The COVID-19 pandemic has been a catalyst for remote work, with many companies shifting to a work-from-home model. This has opened up new opportunities for people who are seeking flexible work arrangements or more control over their work-life balance. In 2020, there are many job options available for individuals who want to work from home. Remote work jobs can range from freelance writing, virtual assistant, online tutoring, social media management, graphic design, and many others. In this article, we will be discussing the best and most lucrative work-at-home jobs in 2020. Whether you are looking to supplement your income, start a new career, or simply enjoy the benefits of working from home, there are plenty of options available to you. With the right skills, dedication, and work ethic, anyone can succeed in the world of remote work.
Freelance Writing and Content Creation
Freelance writing and content creation is a popular choice for those looking to work from home. The demand for high-quality content is consistently high, and there are several ways to make a successful career out of content creation. Here are some tips for getting started:
- Create a portfolio of your work, showcasing your writing skills and achievements.
- Find work through freelance job boards such as Upwork, Freelancer, and Fiverr.
- Develop expertise in a specific niche or industry to gain a competitive edge.
- Consider starting your own blog or website to showcase your skills and get exposure.
There are also several online resources and platforms available to help freelance writers and content creators make a successful career from home, such as Contena, ProBlogger, and Textbroker. With hard work and dedication, freelance writing and content creation can be a lucrative and rewarding remote work opportunity.
What is Freelancing and Content Writing?
Freelancing is a way of working independently, without being tied to one employer or company. Freelancers have the freedom to choose their own clients and projects, and can work from anywhere in the world. Content writing is a type of freelancing that involves creating engaging and informative content for websites, blogs, social media, and other digital platforms.
Here are some key things to know about freelancing and content writing:
- Freelancers are responsible for finding their own clients and projects, which can take time and effort
- Content writers need to be skilled in writing for the web, using SEO strategies, and understanding their target audience
- Websites like Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer.com are popular platforms for finding freelance work and clients
- Content writing can include blog posts, articles, social media posts, email newsletters, and more
- Good communication skills and attention to detail are important for freelancers and content writers
Virtual Assisting
If you have strong administrative skills, virtual assisting might be the perfect gig for you. A virtual assistant is an independent contractor who provides administrative services to clients from a remote location. Here are some tips for getting started as a virtual assistant:
- Create a list of your administrative skills and identify potential services you can offer to clients.
- Build your skill set by taking online courses in areas such as time management, project management, and customer service.
- Build a strong network by attending industry events and joining virtual assistant communities.
- Consider using virtual assistant platforms such as Fancy Hands or Zirtual.
Virtual assistants are in high demand, with a growth rate of 5% annually. According to PayScale, virtual assistants can earn an average of $16.91 per hour. If you are organized, detail-oriented, and have excellent communication skills, virtual assisting could be the perfect remote work opportunity.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Flexible work schedule | Difficult to separate work and personal life |
| Ability to work from anywhere | Must be self-motivated and disciplined |
| Opportunity for growth and promotion | No benefits or security |
Is it a good idea to have a virtual assistant?
Yes, absolutely. In this day and age, having a virtual assistant is not only convenient but also essential for many businesses and individuals alike. Here are some reasons why:
- Increased productivity: A virtual assistant can free up your time to focus on important tasks while they handle administrative tasks.
- Cost-effective: Hiring a virtual assistant is more affordable than hiring full-time staff, as you only pay for the tasks they complete.
- Flexible hours: Virtual assistants can work around your schedule, even outside of regular business hours.
- Reduced workload: A virtual assistant can take care of tasks such as email management, appointment scheduling, research, and social media management, allowing you to focus on more important business tasks.
If you’re interested in hiring a virtual assistant, you can find numerous websites such as Upwork, Fiverr, or Virtual Staff Finder that offer quality services at an affordable price range.
Online Tutoring/Teaching
Online tutoring or teaching is a great option for professionals with expertise in a specific subject. Here are some tips for getting started:
- Identify your teaching niche and subject of expertise
- Choose an online tutoring or teaching platform, such as Preply or Verbling
- Build your profile and list your qualifications and experience
- Determine your preferred tutoring schedule and rate
The demand for online tutors and teachers has skyrocketed in recent years, with a growth rate of 12% annually. According to Indeed, online tutors can earn an average of $25.07 per hour. In addition, online teaching jobs often come with the added benefit of allowing you to work from home. With more and more students opting for online learning, the potential for growth in this field is high.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Flexible schedule and location | May require advanced degrees or certifications |
| High income potential | Can be challenging to find clients/ students to tutor |
| Potential for growth and career advancement | May require working odd hours to accommodate international students |
What are the pros and cons of online tutoring?
Pros:
- Convenience: Online tutoring allows students to access help from anywhere with an internet connection.
- Flexibility: Students can schedule sessions at times that work best for them and their tutors.
- Increased Access: Online tutoring provides access to a wider pool of tutors who may not be available locally.
- Recording of sessions: Many platforms offer the ability to record sessions, which can be helpful for reviewing information later.
Cons:
- Lack of face-to-face interaction: Some students may struggle with building a rapport with their tutor in an online environment.
- Technical difficulties: Poor internet connections can affect the quality of the session and disrupt communication.
- Distractions at home: Students may find it difficult to focus on the session if they are in a distracting environment.
- Not suitable for hands-on learning: Online tutoring may not be effective for subjects that require hands-on learning, like art or science experiments.
If you are looking for an online tutoring service, popular options include Chegg, TutorMe, and Varsity Tutors.
Social Media Management
If you’re social media savvy and can create engaging content, social media management can be a great fit for you. Here are some tips for getting started:
- Identify your focus and target audience (i.e. B2B, B2C, specific industry or platform)
- Stay up-to-date on social media trends and best practices
- Develop your content creation and curation skills
- Create a portfolio showcasing your work and results
According to Glassdoor, social media managers can earn an average of $50,473 per year in base salary, in addition to potential bonuses and commissions. Social media management jobs can be found working directly for a company, as a freelance social media manager, or working for an agency. With the growing importance of social media in business, social media management skills are in high demand.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Works well for creative people who enjoy creating and curating engaging content | Requires staying up-to-date on best practices and changes in algorithms |
| Opportunity to work with a variety of clients and industries | Can be challenging to manage multiple clients’ online presence and personalities |
| Potential for growth to higher-level management positions in marketing or advertising | May be pressure to meet tight deadlines and drive results |
Can You Make Good Money as a Social Media Manager?
Absolutely! Social media management has become a highly sought-after skill in today’s market, and it can be quite lucrative if done well. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- According to Glassdoor, the average salary for a social media manager is around $50,000 per year in the United States, with some positions paying upwards of $70,000.
- Freelance social media managers can charge anywhere from $15 to $250 an hour, depending on their level of experience and the complexity of the job.
- The demand for social media management is only increasing as more and more companies realize the importance of having a strong online presence.
If you’re interested in pursuing a career in social media management, it’s important to gain experience and build a strong portfolio. Consider taking online courses or certifications to learn the ins and outs of various social media platforms and stay up to date on industry trends.
Graphic Design
If you’re creative-minded and have a strong eye for design, graphic design can be a great remote job option. Here are some tips for getting started:
- Develop your skills by taking online courses or graphic design programs
- Build a portfolio showcasing your best work
- Stay current on industry trends and techniques
- Consider specializing in a particular area (such as web design, branding, or packaging design) to stand out from the competition
According to Glassdoor, the average base pay for a graphic designer is $48,561. However, many freelance graphic designers are able to charge more per project. Freelance graphic designers may work for a variety of clients or work directly with a company. Online platforms such as Upwork and Fiverr connect freelance graphic designers with clients from around the world.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Opportunity for creative expression and exploration | May require long hours to meet deadlines |
| Flexible work schedule and location independence | Can be challenging to find consistent work and income |
| Opportunity for growth and advancement to higher-level design positions | May require investing in expensive software and equipment |
Can you do graphic design as a side job?
Yes, you can definitely do graphic design as a side job! Here are some tips to get started:
- Build a solid portfolio of your work to showcase your skills.
- Network with potential clients and fellow designers.
- Use freelance marketplaces such as Upwork or Fiverr to find projects.
- Consider creating a website to showcase your services and attract potential clients.
- Stay up-to-date on industry trends and software to remain competitive.
Conclusion
In today’s world with the COVID-19 pandemic, the demand for remote work options is at an all-time high. Working from home offers professionals the chance to balance their work and personal lives, while also saving time and money on commuting. The jobs discussed in this article are just some of the many remote work opportunities available, but they’re among the most popular and accessible.
The Pros of Remote Work
- Greater flexibility and autonomy in your work
- Savings on commuting, clothing and other work-related expenses
- Potential for higher income or earning more per hour with freelance work
- Opportunities for growth and skill development on your own time
- Work-life balance and the ability to work from anywhere in the world
The Cons of Remote Work
- May require more self-discipline and time management skills
- May experience fewer opportunities for collaboration and social interaction
- Can face technical difficulties with remote communication tools
- Isolate from others if you have a job that is 100% remote
- Employers may have trouble monitoring productivity and providing necessary feedback
Overall, remote work is becoming a more viable option for many professionals in today’s job market. By pursuing one of the jobs discussed in this article, you can enjoy the many benefits of working remotely while also maintaining a stable income and growing your career prospects.
