From Recliner to Riches: The Mechanic Making $14,200 a Month Answering Questions Online
Chris Pyle, a former Ford Motors mechanic, has turned his passion for engines into a lucrative online career. Working from his recliner in a tank top and boxer shorts, Pyle answers questions about gas and diesel engines on JustAnswer, a platform that connects users with experts in various fields. This unconventional approach to mechanics has not only yielded six-figure annual earnings for Pyle, but also allowed him to achieve financial freedom and create a fulfilling life outside of the traditional workplace.
Key Takeaways:
- Unconventional Success: Pyle’s unorthodox work setup and high earnings prove that success can come from unexpected places.
- The Power of Specialization: Pyle’s expertise in engines allows him to command a premium price on JustAnswer, showcasing the value of niche skills in the gig economy.
- Flexibility and Freedom: Pyle’s ability to set his own hours and work from home highlights the benefits of online platforms for achieving work-life balance.
- Building a Business, Not Just a Job: Pyle’s consistent growth in earnings demonstrates his commitment to building a long-term career on JustAnswer, rather than just a temporary side hustle.
Building a Well-Oiled Business
Pyle’s journey on JustAnswer began organically. After learning how to fix transmissions through Ford’s training program, he stumbled upon an answer provided by another mechanic on JustAnswer while researching the issue online. Inspired by this experience, he joined the platform and began answering questions in his spare time.
His early days on JustAnswer were marked by quick success. He made $500 in his first month and doubled his earnings every month for the next two months. This rapid growth encouraged him to invest more time and effort into the platform. As his earnings became more consistent, he realized the potential for JustAnswer to fuel a more meaningful lifestyle.
Pyle’s commitment to the platform paid off. By 2012, he was spending three hours a day answering close to 40 questions. The consistent income he generated from JustAnswer allowed him to leave his full-time job at Ford, proving the financial potential of this unconventional career path.
Saving Up, Standing Out
Pyle’s JustAnswer income remains steady, increasing year after year. He experiences his busiest periods during the summer months, when people are more likely to engage in outdoor activities and travel.
Despite his flexible schedule, Pyle’s work on JustAnswer requires dedication. Since he is paid per answer, he still works 40 to 60 hours a week to maintain his income. Despite working every day, including holidays, Pyle appreciates the trade-offs. His efforts have allowed him to build a career, a home, and a fulfilling life without a traditional boss.
His earnings also support his wife, who quit her nursing job to homeschool their two sons. While Pyle has to manage his own taxes and pay for medical insurance, he also enjoys financial benefits like being able to write off expenses related to his work.
Although Pyle is not an employee of JustAnswer, he continues to build a successful career on the platform. However, there are drawbacks to this type of independent work. JustAnswer reviews its "experts" weekly, and their grading affects their earnings per answer. The exact criteria for this grading system is not publicly shared, but Pyle says his answers and customer service skills consistently receive high ratings.
Despite these challenges, Pyle remains satisfied with his current career path. He plans to reduce his JustAnswer workload once his house is finished, but he intends to continue working at least 30 hours a week. He sees JustAnswer as a long-term career choice and has no plans to return to a traditional job.
Pyle’s success story highlights the evolving nature of work and highlights the opportunities available through online platforms. He proves that pursuing a passion, acquiring specialized skills, and dedication can lead to fulfilling and financially rewarding careers outside of the traditional workplace.
