Staying Fit
Whether you’re making a career switch or looking for a new side hustle, there’s a good chance you’re also thinking about how remote working could fit into your career plans.
The good news is that even if you’ve spent most of your career in jobs that didn’t really offer the opportunity to work from home, there are now many remote jobs that don’t require you to have direct work experience in that field. From tutoring to travel, chances are you already have some knowledge in your personal or professional background that could help you land a work-from-home job that’s hiring now.
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The following 10 jobs offer remote work opportunities that don’t require previous experience. Clicking on the "Search for" link and it will take you to a list of the current postings for that position on the AARP Job Board. You may click on this link for a search of all work from home jobs available on the AARP Job Board. Median pay is based on the most recent data available through the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, except where noted.
1. Customer service representative
Median pay: $18.16 per hour
Search for customer service representative jobs
If you’re comfortable talking with people and finding solutions, you already have the experience required to succeed in this job. In most cases, the employer will provide you with the computer equipment you will use while working from home to respond to calls or messages from customers needing assistance. Employers also typically offer training, along with a script you use to reply to common questions.
Because so many industries want their customers to be satisfied, you may be able to find a job in a field of interest to you, such as technology, clothing or health care. Keep in mind, however, that some customers may be upset before they connect with you. An even temper is a valuable tool in this trade.
2. Data entry clerk
Median pay: $17.40 per hour
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This job usually requires you to type information from forms and documents into the company’s computer. Your typing ability and attention to accuracy are the most important skills for this job. Health care, banking and insurance are some of the industries that most frequently employ data entry clerks.
3. Administrative assistant
Median pay: $21.19 per hour
Search for administrative assistant jobs
One advantage of being a work-from-home administrative assistant — or “virtual assistant,” as they are also called — is that the hours are flexible or part time, in many cases. The responsibilities are largely the same as for an in-office administrative assistant. You’ll be expected to coordinate meetings, assist staff with various projects and help write letters and other documents.
While you can choose to work for just one employer, many virtual assistants approach the job as gig work and work with multiple businesses. If you’re successful at this model, it can grow into a healthy business of your own.
