Start Date: 24 Feb 24
Can I turn UserTesting into a Lucrative Side Hustle? Edited: The Short Answer.. NO. Read on to find my experience. I have since signed up to 2 survey sites that I will do in Tandem instead of this one. Day 7 Update is at the bottom with all my reasons with 100% honesty as to why I believe you should not waste your time even signing up for this side hustle.
Navigating Qualification Challenges
In today's gig economy, many individuals are seeking flexible ways to supplement their income, and one avenue gaining popularity is participating in usability testing through platforms like UserTesting.
This side hustle offers the opportunity to earn money by providing valuable feedback on digital products and experiences. Something that I will enjoy as I like doing front-end development and making great UI and UX. However, despite its appeal, navigating the qualification process can sometimes prove to be a challenge.
My initial test was rejected (due to no sound from mic issues), however I was accepted on my 2nd atrempt. As someone who has recently embarked on this journey, I understand the excitement of being accepted as a tester, only to encounter setbacks during the qualification process. But not, I am getting more set backs. Let me explain.
Daily, I eagerly logged in to complete tests, only to find myself not meeting certain criteria, particularly the requirement of having purchased specific assets within the last six months.
This means that to date I have not been able to complete any UserTesting surveys thus far, which means one thing; no income gained from UserTesters.
While initial disappointment may arise from such experiences, it's essential to recognize them as learning opportunities and to devise strategies for overcoming similar hurdles in the future.
I do not want to lie on the surveys just to get some money, I want to provide honest feedback as always. I will continue to answer the criteria honesty.
Day 4 Update
So far I have tried to do 20+ User Testing surveys and not qualified for ANY! I get 4-5 questions in, and I get told I do not qualify for the test. I will keep trying and see what we have at the end and of the month.
My recommendations to you before starting UserTesting
It may be worth doing some research into what is expected before signing up:
Understand the Criteria: Take the time to thoroughly understand the qualification criteria outlined by UserTesting. These criteria can vary depending on the specific requirements of each test, such as demographics, purchasing behaviors, or technological capabilities.
Update Your Profile: Regularly update your profile on the platform to ensure that it accurately reflects your current demographics, interests, and purchasing behaviors. This can increase your chances of qualifying for tests that align with your profile.
Be Patient and Persistent: Rejections are a natural part of the process, especially when starting out. Stay patient and persistent, and don't be discouraged by initial setbacks. Keep checking for new test opportunities and continue applying.
Diversify Your Opportunities: While UserTesting is a popular platform, consider exploring other usability testing platforms as well. Diversifying your opportunities increases your chances of finding tests that match your profile and qualifications.
Stay Informed: Stay informed about updates and changes to the platform's policies and requirements. UserTesting may periodically adjust its criteria, so it's crucial to stay updated to adapt your approach accordingly.
Engage with the Community: Join online forums or communities dedicated to usability testing to connect with other testers and share tips, strategies, and experiences. Learning from the experiences of others can provide valuable insights for navigating the qualification process.
Seek Feedback: If possible, seek feedback from UserTesting support or fellow testers regarding your disqualifications. Understanding the specific reasons for disqualification can help you address any potential shortcomings and improve your chances of qualifying in the future.
While encountering disqualifications can be disheartening, it's important to remember that persistence and adaptability are key to success in the world of usability testing as a side hustle. By staying informed, updating your profile, and maintaining a positive attitude, you can increase your chances of qualifying for tests and turning UserTesting into a lucrative source of supplementary income.
Day 7 Update: My Experience with UserTesting
I have to be completely honest here - my experience with UserTesting over the past seven days has been nothing short of frustrating. Despite my best efforts, I find myself unable to recommend it as a viable side hustle.
In the past week, I've diligently attempted over 20 tests, hoping to earn some extra income. However, not once have I qualified to actually earn any money. It's been a cycle of investing time and effort into completing tasks, only to be met with constant disqualification.
What's particularly disheartening is the realization that UserTesting seems to gather valuable data from the answers provided during these attempts, yet I never see any payout for my efforts. It's disconcerting to think that my input is being used without any tangible reward.
I can't help but feel frustrated and disillusioned by the lack of transparency and the seemingly insurmountable barriers to qualifying for payment. Despite their promises of earning money by testing websites and apps, the reality for me has been far from that.
In all honesty, based on my experience, I cannot recommend UserTesting as a reliable side hustle option. It's been a disappointing journey, and I'm left feeling like my time and efforts could have been better invested elsewhere.
I have been recommended 2 other survey sites which I will do in Tandem instead of UserTesting. See here for an update on the paid surveys I do now, via Prime Opinion.
Day 7 | £0
