September 10, 2011
Since the beginning of the recession, those who work in white collar professions have been hit pretty hard, what with downsizing, layoffs, and extended unemployment. Of course, everyone has been hit hard, but those with some experience working with technology (i.e. those who have worked in the office setting) have the best chance of finding work-at-home opportunities because of their knowledge and experience. So if you find yourself out of work for an extended period of time, or even if you simply need some money on the side to make ends meet, you can earn a little extra from the comfort of your own home by looking for work online. Here are just a few ways to do it.
- Writer/editor. If you have a good grasp of language mechanics (spelling, grammar, sentence structure, and so on), a fantastic vocabulary, and a flare for writing, then there’s no reason you can’t earn some extra dough by selling your writing and editing services online. You can easily find freelance jobs to apply for via temp sites like ODesk and Elance, or you could shop your services around the forums. You might even write for high-ranking blogs, which often have a staff of writers in addition to outsource assignments. And if you prefer to avoid corporate outsourcing, think about setting up an online tutoring center where you can give lessons on essay-writing and offer corrective services.
- Graphics designer. Like writing, this creative gift can work to your advantage in the online arena (and the same sites listed above also offer jobs for those who can create virtual graphics). So if you’re familiar with still-frame software like Photoshop or motion graphics applications such as Flash or Maya, then you could find a wide range of jobs to apply for online. Website design, logo creation, and even CGI are all up your alley when you specialize in graphics.
- Tech support. In truth, you will need some education to take up this type of online work, but considering the extent of unemployment benefits, you might have time to take a few online courses to prepare. And if you’re already familiar with technology and electronics you’ll be ahead of the game. From there you can simply offer your services to companies looking for freelancers or even go into business for yourself.
- Virtual assistant. If you’re worried that you just don’t have the experience, knowledge, or skills to tackle some of the more technical positions listed here, then why not become a virtual assistant? If you can file, enter data, book travel, and field phone calls and emails, then there’s no reason you can’t handle this type of job.
- Surveys. Have you ever been prompted to take a survey after making a purchase online? Did you know that you can actually make money by doing this exact thing? Paid online surveys have gotten a bad rap because so many of them are scams. But as long as you steer clear of those that demand money up front, you stand to make a little extra cash simply by offering your opinion.
