Work-at-Home Job vs Home-Based Business

The purpose of this article is to inform you of the many things to consider when pondering a work at home job or starting a home based business. I’ll give you an idea of the various opportunities available and how to look for them, as well as how to research companies and what to watch out for.

Since you’re reading this, chances are you’ve at least considered working at home or starting your own home based business as a means of extra income, if not your sole income. We have something in common. I have wanted to do one or the other for probably ten years now. I have tried and failed enough times to at least be able to spot a scam. Unfortunately, some scams are a little more difficult to recognize. Enough of that for now though. I’ll get into it a bit later.

First, I’d like to talk about working at home. Working at home is still working for someone else. You still have a boss, someone to answer to. You still get a paycheck. It can be more fulfilling than a traditional 9 to 5 job though, because you can work out of the comfort of your own home without having someone hover over you. You can work in your pajamas if you’d like! But, there are definitely distractions to think about. Kids, pets, neighbors, and your significant other to name a few, can keep you from getting your work done. Before you know it the day is over and you’ve accomplished next to nothing. You definitely have to have self-discipline or learn it real quick.

Actually finding a work at home job can be next to impossible. There are a lot of opportunities available, but keep in mind that there are also a lot more people competing for the job. Most jobs of this type are clerical, computer related, or freelance work. I’ve found that most require you to have extensive experience and/or a degree of some kind. The process is much like getting a traditional job. You fill out an application and/or send in a resume. If you are selected as a candidate, you will most likely have to go through a phone interview. Some companies also do background checks. After you get hired you will most likely go through a training program of some kind. Once your training is completed you will begin working on your own and receiving paychecks. Most of the companies I have seen pay once or twice a month. Also, one thing to keep in mind when looking for a work at home job is insurance and benefits. I have found a few companies that offer full benefits but the majority of them do not. Some may offer minimal benefits like vacation, but not usually insurance.