- 1. Virtual Assistant
- 2. Online Tutor
- 3. Transcriptionist
- 4. Sales Representative
- 5. Proofreader or Copyeditor
- 6. Data Entry Clerk
- 7. Travel Consultant
- 8. Customer Service Representative
- 9. Social Media Coordinator
- How to Get a Remote Job Without Any Experience
- Where to Discover Remote Job Opportunities
- Final Thoughts
In the ever-evolving landscape of work, 2023 has brought with it a surge in opportunities for those seeking to kickstart their careers from the comfort of their homes.
As per the recent data by Global Workplace Analytics, nearly 56% of the U.S. workforce is currently working remotely at least part-time, and this figure is projected to rise in the coming years.
Our increasingly interconnected world has opened up an array of entry-level positions that not only offer flexibility but also come with high earning potential. These are roles that challenge the traditional notion of ‘starting small‘.
In fact, according to Glassdoor, the average annual salary for remote entry-level jobs in recent years is around $54,344.
In this article, I’ll dive into the top 9 entry-level work-from-home jobs that are breaking the mold. Whether you’re a fresh graduate, someone looking to switch careers, or simply seeking a job that provides work-life balance without compromising on pay; this list will provide you with all the inspiration you need.
Let’s navigate through the promising world of remote work, where opportunity and convenience coexist.
1. Virtual Assistant
Let’s start by channeling your inner office superhero. Picture yourself as a virtual assistant, the unsung hero of the corporate world. You might be thinking, “Wait, what? I’m just an administrative assistant who works from the comfort of my couch.”
Well, my friend, you’re so much more than that.
As a virtual assistant, you’re the backbone of the business, the wizard behind the curtain, the puppet master pulling all the strings. You’re scheduling meetings, managing events, making phone calls, and creating online content.
And let’s not forget data entry – the lifeblood of any modern business. But here’s the kicker: you’re doing all this while lounging in your favorite pajamas.
And guess what?
It’s not just a 9-to-5 gig. Many businesses hire virtual assistants on a contract basis, giving you the flexibility to juggle multiple clients and earn more money. So, if you’re into the whole freelance scene, this could be your golden ticket.
Pro Tip: Master the art of time-management. This is essential when working as a virtual assistant, as you’ll need to be on top of all deadlines and deliverables. |
Now, you might be wondering, “What skills do I need to be a virtual assistant?”
Well, if you’re a multitasking maestro with a keen eye for detail, you’re already halfway there. Add in stellar communication and organization skills, and you’re practically a shoo-in.
And if you have any specific skills that align with the company’s needs (like writing for a content creation company), that’s just icing on the cake.
Average salary: $41,192
2. Online Tutor
Not only is tutoring an incredibly rewarding role, but it’s also a great way to earn an extra income while working remotely.
The main requirements for this job are:
- Strong communication skills.
- A good knowledge base in your chosen subject.
- The ability to explain complex concepts.
Those passionate about teaching can apply their expertise by tutoring students online via platforms like Preply, TutorMe, or Chegg.
With platforms such as TutorMe and Chegg offering virtual tutoring services for students of all ages, you can easily find clients across the globe in need of your help.
Average Salary: $22,000 – $84,000
3. Transcriptionist
Alright, folks. If you’re the type who spills coffee all over your keyboard because your hands can’t stop shaking, this job isn’t for you.
But if you’re a speed demon on the keys with an accuracy that rivals a sniper’s aim, then being a transcriptionist might just be your ticket to work-from-home success.
IMPORTANT: You’ll need to understand and accurately transcribe audio files into text. Even a little typo can throw off the entire script. |
A transcriptionist, in simple terms, is a human version of Siri or Alexa, except you’re turning audio media into text instead of answering random questions about the weather. This could mean transcribing anything from podcasts and speeches to interviews and even TV shows or movies.
No prior experience is necessary – just a quick wit, sharp ears, and fingers that can keep up.
Now, don’t expect a 9 to 5 grind. Transcription work is typically more of a freelancing or part-time gig.
But hey, who really wants to be stuck in the office all day anyway? There are plenty of platforms like Rev, Upwork, and Scribie where you can hunt down opportunities.
Or, if you’re feeling ambitious, you can try to score a gig with larger media companies who need help managing their never-ending stream of content.
Average salary: $20 per hour
4. Sales Representative
Let’s get real for a moment here; who wouldn’t love to mix business with pleasure, interacting with people while staying cozy at home?
Sounds like a dream, doesn’t it?
Well, welcome to the world of sales! This industry is your golden ticket to achieving that perfect balance.
Now, you might be thinking, “But I don’t have experience.” Stop right there!
In the sales game, it’s all about the hustle. The beauty of being a sales representative lies in its commission-based structure. Essentially, the better you are at your job, the fatter your paycheck. How’s that for motivation?
As a sales rep, your daily grind will include researching your customer base (yeah, a little bit of detective work), reaching out to potential customers (hello, charm offensive), following up on leads (gotta keep those lines hot), and keeping existing customers satisfied (because happy customers are repeat customers).
And the best part? You can find these roles across any industry, and most don’t even require a bachelor’s degree.
But hold up!
Before you dive headfirst into this pool of opportunity, let’s address the elephant in the room: scams.
Stay vigilant, my friend. If a job requires you to pay upfront for a product, withholds pay until you recruit more salespeople, or only pays commission without a full salary, run for the hills.
Now, let’s talk resume. What skills should you highlight?
- Public speaking
- Customer service
- Problem-solving
- Communication
- Resilience
These are your weapons in the sales arena. So, ready to take on the sales world from your living room?
Remember, in sales, the world is your oyster (or commission check).
Average salary: $55,934
Pro Tip: Find a company whose product you love. For instance, you are a gamer and you’re passionate about the latest gaming console, why not get a job selling it? It’ll make your work much more enjoyable and you’ll be able to give potential customers genuinely helpful advice. |
5. Proofreader or Copyeditor
As with data entry, proofreading and copyediting are two roles that don’t require a degree or specific experience. All you need is strong written English (or whichever language you choose to work in) and an eye for detail.
If you have the patience to comb through words with a fine-tooth comb, then this could be the perfect role for you.
Now, don’t expect to make millions as a copyeditor or proofreader; these roles are more suited for those who simply want some extra cash on the side because of their knack for detail-oriented work. You might find yourself working in educational publishing, corporate communications, and even content marketing.
Other than having a deep understanding of the English language, you’ll also need to familiarize yourself with style guides. They tell us which words to spell differently in British and American English (for example, ‘color’ vs. ‘colour’), and they help ensure that all text meets the same quality standards.
This isn’t just a job for grammar geeks, either. If you have a passion for writing and want to improve your literary skillset, copyediting, and proofreading can be great additions to your portfolio.
The most important skills you need to bring to the table are patience, accuracy, and an eye for detail. If these three traits come naturally to you, then this job might just be your ticket to flexible freedom.
Average salary: $50,010
6. Data Entry Clerk
Data entry clerks, make some noise!
Don’t be fooled by the name. Data entry is far from a mundane job. In fact, data entry jobs are becoming more complex and specialized each year, making them incredibly valuable in the world of work-from-home.
First off, let’s define what data entry is. In its simplest form, it’s entering data into a computer system or database from paper documents, emails, audio recordings, or other sources of information.
It might not sound too glamorous at first glance, but it can involve more complex tasks such as verifying and correcting data entry errors or creating detailed databases.
But here’s the kicker: you don’t need a degree to be successful in this role. All it takes is good attention to detail, strong English skills (or whichever language you choose to work with), and a few months of practice or training on the job.
To excel in this role, you’ll need a few key skills up your sleeve. Attention to detail is a must – you’re dealing with data, after all. You’ll also need to type like the wind and be efficient (read: no time for dilly-dallying).
So, if you’ve got these traits in your arsenal, then congratulations! You’re well on your way to becoming a high-earning data entry clerk. And who said data entry was boring, eh?
Average salary: $23,000 – $42,000
7. Travel Consultant
You don’t need to be a travel expert to break into this job. Just an eagle eye for details, killer customer service, and some insider knowledge about the industry – that’s all it takes.
Travel consulting is one of the best-paying entry level work from home jobs out there. As a travel consultant, you’ll be playing a matchmaker between customers and their ideal holiday, all from the comfort of your own home.
Your daily duties will include helping customers plan exciting trips to exciting places, booking flights and accommodations, recommending activities in destinations they’re visiting, and solving any issues that crop up along the way.
So, what skills should you highlight when applying?
A sharp eye for detail, excellent customer service skills, and the ability to think on your feet.
You’ll also need a decent understanding of geography so you can give customers accurate information about destinations and flight times. You’ll also need to be able to book flights using booking systems like Amadeus and Sabre, as well as have a deep understanding of the different tourist hot spots around the world.
Oh, and if you want to really stand out from the crowd? Learn how to speak a second language, like Spanish, French, or Mandarin. That’ll give your job prospects a serious boost.
Average salary: $24.90 per hour
8. Customer Service Representative
Let’s face it, not all heroes wear capes. Some are comfortably ensconced in their home office, headset on, ready to tackle the day’s challenges.
Yes, I’m talking about customer service representatives. Believe it or not, there’s more to this job than just answering calls and emails.
Every company worth its salt sells something, be it a service or a product. And where there’s a sale, there’s bound to be a customer with a query, complaint, or sometimes just looking for a sympathetic ear.
This is where you, the unsung hero, come in.
You’ll be the first point of contact, the friendly voice on the other end of the line, helping customers navigate through their issues.
And who knows? You might just end up being the reason someone decides to stick around with the company. How’s that for job satisfaction?
Now, I wouldn’t be doing my duty as your guide to the world of work-from-home jobs if I didn’t warn you about the potential pitfalls. In the realm of customer service, flexibility is king, but it’s not always the 9-to-5 kind.
You may find yourself manning the fort during nights and weekends. But hey, who needs a social life when you can have the joy of soothing irate customers, right?
But don’t let this scare you off. This job is a goldmine of skills waiting to be honed. Communication, problem-solving, empathy, patience, and active listening are just a few of the superpowers you’ll develop.
And the best part? These skills are transferable.
They’re like a golden ticket, opening doors to new opportunities within the company or even in a whole new industry. So, are you ready to be the next customer service superstar?
Average salary: $36,335
9. Social Media Coordinator
Step right up, folks! If you have an insatiable appetite for all things social, a knack for creativity, and a yearning for remote work, then boy, do I have a job for you.
Say hello to the not-so-glamorous yet oh-so-satisfying world of Social Media Coordinators. And before you ask – no, it’s not the same as a Social Media Manager.
That’s like comparing an amateur cook to Gordon Ramsay. But hey, we all have to start somewhere, right?
As a Social Media Coordinator, your life is far from just posting selfies with cute dog filters. You’re the puppeteer behind the company’s social media platforms, making sure everything runs smoother than butter on hot toast.
You’ll be creating and scheduling posts so eye-catching they could stop a scrolling finger dead in its tracks. Engaging with followers? Check. Dealing with commenters? Absolutely, even those keyboard warriors who seem to have missed their morning coffee.
Here’s where it gets interesting. Every company is a different beast. Some may love LinkedIn. Others might be wooing TikTok.
You’ve got to be a chameleon, ready to adapt and speak the language of Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, Twitter…you catch my drift. It’s like being a social media James Bond, minus the shaken martinis.
To survive in this wild west of social media, you’re gonna need some serious skills. Writing, for starters (and no, I don’t mean just emojis). Communication, especially written – you can forget about those voice notes.
Creativity, because who wants to read a post as exciting as watching paint dry? Project management, because yes, there will be spreadsheets.
And customer service because every follower is a potential customer waiting to be wooed. So, are you ready for the challenge, future social media coordinators?
Average salary: $41,607
How to Get a Remote Job Without Any Experience
It can sometimes feel like an uphill battle when it comes to getting a job, especially if you don’t have the necessary experience or qualifications. But fear not! There are plenty of ways to jumpstart your career in remote working, even without having any prior experience.
- Start with Freelancer Platforms: Sites like Fiverr, Upwork, and PeoplePerHour can be a great way to get your foot in the door. Making an account on these platforms, showcasing your skills, and connecting with potential employers is a good first step toward finding remote work.
- Networking: Make use of social media to find remote job openings and start connecting with people who work in the same industry. Networking is a great way to build relationships, gain knowledge and get familiar with the sector you’re looking to get into.
- Volunteering: You can explore the option of providing your services for free or at a discount by volunteering or interning with organizations that offer remote roles. This offers a valuable opportunity to gain experience and enhance your portfolio without the need for a long-term commitment to a permanent position.
- Create a Portfolio: Put together a portfolio of your work, skills, and achievements that you can present to potential employers. This will give them an idea of what you’re capable of and the value that you bring to the table.
- Online Learning: Investing in yourself is always a good idea, so consider enrolling in online courses or programs that can help you develop the skills necessary for remote working. There are plenty of self-paced online learning tools available these days, making it easier and more convenient for you to learn. Google Digital Garage, for instance, is a great place to start.
Where to Discover Remote Job Opportunities
In the era where almost everything has gone digital, finding remote jobs have become much easier. Here are some key places to start looking:
- FlexJobs
- Remote OK
- Indeed
- Virtual vocations
- Working Nomads
- We Work Remotely
- Outsourcely
- Remote.co
- Europeremotely
- Remotive
You can also keep an eye out for industry forums, websites, and Facebook groups related to the field you’re interested in. Be sure to join these groups, ask questions, and take advantage of any job openings that are posted.
Final Thoughts
Work from home jobs are the way of the future – and they offer up some serious earning potential.
It’s not new news that the work landscape is changing fast, and now we have more opportunities than ever before to make our dreams of a successful remote job come true.
So whether you’re looking to get your foot in the door with entry-level jobs or be the next internet sensation, there’s something out there for everyone.
Best of all, the comfort and convenience that comes with work from home jobs means more than just extra money – it can give you a sense of freedom and flexibility to live life on your own terms.
Ready to take the plunge? Start applying for these jobs and get ready to nail your virtual interview.
There’s no better time than now. Bon courage.
About the author
Karim Bel Hadj
As his name suggests, Karim is the founder of Creme de la Karim. He fell in love with remote working since he left his first corporate job and never looked back! And because something you love is almost always better shared, he is on a mission to help all remote workers and digital nomads make the most of this amazing lifestyle. You can reach out to him via Twitter @cremedelakarim