Even More Home-Based Opportunities

Posted on Nov 8th 2009, 10:37 am, under Career Advice

Continuing our series on working from home, we bring you some more unusual occupations that have been made possible by technology. If you're ready to try something new, or just tired of that morning commute, one of these jobs could be just what you're looking for:

Virtual juror: Believe it or not, you can actually make some money just from being opinionated (and it doesn't involve blogging). As an independent virtual juror, you'll assist lawyers in analyzing and evaluating cases before they decide to argue them to court. Sites such as Online Verdict and Virtual Juror will pay up to $60 per case, which you can easily make in an hour or two in front of your computer.

Online teacher: With the recent boom in virtual universities and online courses, demand for subject experts is on the upswing. There's a wide array of job postings online, ranging from world religions instructor to opticianry professor. If you've got expertise in a particular subject, and experience in actual classroom teaching, you may wish to look into this career if you want to work from the comfort of your own home.

Concierge: At an increasing number of top hotels, when guests ask for restaurant recommendations and sightseeing suggestions, they are referred to virtual concierges. Through video-conferencing technology, you'll help tourists see the best of your hometown by providing them with leisure suggestions tailored to their interests.

Virtual nurse: If you're a registered nurse, and you've gotten tired of the grueling 12- and 24-hour shifts at hospitals, you might wish to try to a stint in nursing support and teletriage. You'll be asked to take phone calls from people with medical emergencies and decide whether they need to be transported immediately to the emergency room. You'll also be asked to help resolve minor health issues, thereby saving your patients a costly appointment with a doctor.

Patient advocate: A position created by the growing complexity of our healthcare system, patient advocates help sick individuals manage the numerous bureaucratic and logistical requirements, such as contacting doctors, getting copies of medical records, and accompanying them to medical check-ups. Because relatives don't often live close by, patient advocates play a valuable role in maintaining the health of those who need the most care, such as the senior citizens.