Bank notes Why not rent out your house for a day to a location company. Register with an agency such as
www.film-locations.co.uk 2. Are you vigilant? Previously teachers paraded the aisles whilst pupils sat their public examinations. High-schools nowadays hire Invigilators during exam periods; this can help bring in the income throughout the year, as exams are no longer just in the summer months.
3. Get paid for having a meal. Mystery shopping (for example, Retail Eyes) gives you the opportunity to visit among other locations, restaurants, bookmakers and gyms. Often you get to keep the purchase as well as earning a small amount of cash in return for some form filling relating to your visit.
4. Rent out your drive. If you have space on your driveway, why not rent it out? http://www.parkatmyhouse.co.uk allows you to offer your space in return for cash.
5. Fancy yourself alongside George Clooney or Meryl Streep? Both film and television use extras on their sets. Sign up with an agency and start earning money while claiming your 15 minutes of fame.
6. Complete an online survey. Many companies including http://my.yougov.com offer money in return for you giving your views by filling out online forms.
7. Use your skills. If you love dog-walking, happy to house-sit or offer any service that there is a market for; register your offer at http://www.jobsgrapevine.com
8. Sell your items on eBay or similar auction sites. Get cash for your unwanted gifts or old collectors items. It’s amazing what sells; matchbox labels, medals, old vinyl’s etc. Be an honest and good trader as it will count against you otherwise. Use sales lines that will help your product sell; for example, ‘comes from a smoke and pet free home’, ‘in original packaging’ and ‘ideal stocking filler/birthday present’.
9. Keep fit and get paid for it. If you are a budding gardener, put a card in your local newsagent’s window, DIY store and post in peoples doors in your area. Create a small advert. Think of what would persuade potential customers to use your services – for example, give quotes from people recommending your work and write phrases such as ‘references on request’ and ‘reliable and hard-working.'
10. Counting the votes. The General Election is next year and poll clerks and counters will be required in all boroughs. Register your interest with your local council now.
Written by Marc Lockley, this article was published on November 26, 2009. Marc Lockley is a negotiation coach who writes for the Guardian online and is the author of 'How To Pay Less for More, a consumer guide to getting the best deals whatever you are buying'. Marc's opinions are his own and for general information only. Always seek independent professional advice.