Connect with the Global Marketplace

Businesses are increasingly hiring home-based freelancers to perform tasks ranging from software development to writing press materials.

Two sites, Elance and oDesk serve as middlemen between job seekers and businesses eager to contract with them. They handle the whole process from hiring to payment. Together the sites have 20,000 open projects -- ranging from $20 to $80,000 -- at any one time. Post your profile and take optional assessment tests to measure your skill level. Then search the job postings and place bids on the opportunities that work for you. Many people start low -- very low -- with their rates to get their foot in the door to build a following. Your rate is determined by you.

Work-At-Home Opportunities

Before you accept a virtual call center job, be sure to check out the company thoroughly to determine how it operates and how you will be paid. Review these tips, so, you don't have an unpleasant surprise after you accept the position!

On-Site vs. Virtual Call Center Jobs
At some companies, call center workers work in a typical office setting. Others permit employees to work from home. If you are working at a call center job from home make sure you have the equipment you need including high speed internet access, a phone line you can dedicate to the call center job, and a computer with an operating system compatible with the company's technology.

Training
Check to find out whether the call center company provides paid training or whether you have to pay. The information should be available on the company web site. If not, call or email to verify fees before you accept a job that could cost you hundreds of dollars in start-up costs. For what it's worth, I'm not a big fan of companies that charge you to go to work for them. Again, in my opinion, I believe that if a company wants to hire you it should provide training at no cost to the employee.

Independent Contractor vs. Employee
If you are hired as an independent contractor, rather than as an employee, you will be responsible for paying taxes on your earnings. The company may also require you to incorporate, which is an added expense. In some cases, when hiring call center workers as employees, benefits are provided. So, check on that also.

Be Realistic About Earnings
How are you going to be paid? You may receive hourly pay, but, you may not. If you are paid by the minutes (talk time) that you are phone or per call, your earnings will limited by the volume and length of the calls you receive. There may not be a minimum guaranteed amount of pay.

Company Research
Make sure the company is legitimate. Check with the Better Business Bureau or Federal Trade Commission to see if they have any complaints. Also research the company online to confirm, as best you can, that the company is legitimate and that there is a good chance of making money.