Navigating the World of Telecommuting Without Breaking the Bank

The Rise of Information Brokering

A significant trend on the internet is "Information Brokering," which involves packaging and repackaging information and selling it to thousands of people online. Early Information Brokers spread their products across the internet, resulting in the same set of "reports" appearing in countless different places. Many of today's information brokers use free reports available on the web, repackaging them for sale as "information packets."

For instance, a report titled "The 1995-2005 Job Outlook in Brief," distributed in 1995, is a prime example. This report was initially sold with the idea that you could resell it and make money. However, today, the same report can be found on numerous websites for free.

Finding a Job Without a Guide

The so-called "hidden jobs" are not listed in these information packets, so don't worry about missing out. There are very few exclusive lists, as most employers prefer to find their employees themselves rather than risk being overwhelmed by millions of non-qualifying resumes.

By taking the time to research telecommuting opportunities and following a structured approach, you can find all the information you need. For example, when researching, consider the following steps:

• Learn how to format your resume.
• Learn how to write a cover letter.
• Learn how to interview over the phone.
• Learn how to search for jobs on the internet.
• Learn how to contact potential employers.
• Learn how to negotiate for your position.
• Learn how to set up a telecommuting office in your home.
• Learn how to market yourself on the internet.
• Learn how to network.

Using this list, start your search on one of the larger search engines. Find the most relevant site or article for each item and use it as a basis to extend your research until you understand the basics of the given topic.

Most of the information you need to understand telecommuting and how to find such opportunities is available at sites like Telecommuting@About, Job Search@About, Freelance Write@About, Career Planning@About, June Langhoff, and Gil Gordon.

As for finding the jobs usually listed in the packets, you can find this information at places like Telecommuting Jobs and Jobvertise.

What's Next?

To avoid unnecessary spending, scrutinize the content of the packets before you buy or ensure they have a return policy. Also, focus on information sites that can add value to your endeavors, not just repeat the same information already available and known.

By spending a little time on the internet, you can find the free information that is otherwise available in most of the for-purchase telecommuting packages. All you need to do is research the topic and learn what you can from the wealth of information available.