Remote work, digital nomads, and Zoom parties have changed the career landscape. The rise of these trends has resulted in the one thing employees really want: flexibility. A recent worldwide survey showed that 94% of workers want more input when it comes to their work schedule.
If you’re tired of the 9-to-5 grind, a new career choice might be the solution. Get inspired with these twelve careers that encourage flexible hours and a better work-life balance!
- Freelance Writer
If grammar makes you giddy and you love storytelling, you might find success as a writer. Freelance writers often work in creative, technical, or marketing industries. They can find clients through freelance websites or work for one client on a freelance basis.
Salary and Outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor, writers make an average of $69,000 per annum. But the annual salary depends on the type of work done and the type of position held. The writing industry is set to grow at an average of 9% in the next decade.
Getting Started
A university degree in English, writing, or journalism can help you build the skills you need as a writer. But formal education isn’t always necessary. A strong portfolio of work can open many more opportunities!
Start by writing for online publications or even creating your own blog. An internship as a copywriter or content writer can also be beneficial for new wordsmiths.
- House Cleaner
A house cleaner is a great career opportunity with flexible hours and few educational requirements. Most companies offer on-the-job training, so all you need is motivation and the ability to work on your feet. Many people often clean houses as a side hustle or part-time job.
Salary and Outlook
The median average salary for a housekeeper is around $29,000. Self-employed house cleaners can set their own prices and potentially make more. There will be a 9% increase in demand for housekeepers in the next decade!
Getting Started
You can often find jobs on websites like Indeed, Housekeeper, and even Facebook. If you get tired of scouring Craigslist cleaning jobs, apply to work with a reputable agency. They often offer benefits and a set pay structure, in addition to some perks like a company vehicle!
There’s a surprising amount of room to grow in the house cleaning industry. Many housekeepers eventually become managers and business owners. If you’re looking for a career where you can progress, this is it!
- Online Tutor
The online education market is exploding! Online tutors can work in a specific subject area, teach languages, or help with test prep. You’ll need to be proficient in your subject area and have access to fast internet.
Salary and Outlook
Pinning down an exact salary is difficult because it depends on where your employer is based and what subject you teach. According to Glassdoor, the median salary is around $44,000, but many entry-level positions pay around $15 per hour. Although, some jobs can start as low as $7 and go up to $50 or more!
Getting Started
Many online education companies look for a university degree and a high level of knowledge in the subject taught. For languages, you’ll likely have to be a native speaker and have a deep understanding of grammatical rules. Browse job sites like Indeed or LinkedIn to get started!
- Graphic Designer
If you have an eye (and hand!) for art, you might have luck as a graphic designer. This industry encompasses motion graphics, web design, and print design. Designers can work remotely, part-time, full-time, or on a freelance basis.
Salary and Outlook
The average annual salary of a graphic designer is around $50,000. While some designers work in advertising, publishing, or agencies, the majority enjoy self-employment. Approximately 19% do freelance work, allowing them to set their own hours.
Getting Started
You don’t necessarily need a degree in graphic design to get started, but you do need to learn how to use design software. You might want to take an online course to learn the basics and build your portfolio. Employers are going to be looking for a strong portfolio that showcases your skills.
- Translator
If you’re a certified polyglot, put your knowledge to the test and become a translator! This career offers a lot of choices in where, when, and how you work. Some translators work in courtrooms, hospitals, organizations, and universities.
Others choose to freelance or work online as independent translators. There’s usually a lot of freedom in your schedule, and you might even get a few travel opportunities. High-level translators can even secure government positions!
Salary and Outlook
The average annual pay for a translator is around $50,000. This career is estimated to experience high growth in demand (24%) in the next decade. If you’ve always wanted to learn another language, now is the time!
Getting Started
Most translators will need a university degree, preferably in languages or humanities. They will also need to be fluent in English and the other chosen languages. Certifications, internships, and work experience can help you break into the field.
- Fitness Instructor
A great passion for health and fitness and a desire to help people are perfect qualities for a fitness instructor. If this sounds like you, you’re in luck! Many fitness instructors set their own schedules, whether working for a gym or independently.
Salary and Outlook
The average salary for a fitness instructor is around $40,000 per year. This number can easily increase if you take on private clients while working at a facility. The fitness instructor occupation is forecasted to grow by 39% in the next decade!
Getting Started
While there’s no formal education for fitness instructors, certifications can help get you hired. You should also have a solid understanding of the body and how to create a fitness plan. Networking to find private clients is a great idea, so offer free trial classes to gain experience!
- University Professor
If you have an impressive career in your field and the education to match, university teaching is a great option! Professors usually spend a few hours a week on-campus teaching and holding office hours. Other than that, they’re free to pursue their research and careers.
Salary and Outlook
The average salary for professors is around $80,000, not bad for a few hours of class each week! Many professors use this as supplemental income while working in their field. The occupation is expected to grow 12% in the next decade, with over 156,700 new positions opening up.
Getting Started
University teaching isn’t a flexible job that just anyone can jump into without preparation. Most positions require a master’s degree or a Ph.D., plus years of experience and a history of published work. If you’re attending university, find a discipline you love and pursue it until you’re qualified to teach!
- Rideshare Driver
Hailing a taxi is no longer as easy or cheap as calling an Uber. Rideshare programs have opened up a world of flexible working opportunities! Some drivers even work for more than one company to maximize their earnings.
Salary and Outlook
The average salary for a driver is around $37,500, but the sky is the limit! The good news is that this position is projected to have a 25% growth in the next decade.
Getting Started
There are no educational requirements for drivers other than passing the driver’s license test in your state. To become a driver, you’ll need:
- Driver’s license
- Registered vehicle
- Clean driving record
You might also undergo a criminal record check and other screenings to ensure passenger safety. A smartphone capable of running the ridesharing app and a GPS are recommended.
- Photographer
Photography might be a perfect option if you have a good eye, loads of creativity, and some technical skills. Photographers find work in magazine production, digital publications, and events. A portfolio is integral to landing new jobs, so bring your camera everywhere you go!
Salary and Outlook
The average salary for a photographer is around $40,000, but the figure varies a lot! Photographers can make minimum wage or more than $100,000 a year, depending on their place of employment and skill level. The outlook for this career is excellent, with an expected 17% growth over the next decade.
Getting Started
It’s a wise idea to take a few photography courses when you start your journey. Photo editing skills are also a must, so dedicate some time to learning Photoshop. You’ll also need access to a high-quality camera and lighting equipment.
- Trade Job
Trade jobs like plumbers, electricians, and carpenters often become self-employed after they finish their apprenticeship. This career move allows them to set their own hours and the cost of services. But beware, weekend and holiday work is very common in this field.
Salary and Outlook
Trade positions enjoy a high average salary with the possibility of earning more if they’re self-employed. The average annual pay for a full-time plumber or electrician is around $60,000. Most trade professions should see steady growth in the next decade, ranging from 8% to 10%.
Getting Started
Trade jobs require extensive education and experience. Most people will attend a trade school and transition into an apprenticeship. You’ll need to amass a certain amount of hours and complete a test to get licensed.
- Data Scientist
Data scientists excel in technology and social sciences. They’re analytical maestros who provide business solutions thorough trend research and data management. They often work remotely or on a freelance basis for large corporations, allowing them to set their own hours.
Salary and Outlook
Data scientists make an average salary of around $100,000. The demand for these professionals is very high, with an expected growth rate of 31% in the next ten years! Now is an ideal time to enter the profession, considering the average growth rate for most sectors is only 8%.
Getting Started
Working as a data scientist requires a bachelor’s degree in math, statistics, or computer science. You’ll also typically need a master’s or Ph.D. for higher-level jobs. When it comes to personality, a good data scientist is a logical thinker with an analytic mind and a head for numbers.
- Digital Marketing Coordinator
Social media is deeply ingrained in our culture and way of life. Over 70% of adults spend time on digital media platforms. Digital marketing coordinators often work in content, social media, SEO, and copywriting.
Salary and Outlook
The average annual pay for advertising and marketing manager is roughly $130,000. But entry-level positions often start with minimum wage. Digital marketers also do freelance work, setting their own pay and hours.
Getting Started
A good understanding of digital marketing strategies and software is vital for success. Understanding how metrics, analytics, and data work is also essential. Online courses, certificates, and internships are excellent ways to get your foot in the door!
The Benefits of Flexible Hours
Flexible working hours have obvious benefits like freedom, but what else can you expect from setting your own schedule? Studies show that having flexible hours can actually make you more effective! A 2021 Digital Worker survey found that 43% of employees felt they were more productive when choosing their hours.
Some more amazing benefits of a flexible schedule include:
- A better work-life balance
- Savings on commutes, lunches, and parking
- Reduced stress and improved well-being
- Higher job satisfaction
- Less risk of burnout
- More vacation time
- More choice in location
- Chance to pursue different interests
Even if you don’t want to make a career change, ask your current company about hybrid working options. Many companies are beginning to offer split work shifts, like three days in-office and two days at home.
Flexible Hours: The Path to a Work-Life Balance
Positions that offer flexible hours and remote or hybrid possibilities are growing. Almost 60% of workers surveyed agreed that flexible hours are the one thing they look for in a job. Consider a flexible job if you’re ready for a new career opportunity!
It can lead to a better work-life balance, higher productivity, and increased job satisfaction. But the best part is that flexible hours put you in control of your life, from vacations to mental health breaks. You’re able to do what you want while still earning an income!
Want more career tips and hacks? Explore some of our other blog posts to get inspired. Happy job hunting!