Today, a guest post from Crystal –
Many of us dream about hitting the road or traveling the globe… ideally without sapping our savings dry! To travel while working is the ultimate lifestyle. Here are some ways you can explore the world while still earning a living.
Freelance
Thanks to the internet and the rise of sites such as Elance and Freelancer, there is a whole suite of opportunities for writers, journalists, editors, graphic designers and programmers. These sites give professionals the ability to list their résumé and experience online and then bid for thousands of jobs available.
Initially, it can be a slow start as you build you profile and reputation. But once you are established, there is regular, paid work to be found and even a decent income to be had. The best thing is the work can be done from anywhere – an office, the beach or your dining table – using only an internet connection and laptop. Jobs are invoiced and paid online, with job tracking and even time tracking included as part of the service.
Sales
New technology has also changed the face of sales, meaning it’s no longer a door-to-door profession or needs to be based from a sales office. For example, companies such as Telcoinabox offer the opportunity for those with sales skills to essentially set themselves up as a telecommunications provider. Everyone uses telecommunications products every day, meaning anyone is a potential customer and they can be serviced from anywhere with a phone and computer.
Consulting
If you’re an expert in your field then consulting is a great way to earn money while on the road. With experience in fields like human resources, finance, IT or business mentoring, consultants can charge big dollars to help start up or shape up a business.
Tutor
It’s old school but noble. Tutoring, whether it’s in English, maths or general studies, is a great way to earn cash while traveling. It’s also a great way for you to engage in a little culture while overseas as you get to know new people and share your skills.
There are some great organizations that can find you positions overseas and provide you with accreditation, or you can establish yourself as an independent traveling tutor.
Website/Blogging
If you’re a great writer and have knowledge or wit to share then setting up your own website or blog could provide a steady income while you’re on the road. Income is derived through advertising or membership, but it’s a competitive field, so ensure your topic is of interest and you have a new take on it.
From parenting to food blogging, there are people making good money after establishing their own sites.
As technology and access to it improves by the day, more and more opportunities are opening up to global citizens looking to make the world their workplace. Whether it’s using your language skills, professional expertise or sales smarts, it’s simply a matter of taking the leap and finding the field to suit you. Then you can sit back on that beach in Thailand while the money keeps coming in.