Get a Job but Work at Home
In our November issue, we took a brief look at
various options for the woman who wants or needs
to work but doesn't want to leave home to do it.
Now. we'll examine the idea of working for
someone else but doing that work at home.
Any number of
jobs available in the traditional work place can
just as easily be done from the comfort of your
own home. That's not the problem. The problem is
to convince the employer this is a practical
solution for him and for you. Before you can do
that, however, and before you even
"shop" for a job, you must determine
what sort of work you are suited and qualified to
perform.
What
Kind of Work Is for You?
Aptitude tests,
career guidebooks, etc. can help you with this.
One source is here. In addition to (or
instead of) tests and books or career counseling,
you will need to do some prayer and self
examination.
Obviously, the
first question to ask yourself relates to any
previous work or volunteer experience you've had.
Many jobs require a variety of skills which may
well be applied to other jobs, so make a list of
the things you did rather than the job titles.
You'll be a
happier and more productive employee if you are
working at something you love to do, so add
hobbies and interests to your list. Also think
about things you do well around the house and add
those to your list.
Round off your
list by taking a realistic inventory of your
natural skills and talents. Are you good with
details, do you have strong language or math
skills, are you patient with children or older
folks, can you take something apart and rebuild
it?
A New
List
Considering all
the attributes you've listed, begin a new list of
job titles for which you might qualify. Don't
bother listing anything you know you wouldn't
enjoy. Keep this list handy for several days as
you pray about it and add to it.
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Meanwhile, browse through the
yellow pages and want ads to get more ideas of
jobs you could do. Keep working on your list for
several days before actually looking for a
position. Finding
the Job
You'll need to
find a job before you can convince the employer
to allow you to work at home. Here are some job
search hints.
1. The usual.
Check want ads and classifieds in your local
papers and on the web.
2. Approach
local businesses who may need your services and
ask for an interview. Don't be shy about this;
almost 40% of today's workers got their jobs
without answering an ad.
3. Network. Tell
everyone you know you are looking for work. Be
broad in your description of the type of work you
are seeking. Get the word out to friends and
relatives in other towns as well.
4. Use the
internet. Here are a few places to visit:
Also, have a
look at
Career Magazine for more ideas.
Sell
Yourself
Once you've
decided where to apply, review your list of
skills, aptitudes and talents so you're ready to
convince the prospective employer of your value.
Be modest but not afraid to expound a bit on your
qualifications.
Also, I always
suggest telling the employer you are a Christian.
You can do this verbally or by wearing a
Christian symbol such as a fish lapel pin.
Once you are
completely convinced that the job is yours, it's
time to broach the subject of working at home. If
the employer's response is cool, suggest you
might work on site for a while and then begin
doing some work at home on a trial basis. Say
that this could open new doors of opportunity for
both you and the company.
If the employer
is dead set that you work on site, you can seek
another job or try your request after you've
become an indispensable employee.
Most
importantly, Don't forget you serve an awesome
God. Ask Him to influence the situation according
to His will.
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