6 Tips for Working from Home with Kids

While it’s not always easy to work from home with kids, it can help to have a good routine and specific procedures in place. Try the following strategies to achieve a better work–life balance:

1. Have a Designated Workspace

It’s important to have a designated workspace in your home – and for your kids to understand that it’s only for your use during work hours. You can still create a home office even if you live in a small house or apartment; you just need to carve out a quiet space where you can concentrate without too many distractions.

2. Break Tasks into Manageable Chunks

Split your daily work tasks into smaller, more manageable chunks and work in short, focused intervals (e.g., the Pomodoro Technique). This way, you can be more efficient during limited periods of undistracted time. Focus on the most important and time-sensitive tasks during the kids’ nap times (or when they’re otherwise occupied), and save the less critical work for when you need more flexibility.

Also schedule short breaks throughout the workday to spend quality time with your kids. Not only does this keep you from getting overwhelmed, but it also gives your kids the attention they need.

3. Plan Your Kids’ Activities for the Day

Have supplies on hand and a plan in place for engaging activities that your children can do independently or with minimal supervision. These can help keep them occupied while you check work off your to-do list or attend a virtual meeting.

4. Set Expectations with Your Employer

Communicate with your employer about your childcare situation so that you can discuss expectations for deadlines, work hours, and flexibility. Most likely, your employer will want to work with you to ensure you’re managing your workload and avoiding burnout.

5. Be Patient with Yourself

Working from home with kids can be stressful, even under the best of circumstances. Be patient with yourself and acknowledge that you won’t always be as productive as you would be if you were in an office. And remember that it’s OK to ask for help and take self-care days when needed!

6. Consider a Flexible Freelance Career

Consider a career that not only allows you to work from home, but is also flexible in terms of the workload and schedule. Remote freelance work, such as a career in proofreading, editing, or writing, can be an ideal option for parents with kids at home. It allows you to work on your own time, such as early mornings before the kids wake up or at night after they go to sleep, and set your own daily tasks. And for many freelance jobs, it’s possible to get certified entirely online.

Becoming a Freelancer

Are you interested in pursuing a rewarding and flexible freelance career that allows you to balance professional life with childcare responsibilities? Check out one of our comprehensive courses! They’ll teach you everything you need to know about launching your own remote freelance business. Try a free trial today!

The post How to Work from Home with Kids appeared first on Knowadays.

In today’s blog post, you’ll learn:

• The benefits of having a student job
• Eight of the best remote jobs for college students that require minimal training
• How to find remote jobs as a college student

What Are the Benefits of Having a Student Job?

You might think that having a job while in college is too much to handle. However, balancing both isn’t too difficult if you’re well-organized and manage your time wisely. Plus, there are many benefits to working as a student, including:

1. Earning Extra Income
   College students have many expenses, such as food, tuition, transportation, and rent. A student job provides extra income to help cover some of those expenses. Having some extra income and knowing you won’t have to live on a shoestring can really ease your mind!
2. Developing Skills
   Student jobs can be a fantastic opportunity for skills development. Many remote positions offer hands-on experience, which is invaluable for your future career. Future employers will want experience when hiring prospective employees. The skills you learn from your job will make you more competitive in the job market once you graduate.
3. A Flexible Schedule
   Remote jobs often offer flexible working hours, allowing students to work around their class schedules and academic commitments. This flexibility can help students maintain a healthy work-life balance, reducing stress and improving overall well-being.
4. Testing the Waters on a Potential Career
   College is a time for discovery! If you’re unsure of what to do after graduation, this can be your opportunity to test out a potential career. Even if you already have a preferred career in mind, a student job can provide an alternative, just in case.
5. Networking
   Another college cornerstone experience is networking. Remote work doesn’t necessarily mean isolation from the professional world. Many remote jobs require communication and collaboration, which can help you build a network of contacts that may be useful for future job opportunities.

What Are the Best Jobs for College Students?

College students often work as servers, retail customer service representatives, or grocery store cashiers. While these jobs offer part-time work, they aren’t necessarily very flexible. Working as a student should be flexible enough not to jeopardize your studies. We believe it’s worth considering freelance options where you can choose your own schedule.

Here are eight flexible remote jobs that require minimal training:

1. Virtual Assistant

As a virtual assistant, you can help businesses with administrative tasks like email management, appointment bookings, social media management, and customer service. Most virtual assistant positions require excellent organizational skills and the ability to work independently. You don’t need a degree or certificate for this position; however, being certified as a virtual assistant will make you stand out to potential employers.

2. Online Tutor

If you excel in a particular subject, such as Spanish or math, consider online tutoring. You can help students of varying ages with their studies using an online platform. Alternatively, you could work for an agency. Some positions may require training, but they can be a rewarding way to earn money while helping others learn. One option is tutoring for Course Hero. With a wide range of subject domains, they allow you to work whenever you want.

3. Freelance Writer

If you have creativity, strong writing skills, and a good grasp of grammar, consider becoming a freelance writer. Content writers are in high demand, with a variety of opportunities available. You could be writing blog posts, social media content, emails, and more! While a degree isn’t required, taking an online freelance writing course can help distinguish you from the competition. You can learn important skills, such as how to conduct effective research, incorporate SEO techniques, and follow brand and style guidelines.

4. Social Media

Do you enjoy using popular social media platforms like X (formerly known as Twitter), Instagram, and TikTok? You could get paid to help companies or individuals manage their online presence! You could create and schedule content, engage with their audience, and monitor their growth.

5. Customer Service Representative

Customer service jobs are often available and require good communication skills. You’ll assist customers with inquiries, resolve issues, and provide phone, email, or chat support. Some companies offer training to get you started in this role.

6. Proofreader

You might want to look into proofreading if you’re a good writer with strong English language skills. In fact, proofreading is the ideal student job, as it allows you to work to your own schedule. As a proofreader, you will review written documents for potential grammar, spelling, and punctuation errors. You’ll also make the text clear and concise to improve readability. Finding work as a proofreader is easier than you think. Plus, it’s another role where a certification or degree isn’t required (though it’s nice to have).

7. Data Entry Specialist

Data entry jobs involve inputting data into spreadsheets, databases, or other software. They require attention to detail and accuracy, making them an excellent option for college students who are meticulous and focused. The only downside is that the work can be tedious. Still, working as a data entry specialist is a good student job option.

8. Technical Support

More commonly known as tech support, this is the perfect opportunity if you’re computer-savvy. As a tech support specialist, you’d be helping clients troubleshoot internet and general computer issues. This will boost your experience if you happen to be majoring in a tech-related field. Some companies, such as Apple, seek out college students for tech support roles.

How To Find Remote Jobs?

When searching for remote jobs, we recommend using specialized websites (e.g., FlexJobs) and online marketplaces to find opportunities that match your skills and interests. Freelancing platforms such as Upwork and Fiverr are good starting points. You can even search for jobs on Indeed and LinkedIn. Remember to tailor your resume and cover letter for each application, and be prepared for virtual interviews.

Becoming a Freelancer

Do you dream of working remotely as a freelancer now or after you graduate? Our comprehensive courses can help you launch your new freelance career! Try them for free today!

The post 8 of the Best Remote Jobs for College Students appeared first on Knowadays.

Despite the many benefits of technology, like the internet and social media, it can also negatively impact your mental and physical health. Excessive screen time can cause vision issues, trouble with sleeping, and even depression.

In this blog post, we’ll give you seven tips to spend less time in front of screens:

1. Track your screen time and habits
2. Limit your number of screens
3. Make your phone less appealing
4. Schedule screen-free breaks
5. Skip the screen and go old school
6. Set clear work boundaries
7. Switch off before bed

Read on to find out more.

Is Too Much Screen Time Bad for You?

Numerous studies have shown that too much screen time can have adverse health effects, especially in children and younger people. Some of the potential negative side effects include:

• Obesity (due to being too sedentary) 
• Impaired sleep (the light emitted from electronics can disrupt the brain’s natural sleep cycle)
• Depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues
• Neck and back problems (from poor posture while using devices)
• Digital eye strain

How Much Screen Time Is Too Much?

While there are clear guidelines about how much screen time young people should have, it isn’t as easy to define for adults. 

According to an article published by Time Magazine, experts struggle to agree on how much is too much because screens are often essential for many people’s jobs. 

One suggestion is that hours spent in front of a screen may not be the most important factor. Instead, what should be considered is the type of content being viewed.

Social media sites have proven to be the most troublesome type of content, with one psychological study finding that time spent on these sites should be limited to 30–60 minutes per day.

If you are unsure whether you’re spending an unhealthy amount of time in front of a screen, there are some questions you can ask yourself:

1. How are your eating habits?
2. Are you sleeping okay?
3. How often do you leave your house and socialize?
4. Do you get any physical exercise?

If you find that you’re not happy with the answers to any of these questions, you may want to reevaluate how much time you’re spending in front of a screen.

How to Reduce Your Screen Time

1. Track Your Screen Time and Habits

Getting an idea of how much time you spend looking at screens and what activities you do in that time can help you work out where to cut down.

Try tracking your daily screen time using an app such as Digital Wellbeing or memtime. Then, work out how much of that time is spent:

● Doing work-related activities

● Performing other essential tasks (e.g., banking, school or coursework or schedule planning)

● Browsing the internet and using social media

● Doing fun or leisure activities (e.g., watching movies and playing games)

If you find you’re spending more time than necessary on non-essential tasks, try setting usage limits. You might even want to delete some particularly distracting apps.

2. Limit Your Number of Screens

Looking at more than one screen at a time can overstimulate your brain and increase the negative effects of excess screen time.

So, even though it might be tempting to scroll through your phone while watching TV or working on your computer, try and limit yourself to one screen where possible.

If using multiple screens is a regular habit, you might want to physically move devices away from each other or keep them in separate rooms to curb the urge.

3. Make Your Phone Less Appealing

Phones and other devices are powerful distractions that engage our brains and provide a dopamine hit.

To reduce the time you spend looking at your phone screen, try making it less appealing by switching it to grayscale, lowering the brightness, or setting it to silent.

You can also take your mind off your phone by using your other senses, like smell and touch. Try lighting scented candles or bringing fidget toys into your workspace.

4. Schedule Screen-Free Breaks

You can reduce your screen time by introducing regular breaks on work days and longer screen breaks on your days off.

If you’re working, set yourself an alarm roughly every 30 minutes to take a screen break. This means all screens; taking a break from your computer to look at your phone doesn’t count.

Spend your time off work doing activities that don’t involve a screen at all, such as:

● Reading

● Cooking

● Cleaning

● Spending time outside

● Spending time with friends or family

● Creating art

● Exercising

That last point is especially important because it can be difficult to stay active while working from home.

5. Skip the Screen and Go Old School

While most work nowadays is done on a computer or another device, that doesn’t mean every task requires a screen.

A Zoom meeting could work just as well as a phone call, and a good old-fashioned pen and paper are just as good for taking notes and planning out ideas as your device’s word processor or notes app.

You can find many physical diaries and planners to suit your requirements, and if you want to try something a little more in-depth, bullet journaling can be a handy hobby and planning tool.

6. Set Clear Work Boundaries

One of the effects of scope creep is that the more your work time creeps into your spare time, the more your screen time will increase.

To avoid this, make sure you:

●  Set yourself fixed working hours each day.

●  Make sure your clients and colleagues are aware of those hours.

●  Turn off work-related notifications outside of your work hours.

What’s more, having clear work boundaries can also help you maintain a better work–life balance and avoid burnout.

7. Switch Off Before Bed

A good night’s sleep is an essential part of staying healthy and productive, but studies show that staring at your phone or computer screen before bed can:

1. Make it harder for you to fall asleep, and
2. Reduce the quality of sleep you do get

So, to keep yourself happy and healthy, make sure to quit scrolling at least an hour before you turn in for the night.

You can set alarms to mark an end to screen time and help train this habit, or even make your bedroom and bathroom device-free areas by removing chargers, devices, and TVs.

Ultimately, the most important thing is not to be too hard on yourself about your screen time. Even if you can only use one or two of these tips, any changes you make could have a positive impact on your health and wellbeing.

Becoming A Proofreader or Editor

Our courses will put you on track to starting your freelance career. Buy both Becoming A Proofreader and Becoming An Editor as a bundle and save 15%, or sign up for a free trial.

The post 7 Simple Ways to Reduce Your Screen Time appeared first on Knowadays.

These days, more and more people are searching for educational options outside of a traditional, in-person classroom environment. Remote learning comes with a host of benefits – such as flexibility, convenience, and accessibility. Whether you want to change careers or start a freelance side hustle, online certification could be the ideal option for you. In this post, we’ll discuss seven remote jobs you can get certified for online and how Knowadays can help you achieve your career goals.

Keep reading to learn how you can kick-start your new career from the comfort of your own home!

7 Remote Jobs You Can Train for Online

Everyone has unique soft skills, employment experience, and requirements for remote work. However, if you know what to look for, you can find a remote job that fits your lifestyle. We’ve compiled a list of seven rewarding, flexible jobs for which you can earn a professional certificate by training online.

1. Proofreader

Do you enjoy reading as a hobby and tend to spot even the most subtle errors and typos in whatever you read? Proofreading could be the job for you! Proofreaders review a wide variety of texts for surface-level issues like grammatical mistakes, misspellings, and punctuation errors prior to publication. You don’t need a specialized degree to pursue a career as a proofreader, but pursuing an online proofreading course and a professional certificate helps you polish your skills and stand out among the competition.

2. Editor

Like proofreading, editing involves making changes to a text prior to publication, but the process is typically more intensive than proofreading. Editors usually have the freedom to make major structural and organizational changes to a text, as well as to suggest ways to improve elements like tone of voice, character and plot development, and pacing. If you’re interested in a career as an editor, you’ll need to have excellent language skills and a keen eye for detail, and you can obtain an editing certificate online to boost your qualifications and hone your skills.

3. Freelance Writer

With the amount of content published on the internet at an all-time high, quality freelance writers are in demand! Freelance writers create content of all types for individuals and businesses, such as blog posts, website copy, and marketing materials. Some freelance writers are generalists who write content on a wide variety of topics and subjects, and some choose to specialize in a niche, such as technology or finance.

You don’t need a degree to become a freelance writer, but an online course or certification program could help you develop the relevant skills, such as incorporating SEO techniques and structuring articles, and learn what clients are looking for.

4. Bookkeeper

Do you love balancing a budget and keeping records of what you spend? If the answer is yes, then a career as a bookkeeper could be for you! Many businesses, especially small businesses, need bookkeepers to manage and keep track of income, expenses, invoices, and financial statements. If this piques your interest, then consider a bookkeeping program that offers certification online.

5. Online Tutor

Do you have a teaching or educational background but want to work remotely outside of a classroom setting? Online tutoring could be the solution you’re looking for. Online tutors can work independently or for an agency and specialize in a range of subjects (e.g., math, languages, college preparation). If you don’t already have the relevant degree or background, consider an online certificate in your preferred subject matter, such as teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL).

6. Website Designer

Most businesses maintain some sort of online presence, making professional website design a highly in-demand service. As a web designer, you can work with businesses, non-profit organizations, government agencies, or individuals to design and implement both the practical elements and aesthetic features of websites. If you want to become a web designer, you have multiple options for professional development, including fully online certification programs.

7. Virtual Assistant

A virtual assistant provides remote administrative and/or technical support to companies (sometimes multiple companies). They perform a variety of essential everyday tasks, such as customer service, appointment booking, social media management, and email support. While a certificate or degree isn’t mandatory to work as a virtual assistant, becoming certified can enhance your credibility and marketability to potential clients.

Knowadays Courses

If you’re interested in becoming a freelance proofreader, editor, or freelance writer, check out one of our courses! They’ll equip you with everything you need to launch your new career – including certification and guaranteed work options. Claim your free trial and get started today!

The post 7 Remote Jobs You Can Get Certified for Online appeared first on Knowadays.

This is where online freelance communities come in! Whatever industry you’re in, there is likely to be a freelance community you can join. In this blog post, we’ll discuss some of the many benefits of joining a freelance community and share some examples of groups for freelancers in general, writers, proofreaders, and editors.

What is a Freelance Community?

A freelance community is a group, either in person or online, that comes together to discuss the highs and lows of freelancing, share knowledge, and support each other in their freelance careers.

Freelance communities can take many forms, including online forums, social media groups, and dedicated websites or platforms.

Some communities welcome freelancers from all industries, while others specialize in a particular field. For example, a freelance community may focus on writing or editing and welcome members who freelance in those areas.

What are the Benefits of Joining a Freelance Community?

Joining a freelance community has many benefits (too many to list here!), but below are a few of the most important benefits. 

1. Support and Mentorship

They say that a smart person learns from their mistakes, but a wise person learns from the mistakes of others! Mentors are an invaluable part of life in general, but they are especially useful when you are starting something new.

Freelancing has many benefits, but it also has its challenges. Finding new clients, managing your finances, marketing your business—it can be daunting, especially when you’re just starting out. When you join an online freelance community, you essentially have access to the experience of however many people are in that group. They can share their experiences, offer advice, and provide valuable emotional support. Just talking to someone who has been in the position you are in can be hugely reassuring!

2. A Sense of Belonging

Freelancing can be lonely. Typically, freelancers work from home, which can be isolating in itself. But it also goes beyond this. People who have never freelanced often struggle to understand the challenges freelancers face – but the people who join online freelance communities know exactly what you are going through. Having a sense of belonging can help you feel more confident about the path you’re pursuing and give you that extra push to reach your goals.

3. Potential New Opportunities

These communities can be a great place to seek new work opportunities. Some communities will have job boards or listings, and members will post about opportunities. For example, a freelancer may need to outsource part of a project or even turn down work (and therefore be able to pass the opportunity on to someone else). Or they may spot another job that isn’t right for them but that may interest someone in the community. Whatever the case may be, these groups may help you gain clients.

Examples of Freelance Communities

Now that you know how useful joining a freelance community can be, below are some examples of freelance communities you can join.

General Freelance Communities

Some of the best general freelance communities are:

• Women Writers, Editors, Agents, and Proofreaders (Facebook)
  This is a Facebook group just for women in the industry. Here, you can post snippets of your work for feedback, ask craft-related questions, or find an editor or proofreader if you need it.
• Freelancers Union
  Freelancers Union provides education, advocacy, and resources for freelancers across the United States. It also arranges events and meetups for freelancers to network and support each other.
• Freelancer Talk
  Freelancer Talk is an online community for freelancers and provides blogs, courses, and mentors. It also has communities for different industries and a discussion board to ask specific questions.

Freelance Communities for Proofreaders and Editors

Some of the best communities for freelance proofreaders and editors are:

• Editpreneurs (Facebook)
  Editpreneurs is a Facebook group that supports freelance editors and proofreaders, with a focus on building a successful business.
• Louise Harnby – Training for Editors and Proofreaders (Facebook)
  This Facebook group provides a space for editors and proofreaders to discuss marketing, professional development, and training. 
• Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading
  The Chartered Institute of Editing and Proofreading is a non-profit body that promotes excellence in English language editing and proofreading. It offers training, membership accreditation, and a forum where proofreaders and editors can ask questions and provide or receive support.

Freelance Communities for Writers

Some of the best communities for freelance writers are:

• The Write Life Community
  The Write Life Community has both a website and a Facebook group. The Facebook group allows writers to network and ask questions about any stage of the writing or publishing process.
• Writers Helping Writers
  Like The Write Life Community, Writers Helping Writers has both a website and a Facebook group. The website provides lots of information about writing craft, and the Facebook group provides writer-to-writer support.
• Ask a Book Editor (Facebook)
  Ask a Book Editor is a space for writers to ask editors and proofreaders questions about writing. No promotion is allowed in this group, so writers can ask questions without being bombarded by pitches.

Becoming a Freelancer

Freelancing is one of the most flexible and rewarding careers. If you would like to learn more about how to take advantage of the freedom freelancing gives you, check out one of our courses: Becoming a Proofreader, Becoming an Editor, and Becoming a Freelance Writer. You can try them all for free, and see what appeals to you the most!

The post 3 Reasons to Join an Online Freelance Community appeared first on Knowadays.

Let’s take a closer look at why proofreading is a great work from home job.

5 Reasons Proofreading Is a Great Work-from-Home Job

Freelance proofreading has many advantages. For instance, working remotely means you can:

1. Have a healthy work-life balance 
2. Vary where you work 
3. Save money 
4. Customize your workspace 
5. Work more sustainably

1. Have a Healthy Work-Life Balance

Working from home as a freelance proofreader is great for flexibility, which makes achieving a healthy work-life balance much easier. And that can translate to:

• More time to spend with people you love.
• More time for your hobbies and other projects.
• Control over your hours and taking time off when you want.
• The ability to work more and earn a little extra when you need it.
• Freedom to set your own career goals.

In other words, you can put your life before your job, not the other way around.

2. Vary Where You Work

Freelancing means you can choose where you work. For many, this means working from home. And setting up a home workspace means you’ll be able to create a space that’s tailored to your needs (as well as letting you skip the commute).

However, you’re not limited to just working from home! All you need is an internet connection and a place to plug in, then you’re free to work just about anywhere you please. And this means you can get out of the home office and vary where you work as needed.

For example, if you’re bored of your usual workspace and the sun is out, you can work in the garden instead. Or, if you need a change of scene after a morning at home, you can take your laptop to a local cafe for the afternoon. And if you want to visit relatives, you don’t have to book time off work, as you can take your work with your wherever you go, whenever you like.

Many people are becoming digital nomads, so they can travel the world while they work. Proofreading is one of the best jobs you can do as a digital nomad because of its flexibility. Many of our graduates, like Wendy and Samira, have used freelance proofreading to support their adventures around the globe!

3. Save Money

Because you have more control over your expenses, working from home is great for helping you budget, especially when you follow our budgeting tips for freelance proofreaders. But even without budgeting, as a freelance proofreader, you’ll be able to save money by:

• Not needing to hire an office or co-working space to freelance.
• Dodging the daily commute.
• Making your own morning coffee or tea rather than buying it from a shop.
• Having a home-made lunch rather than buying one.
• Not being obliged to join co-workers for after-work drinks
• Not having to buy new work clothes.

Given how expensive clothes, transportation, and dining out can be these days, savings here will really add up in the long run. And, as they say, money saved is money earned.

4. You Can Customize Your Workspace

As a freelance proofreader, you’ll probably spend a lot of time at home (unless you follow our advice in point 2). So, it’s important that you set up your workspace in a way that maximizes your productivity. And, unlike in an office, you can choose exactly what you want, from the desk and chair to the items on your desk. 

One thing that every freelancer needs on their desk is some greenery. Studies have shown that having plants can reduce stress, boost productivity, reduce noise levels, and decrease sick leave. These can be as big or as small as you like.

5. You Can Work More Sustainably

We all know how important sustainability is, but we often struggle to know how we can implement it in our lives. Working from home allows us to introduce more sustainable working practices, such as: 

• Turning off appliances and lights when we’re not using them
• Heating only the room we’re working in, rather than an office building
• Avoiding a potentially lengthy commute

These are just a few examples of ways you can create an eco-friendly home.

Become a Proofreader

If you want a rewarding work-from-home job that gives you the flexibility to live your life, why not become a proofreader? Our Becoming A Proofreader course gives you all the skills you need for a successful career in freelance proofreading. 

Plus, if you pass our Becoming A Proofreader and Becoming An Editor courses with a distinction score, you’ll be able to take advantage of our guaranteed work opportunities! Buy them as a bundle, and you’ll save 15%. 

The post Why Proofreading Is a Great Work from Home Job appeared first on Knowadays.

In this post, we’ll take a look at six ways to find work-from-home editing jobs:

1. Update your resume
2. Explore freelance marketplaces
3. Build your online presence
4. Cold emails
5. Join proofreading and editing groups
6. Start your own business

Keep reading to learn more about each method.

How To Become an Editor from Home

The good news is you don’t need specific qualifications to become an editor. However, you do need certain skills (and a desire to develop any you’re missing!).

A keen eye for detail, strong communication abilities, and an excellent grasp of grammar and spelling are all essential skills for a successful editor. You’ll also need to know about the tools of the trade, such as how to use style guides, word processing programs, and communications tools like email.

If you’d like to hone your skills, an editing course can help you build your knowledge and confidence. Plus, an editing certification will provide clients and employers with proof of your knowledge and really help your resume stand out!

You can read more about becoming an editor with no experience in our blog post, 5 Tips for Starting a Career in Editing with No Experience.

How To Find Work-From-Home Editing Jobs

Looking for work-from-home editing jobs can be daunting when you’re not sure where to begin. Whether you’re a seasoned editor or just starting out, these tips will help you find the perfect work-from-home editing job.

1. Update Your Resume

Keeping your CV or resume up to date is always a good idea. If the perfect opportunity comes along, you’ll be ready to apply straight away!

If you’re a new editor and don’t have much experience, you may want to use a skills-based (or functional) resume or CV template. This will focus on your skills rather than your experience, giving you the opportunity to highlight relevant transferable skills you’ve gained from other work.

Treat this template as a starting point, and adapt your resume to suit the requirements of each new job you apply for. Identify the keywords in the job posting, and use them to make a list of your most relevant skills, experience, and achievements. This could include courses you’ve taken, volunteer projects, or continuing professional development. Use active language, and be as specific and detailed as you can.

2. Explore Freelance Marketplaces

Online marketplaces like PeoplePerHour and Freelancer are ideal for new freelancers seeking remote editing jobs. These platforms let you create a profile, display your portfolio, and connect with clients seeking your services. You can set your rates, and some marketplaces even handle administrative tasks like payment collection. If you want to narrow down your search, there are also many websites that focus on editing and proofreading specifically.

3. Build Your Online Presence

Promoting yourself is crucial if you want to thrive as a freelance editor.

It’s a good idea to develop a website where you can explain the services you offer, show off your credentials and experience, and share positive testimonials from previous clients. You could even launch a blog to boost the visibility of your business on search engines!

Social media can also be a great way to expand your network and source a wide variety of clients. Consider things like honing your LinkedIn profile and creating an eye-catching Instagram bio.

4. Cold Emails

Sending cold emails (i.e., an email sent without prior contact) is a valuable strategy for expanding your network and reaching out to potential clients.

Start by identifying the person responsible for hiring, and send them an introductory email. You should treat cold emails in the same way you treat your resume and LinkedIn connection messages – do some research, and tailor your message to each new recipient. Explain why you’d like to work with them in particular and how your services fit their needs. A tailored cold email is much more likely to get a response than a generic one!

5. Join Proofreading and Editing Groups

When looking for a job, consider joining a professional proofreading and editing group such as ACES or CIEP. These groups provide a platform to showcase your skills and promote your services. You can also search for informal social media or LinkedIn groups that offer support and guidance.

Working by yourself can be isolating; proofreading and editing groups can also be a great way to network, seek support, and even find a mentor who can help you navigate the freelance world (especially when you’re just getting started).

6. Start Your Own Business

It’s well-known that freelancing offers autonomy, flexibility, and higher pay, so why not venture into new territory and start your own freelancing business? This can allow you to work from anywhere, choose projects you enjoy, and build a diverse portfolio. Like anything, it comes with challenges but can provide a new level of professional fulfillment. This way, you’ve found the ultimate work-from-home job!

Becoming a Proofreader and Editor

If you’re looking for a flexible career that allows you to work from anywhere, consider taking our Becoming A Proofreader and Becoming An Editor courses.

If you receive a distinction score of 80% or above, you’re guaranteed work with our partner company, Proofed, offering you the freedom to work with them, other companies, or find your own clients. Sign up for a free trial and get started today!

The post How To Find Work-From-Home Editing Jobs appeared first on Knowadays.

Well, if you’ve ever felt mentally exhausted after a long day and stressed out by the prospect of choosing between two or more things (however simple), you may be experiencing decision fatigue. In this blog post, we’ll explore:

• What decision fatigue is
• The signs you have decision fatigue
• How to avoid decision fatigue

What Is Decision Fatigue?

Decision fatigue is a term used to describe the feeling you get when you are presented with too many choices, and therefore decisions, to make throughout the day. Each decision, whether it’s navigating a complex business situation or something as simple as deciding what to eat for dinner, takes up mental energy.

If you don’t get a chance to restore some of that energy, for example, by taking a break or seeking support, you can start to feel anxious, drained, and overwhelmed. This can have a significant impact on your mental and physical health as well as on your ability to make further, well-reasoned decisions.

Is There a Difference Between Decision Fatigue and Indecisiveness?

Yes, there is a difference between decision fatigue and indecisiveness.

Decision fatigue is when someone is comfortable making decisions most of the time but begins to struggle after a seemingly endless series of them.

Indecisiveness, however, is a character trait that causes someone to routinely struggle or avoid making decisions. Indecisiveness can be a symptom of low self-confidence.

Signs You Have Decision Fatigue

It’s one thing to ask what decision fatigue is, but another to recognize the symptoms. Someone experiencing decision fatigue may notice some – or all – of these symptoms:

1. Finding it hard to focus
2. Getting overwhelmed easily
3. Procrastinating on a decision
4. Being impulsive
5. Avoiding making any decisions
6. Losing your temper quickly
7. Experiencing physical issues: e.g., poor sleep, tiredness, upset stomach
8. Feeling hopeless when deciding and dissatisfied after the decision is made

How to Avoid Decision Fatigue

When you are experiencing decision fatigue, the idea of making changes to your situation can feel daunting or even hopeless. However, here are a few simple things you can do to get back on track:

• Plan your schedule. Map out a plan for your day, and stick to it as much as possible. Struggling to know what to wear for work? Lay it out the night before. Don’t know what to have for lunch? Find recipes you like and carve out some time on Sunday to batch-cook them. Although they may take time to develop, it’s worth building up these small habits to create an easy, low-stress routine.
• Take regular breaks. We don’t tend to make the best decisions when we’re tired, so it’s essential to build in some time for yourself throughout the day to unwind.
• Get your priorities in order. Different decisions require different amounts of mental energy. There are some more complex decisions – for example, the type you make at work or in relationships – and some smaller decisions – like what podcast to listen to on your commute.
  
  It helps to work out which decisions are a priority and which aren’t as important. You can then  identify which to spend your time and energy on today and which can wait until a later date. Try to avoid making too many complex decisions in one day! Naturally, our priorities will change over time, so be sure to review them every six months or so.

• Learn to be mindful. Many people think that mindfulness and meditation will take up too much time or just aren’t for them. If that’s you, good news – you can practice mindfulness in as little as 60 seconds! Taking some time (however brief) to pause, reflect, and recharge can make a really big difference to your wellbeing. Meditation can have lots of positive mental and physical effects, like reducing stress, combatting fatigue, and enhancing your focus and decision-making.
• Narrow it down. Over a 24-hour period, we shouldn’t be making more than three or four big choices. If you have too many, narrow them down to three and then pick one at random. Still stuck? Try a pros and cons list to help you deliberate objectively.
• Consider the time of day. Many people find that they have more energy in the earlier part of the day, while fatigue tends to set in during the afternoon. You could try focusing on any key projects and scheduling any important meetings for earlier in the day, while your mind is at its most refreshed. That way, you’ll have conquered the most challenging part of your day first and can take it a bit easier once you start to feel tired.
• Get support. Ask someone you trust to weigh in on or validate more difficult decisions, and delegate where you can. If fatigue is getting to you over an extended period and you feel that even the smallest decisions give you overwhelming anxiety, you might want to consider seeking professional help from your doctor or attending counseling.

Becoming a Freelancer

Want to try your hand at a freelance career, without the stress of making complex business decisions? Our proofreading and editing courses come with guaranteed work opportunities with our partner company, Proofed. You’ll be able to gain valuable experience, and build your confidence, without worrying about finding clients or doing your own admin.

Sign up for a free trial for a sneak peek of what Knowadays has to offer!

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In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the different ways you can keep your mind sharp after retirement and get the most out of this new life chapter!

Why Is It Important to Keep Your Mind Sharp?

Maintaining a healthy brain is good for both your mind and your body. Experts often closely associate aging with cognitive decline and memory loss, but keeping your mind and body active can make a big difference in retaining cognitive function and keeping your problem-solving and motor skills intact. 

Keeping your mind and body active can also be a great mood booster. Aging can carry a certain stigma, but life after retirement can be just as exciting as life before!

5 Ways to Keep Your Mind Sharp

1. Be a Lifelong Learner

Learning is a great way to keep your neurons firing after retirement! Learning can be formal or informal – the important thing is to find things that intrigue you and bring you joy. 

For example, you might read about a new subject, do puzzles, listen to new music, or try a new hobby, such as learning a musical instrument. Or you might take a more formal approach and enroll in a class or pursue a new qualification. 

Either way, stimulating the mind by learning something new can help reduce your risk of anxiety, depression, and dementia. You’ll feel a real sense of pride in your accomplishments!

2. Take Care of Your Body

It’s important to continue to exercise regularly as you get older. Physical activity lowers your chances of illness and cognitive decline. Exercise increases the blood flow in your body (including your brain) and triggers the release of serotonin and dopamine. 

A healthy body means a healthy, happy brain. Plus, while many creams and anti-aging potions promise the world – but don’t always deliver – exercise really can make you look and feel younger.

If you’re out of practice, don’t worry! Much like learning something new, it’s best to start small with exercise. For example, you could try the one-minute technique. This approach involves establishing good habits bit by bit and gradually increasing your commitment. You might commit to one minute of brisk walking. Then, as your stamina grows, increase the time to two minutes, then three, and so on. 

You can add socializing to the mix by finding classes at the gym or going for walks with a friend or family member. YouTube also has a wide range of age and strength-appropriate workout videos. Whatever you choose, start now, and you’ll thank yourself later!

3. Socialize 

Researchers have found that people who spend more time socializing with friends and family, join clubs, or volunteer tend to have better mental and physical health. Having regular, casual conversations keeps your mind engaged, reduces your risk of memory loss, and makes you happier. It’s even thought that socializing might help you live longer!

Apps like Meetup encourage people with certain interests to meet and find like-minded people. Whether you’re new to an area or want to explore more than just your regular haunts, all kinds of clubs and societies are waiting for you, no matter your interests. You can also try dating sites and apps for making friends. The world is your oyster!

4. Step Out of Your Comfort Zone

When we’re younger, our time is often taken up by building a career, saving for a house, starting a family, and so on. If you’re lucky, you’ll be able to pursue a few things on your bucket list during that time – but probably not everything. Retirement is the time to tick off more of those things! 

Set yourself a goal and cross something – big or small – off the list at least once a month. Living within your comfort zone might seem like the easiest option, but too much repetition can send your mood into a downward spiral. 

Why not book a spontaneous trip to a place you’ve always wanted to see or try out a bold new style you thought you couldn’t pull off? Stepping out of your comfort zone can broaden your perspective and boost your confidence.

5. Consider Volunteering

Many charities, shelters, and political groups need volunteers to help with their cause. Think about what you might like to do and how much time and effort you’re willing to offer. Select something close to your heart or have a look at sites, such as Global Volunteers, that match your skills to an organization’s needs.

What Are the Best Jobs for Retirees?

If you still find yourself itching to work, plenty of jobs can work around your lifestyle and present new opportunities to keep your mind sharp. Below, we’ve listed a few examples of flexible, varied jobs that are great for retirees. But of course, this list is far from exhaustive!

1. Proofreading and Editing

If you want to engage your mind and earn extra income, freelance proofreading and editing could be the retirement job for you! You don’t need any previous experience to get started, and the initial training costs are minimal. 

Aside from training, you probably already have what you need. The essentials are a laptop or desktop computer, a reliable internet connection, and up-to-date word processing software (such as Microsoft Word).

As a proofreader and editor, you can really put your grasp of the English language to the test. You’ll be correcting spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors, checking for formatting issues, amending text for clarity and consistency, and much more! Plus, you can increase your technological skills by getting familiar with all the formatting tools in Microsoft Word. 

As a freelancer, you’re free to work as little or as much as you want while supplementing your pension. You can also organize your time in a way that helps you socialize, travel, or tick something off the bucket list.

2. Writing

If you enjoy exploring the written word, you may consider a freelance writing career! 

All sorts of organizations employ freelance writers to help them perfect their written content: blog posts, magazine or journal articles, customer service and marketing emails, business reports, technical documents and manuals, social media posts, and more! 

The job of freelance writers is to craft text that encourages a reader to think, feel, and react in a certain way. In doing so, they help a company establish credibility and create trust with its customers. 

Much like freelance proofreading and editing, freelance writing is a flexible option that you can often do remotely. Many freelance writers take on a wide variety of projects, but if there is a particular area that interests you or that you have experience in, you could specialize. For example, if you love travel, you could make travel writing your niche. 

3. Tutoring

Tutoring can be a rewarding job option for retirees, as well as being a good way to stay connected and socialize with others. As a tutor, you get to keep your mind sharp, and you help others succeed too! 

If you have knowledge in a particular industry, you could mentor young people starting out in the same field. Or you could teach a specific subject (e.g., English or mathematics) or skill (e.g., playing a musical instrument). Teaching English as a Foreign Language is an in-demand market, especially if you want to work abroad. 

Becoming a Proofreader or Editor

Looking for a flexible, rewarding retirement job? A career as a freelance proofreader and editor is the perfect way to keep your mind sharp, learn something new, and earn extra income on your own terms. 

Our Becoming A Proofreader and Becoming An Editor courses will teach you everything you need to get started in your new career. And if you graduate Becoming A Proofreader and Becoming An Editor with a score of 80% or above, you can secure guaranteed work with our partner company, Proofed. 

Buy the two courses as a bundle, and you’ll save 15%. Try it for free today!

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But not everyone will choose to give up work completely. And if you find yourself feeling bored or lonely or concerned that your pension isn’t stretching as far as you’d like, you might want to consider continuing work after retiring.

Read on for five benefits of working in retirement and how you can find full or part-time work as a retiree.

5 Benefits of Working After Retirement

1. Make New Friends and Connections

Worldwide, one in four adults over 60 suffers from loneliness. This is partly due to the social isolation that fully retiring from work can cause.

With the mental and physical effects of loneliness ranging from a higher risk of depression to increased cases of heart disease, it’s important to combat that feeling in your retirement.

Choosing to continue working or returning to it can help you beat loneliness by maintaining social connections and forging new friendships with your colleagues. You may even find your social circle broadening as you work with different groups of people.

2. Look After Your Brain

Combating loneliness isn’t the only mental benefit that working in retirement can bring. Continuing to work in your 60s and beyond can provide mental stimulation in the form of:

• Mentally demanding work
• New problems and challenges to overcome
• Opportunities to learn new skills
• A change in environment

Those experiences encourage new neural pathways to form, which has been linked to improved brain health and a lower risk of dementia.

3. Combat Boredom

While retirement provides you with lots of free time, finding things to fill that time can be difficult. This is a problem that many retirees struggle with, but it’s also one that can be solved with a post-retirement job.

If you’re struggling with a lack of direction or loss of purpose in your retirement, consider pursuing a different kind of work. You might find that the excitement and satisfaction of a job well done will help stave off your boredom.

4. Pursue Your Interests

Is there a dream job or career that you never got the chance to follow? Whether you’ve always wanted to work with animals, make money from your art, or give back to a community that has supported you, post-retirement could be the perfect time to make a career switch and give that dream job a go. 

In fact, pursuing a different type of work in your retirement has become so popular that it even has its own name – an encore career.

With your life savings at hand and fewer dependents to take care of, you’ll likely be under less pressure to earn a high wage. This means you can choose to prioritize a job that matches your interests and dedicate more time to your passions.

5. Boost Your Income

While you’ll be able to benefit from a pension in retirement, having an extra source of income can help you pay for healthcare and other expenses, trying new experiences such as travelling, and making your savings last longer. By continuing to work, you can enjoy your retirement in the comfort of financial security. 

However, it’s important to note that any income you earn after retiring may affect your pension and other benefits you receive. Make sure to check the laws where you live about working past retirement – for example, the US and UK both have limits on the amount of income you can earn before your pension is affected.

How to Find a Job After Retirement

Whether you’re looking for full-time or part-time work, there are several options for retirees and those approaching retirement. And nowadays, flexible working is becoming more common, meaning you can choose to work from home or set your own hours.

Here, we’ll discuss the initial steps you need to take to find a job after retirement.

1. What Do You Want to Achieve?

Consider what reasons you have for continuing to work after retirement. Perhaps you want to:

• Earn extra income
• Make new friends
• Work from home
• Learn something new
• Pursue an interest

Once you’ve identified your reasons, think about what sort of work would help you achieve those goals. 

For example, if you want to earn some extra money to go traveling, then a short-term full-time job might be the best option. But if you’re looking for work that will keep your brain active without impacting too much of your free time, then part-time work might suit you better.

2. What Skills and Experience Do You Have?

Assessing your current skills and experience will help you identify the area of industry that would best suit you. Write a list of both your hard and soft skills, then check job sites and listings to see what sort of work matches your skill set.

If you already have an idea of the sort of work you’d like to take on, check if you’re missing any necessary skills or qualifications required for that position.

Remember, even if you’ve never worked in a particular area before, you still have many decades of experience behind you and a set of transferable skills that will help you in any line of work.

3. What Are Your Next Steps?

Once you know why you want to continue working in retirement and have a good idea of your skill set, you can start taking practical steps to find the job that’s right for you. These steps include:

• Filling in any skill gaps by undertaking training
• Updating your résumé
• Letting people know you’re looking for work
• Networking with other professionals
• Volunteering your services to build experience

Remember that starting a new job, whatever your age, can take time and patience, but the more prepared you are, the smoother the process will be.

Work-from-Home Jobs for Retirees

Working from home can be a great option for retirees, as it provides:

• Flexible hours
• The freedom to choose when and how you work
• A more cost-effective way of working

However, with so many work-from-home options out there, it’s important to do your research – and follow our steps above – to make sure you have a clear idea of what you want.

Proofreading and Editing

A work-from-home job that’s perfect for seniors is proofreading and/or editing. Both proofreading and editing can be stimulating work that will keep you focused and flex your mental muscles, and it can be done from just about anywhere in the world.

Even if you’ve never done either before, it’s possible to make a career switch with the right training.

Here at Knowadays, we’ll teach you everything you need to know about becoming a proofreader or editor. We can even provide you with guaranteed work in your retirement. What’s more, we offer both courses as a bundle so you can save 15%.

Not sure if proofreading or editing is right for you? Give either course a try for free!

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