Working from home, once a rarity, has become commonplace. Thanks to technology and shifting attitudes about work, more and more people are pursuing work from home careers. In fact, employers in certain industries actually prefer employees who work at home, since it decreases their overhead costs.
Working from home lets you work for any employer in your city or around the world!
When it comes to looking for work, there are many types of jobs in different niches available that can be done online. In most cases, all you need is a computer and a good internet connection.
Related: Could you be a digital nomad?
5 work from home careers
Below I’ve listed just 5 popular work-from-home careers that are in demand at the moment.
- Data processing.
- Software development.
- Online tutoring.
- Call center jobs.
- Translation evaluator.
Once you’ve checked out our list, keep reading to learn how to avoid work from home scams.
1. Data processing
If you are looking for a job online that does not require direct contact with clients, a data processing job may be the perfect work from home career for you. Companies outsource a wide range of administrative tasks including:
- Payroll processing
- Talent management
- Human resource management
- Other administrative work
Search the web for openings that suit your skills and schedule.
Related: 4 ways to make money from home
2. Software development
Basic coding skills can now be learned online, so if you have some knowledge as a software developer, there is tons of work available. Software companies are seeking experienced contractors throughout the world, without requiring them to relocate.
If this is a field of work you can see yourself working in, you have a number of options:
- DIY your training with online tutorials
- Take online courses lead by recognized instructors
- Attend code boot camps
Learn more about how to get started in this field here.
3. Online tutoring
If you have a passion to teach, becoming an online tutor is a great way to earn an income and gain some valuable work experience.
Offering online tutoring in subjects such as math, science and English is not only rewarding, but convenient since you do not have to commute to and from work.
English teachers are probably the most sought after online tutors.
To become an online tutor, you should have a college degree in the subject you are teaching (teaching experience is a plus but not required). Tutoring is done via Skype, so all you need is a good internet connection, a computer or tablet and a quiet place to teach.
4. Call center jobs
There are tons of companies looking for home-based call center agents. Virtual call center agents receive incoming calls, sell products and provide customer service as well as technical support.
Retail finance call centers
GE and other companies hire client services representatives to work from the comfort of their own homes. Tasks include analyzing credit applications and credit bureau information. If you are bilingual in French and Spanish, this could be a good option.
5. Translation evaluator
If you are bilingual, you may want to consider working for Google as a translation review and search evaluator. The job entails checking the accuracy of Google web advertising and communicating the effectiveness of web layouts.
You must be fluent in one of the following languages:
- Chinese
- Japanese
- Korean
- Russian
- Italian
- German
- Spanish
Check out this website for more translation jobs.
How to avoid work from home scams
There are so many online job opportunities available and all of them sound so promising.
Keep in mind that there are also a ton of scams on the web.
Work from home careers that sound too promising — those that offer extremely high rewards with minimum work — are most likely scams. A few of the most popular scams include:
- Envelope stuffing
- “Fantastic business opportunities”
- Reshipping
- Rebate processing
Do your research on the company you are looking to work for and try to find reviews on forums and the web from those who have worked at the same company. Make sure to do your due-diligence before submitting your resume to avoid identity theft and protect your personal information.
Ditch the commute
Working from home is a great opportunity to earn income without the hassle and expense of commuting to an office. Although it may sound easy, a work-from-home job is still a real job and requires a professional attitude and work ethic to be successful.
Bonus: Many work from home careers can be done any time you have free time.
But many people find it far easier to balance work, family and other commitments with work from home careers. And who doesn’t want a saner, more balanced life?
