Transforming Your Current Job into a Remote Job
The first option to consider is converting your current office job into a remote one. Research and reflection are the first steps in transitioning from your current office job to working remotely from home. Learn everything you need to know about your company’s remote work policies and then think about how to apply these policies to your job.
If you believe you have a strong case, the next step is to write a remote work proposal for your manager. Anticipate what your manager might say and clarify effective and direct responses for these scenarios.
Be prepared to receive a “no” or “maybe” when you propose the remote work idea to your manager. If that’s the case, here are some tips:
If they say “maybe,” ask about their concerns. They might be worried that other employees will want to work remotely if you do. If so, inform your manager of the specific circumstances that make your situation unique (for example, your job does not require face-to-face interaction).
If your manager says “no,” ask if this is negotiable. Suggest working from home part-time. Request a trial period where you work from home a few days a week. Seeing your plan in action and how you remain productive at home may be the evidence your manager needs to change their mind.
Searching for a New Job That Allows Working from Home
If converting your current job to a remote position proves difficult, the best way to start working from home is to look for a new job. If you switch jobs within the same field, you’re likely to secure a higher salary compared to trying something different. However, if your current industry does not offer many remote opportunities, you may need to seek something new.
Note: Changing jobs can sometimes lead to a salary increase of over 30%.
Starting Your Own Home-Based Business
Freelancing from home has many advantages. Freelancing can take many forms—ranging from working as a consultant in a field you already work in (freelancing) to starting a new business from scratch, buying an existing business or franchise, or working in direct sales and selling products to friends and family. All of these options will have different start-up costs, time commitments, and returns.
Whatever option you choose, consider writing a business plan. There are two main types: traditional or lean. A lean business plan is less detailed than a traditional one; it includes summaries and focuses on the most important parts of your business. Generally, it is one page long and includes the following sections:
Key partnerships, key activities, key resources, value proposition, customer relationships, customer segments, channels, cost structure, and revenue streams.
Note: A business plan helps consolidate your ideas about what you want from your business and how to make it successful. It acts as a roadmap for decision-making and running your business.
Accepting a Side Job
Freelance marketplaces like Upwork and Fiverr make it possible to work remotely before or after you go to your office job. Typically, you can apply for jobs that offer a set payment for a one-time job and those that provide hourly work with fixed hours every week or day.
Take some time to review your weekly schedule. When do you have time for additional work? Although it may be tempting to accept every job offered to you, try to balance your side jobs, regular job, and free time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is remote work?
Remote work
Remote refers to the work you do away from your office. Locations can include your home, a café, or a library.
How can I start working from home?
The easiest way to work from home is to convince your manager to allow you to transition your job from the office to remote work. Other ways to work remotely include searching for a new job that is 100% remote, starting your own business from home, or doing side jobs from home.
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Sources:
Rutgers University Division of Student Affairs Career Development Center. “How To Ask Your Boss for Full-Time Remote Work.”
The Conference Board. “One Third of Those Who Changed Jobs Make 30% More.”
Small Business Administration. “Write Your Business Plan.”
Source: https://www.thebalancemoney.com/start-working-at-home-3542557
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