Viral Global News had the opportunity to speak with several self-employed individuals who handled their businesses from home. They illustrated experience, understanding and the know-how of gainful employment. In the midst of punching out of the fast lane of 9 to 5, these individuals found something more. Pride, enthusiasm and the ability to control the everyday ongoings of their life. There are great choices for paths of self-employment. Here are some from the experts.
Stacy - Virtual Assistant
When I started 15 years ago, virtual assistants (VAs) were few and far between. Because, of oDesk, Elance and so forth, the explosion of VAs are evident. I handle schedules of business executives who travel. I draft memos, process newsletters, and correspond emails. There are personal and professional VAs. One of the best avenues to start from? The International Virtual Assistants Association - consider certification, especially to escalate above the competition. My bills, mortgage and car payment are paid by my business.
Kelly - Tech Support
I love computers, I love cell phones. I put the love of what I love to do in Craigslist. It was a slow start, certainly. No one makes a million out of the gate, or maybe never. It’s sticking with it, sincerely, don’t let go. I did little things like PC backups and I groaned, like come on! Then one day, a big corporation reached out to me, and stated they had a laptop that had been corrupted. I fixed it, and they continued to call me, but not only that - they referred me to fellow business partners. Four years in, I had to hire two assistants. The thought of punching into a timeclock brings me the cold shivers.
Sasha - Cable Installation
Yes, I am a girl who knows a mean wrench! I love tinkering with electronics. My family and friends called me all of the time. So, I decided to contact a few places for cable and satellite installation. They liked what I had to say, so I outfitted my van, and off I went. I love what I do. There is nothing more thrilling than climbing a ladder, or helping a family watch Disney by my connection. Because, the business needs installation folks like me, it can be really fruitful. If you hate heights or bad weather, this probably isn’t the gig for you.
Cory - Customer Service
I spent seven years in retail and hated it. The policies, the procedures and management angered me. It was a lackadaisical environment due to poor pay, and equally poor management. So, I quit. I had no Plan B and had to move back in with my folks. That angered me some more, so I funneled it into constructive responses. I started hitting companies locally, then nationally. I called and sent over proposal after proposal.
I offered phone customer service, chat and email services. My Skype name was my biggest portal to success. Yes, their customers could call me on Skype and there I was to help them out. Clients provide me a snapshot of accounts, and I work from there. In just eight years, I now have a team of 10 Skype agents - I love what I do. Don’t make excuses, don’t fear rejection, just do it!
