VirtualVocations

Multiple Streams of Income

One of the benefits about working from home is you have the option of who you want to work for, and what you do. You have total control. You explore the jobs; find the one that is right for you, and then you can apply for the job. Have your resume and cover letter in order and apply.

Occasionally there are jobs that you would love to do, but for one reason or another, there is a problem. Perhaps the job is only for a few hours a week. Possibly the pay is not enough, even though you really want to do the work. In addition, you may need to do the work in order to gain experience in a field where you are lacking.

This is a time when you need multiple streams of income. Do not give up your dreams of being a writer, for example, because you have no published articles. Becoming published usually means to work for little money at first. Alternatively, you may want to do something in graphic arts, but how can you prove you can do the job? Have samples ready. Get a feel for what peoples interests are and build on that.

I have a friend back East who designs headstones for a stonecutter. She got the job by making some samples and sending them to him. He did not hire her right away, but later became busy and used her services. The other designer he used, moved on, so she became the main designer. She also sells products, and writes a small column for the local weekly newspaper. She usually has one or two articles written ahead of time, so no pressure there. This is how she supports herself.

Any one of her jobs does not pay enough to support her, but together all the streams of provide income to combine to make a nice living for her. She gets to do what she loves and fills her need for creativity. All of her jobs are very flexible at to deadlines.

The headstones designs depend on the family’s approval. No pressure there either. She sells products made by a young stay-at-home mom. Her ingredients are all natural. She is too shy to sell them, so my friend sells her products. This is all by word of mouth, they gives out a small sample, and they order more. It is another easy, no pressure job. So do not write off a job just because it is not perfect. Think of my friend and her multiple streams of income. You could do this too.

These are just a few examples of how you can have your dream job, as well as keep working at home.

Posted:Monday, March 10, 2008