Being a working parent can be difficult especially with very young or special needs children. Finding adequate care for them can be not only difficult but very expensive as well. Working from home can be an option for many parents whether they are just looking to make a little extra money or want to eventually make it their primary source of income. Here are some of the top jobs for those parents.
1. Customer Service Rep
Many companies are moving to having home based customer service reps. It has advantages for the company but can be perfect for the work at home parent as well. You will be trained according to the standards of the company. Most job postings will list not only the qualifications but the necessary equipment you will need to apply. Most will require high speed internet and a reliable headset. These positions usually allow you to set your own available hours.
2. Virtual Assistant
A virtual assistant can be hired by a large company, a small business or an individual that needs an extra pair of hands. The tasks that you will be asked to do will vary widely and could be anything from setting appointments and booking travel arrangements to research and even personal shopping.
3. Language Tutor
A very interesting and kind of fun job for parents is that of language tutor. You don’t have to speak a second language at all. Your task is to have simple conversations via the internet with people who are learning English. The goal is help improve their conversation skills. This is another position that will allow you to set your own hours.
4. Child Care
If you are already home with your own children, you can earn a little extra money by watching other people’s kids at the same time. Check the local laws because you may need licensing based on the number of kids you are watching. Make sure that you set clear and firm guidelines for times, illness and other concerns before you take in that first child on Day One.
5. Content Creator, Editor and Other Writing Services
There are a number of freelance writing positions available through several different platforms. Most require a short test to give you placement and then you are ready to bid on jobs and start building a reputation for yourself. Many of these sites also have other postings including those for people with IT skills, editing skills and more. If you have the time and talent, you may even be asked to ghostwrite a book for someone.
and then you are ready to bid on jobs and start building a reputation for yourself. Many of these sites also have other postings including those for people with IT skills, editing skills and more. If you have the time and talent, you may even be asked to ghostwrite a book for someone.
If you have never worked from home it can seem scary especially at first. Remember, do your research before you get started, do not pay for “jobs” and try to avoid falling victim to the thousands of get rich quick schemes that are swirling around out there.
Other things to avoid:
- Expensive crafts that will never allow you to make a profit.
- Things that seem a bit shady or “off” to you.
- Clients that demand more and more of your time until you are so stressed that you are wishing you were back at the office.
Working from home should be something that makes your life easier, not more difficult.
Pat Givens is a business owner and a homebody. She is a mom of two and is happily married to Mark.