Because of the widespread use of the Internet, working from home has come a long way since envelope-stuffing or craft assembly. Now, there are many opportunities to work from home. However, it is helpful to understand that not all jobs can be done 100% from the home, which is what many people envision telecommuting to be.
To illustrate, I’ve broken “telecommuting” work into four distinct categories, and also provided ideas for each of the type of work that is best suited for each style.
1) 100% Remote or Virtual
Virtual or remote work usually means that your location is irrelevant. You may never personally meet your employer or client. The entire application and hiring process online.
Examples of 100% Remote of Virtual job titles may include:
- Coder and developer
- Transcriptionist
- Content Writer and Copy Editor
- Online Tutor
- Customer Service Agents
2) Half In/Half Out
This category refers to work that is based from home but requires you to leave your home to complete important functions of the job. You still might never have to visit your company’s office, or even personally meet anyone that you work with. Portions of your job must be performed away from your home. However, jobs in this category will usually allow you to work around your own schedule.
Examples of Half In/Half Out job titles may include:
- Court Researcher
- RN Clinical Analyst
- Account Manager
- Real Estate Agent
- Consultant
- Engineer
Some companies require that you physically check in with them from time to time. Perhaps you’ll need to receive in-person training, or attend periodic meetings or conferences. If you aren’t local to the company’s headquarters, you should be prepared for occasional overnight travel.
Examples of Make An Occasional Appearance job titles may include:
- Recruiter
- High-end Sales Executive
- Business Analyst
- Auditor
- Nurse
4) Local Candidate Only
Other companies might allow you to work from home, yet want you physically accessible. You might need to pick up your work assignments every day or week, and then deliver completed work to them personally at a determined time.
Examples of Local Candidates Only job titles include:
- Mortgage Broker
- Paralegal
- Virtual Assistant
- Court Researcher