As society’s values and priorities regarding work and life have shifted over the past few years, flexibility has become a top demand for many job searchers. Perhaps the idea of a typical office based 9 to 5 job does not appeal to you, or perhaps you want to work in a variety of jobs to explore multiple interests. For some, flexible work means they can care for young children or pursue a course of study. Whatever the goal, there are more options than ever before for work outside of traditional roles. In this article, we’ll give you a guide to flexible jobs you can land today.
First, understand that job flexibility is not the same for every person. An ideal flexible job might lead you to opportunities such as work-from-home positions, part-time roles, or full-time jobs with a personalized schedule. Or it may mean freelance opportunities.
To find a flexible arrangement that suits you It can help to be aware of the many possibilities that are out there. After reading this you’ll be better equipped to aim for a flexible job that matches your needs and preferences. Let’s get started on the journey towards a more balanced and fulfilling work life.
Virtual Assistant
Virtual assistants provide administrative support to small businesses or sole business owners and executives. Duties of the job can cover a wide range of tasks, but often includes managing emails, managing a calendar and scheduling appointments. That’s a virtual assistant you might also manage deliveries, order supplies, set up online accounts, write correspondence or track expenses. This role is ideal for individuals with excellent organizational and sharp communication skills. If you have experience in administrative work, being a virtual assistant could be a natural fit.
Of course this role is flexible since you don’t have to be on-site. However, a virtual assistant position may also offer flexible hours, since often these positions involve working for smaller businesses who need part time help. For job seekers who want to cut out a commute, or want to work at home, a virtual assistant role can be a great option to explore.
Content Creator/ Social Media Manager:
Are you someone who likes making videos to post on social media? If you are digitally savvy and like to engage with online followers, consider pursuing content creation and social media management. Many businesses, especially small-size businesses or startups, outsource these tasks. As a content creator, you will create graphics, post photos or write copy to post on Instagram, TikTok or Pinterest.
A social media manager also interacts with a company’s social media account followers. You might follow up on comments or answer questions from users.
This role can often be remote, and the job is likely to be more flexible if the role is for this small company or a startup.
To get started, brush up on your design skills and learn to create appealing posts for social media platforms on a graphics platform, like Canva. Once you are able to create eye-catching designs, put them together in a portfolio. Then, you can use your samples to apply to jobs as a content creator or social media manager.
Event Photographer
A good photographer is always in demand for special events. So, for those who enjoy shooting the scene, this role can be ideal. Of course, wedding photographers are always in demand, but there are plenty of other occasions where clients hire photographers. For example, family reunions, company events, holiday parties, graduations and birthday parties are just a few ideas.
What’s more, a photographer can choose to shoot only events that best work with their preferred schedule.
To qualify to be an event photographer, you don’t have to have any certifications, but it’s helpful to take some photography classes. If you’re just getting started, offer to shoot parties or events for friends for free, while you build your portfolio. Then use that portfolio of your best photos to win new clients.
Real Estate Agent
A job as a real estate agent presents a unique opportunity for people who want a flexible and potentially lucrative career path. Real estate agents are licensed professionals who assist clients who want to buy, sell or rent property. One of the advantages of this profession is its inherent flexibility. Real estate agents usually set their own schedules for showing properties and assisting clients. This is particularly beneficial for those who value independence and want to structure their work around other things in their life.
The flexibility in real estate extends beyond scheduling. As agents primarily work on a commission basis, agents can tailor their income based on their aspirations and the time commitment they are able to give. Moreover, the nature of the real estate market allows agents to tap into various niches, like residential, commercial, or rental properties. This kind of adaptability also extends to client interactions, since it’s common to communicate remotely, giving virtual property tours, and virtual consultations.
To explore this path, check on your state’s requirements for becoming a licensed real estate agent. Often real estate certification requires a few classes and an exam to prove you know the ins and outs of the real estate field. Then, seek out jobs with smaller real estate firms in your local area, who are looking for new talent.
Dog Walker
For those who love dogs and the outdoors, a job as a dog walker offers a flexible and rewarding role. As a dog walker, you’ll have the flexibility to create your own schedule and determine the number of hours you dedicate each day. For that reason this role is especially convenient for students or parents who need to be available for their children at certain hours. Dog walking is not only physically energizing but also fulfilling, since the chance to connect with animals can provide a sense of well-being.
As a dog walker, there are no official qualifications needed, so this job not hard to qualify for. You simply need to love dogs and have loads of energy to handle the most energetic dogs on a walk. You can work independently or join a service that contracts dog walking duties for multiple families. This job can be an excellent fit for those who like variety, since dog walkers interact with many different and unique dogs throughout their day.
Personal Trainer
A personal trainer position can be a very flexible career. It revolves around fitness and helping clients achieve their health goals so it helps to be passionate about those things. This profession allows you to design your own schedule, while you accommodate different clients. Whether you prefer to work early mornings, evenings, or weekends, this job allows you to customize your hours around your lifestyle.
The flexibility of a personal trainer job extends to the way you choose to train clients. You can choose to work independently, collaborate with gyms, or offer virtual training sessions. In addition, this variety of working situations widens your potential client base. The ability to structure workouts and consultations around your own time can give you a great amount of control in your career. If you love fitness, and enjoy helping people discover how to work out to achieve goals, this is a great role to explore.
Handyman
As a handyman, you set your own schedule, and take on projects that align with your skills and availability. This kind of flexibility is ideal for people who have multiple commitments, and who need a job that adapts to their lifestyle.
Handyman work also lets you work in different environments, like homes, businesses or office buildings. Depending on your skills, you might offer minor repairs, patch holes in walls, and hang curtain rods. Or you may choose to work on more extensive home improvement projects, like changing light fixtures, repairing a fence or fixing appliances. As a handyman, you choose the type of work you specialize in and adjust your workload accordingly. If you have experience with repair, and like to diagnose problems and solutions, this role could be a perfect fit.
Online Tech Support
Online tech support roles allow you to assist customers with technical issues remotely. This job is great for individuals with a strong technical background and offers the flexibility of remote work. These roles often offer flexible schedules, since companies often provide tech support around the clock. An early morning or late night shift are options when seeking out a virtual support role.
These jobs are great for people with some tech experience in the past. However, if you happen to be both tech savvy, and great at customer service (patient and helpful), this role can be a great match for you.
There Is A Flexible Job Out There For You
Thanks to opportunities in the digital age, and more opportunities for part time, flexible work it is possible to find the perfect job that aligns with your interests, skills, and needs for flexibility. Think about your skills and interests, then choose a flexible job that best aligns with those. With determination and perseverance, you can land a flexible job today, creating a better balance between your work life and personal life.