The theme of this website is to help you work from home. Before you get started, you need to take a look at the ways people are making money and decide on HOW you want to start.
How much you want to make can play a factor in what is the best option for you. There is no easy answer, and avoid any opportunities that say it is. However, it doesn't have to be painful either. It is work, but work can be fun!
Here are the different ways you can work from home:
Common Myths About Working From Home:
- I can take better care of my kids
When you are working, you need to hit deadlines and finish your job. You will find that it is harder to spend time with your kids, and even more stressful if they are home.
- I will have more time
Depending on your job, you may have more flexible time. However, many jobs require you to be on a schedule.
- It is an easy way to make money
Working from home and being a full time parent is the hardest job you will ever have. However, you can make it fun.
- I won't miss the workplace
You'll suprise yourself. Working at home is lonely. It is easy to isolate yourself from adult conversation. Be sure to join clubs and groups to get you out of the house.
- I can be a great housewife
If you talk to most work from home moms, the house is not immaculate and dinner does not always hit the table. Balancing work, children and the house is challenging.
- This will be easy
It can be fun, but it's not easy. You need to learn self-discipline, new skills, and how to balance. Expect a long journey ahead of you.
TELECOMMUTTING: If you currently have a great job that can be done from home, you have an advantage. Most people who telecommute, started out at an office. Sorry. There are companies that do hire just to telecommute, but they are very competitive and you need to have the experience and skills to get hired.
- Work from home for a boss a required number of hours per week
- Often requires you to have daycare of arrangments for your children
- Often requires you to attend meetings or visit the office
- Most jobs do not start out as a work from home job
JOBS: Jobs are where someone hires you. An online job is a little different then a 9 to 5 job. Often you are hired as a contractor, and most of these do not offer benefits. Finding a real job is challenging, but it can be done. Often the available hours are limited.
- Work from home jobs are defined differently than away from home jobs
- They are competitive
- Be prepared to take an online test
- Some require schooling or special training, such as Medical Transcriptionists or Scoping
To find a job, click here.
FREELANCE: If you have skills and experience, you can freelance. I started freelancing for my boss when he would not let me telecommute. He did not have to pay me benefits, and I had a flexible schedule. My line of work was writing. If you have skills that are marketable, send your resume out, talk to business owners, and show them samples of your work. Let them know how you can save them both money and time.
- Work is on an as-needed basis, so not always steady
- It may take time to get your name out
- Many creative fields are great for freelancing (writing, graphics, art)
- No benefits package
- Pay may vary from job to job
- Must work on deadlines
CONTRACT WORK: Contract work is similar to freelance, but puts you on a more steady payroll. Most of the companies listed on the jobs page hire contractors. You work from home and often get paid per minute or project.
- Hours vary
- Each company requires different responsibilities.
- You are often required to have your own equipement
- If you have experience, these jobs are easier to get
- Though pay may be high, it's often prorated by minutes actually worked.
To find a contract job, click here.
BUSINESS (DIRECT SALES): If you want to be in control and love people, then direct sales is a great option. It is not as easy, but allows you to be in control.
- Not all direct sales businesses require parties
- You can earn $50 to $200 a night at a direct sales party
- Though it is hard work, if you give it 6 months to a year of really working it (5 to 10 hours a week), you will have a nice income
- Remember there will be obstacles. Those who succeed look for training and self improvement
- Direct sales pays more the more you work it
- Make sure you follow your passion when choosing a business
To find a business, click here.
BUSINESS (FROM SCRATCH): If you have a great skill or talent, start a business from scratch! If you love to paint children's art, market yourself as a mural painter. If you love to organize, go into other's homes and help them declutter. If you love to cook, become a personal chef. Cleaning ladies are also in demand if you love to clean and make things look good.
- Your local chamber can help you get started
- You will need a business license, but they are easy to get
- Create a business plan
- Give it time
- Expect (and welcome) obstacles
For ideas, click here.
HOBBIES: If you just want to make some extra money and have a hobby, here is a great opportunity to make money. For example, scrapbookers often join their favorite company to pay for their scrapbooking hobby. If you love to sew, sell your items on the side.
- Don't expect a ton of money as a hobbyist, but you can cover your expenses and make some pocket change
- Look for venues to sell your items
- Remember to keep it fun
