How to Find a Work from Home Job

telecommuter jobs

Do you have what it takes to work remote? At first glance it seems like the perfect employment situation. Telecommuting definitely has its advantages, like increased productivity, quieter atmosphere with less distractions, and more time around family. However, there is definitely a downside. Work from home employees don’t report to an office, and miss out on worker interaction and valuable company meetings. Information is best communicated in person, and communication can break down over a virtual network. If you can make it past these obstacles, then read on to see the best ways to find work from home jobs. Just be careful you are responding to legitimate postings, because the “work from home” title is common bait for scammers. Be careful and do some research before giving out any important personal information. Never roll the dice when it comes to identity theft.

1.)    Freelance

Typically freelance work is part-time, but many companies are realizing the potential of hiring telecommuters to work over a virtual network. Most of the time these jobs can turn into a full-time role if the employee is efficient. Some of the common work from home freelancer jobs are graphics designers, administrative assistants / virtual assistants, receptionists, customer service reps, writers, and translators. Sites like oDesk and Elance are great places to start. You’ll need to build up some work experience, but crafting a well-written proposal can land you some excellent jobs. Be creative and give it a try. After you get some experience freelancing you can move into a full-time role. It’s a great resume booster.

2.)    Ask During Interview

A lot of times companies don’t realize the benefits of a work from home employee. If the job sounds like a role that can be executed from home, then ask the hiring manager. It’s a simple question and it won’t hurt your chances of landing the job. You’d be surprised at how effective this strategy can be. If you happen to land a job in this manner, make sure you work your hardest to prove your worth. Telecommuting is results-based, because it’s one of the few methods a manager has for evaluating you. Prove your value to the company you work for. Most interviews for work at home positions occur in-person, so sharpen up your interview skills, wear your best clothes, and project confidence.

3.)    Networking

Use social media and in-person networking to your advantage. Focus on cleaning out your Facebook profile and creating a professional image. Improve your LinkedIn page and start making connections. Find managers that might be of assistance later in your career, and try to build a solid relationship with them. Social media is an excellent way to showcase your skills. To find a work from home position in this manner, you’ll need to optimize your profile to show potential employers that you have what it takes to work in this role. Include phrases such as “Works well under limited supervision,” “Results-based,” “Responsible,” etc. Generate your own leads and exhaust all of the resources you have. You’ll find a job quickly using this strategy.

4.)    Search Engine

As always, start your search with JobDiagnosis. Using a search engine when looking for this type of work is an excellent method. Use keyword phrases like telecommute, telecommuter, work from home, work at home, etc. When using an online search there are a few steps you can take to improve your chances. The most important is optimizing your resume. For competitive roles with multiple applicants, only a small percentage of candidates will be placed on the short list. Human resources will likely use software to sort through resumes. If you include relevant keywords and use the job description as a guide, your resume will shoot to the top of the pile. Touch up on your phone and in-person interview skills and do as much research about the company as possible. Also, formulate a few questions to ask upon completion of the interview. If you follow these steps, your next decision will be whether you want to wear sweatpants or pajamas on your first day of work. Happy job hunting!

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Matthew Welch

Jobdiagnosis blog author Matthew Welch is an SEO strategist and content marketer from Boston, MA. Read blog content relating to job search by Matthew Welch.

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