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Step 1
Do some soul searching. This is the perfect time to think about what it is you love to do. Do you have a special skill or hobby that you can turn into a money making venture? Think of the things that make you happiest, get creative, and look into ways to do them and get paid.
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Step 2
Freelance. Many employers are open to the idea of outsourcing certain jobs to qualified people who have proven themselves in their field. Update your resume, pull out the Rolodex, and contact your previous bosses and colleagues. The best part about these gigs is that most of the time you can perform the job from the comfort of your own home (think bathrobe and slippers!) while the baby is napping or during the evening.
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Step 3
Sell household items. We all have clutter, that's a fact. Go around the house and gather all of the things from your closets (if you haven't worn it in a year, you probably won't), playroom, attic, and basement. Clothes that you and the kids have outgrown, unused toys, antiques, unused wedding gifts, you get the idea. Added up, it can bring in some cash. Consignment shops, garage sales, and eBay are all ways to make it happen.
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Step 4
Babysit. This is a great way to earn extra money and have instant play dates for your own kids at the same time. Talk to friends and neighbors or advertise in the local paper or at your kids' preschool.
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Step 5
Explore direct sales in-home businesses. These are perfect for stay-at-hom moms who are able to work during the evening (not only is the income earning potential excellent, you will also get out of the house and meet new people). There are plenty of these businesses but a few to look into are: Southern Living at Home, Silpada Jewelry, Tastefully Simple, and Premier Designs Jewelry. See below for website links.
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Step 6
Go back to school. Well, not really. But getting a job at your child's preschool or elementary school is a great way to make extra money and still have your summers off with the kids. Many schools hire assistants without an education degree so this is a viable option for many moms without prior experience.
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Step 7
Start your own business. After soul searching, you've probably come up with some ideas of things you'd love to get paid for. Do you love to decorate? Paint? Refinish furniture? Do you have some computer skills you can share? Usually starting an in-home business is as easy as getting a business license, talking to an accountant, advertising (word of mouth usually does the trick), and getting started.
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Step 8
Test websites for UserTesting.com. It's free and easy to get started plus you'll be paid $10 for 15-20 minutes of work (that's $30-$40 per hour). See Resources section, below, for detailed instructions on how to become a tester.
