by Ysolt Usigan
In today's world of high connectivity, anyone can do
virtually anything at home. And for those who have young
kids, household priorities, and commTech Schoolng constraints, jobs
that can be "called in" are viable options.
Many are jumping on the work-at-home bandwagon. In fact, the
International Telework Association and Council report that
approximately 23 million people work at home at least
part-time, a number, number expected to increase as
workplace technology becomes more and more seamless.
Think clocking in from your kitchen is the right choice for
you? Read on for telecommTech Schoolng tips from successful
home-office professionals.
Computer Software Production
Scott Testa knew that the competition for landing a
convenient telecommTech Schoolng job was tough. After all, everyone
wants such a gig - they're convenient, you work at your own
pace, and you don't have a boss looking over your shoulder.
He knew he had to set himself apart from the rest, so he
used education to distinguish himself.
After earning a Ph.D. in education through Drexel
University's online degree program, Scott founded numerous
software companies. Now he works from his home as the chief
operating officer of Mindbridge Software, a company that
produces and markets IntraSmart, which helps companies share
information and knowledge. The program eventually leads to
improved collaboration and results in the kind of teamwork
necessary to dramatically increase workplace productivity.
A typical day for Scott consists of sending out
early-morning e-mails in between phone calls to Europe and
Asia, conference calls throughout the day, and occasional
business lunches and networking events.
His biggest driver of success? The mindset that working from
home must reflect the same initiative and motivation as if
you physically in the office. "Dress for work and keep the
same hours you typically would in and out of the office," he
asserts.
Marketing and Public Relations
Shannon Cherry, a marketing and public relations firm owner
who does much of her work via email, is used to using the
Internet to advance - she even earned her master's degree in
communications administration from the University of Memphis
online.
In any endeavor, be it breaking into an in-demand
telecommTech Schoolng position like PR and marketing, or an industry
of your choice, Cherry stresses the power of effective
communication and presenting your skills in the brightest
light.
"It's important that people looking to work from home or set
out on trying their own home-based business learn to brand
themselves early on," she advises. "That means they need to
market their uniqueness."
Along with her master's degree, what distinguishes Cherry is
that she's reliable and trustworthy. "I suggest taking that
a step further. Market yourself by using stories or
testimonials to clients or prospective employers," she
asserts. "And, network like crazy."
Financial Consultant and Sales
Anthony Shafer, a commercial finance consultant for
LoanFight, Inc., usually works in his home office from 10
a.m. to 10 p.m. At times, he even works as late as 1 a.m.
"I'm constantly on the phone with banks, title companies,
lawyers, trustees, and clients," he explains. "With time
differences, I have to get a hold of people at all hours of
the day even if it means staying up late or making calls
when I'm not 'on the clock.'"
As far as home distractions go, Shafer admits that the TV
often gets him, although it's actually a requirement for his
job. "I keep CNBC on so I can follow the financial world,"
he says. "I also watch the indexes that affect us on the
Internet all day." Understanding the line between work and
play is key to staying focused.
Also important is desire and devotion, says Anthony, who is
currently working on his business information systems degree
from DeVry Online. "You've got a be a salesman, but do it
with a serious desire to please people," he says,
Graphic Design
What better place to get creative than at home? In a field
like graphic design where you're constantly called upon to
come up with unique ideas, the comforts of home may be the
best environment to keep your creative juices flowing.
The only downside: Most graphic design jobs available to
telecommuters are often freelancing opportunities. This
means you'll miss out on benefits like health insurance, a
steady salary, and job stability.
Jill Sabato, a recent graduate of the School of Visual Arts,
tried freelance design projects when she was in between
jobs. "I liked working at home, but when you've got bills to
pay, it's not a good idea to count on the money you'll make
from a project," she explains.
The financial constraints are a serious consideration for
those who accept per-project assignments from home. "Who
knows when you'll get another assignment? What if the
company that hired you flakes?" explains Jill.
But if you do find a company with which you're comfortable,
keep up with your from-home correspondence, and always give
your best. "If you freelance from home for a company that
knows your work, and they're happy with it, stick with them.
Keep in contact so they know they can always count on you
for projects."
|
|