Get paid for your opinion!

Now it’s easier than ever to make money with focus groups! That’s because more companies are turning to online focus groups, using webcams and even smartphone cameras to get your opinion—and you can earn up to $75 an hour right at home!

● 1 Nab online opportunities!

The latest trend in focus groups is doing them online! “More companies are going that route since no-shows are a big problem with in-person focus groups,” says Danny Digiovanni of Findfocusgroups.com. Join the databases of local or nationwide focus group companies—just do a Google search for firms like Schlesinger Group, Respondent, Focus Point Global and 20/20 Research (also known as Survey Squad). Enter your info, and when a study comes up that seems like a good fit for you, they’ll contact you. Another option: Visit Findfocusgroups.com, which lists, sorts and verifies opportunities.

● 2 Snag a spot!

Once you’re registered, the companies will send you survey links to prequalify you for a group. “Be sure to give context and details when answering the open-ended questions,” stresses DiGiovanni. For example, if they ask, “How often do you buy coffee?”, an answer like, “I go three times a week. I always get a caramel macchiato, and they know my name” is more likely to snag you a spot than saying just, “Three times a week.”

● 3 Be a star participant!

When you’re in a focus group, don’t hold back! “It’s a lot of fun to be honest,” says Digiovanni. “Whether you love the product, hate it or are indifferent, they want to know—it helps them!” Also key? Some groups may send you an item to try beforehand, while others may ask you to take photos of the product, for example, of newfangled hangers in your closet. Be sure to follow the instructions, otherwise you may be barred from future groups. And the secret to getting repeat gigs: “Usually when you fill out a prequalifying survey, they ask if you would like to be contacted for future studies. Check it so you will be entered into their system; they may call you when someone bails out at the last minute,” says Digiovanni.