blogging is creative and lucrative. Do you have extensive knowledge of cars? Are you passionate about the beauty industry? Garner an online audience with your posts and monetize your blog with sponsorships and affiliate links. Though you can gain considerable profit, knowing that growth won’t happen overnight is vital. You will need to put in the work to ensure your website ranks well and gets enough visitors to generate income, as emphasized by bizop. You might also need to learn new skills like website design. Explore free templates on design platforms and begin today.
5 – Home daycare business
Daycare is a gigantic industry, as many busy parents need a trustworthy childcare provider who will cater to their young ones while at work. If you have an educational background or experience in childcare, it might be time to get your license and start your own business. Examine your living space and renovate it to make it safe for infants and toddlers. Purchase kid-sized furniture and age-appropriate toys for entertainment. You can also get educational materials and high tables for meal times. Keep a first-aid kit handy for small accidents and ensure your outdoor area is conducive to outdoor activities. You can also join online communities and introduce yourself and the services you are offering. You can start with one child and work on building a solid reputation so other parents can entrust you with their wards.
6 – Sell online courses
In today’s digital world, anyone can easily access and learn a skill online. Capitalizing on your skills and creating a course can be a wonderful way to make passive income. There are various topics, but it is advisable to stick to something you are familiar with or proficient with. This gives you credibility as a master and demonstrates that you have invested considerable time in perfecting your skills. Starting an online class does not demand huge capital. You only need a camera, internet, course material, and a professional editor. However, it would be best if you validated the demand for your skill. It would be disappointing to spend weeks or months compiling your material only to realize there is no interest in it. One marketing strategy you can use to avoid this is pre-selling. This will help you compile a customer list and prevent you from wasting your time and money.
7 – Online dating coach
Are you a people person? Have you always had a knack for matchmaking or giving the best advice regarding relationships? Many single people are searching for true love, and navigating the dating scene alone can be overwhelming for them sometimes. You can offer your experience and knowledge to them for a fee through consulting. You can offer services such as helping them overcome love blocks, teaching communication skills, and fine-tuning their dating profiles. Pick a dating niche and develop your content around it. Do you want to help people overcome a breakup, or are you interested in helping them reach their fullest potential to get their desired partners? If you love the work of a particular agency, you can get a certification from them or get training and become one of their coaches. You can go further by sharing your insight on platforms like YouTube and offering your followers free and paid courses or coaching sessions.
8 – Dropshipping
You don’t need an inventory to sell anything with the dropshipping business model, which makes it appealing. All you need to do is show your customers your content, and when sales are confirmed, you contact the wholesale distributor to deliver. You act as the middle person and marketer while you make a profit off the resale markups. This business is low-cost as there is no inventory, and easy to start. Find a dropshipper who sells products at a reasonable price, register on an online marketplace like Amazon, build an ecommerce store, and resell the goods at your price for extra money.
9 – Professional photography
A photography business can be a beautiful path to explore. You get to capture beautiful moments and get paid for it. It is a remarkably evolving field; if you are passionate about it, you can make a name for yourself. First, you must sharpen your capturing skills and focus on one or two areas. It can be wedding photography or editorial shooting. Establishing your brand could take a while, so building a portfolio and starting small would be best. You can speak to your family and friends and ask them to allow you to cover their events for free. Create a profile on platforms like Instagram and showcase your work. You can also collaborate with other photographers on freelance gigs to gain popularity. Ensure you keep learning, and don’t hesitate to invest in the right equipment.
10 – Event planning business
If you consider yourself to be an organized person, you will surely flourish in this field. Milestones are celebrated every day, and there will always be a demand for planners. Most people don’t have the project management skills or time to assemble their dream event, so why not offer assistance at a fee? If you aren’t confident enough about the idea, experiment with family functions or church activities and acquire leadership skills. Determine your preferred business entity and get insurance for your rental properties and equipment. It is also essential to have good communication skills as it is the basis of this business.
Becoming your boss and attaining the freedom you desire begins with an idea. Choose one that resonates with you and start your entrepreneurial journey today.
