Working from home is the dream of many, but in today’s internet-driven world, it can easily become a reality. There are literally hundreds of jobs you can do from home, from part-time gigs to full-time consultancy businesses.
All you need is a workable idea, a computer, and a space to bring your ideas to fruition. Yes, it really is that easy – and here’s how you can work from home and be happy.
IT Consultant
Do you know your C++ from your HTML? Coding and other IT-related professions can easily be done from home. Anyone can set up a web design business or offer IT support from their spare room.
Since you are already skilled in this area, build a website, do some online marketing and start looking for clients. You can work all night and sleep all day if you feel like it.
Online Retailer
The internet has launched a million online stores, some more successful than others. Amazon is perhaps the best known, but there is no reason why you can’t start selling online. Decide on a niche and buy some stock.
Start small by selling on eBay and then open your own online shop. Thanks to services like Shopify, it’s never been easier.
Freelance Writer
Are you a gifted wordsmith? If so, you could make a living by working as a freelance writer. Look for work on freelancer websites and build an online portfolio.
Once you have some regular clients, this can easily become a full-time venture, but in the meantime, pick up writing gigs on the side while you work your regular job.
Baking Business
Baking cakes, cookies, buns, or even casseroles is a viable home-based business. To begin with, you can use your own kitchen to get creative, but once the business takes off, it is probably a good idea to move into a custom-designed unit with a full-size catering kitchen.
Arts and Crafts
Are you a creative type? If so, the possibilities are endless. Arts and crafts-style businesses work well from home. As long as you have enough space to create a small studio, you are good to go.
It will take a while to generate enough income to make this a viable full-time career, but as long as you have the talent, grit, and determination, not to mention excellent marketing skills, you will eventually become a full-time artist.
Life Coach
Are you a naturally empathetic person? Do others turn to you when they need advice about their career, relationship, or life? If so, consider becoming a life coach. You can counsel your clients online via video chat or email, or you can arrange consultations in your own home.
Working from home gives you plenty of flexibility and cuts down your overheads in the early stages of running the business. If this is your calling, look at gaining some relevant qualifications to give your brand some extra kudos.
Virtual Assistant
Are you supremely organized? If so, offer your services as a virtual assistant. Many online entrepreneurs need someone to organize their life and business, from generating invoices, talking to suppliers, and dealing with sub-contractors, to handling the day-to-day accounts and sourcing supplies.
It’s a varied and interesting job, and the good news is that you can do it from home. Offer your services as a VA on a freelancer website and get your new career off the ground.
Final Words
This is just a small snapshot of potential home-based careers. Any type of consultancy will work, as well as artistic professions and freelance careers, so if working in an office repels you, start investigating your options!