Looking for your first work from home job? I work from home and I’ve done it in several different capacities over the years. I’ve worked remote W-2 jobs and done freelance work, full time and part time, and all sorts of different types of work. There are some things I’ve learned along the way that I think everyone should consider while searching for a work from home job so you can land the perfect role that fits your life and career goals.
I’ve wanted to start sharing about working from home for a while and I decided this is where I should start. It’s always good to get advice from different vantage points when you’re doing something new, so hopefully my experience will help you. Whether you’re exploring good work from home jobs for the first time or transitioning to a remote work setup, here’s everything you need to know to guide your job search and make it a success.
7 Things to Consider When Looking for a Work-from-Home Job
1. Consider the Role That Fits Your Skills First
Work from home jobs are out there and if there isn’t a W-2 job for you, there are plenty of freelance opportunities if you’re willing to put in the work to get them. The truth is, though, like any other job, you’re going to have an easier time getting a job that you’re qualified for than one you are not. That’s not to say that you can’t break into something new, but if time is of the essence, start with something you already have some experience in.
Think about what you’re good at. Have you worked in customer service roles and have plenty of experience offering amazing service? That’s a great place to start. No matter what your current or past job is/was, you learned something there that you can take forward with you into a new work from home job. Pinpoint your strengths to find employment opportunities where you can offer the skills you already have and expand those skills for future opportunities.
2. Time Freedom/Flexibility of the Job
Working from home does not necessarily equal time freedom or schedule flexibility. It all depends on the type of job you find. Some will allow you to work whenever you can/want to, as long as all the work is completed and the quality of your work is good. Others are just like moving your cubicle from the office to your home and you’re still required to be at your desk for 8 hours a day, or more, during normal business hours. Some work from home jobs fall in between those two extremes somewhere and allow a little more life balance.
So make sure to consider if the hours you work or have free during the day matter to you or do you just want to get out of the office and get to stay in your comfy home every day.
3. Equipment Requirements
Some work from home jobs might require that you have your own equipment, usually just a computer that runs well and sometimes a phone. Do you have those things or do you need to look for a position that would provide those things if they are needed? Any job you apply for should say up front if there is equipment required that the employer will not supply. Make sure the company offers reasonable accommodations for any large requirements.
4. Self-Motivation and Discipline
Working from home, even in a remote job requiring you to be at your desk all day, does afford you a lot more of a relaxed work atmosphere. You need to be able to keep yourself disciplined without someone looking over your shoulder all the time to get your work done. It’s easy to put things off too long or slack off, especially in jobs with more time freedom.
5. Isolation vs. Team Collaboration
Think about whether you prefer working independently or thrive in collaborative environments with team members. One of the most difficult parts of working from home for me, and something I’ll get into in more detail in a later blog post, is the isolation of it. At first it’s magical and cozy and there’s nothing better. But it can start to get lonely for even the most independent pesonalities. So that’s something to consider.
You can always look for jobs that keep you in contact with remote global teams who you work with daily rather than working on your own all of the time.
6. Home Environment
Remember that some work from home jobs will be very laid back, but some will require a professional performance, even from home. If you want to work from home because you have kids who you want to stay home with, you’ll need a very specific type of work from home job and you’ll have to be really picky about which opportunities you pursue. This is something you should ask for additional information on up front either before you apply, if possible, or when you’re contacted for an interview.
7. Think About Growth
Does the employer mention opportunities for growth in the job description? I think it’s important to always be searching for opportunities to learn new skills or expand your responsibilities so you can move into better roles or different work from home jobs/freelance jobs in the future with more ease. Look for remote jobs that set you up for a long-term career path or skills for the future.
Final Thoughts on Choosing a Work From Home Job
Finding the right job that aligns with your skills, values, and lifestyle takes some effort, but it’s worth it. The current selection of work from home jobs is pretty vast and building a home career is possible for anyone. Even though you might have to start with a job that doesn’t completely meet your needs, the next job you get from your experience with your first work from home job will be even better. Keep learning and growing!
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