Working at home, 21st century style.
Forget licking envelopes or giving out fliers on behalf of a business. Thanks to the web, there are many more opportunities for you to make a living at-home. The Internet isn’t the only source for jobs, but it has provided the most growth for people who prefer or need to work at home.
Some jobs, such as writing, have transitioned quite well from the corporate world to the ranch down the street, while others may require you to do some “face time” at a place of business or other location.
Writing — Freelance writers have been working for themselves since well before the Internet made working from afar possible. These days writers, editors and proofreaders are able to find work online and build a business based on their talent with some hiring contractors to help them out as needed.
Graphics — Graphic artistry used to be done chiefly in the print shop or in the corporate print room. These days, CAD and other tools makes it possible for people to create websites, design brochure and flyers and make logos without leaving the home, connecting with clients around the world who respect their talents.
Virtual Assistant — Secretarial services have evolved over the years. Taking dictation, typing letters and greeting customers is now the work of each employee or, in the case of dictation, is no longer done. Those changes have caused disruption in some businesses as an important member of the staff is no longer available. A virtual assistant offers her services on an as needed basis, by answering calls, tweeting messages or by providing the “voice” customers want to hear. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, “Virtual assistant training programs are available at many community colleges in transcription, bookkeeping, website design, project management, and computer technology.”
Tutor/Teacher — You left the workforce to take care of your kids, but that does not mean you have to give up your career. Tutors help students stay ahead of the curve while teachers, particularly those who can reach homeschool students on the Internet, are an invaluable part of the workforce.
Translator — Are you fluent in two or more languages? You can make that work to your advantage by translating legal documents or other important papers for clients. Offer your services to businesses who would like to deal with customers in foreign lands, but lack the internal resources to do so. The BLS says 26 percent of translators are self-employed and that the field is expected to grow much faster than average.
Call Center Rep — Do you prefer to work at-home in your pajamas? Some call center companies allow you to do just that, but you may want to “dress up” if that helps put you in the working mood.
Sales Rep — Just about any product can be sold from your home or rather with you working at home. Some people have made it big on eBay while others have managed to sell a variety of products to businesses, homeowners, governments and agencies without leaving their home.
Check with your local government to make sure that setting up a business on your premises is allowed. If you have foot traffic, that can present a problem, but if your customers are mostly online or over the phone you may be good to go.
Adv. — Are you considering buying or selling a small business? Check out The Novars Group and what they have to offer to you as your small business broker.
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