Online Jobs Careers: How to Get Started with No Experience

Many people dream of making a substantial income from the comfort of their own home, with flexible hours and no boss to answer to. However, the reality of these claims is often much different than the promises made in online ads and social media posts. The truth is that there is no single method that will allow someone to make a large amount of money with little effort and no experience.

Despite this, there are legitimate online jobs available that do not require extensive experience or specialized skills. In this article, we will explore some of the most common online jobs and provide tips on how to secure a legitimate position in this growing industry.

How to Identify Legitimate Online Jobs and Avoid Scams

In today’s digital age, online jobs have become more popular than ever before. However, not all online jobs are created equal, and some may be scams in disguise. Therefore, it’s crucial to know how to identify legitimate online jobs and avoid scams.

One of the most significant red flags to watch out for is unrealistic promises. Any job posting that claims you can earn a significant amount of money with little to no effort is likely a scam. According to career coach Esther Inman, “Online jobs are still jobs,” and if a job posting seems too good to be true, it probably is.

Another red flag to watch out for is job postings that require an application fee or upfront payment for supplies. These are often signs of a scam or an illegal pyramid scheme. Similarly, if you’re asked to prepay for inventory as an independent “distributor” or “business owner” for a larger company, this is also a red flag.

Misspellings and basic errors in a job posting can also be a sign that something is not right. Additionally, a company with little to no online presence or a small number of employees associated with them on LinkedIn may also be a sign of a scam.

To vet potential employers, it’s best to rely on reputable sources such as brand-name job boards and platforms like LinkedIn, Indeed, Glassdoor, or The Muse. While other sites can also be useful, they come with a higher risk of scams.

It’s important to note that some legitimate online jobs may not pay very much. This includes tasks such as performing micro jobs or short tasks, writing for a content mill, or taking online surveys. However, these can still be viable options if you’re looking for something that requires a lower time commitment.

If you want to ensure that you’re applying to real opportunities with legitimate companies, you can search for online jobs on The Muse. Additionally, if you’re unsure what kind of roles to look for, there are several online jobs that require little to no experience, such as data entry, social media management, and virtual assistance.

By being aware of these red flags and using reputable sources to vet potential employers, you can identify legitimate online jobs and avoid falling prey to scams.

1. Data Entry Clerk

Data entry clerks are responsible for taking information from various sources, such as spreadsheets, printed documents, order forms, or other sources, and inputting it into another digital source, such as a database, computer program, or spreadsheet. They are also responsible for verifying information and checking for errors.

This position is often held by individuals with a high school diploma and no work experience, and can be found on a full-time, part-time, or freelance basis. Due to the digital nature of much of the data and information that companies now process, data entry clerk is a common work-from-home job. Additionally, data entry can often be completed outside of traditional business hours, making it a good option for those seeking flexible hours.

According to The Muse, the average salary for a data entry clerk in 2023 was $36,195. Many companies may require data entry clerks to manually input or verify invoices or other bills for outside clients, making attention to detail and accuracy important skills for this position.

2. Proofreader or Copy Editor

Proofreaders and copy editors are important roles in ensuring that written text is free of errors. They work to ensure that written pieces are grammatically correct, properly formatted, and free of typos. While their goals are similar, copy editors may also make changes to sentence structure and paragraph flow to improve clarity and accuracy.

Companies that produce large amounts of written material may hire in-house or remote proofreaders and copy editors on a part-time or full-time basis. However, there are also opportunities to work as a contractor or freelancer on a per-project basis. To become a proofreader or copy editor, it is important to have a strong grasp of English spelling and grammar conventions, as well as a keen eye for detail. Candidates can expect to take a skills test before being hired.

Having experience in the subject matter or familiarity with the style guide a company uses can be a bonus. While some copy editors and proofreaders have degrees in English, communication, or a related field, prior professional experience is not always required.

According to 2023 data, the average salary for a proofreader was $50,010, while the average salary for a copy editor was $52,733. These figures may vary depending on the industry and location.

Overall, proofreaders and copy editors play an important role in ensuring that written text is error-free and easy to understand. Their attention to detail and strong language skills make them valuable assets to companies producing written materials.

3. Administrative, Virtual, or Executive Assistant

Administrative assistants, virtual assistants, and executive assistants are all positions that involve administrative duties. Administrative assistants may respond to emails and messages, schedule meetings, prepare memos, maintain databases and filing, or perform any other clerical duties an organization needs. Executive assistants work for one or more people within a company, usually executives, and in addition to administrative assistant duties, they may organize their executive’s calendar, plan their travel, take notes for them at meetings, and conduct research.

Virtual assistants are administrative assistants who can do their jobs entirely online on a full- or part-time schedule. However, not every administrative or executive assistant has only online duties, so it is important to carefully read any job description before applying. These positions are great for those who need flexible work schedules, are very organized, work well without direction, and have strong problem-solving skills.

The average administrative assistant salary in 2023 was $41,908, while the average virtual assistant salary was $44,713, and the average executive assistant salary was $60,948. Many administrative assistant roles are entry-level, but executive assistant roles may require more experience. While a high school diploma may be sufficient for some positions, some employers may prefer a college degree.

The table below summarizes the average salaries for administrative, virtual, and executive assistants in 2023:

Overall, administrative, virtual, and executive assistant positions provide opportunities for individuals with strong organizational and problem-solving skills to support organizations and executives with their administrative needs.

4. Social Media Coordinator or Manager

As businesses continue to expand their online presence, the demand for social media coordinators and managers is increasing. These professionals are responsible for managing social media accounts, creating engaging content, and developing social media marketing campaigns.

The average salary for a social media coordinator in 2023 was $42,986, while the average salary for a social media manager was $54,765. These positions can be found in a variety of organizations, from small businesses to large tech companies. They can also be full-time, part-time, or freelance positions.

A social media coordinator is typically an entry-level or early career position, while a social media manager may have more responsibilities and even direct reports at a larger company. Both positions require a strong understanding of various social media platforms, including Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok. Strong writing skills and some data analysis skills are also important for success in these roles.

In addition to managing social media accounts and creating content, social media coordinators and managers must also monitor social performance and respond to audience comments and questions. They may also conceive and implement social media marketing campaigns and strategies.

While a bachelor’s degree in marketing or a related field may be preferred for some positions, a strong portfolio and demonstrated experience managing successful social media accounts can also be valuable. As the importance of social media continues to grow, the demand for skilled social media coordinators and managers is likely to increase.

5. Social Media Influencer

Social media has become an essential tool for businesses to reach out to their target audience. It has also created opportunities for individuals to become influencers and earn a living from their online presence. According to the latest data, the average salary for a social media influencer in 2023 was $65,000.

To become a successful social media influencer, one needs to have a strong brand strategy and a passion for a specific topic. It is also important to know when the best times to post are, how many posts are enough, and how many posts are too much that people start ignoring you. In other words, being a social media influencer requires a strong work ethic and a lot of hard work.

Social media influencers can turn their hobbies into opportunities for brand partnerships, sponsorships, or even affiliate marketing. Even the most niche specialty could draw an audience, especially if it is educational or informative. For example, there are influencers who share Excel tips, break down stocks, and analyze movies or television shows.

There are many platforms to work with, depending on the medium you prefer. TikTok and YouTube lend themselves well to people who like vlogging, while Instagram, Twitter, Substack, and Facebook provide plenty of opportunity to explore written or image-focused content. Many of these platforms offer opportunities to make money just from clicks or views.

In conclusion, social media has created a level playing field for workers of all backgrounds to become influencers. With a consistent and professional online presence, one can turn their passion into a profitable career.

6. Graphic Designer

Graphic designers are responsible for creating visuals that convey an organization’s or individual’s ideas, messages, and aesthetics. They work with words, images, or both and use digital tools to create art or convert handmade art to a digital medium. Graphic designers can design a variety of visuals, including logos, product packaging, infographics, social media images, and even elements of websites and software programs.

Online graphic design jobs are becoming increasingly popular, as most of the work can be done solo using a computer and other equipment that can be easily kept at home. Companies may hire full-time or part-time designers or establish relationships with freelancers or contractors whose work they like.

To become a graphic designer, one needs creativity and artistic skills, as well as a strong grasp of the latest design, photo, and layout software. Strong communication skills are also necessary to ensure that the designer and their employer or client are on the same page. While a bachelor’s degree is typically preferred, a strong portfolio of work is essential regardless of educational background.

According to The Muse, the average graphic designer salary in 2023 was $48,966. However, salaries can vary depending on factors such as experience, location, and industry.

Overall, graphic design is a versatile and in-demand field that requires a combination of technical skills and creativity.

7. Writer

Writing is a broad field that encompasses a wide range of professions. From technical and medical writers to copywriters, content writers, bloggers, and newsletter writers, there are many different types of writing jobs available in the online world. In this section, we will explore each of these types of writers and what their job entails.

Technical or Medical Writer

Technical and medical writers are responsible for taking complex technical and scientific information and breaking it down into an easily understandable format. They create informational pamphlets and brochures, instruction manuals, articles, and educational resources. To become a technical or medical writer, one must have strong writing skills and a bachelor’s degree in English, communications, or journalism. They may also need to demonstrate background knowledge in the subject matter they want to write about, or they might have a degree in their focus subject matter and strong writing chops.

According to data, the average salary for a technical writer in 2023 was $63,883, while the average salary for a medical writer was $78,511.

Copywriter

Copywriters are responsible for creating written content that is intended to help sell an idea, product, service, or brand. They write the text for social media posts, websites, product packages, or any number of sales or marketing tools. Most copywriter positions require a bachelor’s degree in a marketing, writing, or communications field.

According to data, the average salary for a copywriter in 2023 was $56,568.

Content Writer

Content writers create longer-form text than copywriters, such as articles based on expertise, interviews, and other primary sources. Their goal is generally to educate, inform, or increase brand awareness and drive traffic to the company’s website. Content writers can be full- or part-time employees, but can also be freelance for the most schedule flexibility.

According to data, the average salary for a content writer in 2023 was $50,949.

Blogger or Newsletter Writer

If running your own show as a writer sounds appealing, you could consider starting a blog or newsletter. While it poses as much risk as influencing in terms of creating a sustainable business, it’s a job you could pick up as a side gig or hobby before committing to fully. If you build a consistent or large enough following, you could turn readers into subscribers or members via a platform like Substack, or get into affiliate marketing. A blog or newsletter can also serve as a great portfolio to attract freelance clients in your space or area of expertise.

According to data, the average salary for a blogger in 2023 was $40,318.

8. Customer Service Representative

Customer service representatives are responsible for providing assistance to a company’s customers through phone, chat, or email support. They help customers solve problems and answer questions about the company’s products or services. This job is ideal for those who enjoy interacting with others and can handle dealing with customers who may be upset.

According to data from PayScale, the average salary for a customer service representative in 2023 was $41,678. While this is a common option for people looking for online jobs, it’s important to be careful about which roles to apply for and accept. Many customer service jobs have strict schedules and offer little growth potential. Therefore, it’s essential to inquire about opportunities for advancement and flexible hours if that’s what you’re after.

It’s worth noting that as a phone support representative, you need to have a quiet background and be available without interruption during set times. This may make it challenging for people with kids or other caretaking responsibilities. However, some customer support jobs use email or chat, making noise less of a concern. Moreover, it’s possible to get a customer service representative role with no experience.

Overall, customer service representative jobs can be a great option for those who enjoy helping others and are looking for a flexible work schedule. However, it’s essential to do your research and ask the right questions before accepting a role.

9. Sales Representative or Account Executive

Sales representatives and account executives are responsible for selling products and services on behalf of their employer. They may look for potential new customers, follow up on warm leads, have conversations with prospective customers to teach them about their company’s products or services, negotiate and close deals, and re-sign and upsell existing customers. This job is ideal for those who want to work online but still interact with many people on a daily basis.

In 2023, the average sales representative salary was $49,889, while the average account executive salary was $60,157. Applicants for sales positions usually don’t need a bachelor’s degree, but they do need strong written and verbal communication and persuasive skills.

Sales representatives and account executives can be hired as full- or part-time employees. It is important to note that if a sales position requires an upfront payment for a product or recruiting other salespeople, or only pays commission, it is often a red flag and applicants are better off looking elsewhere.

The following table summarizes the key responsibilities and qualifications for a sales representative or account executive:

10. Software Engineer

Software engineers or developers are responsible for creating computer programs, websites, and computer systems using various coding languages. They spend a significant amount of time troubleshooting and problem-solving to ensure their code works correctly. Collaboration and communication skills are crucial for software engineers since they almost always work as part of a team. However, due to the nature of their work, many companies hire fully remote software engineers.

While professional experience is not always required, software engineers must demonstrate their coding skills to get hired. Some jobs may require specific coding language knowledge, such as SQL, JavaScript, or Python. One can learn to code by getting a computer science degree, attending a coding bootcamp, or teaching oneself. Regardless of the method, it is essential to showcase examples of coded projects and ace a technical interview.

According to The Muse, the average salary for software engineers in 2023 was $90,900.

11. English Teacher

Online English teachers are responsible for instructing students from non-English speaking countries. This job is ideal for former teachers or individuals who do not mind working early in the morning due to time zone differences. Companies that hire online English teachers often provide the necessary resources to teach students, including lesson plans, access to online language platforms, and games.

Most companies require online English teachers to have a teaching certification and a TESOL or TEFL certificate, which demonstrates their qualifications to teach English as a second or foreign language. However, some companies do not require a teaching background, only a native-level fluency in English and a bachelor’s degree.

The average salary for an online English teacher in 2023 was $50,073. This job is an excellent opportunity for individuals who are passionate about teaching and enjoy working remotely.

12. Tutor

Tutors play a vital role in helping students of all ages and backgrounds achieve their academic goals. With the rise of online education, remote tutors are becoming increasingly important. They can work with a variety of students, schools, and curricula. As a tutor, one can help students with specific assignments or topics, conduct test prep, or experiment with new learning tools. The ultimate goal is to make mentees feel more confident and perform at their grade or learning level.

Tutors can work for online companies or start their own business. A certification may be required to work with students regularly, but teaching passion is a great place to start. According to The Muse, the average salary for a tutor in 2023 was $40,887.

13. Community Manager

Community managers play a vital role in managing and organizing the audience of a brand or organization across various social media groups, Slack channels, online forums, and other communities. Their main responsibilities include moderating discussions, answering questions, and adding or removing people from groups. This online job provides a flexible schedule and is ideal for extroverts who enjoy communicating with people online.

To become a community manager, one should have strong written communication skills and a passion for social media. Prior experience or a degree is not necessary, as anyone can learn how to manage a Facebook group effectively. The average salary for a community manager in 2023 was $56,468.

Overall, community managers are essential in building and maintaining a brand’s online presence and engaging with their audience.

14. Translator

Online translators are in high demand in today’s globalized world. They can work in various fields, such as law, marketing, PR, healthcare, and education, among others. To become an online translator, one needs to be fluent in more than two languages or be bilingual. Additionally, they should possess cultural and societal knowledge of the countries or regions they are working with to produce accurate work and build strong business relationships. A certification or basic education background is required to become a translator. The average salary for a translator in 2023 was $53,102, according to The Muse.

15. Project Manager

Project managers are responsible for overseeing projects of various sizes and shapes. They are in high demand as companies strive to increase productivity, streamline processes, and break down silos between teams. The average salary for a project manager in 2023 was $78,591.

To excel in this role, an individual should possess excellent organizational skills, enjoy collaborating with others, and have strong problem-solving and change management abilities. Entry-level positions may be available for those with minimal experience or certifications. Alternatively, one may choose to work as a freelancer, allowing for greater flexibility in scheduling and the ability to work with a variety of clients and companies.

Overall, project management is a rewarding career path for those who enjoy leading and coordinating teams, managing timelines, and ensuring successful project outcomes.

16. Video or Photo Editor

Becoming a video or photo editor requires knowledge and hands-on experience with popular video and photo editing software and tools, such as Adobe Creative Suite. However, it is also possible to self-teach through online training courses. It is essential to build and regularly showcase a portfolio of work, whether it be professional or personal, to attract potential employers.

The average video editor salary in 2023 is $52,002, while the average photo editor salary in 2023 is $63,705. These skills can be paired with a variety of fields, including marketing, tech, or hospitality, such as wedding or travel photography. Many of these fields hire in a remote or online-only capacity, providing flexibility for those seeking a work-from-home position.

How to Secure an Online Job without Relevant Experience

Landing an online job can be challenging, especially if you lack the relevant experience. However, it is possible to secure a great role even without prior professional experience. Here are some tips to help you out:

1. Identify the Required Skills for the Job

Before applying for any online job, it is essential to know what skills and experiences employers generally want applicants to have. You can pull up a few job descriptions for the type of job you want and read through them to identify the skills and experiences employers are looking for. This will help you tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight the skills that you possess and show how they can be useful in the job.

2. Highlight Your Transferable Skills

Transferable skills are abilities that you’ve used in one situation that can be used in a job that doesn’t seem directly related. For instance, if you have experience coordinating schedules for a student or parents’ group, that could translate to an executive assistant job where scheduling and planning are regular tasks. It is important to identify your transferable skills and highlight them in your job search. Work these skills into your resume, cover letter, and interview question responses so that the employer understands that you have the skills they’re looking for.

3. Take an Online Class or Earn a Certificate

If there’s a job you’re interested in but don’t have the skills for, you can always learn those skills. Consider taking an online course or earning a certificate. There are many free or low-cost options that will help you learn marketable skills on sites such as Coursera or LinkedIn Learning, or you might consider taking an online course from an accredited university.

4. Apply for an Online Internship

An online internship often has a lower barrier to entry than a permanent role and will help you get on-the-job skills and training to make you a more valuable hire for either the company you interned for or another employer. You can search for online internships on various job boards, including The Muse.

5. Create an Online Portfolio

For writers, designers, software engineers, social media managers, and anyone else who will be producing creative work for an employer, a strong portfolio is indispensable. Create an online portfolio or personal website that puts all of your best work in one easy place. You can link to it directly on your resume. If you haven’t held a job in the field before, you can still create graphics, articles, programming projects, or whatever else you’d be producing in your job so employers can see your skills and style.

6. Demonstrate Your Ability to be a Good Online Employee

When applying for an online job, it is essential to show employers that you have what it takes to be a good online employee. Employers want to know that the employee will still complete their work on time and won’t struggle to keep up without being in the office. Emphasize your independence as well as your communication, problem-solving, critical thinking, organizational, and time management skills throughout the hiring process, and prepare to answer common remote interview questions.

In conclusion, landing an online job without relevant experience is possible. By identifying the required skills for the job, highlighting your transferable skills, taking an online course or earning a certificate, applying for an online internship, creating an online portfolio, and demonstrating your ability to be a good online employee, you can increase your chances of securing a great role.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are Some Entry-Level Online Jobs That Require No Prior Experience?

There are several entry-level online jobs that one can start without any prior experience. Some of these jobs include:

• Data Entry
• Virtual Assistant
• Social Media Management
• Content Writing
• Online Tutoring
• Customer Service Representative

How Can One Start a Career Working From Home Without Any Experience?

Starting a career working from home without any experience can be challenging but not impossible. Here are some ways to get started:

• Identify your skills and interests
• Research the industries that offer remote work opportunities
• Create a professional resume and cover letter
• Join online job boards and freelance platforms
• Network with professionals in your desired field
• Consider taking online courses or certifications to enhance your skills

What Are the Best Remote Job Websites for Beginners?

There are several remote job websites that are beginner-friendly. Some of these websites include:

• Upwork
• Freelancer
• Fiverr
• Remote.co
• Indeed
• FlexJobs

Can You Recommend Any Work-From-Home Opportunities That Don’t Require a Degree?

Yes, there are several work-from-home opportunities that don’t require a degree. These include:

• Freelance Writing
• Social Media Management
• Virtual Assistance
• Online Tutoring
• Data Entry
• Customer Service Representative

What Strategies Can Students Employ to Find Online Jobs Without Experience?

Students can use the following strategies to find online jobs without experience:

• Utilize their school’s career center
• Look for internships or part-time jobs
• Join online job boards and freelance platforms
• Network with professionals in their desired field
• Consider taking online courses or certifications to enhance their skills

Are There Any Immediate-Start Home-Based Jobs for Those With No Previous Work History?

Yes, there are several immediate-start home-based jobs for those with no previous work history. Some of these jobs include:

• Online Surveys
• Transcription
• Microtasking
• Website Testing
• Online Tutoring
• Data Entry

It is important to note that some of these jobs may not offer a stable income, but they can be a good starting point for those looking to gain experience and build their portfolio.