If you're looking for a way to supplement your current income, or even completely change careers and enjoy the comfort and convenience that comes with working from home, internet-based jobs or starting an online business may be your answer. However, there are specific differences between the two and it's all a matter of personal preference when choosing which is best suited for your lifestyle.



Online-Based Jobs

In an online-based job environment, you are actually working for and getting paid by some one else, through an internet-based company. Now, keep in mind that even though there are an abundance of opportunities in this area, there are also a lot of scams out there as well. People promising you ‘get rich quick schemes' and the ability to make tons of money in a very short time are probably some of the web-based job prospects you should avoid. On the other hand, there is money to be made by working through the internet for other people. You usually get paid by the amount of work you complete and some of these types of jobs include:

• Filling out and submitting various online surveys

• Previewing movie trailers and providing your feedback

• Taking part in online focus groups

• Driving your car and advertising with it

• Signing up to try new products and commenting on the outcome

• Freelance writing

• Customer service for companies

These types of internet-based jobs are obtained by applying through various internet-based companies who allow you access to their vast database of customers once you register with them. Know that many of them charge a fee to get started.

Also, if you've got quality skills in a certain area such as transcription, word processing, graphics, web design, writing, accounting, programming, etc., you can sign up for freelance work through the various websites that are available online. Once you register and submit a profile, you're then given access to go through a list of projects in your area of expertise. You choose and bid on the ventures you are interested in and the buyers will then contact you through the sites and when the work is completed, you'll receive payment from the web-based company you registered with.

Online Business

An online business is a business that you create by allowing customers to contact you directly through the internet and purchase and pay you directly for the goods or services you offer. If you've got the ‘right stuff' you can make a lot of money this way. There are hundreds of untapped niches out there just waiting for someone to come along and claim expertise in them. For example, information products are a major seller on the internet. Everyone is skilled in something and they've all got ‘secrets' to share about it.

But an online business does not require you to be an actual expert in a certain field. The best way to get started is to choose one of your favorite interests, something you love and are passionate about and have knowledge in, and then decide what it is you have to offer other people in that area. All you have to do basically is set up a website and begin to share your wisdom, skills and/or product with the world – for a price.

Now, no one is saying that if you create an internet business you're going to become a millionaire, but it does have its upside. A lot of hard work, dedication and thorough love and knowledge of the niche you're working in are definitely assets when it comes to obtaining success through an internet-based business.