A wide range of clerical tasks can now be undertaken remotely, away from the office, from basic data entry and telemarketing to medical claims processing and basic internet marketing. Internet jobs for the clerical worker require as much skill as any job performed in the physical office environment. For instance, a reputable job typing at home will require the same typing speed as one performed in an office under the physical scrutiny of a supervisor.
Of course, one of the most important things you will need to work from home successfully in this field is a reliable computer and internet connection. Dial up is almost obsolete these days and is certainly unsuitable for working remotely. The use of instant messaging software such as Yahoo messenger is often required, so you should become familiar with this form of communication. The more you can learn about the use of a wide range of software applications the more marketable you will become.
Aside from obtaining traditional diplomas and degrees in fields related to clerical duties such as Office Management, there are a number of online programs that allow you to take tests to obtain certification in fields such as Data Entry and Telemarketing at a reasonable cost. You will need to prepare a strong resume, citing both your real world and internet based experience in order to attract the attention of virtual employers just as you would when applying for a more traditional job.
There are undoubtedly a large number of scams out there. Many offers of work at home employment are little more than new ways to trick you out of money with little or nothing to show for the investment. You will need to do a little homework before you embark upon your virtual clerical career.
There is however a growing number of sites that guarantee payment without initial money paid up front by either employer or employee. These sites employ techniques such as screen capture and real time monitoring to ensure that an employee is properly performing their assigned tasks, but on the flip side, in order to protect workers they carefully vet the employers in order to be able to provide a guarantee that employees will be compensated for their efforts. Clerical workers from all over the world are now able to interact with and work for employers anywhere at any time.
It is unlikely you will ''get rich quick'' but your work at home income may eventually allow you to leave the stress and inconvenience of the daily commute to work behind. Compensation for talented virtual employees is often right in line with that paid to traditional ones. On the downside, few additional benefits such as healthcare coverage are available to those who perform clerical work at home. However there are a number of insurance companies who do have special rates and discounts for the self employed individual and their families.
It takes discipline and dedication to work from a home environment. But for those who are able to devote the time and effort to do so, the opportunities are increasing on a daily basis. In difficult financial times employers are looking to cut costs wherever possible, and for many hiring virtual employees is the perfect answer.
