Passive income is something that many business owners aspire to have. The idea of earning money whilst not doing any extra work is incredibly appealing. The term ‘passive’ suggests that you could be sitting on a beach and permanently not doing anything to generate that income. 

But passive income isn’t entirely passive. It’s true that once you create the content, you might not have to do anything to recreate that content, but you do still have to market and promote it. 

A book is a classic example. You can spend a year to write a book, but then once it’s written, you can sell it over and over again, with no extra work. However, it takes you a year before you make any money, and you still have to promote it - because people can only buy things if you promote them!

Passive income products are generally low cost

Passive income products are generally lower cost. Things like an ebook for £10 or a prerecorded workshop that you initially deliver live but then record and sell on afterwards...

Everyone's selling an online course or membership these days aren't they? They are the best way to make "passive" income in your business, right?

I think it is something to think about, but it's not for everyone. There are a few things to consider first.

Is it right for you?

Do you want to run your business online? Or are you likely to run your business in person (once we can)? Do you want passive income in your business?

We all think a course or membership will boost our income, but it's generally not a short term fix. If you do most of your business via referral or word of mouth, you likely don't have a big email list to sell to, which will take time to build.

Do you enjoy creating content or do you find it a chore? Some people would rather do 1:1 coaching and not have the hassle of creating something and having the tech to go with it. Although it can be low tech to sell a course (you just need a PayPal button), over time you might need to have a website for them to go to.

Audi...