Ask HN: Alternative ways to make money with coding and system skills?

Article summary

The author is looking for alternative ways to make money using their coding and system skills without returning to corporate work. They have tried various methods, including monetizing hobbies, coding tutoring, bug bounty chasing, and freelancing, but have found them to be competitive or not lucrative. The author is seeking advice on how to use their skills to make a living outside of traditional employment. They are open to exploring different options and are looking for suggestions from others with similar experiences.

Main themes

• alternative income streams
• entrepreneurship
• sales and marketing
• freelancing
• personal branding
• online communities
• co-founders and partnerships
• technical skills and business acumen

What commenters say

• Writing a book or creating a blog can be a viable way to generate income and establish oneself as an expert in a particular field, but it may not be immediately lucrative.
• Finding a non-technical co-founder who can handle the business and sales aspects can be a good way for a technical person to start a successful company.
• Learning sales and marketing skills is essential for success in any business venture, even for technical people who may not enjoy sales.
• Freelancing can be a good option for those who want to maintain their independence and work on their own terms, but it requires strong sales and marketing skills to find clients.
• Some people argue that writing books is not a profitable venture, while others see it as a way to establish credibility and generate passive income.
• Building a personal brand and establishing oneself as an expert in a particular field can lead to new opportunities and revenue streams.
• Participating in online communities and forums can be a good way to find potential co-founders or clients, and to establish oneself as an expert in a particular field.
• Having a viable product or service is more important than having a good sales pitch, and focusing on building something of value can lead to success.
• Learning to articulate oneself and communicate effectively is crucial for success in any business or professional endeavor.