10 More Great Ideas for Moms Who Want to Work at Home

Mystery Shopper

Are you intrigued by a job that gets you out of the house, helps you meet people, and garners you a few free products as well? This is the job of a mystery shopper.

Mystery shopping is basically evaluating (market research) a store or business through the eyes of shoppers. "A mystery shopping experience includes a visit to the store and then an online report," explains shopper Toni. "The exit interviews are fun—you interview customers coming out of the store and companies pay you by the hour, for about four hours or so. Good grammar, writing, and memory are among the skills needed in order to put together a good report."

Toni loves the flexibility of her job and can schedule herself for as many or as few jobs as she wants. "Plus, it enables me to contribute a little to the family and act professional out of the house. I took an online test in order to obtain a 'silver certification' from MSPA (Mystery Shoppers Providers Association). Most companies are happy to see the certification showing that you are dedicated to your work and know what is required of you."

MysteryShop.org can give you valuable information about this interesting occupation. This is a job where another parent, grandparent, or babysitter can help with the children while you spend a couple hours making extra income.

Medical Transcriptionist

A medical transcriber listens to dictated recordings made by physicians and transcribes them into medical reports, correspondence, and other administrative materials. "I work for a hospital who supplies all of my equipment and work full-time from my home," says Sandy Baer. "I receive full benefits just as if I were physically working at the hospital. I believe that most companies do supply your equipment and training, but the benefits vary as well as the pay. Some companies pay by the line/page and others by the hour."

Baer explains that to become a medical transcriptionist you must have knowledge of medical terminology, which can be obtained by attending a class covering the subject matter. "There are schools that will teach and certify you as a medical transcriptionist as well. This would probably be more helpful in obtaining a better paying job as a transcriptionist. You must also be focused, have good typing skills as well as knowledge and proper use of the English language and punctuation, etc."

A transcriptionist can have great flexibility in her job. "You can more or less work flexible hours and have the freedom to work when your children are asleep or whatever schedule works for you," says Baer. "The very best part is working in your jammies with no makeup. I love it!"